Soho House New York

Super-cool members club cum designer hotel with 24 rooms in the heart of Manhattan’s trendy Meatpacking district

It might seem churlish to stay in a British hotel when visiting New York. But when it comes to serving up delicious design, a thriving social scene and the kind of bright-lights-big-city glamour which visitors flock to the Big Apple for, Soho House delivers NYC cool as well as the best of them. Where else can you cocktail by a rooftop pool with the city’s media elite, watching the sun set on the Hudson River? Hop from spa to cinema in a single lift ride, or from Swarovski-chandeliered restaurant to a games room with pool and football tables?

With 3 sister ‘Houses’ in England, it’s pretty clear Soho House have crafted a winning formula - an ethos that’s not just about meeting guests’ needs, but indulging their whims as well. Expect playful bedrooms with bespoke artwork and freestanding baths, top-notch personal service (including the manager’s cell phone number and a 24-hour butler), top-shelf accoutrements (all-in-one remotes, motion-sensor stereos) and a minibar so huge it deserves its own barman.

Highs

• Glamorous rooftop pool, with stunning Manhattan and Hudson River views
• Central location in the heart of Manhattan’s trendy Meatpacking District
• Access to one of New York’s most illustrious members clubs
• Fine dining with great cocktails, seafood, steaks and 3 types of oysters
• Fun, laid-back atmosphere - even the bedrooms are called playpens, playrooms and playgrounds

Lows

• Being a club, the communal spaces are often full to the rafters with members - not ideal for guests looking for peace and quiet
• The exposed ceiling beams look great, but mean you can hear guests upstairs walking above you
• The gym is as tiny as they come, and the Cowshed spa has a steam room but no dry sauna
• If you're joining friends, be aware you’re limited to 3 guests per person at any one time