London’s smoothest staycation is hiding on a corner in Liverpool Street

Metro Checks In to Pan Pacific London, an Asian-inspired escape with a room that our writer says is the best he’s ever stayed in.

Liverpool Street is not generally where I go to switch off. It is a place of suited City bankers, takeaway coffee and stressed-out commuters.

But amidst the chaos, right on the corner of Bishopsgate, is an oasis of calm that, in this writer’s book, is up there with London’s finest staycations.

Whether you choose to unwind in the 18.5m infinity pool or give your taste buds a tantalising treat at Straits Kitchen, you’re guaranteed a special stay.

Location, location, location

Set in the heart of the City, Pan Pacific London puts you in a prime spot for exploring the capital from every angle.

Step outside and you’re surrounded by a mix of glass skyscrapers and historic streets, with the galleries and vintage shops of Shoreditch just a short walk away.

Head in the opposite direction and you’ll find the bright lights and theatre buzz of the West End.

Despite the central location, the area feels surprisingly calm, especially in the evenings, offering the best of both worlds.

With Liverpool Street Station moments away, a menu of Underground lines and national rail links are right on your doorstep, making it effortless to zip across the city.

Good vibes only

I didn’t expect this level of zen from a hotel in the City. From the moment you step inside, the chaos fades away.

The gym is probably the best I’ve seen in a London hotel: decent space, proper equipment, not just a lone treadmill shoved into a basement.

But the star of the show is the pool, an 18.5m beast of the infinity variety overlooking the skyline.

Dream a little dream

The hotel has 237 guest rooms and 14 categories, from Deluxe, which start at £485 per night, and executive rooms to sprawling suites, all featuring king-size beds, floor-to-ceiling windows, and well-stocked minibars.

For those wanting to dial up the indulgence, the newly redesigned Walbrook, Bishopsgate and Devonshire suites deliver panoramic city views, playful touches such as the Singa’s Den teepee, and even a personal butler.

I stayed in the Devonshire Suite (from £815 per night), and it was lavish.

A softly lit entrance lined with warm wooden panelling leads into a stylish lounge with a curved sofa, marble table and record player. A large botanical mural nods to Singapore-inspired design.

The bedroom, wrapped in corner windows, is a highlight, complete with an ultra-soft king-size bed and sleek desk overlooking some of the city’s iconic landmarks, such as the Gherkin.

A walk-in wardrobe connects to a spacious marble bathroom with Jo Loves toiletries, making it one of the most impressive hotel rooms I’ve stayed in.

Wine and dine

The main dining takes place at Straits Kitchen, where breakfast, lunch and dinner are served.

For dinner, I’d highly recommend the Experience Menu (£59 per person), which cleverly showcases the kitchen’s strengths, from scallops to a tender beef short rib.

The standout for me was the Cornish crab pappardelle. If you have any dietary requirements, Head Chef Nick Yung will happily cater to these and create alternative dishes. 

I stayed on a Sunday, which meant I couldn’t resist trying the roast for lunch, a clever fusion of British tradition with Asian influences. You can opt for two (£45) or three courses (£52), but Jimmy Butler’s pork belly is a must-order, elevated by a rich Cantonese char siu sauce.

Breakfast is equally impressive. You can add the continental buffet (£28) or go all in with the full Pan Pacific breakfast (£44), which includes a hot dish and sides — the blueberry muffins alone are worth waking up for.

For something more relaxed, Ginger Lily Bar & Lounge serves comforting dishes, afternoon tea and cocktails, while the City’s best restaurants, such as The Ivy, Duck & Waffle, Sushi Samba and more, sit just moments away.

Five-star service

From the moment I walked through the doors, I felt welcomed and looked after.

Whether it was at the reception, spa, or the restaurant, I was greeted with smiles and warmth from all of the staff members.

Throughout my stay, the staff seemed to appear exactly when I needed them without being overbearing.

They gave honest suggestions on what they would order, where they would go for a stroll, and which bars to visit nearby, such as The Botonist or The Globe for a more casual pub vibe. No ask was too much.

How to get there

The hotel is a 3-minute walk from Liverpool Street Station, which is served by several Tube and train lines in and out of London.

Multiple buses also run close by from other mainline stations, such as either the 149 or 388 from London Bridge, or the 205 from Euston.

Scott Da Silva-Wells was a guest of Pan Pacific London, but don’t expect us to sugarcoat anything – our reviews are 100% independent.

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