We stayed in an elegant Sherlock Holmes themed hotel to uncover one of London’s secret top spots…

A short walk from the hustle and bustle of Oxford Street, there's a charming yet understated part of London that flies under the radar.

I've lived in London for 15 years and only recently had the chance to fully explore the area of Marylebone. The discovery of the tree-lined Marylebone Village with its independent boutiques, artisanal shops, bars, restaurants, and cozy cafés, left me feeling like I'd stumbled upon one of London's hidden secrets.

It's one of the prettiest parts of the city, evoking a neighbourhood feel, while oozing low-key sophistication. Shopping, eating and cultural experiences sit alongside period architecture and pretty green spaces, and the range of nearby family-friendly attractions make this destination perfect for a family break in London.

We stayed at Holmes Hotel, a boutique hotel that's great for couples, friends or families with young kids, giving us a chance to fully explore what the beautiful area of Marylebone has to offer. Checking into the cosy hotel, it was a sweet surprise to find a cute little pick & mix cart next to the reception desk, where we could fill a small paper bag with boiled sweets and little packets of Swizzels Love Hearts candy.

Baker Street underground station is a two minute walk away, and the hotel is themed around the area's most famous fictional resident - Sherlock Holmes. There were charming touches throughout the hotel, and I couldn't resist trying on the deerstalker and bowler hats (associated with the mastermind detective and his assistant Watson), which hung in the bar.

Holmes Hotel boasts one of the most unique workout experiences you'll find in London. The classic elegance of the handcrafted wooden and leather equipment in Piggy Doyle's gym, evokes the setting and style of late Victorian and early Edwardian London. There was something very relaxing about using the old-fashioned rowing machine and listening to the swishing of the water in the resistance grinder. The space has an old-school boxing gym feel, with vintage-style punch bags and weights, and you can complete your wellness routine with a visit to the sauna.

The hotel also offers a billiards room, a roof terrace, and a games room where families can relax and have fun over traditional board games - at first I couldn't find these, as the games are stylishly encased in what initially looks like old books. In keeping with the Sherlock Holmes theme, kids can pick up a 'Mystery Map' for a hotel-wide treasure hunt.

In the bar, I sipped on a Limoncello Spritz, while my husband enjoyed a Spiced Paloma (mezcal, agave, citrus, grapefruit soda and smoke paprika salt). Then we stepped out to enjoy some of what the area has to offer.

Daunt Books

Grab at coffee from Saint Espresso and take a wander, soaking up the tranquil vibes of Marylebone Hight Street and Chiltern Street. Book lovers won't want to miss Daunt Books - an original Edwardian bookshop with long oak galleries, balconies and stained-glass windows, situated in Marylebone High Street. According to analysis of TripAdvisor and Google review, this is the most beloved bookshop in the entire world.

The Wallace Collection

This art museum on Manchester Square was established in 1897 and houses masterpieces from the 15th to the 19th centuries by artists including Titian, Velázquez, Rubens and Fragonard. Entry is free.

Sherlock Holmes Museum

Step back in time and enter a world of Victorian curiosities, and many of the objects, letters and characters from Sherlock Holmes' most famous cases. The Sherlock Holmes Museum is located at 221B Baker Street - one of the world's most famous addresses. It's a splendid four-storey Georgian townhouse dating back to 1815. Sherlock Holmes fan will find plenty to investigate here and there's a gift shop for souvenirs.

Regent's Park

There are 410 acres to stroll around in Regent's Park. Hire a paddle boat and head out on the lake, or rent a deck chair to soak up the sun. Pack a picnic or enjoy breakfast or lunch in the cafe located in the centre of the park. The rose gardens are beautiful in May, and there are fountains and formal gardens to admire. Go for a jog or enjoy one of sports pitches and courts. This is one of our favourite parks in London, and it also houses the award-winning Regent's Park Open Air Theatre. This is one of the most stunning theatre spaces in London, and I was lucky to recently catch a production of Noughts & Crosses based on the book by Malorie Blackman, and to watch Richard Hawley perform in celebration of the 20th anniversary of his album Coles Corner. It's a truly magical setting for live music and theatre, and they also host several productions aimed at kids.

London Zoo

This oasis in the heart of the city is located within Regent's Park. Explore Penguin Beach, Land of the Lions, Tiger Territory, and Gorilla Kingdom. Step inside Butterfly Paradise, experience the walk-through Monkey Valley, and for a small extra fee you can feed the penguins. For best value tickets, book online in advance.

Marylebone Theatre

There are performances to suit all ages here, but we've seen some great kids' shows at Marylebone Theatre, from Operation Ouch to Brainiac Live and Alice in Wonderland. This is a small and intimate space that delivers West End quality theatre at good prices.

Madame Tussauds

Get your phone out for some fun selfies at Madame Tussauds. Take to the red carpet with more than 150 lifelike wax figures of your favourite celebs and historical figures, enjoy immersive experiences, a 4D cinema, and brave visitors can step inside the Chamber of Horrors. Marvel and Star Wars fans will be in for a treat - these were our two favourite sections of the attraction.

Selfridges

This landmark department store is located nearby and as it's been voted best department store in the world, it's certainly worth a gander. Browse designer brands, check out the food hall, and if your kid is a Jellycat fan and you really want to treat them to something special, then the Jellycat Fish & Chips Experience at Selfridges will make their trip to London memorable.

Back in my room at Holmes Hotel, I slipped into my fluffy bathrobe and slippers and sat on the bed to watch TV. The following morning, I indulged in a long hot shower and enjoyed the luxury ESPA bath products provided. Breakfast is covered in the cost of the booking, and it was table service with a delicious offering of fruit, cereal, pastries and hot options including eggs any style on sourdough, bacon sandwich, omelette, French toast, pancakes, a greek style dish with crushed avocado and halloumi, or a full English. We enjoyed tea, coffee and freshly squeezed orange juice. The setting was sophisticated and relaxing and the food was really tasty.

Brunch at Holmes Hotel

You don't have to be staying at the hotel to book in for brunch at Kitchen at Holmes, and we think the menu is great value for money. For £25 you start off with a cocktail - choose from Bellini, a Bloody Mary or a Citrus Spritz. Then you'll be served welcome snacks of pita, with crushed tomatoes, roasted shallots, tahini and yoghurt, and crab croquette. There are several choices for the main course, including avocado, chilli and poached egg, potato, corn and shallot rosti, fried octopus brioche bun, or spiced half chicken. You can pay extra for side dishes. But the £25 brunch menu also includes a delicious dessert - choose from strawberry and basil tartlet, tiramisu, affogato, or a section of ice cream and sorbet. There's an outdoor seating area for a lazy al fresco summer brunch.

The Family Experience at Holmes Hotel

The rooms at Holmes Hotel are designed with families in mind, offering sofa beds, interconnecting rooms or separate rooms, so you can choose what works best for your family’s needs.

The Family Experience package includes:

Find out more here