The sky's the limit for weddings at Stratford's The Gantry hotel

Editor Claire Ridley was invited to this design-led hotel in London's trendy East Village, home to the Union Social restaurant.

Hotel goals
It's easy to see why this new boutique hotel, part of the Curio Collection by Hilton set in the heart of Stratford, is a popular spot after being open for just two years. It's located a stone's throw from Westfield Stratford City shopping centre and Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and is just a two-minute walk from Stratford International station. It's also a great base for guests wishing to discover central London, with its direct tube links into the capital city.

Suite life
There are 291 creative and comfortable bedrooms and suites spread over 18 floors at this urban retreat offering laid-back luxury, with check-in available from 3 pm and morning checkout at midday. My home-from-home for the night was perched high up on the 10^th floor boasting far-reaching views across the city through the floor-to-ceiling windows – this skyline looks so romantic illuminated at night.

A highlight for honeymooners is the spacious Gantry Deluxe suite complete with a large lounge area, Grown Alchemist toiletries, in-room binoculars to admire the panoramic views, a Dyson hairdryer and a tablet for guest use (which is standard in all rooms). There are also connecting rooms, ideal for families, plus pet-friendly rooms for those wishing to stay with their four-legged friends.

Let's get social
A highlight for me was the mouth-watering dinner served in the trendy Union Social restaurant, situated at the heart of the hotel on the second floor, flanked by views. A dining experience here isn't to be missed, where great food prepared with fresh and responsibly sourced ingredients is paired with fine wine and served in a vibrant atmosphere. The adjoining terrace is perfect for summer soirees, enjoyed against the backdrop of the city skyline with a firepit that's lit as the sun goes down and blankets in case it gets a little chilly.

I tucked into the tasty Thai-style crispy squid bites to start, followed by the herb-crusted Shetland codfish. Other delicious dishes on the Social Menu include The Gantry Burgster and the New York vanilla cheesecake while the smashed avocado on sourdough and The Gantry vegan full English provide fuel for the day at breakfast (lunch here isn't to be missed, either!) Pushed for time? Then grab a Colombian-roasted coffee from the trendy Hermanos pop-up coffee bar located on the first floor.

The sky's the limit
Diners wishing to relax with an after-dinner tipple can do so in the STK Rooftop Steakhouse & Bar on the 18th floor. It's the highest rooftop bar in East London boasting live DJ sets, signature cocktails created by expert mixologists and steak and sushi sharing boards.

Alternatively, the arty Coupe wine bar with its plush colourful furnishings serves locally sourced sparkling wines, cocktails, mocktails and snacks while 24-hour room service is also available, ordered via the in-room app.

Made for romance
With Insta-worthy touches at every turn, The Gantry is perfect for city lovers wanting a chic central spot to host their big day. Couples can hire the private dining room and adjoining conservatory with its floor-to-ceiling windows that fill the space with natural daylight (but not direct sunlight). This glamorous setting boasts a fully retractable roof, perfect for summer-in-the-city al fresco celebrations. This wow-factor wedding venue, which can be transformed to suit any theme is the perfect pick for up to 100 loved ones for the ceremony, wedding breakfast and reception. Guests can also be welcomed in the Union Social restaurant and adjoining terrace after the ceremony for drinks and canapés served against the sweeping city skyline views – edible prints can even top cocktails!
 

Book it!
The Gantry is located at 40 Celebration Ave, East Village, London, E20 1DB. Rates start from £179 on a B&B basis based on two sharing a King Room.
*Earn Hilton Honors points on each stay.
**Parking is available for £16 per day, plus there's electric vehicle charging nearby.
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Perfectly packaged
The talented team at The Gantry cater for small, intimate weddings and larger affairs, with a dedicated wedding planner and a selection of suitable wedding packages based on 100 guests. Couples can take advantage of the hotel's in-house florist, and executive chef Salvatore Coco will be on hand to discuss bespoke wedding breakfast menu options. Wedding guests are offered a discounted room rate and the happy couple is offered the Honeymoon Suite on the night of the wedding.

The Reception Package, £17,000, includes the hire of the conservatory, a pre-event menu tasting session for up to four people, five arrival canapés per guest, arrival bubbles and Aperol Spritz plus a four-course wedding dinner with half a bottle of wine per person. There are bubbles to toast, DJ hire (music is permitted until 11 pm) and late-night snacks.

The Premium Reception Package, £25,000 includes all of the above plus champagne to toast, chair, table and decoration hire plus an open bar for one hour after dinner. As well as a DJ hired for after the wedding breakfast, there's additional entertainment, for example, a live saxophonist. The Ceremony & Reception Package, £27,000 includes the hire of Union Social restaurant and terrace as well as the Conservatory for the ceremony, along with all of the above.