Threadneedles hotel open at last

Threadneedles, Eton Town House Group's fourth and largest hotel, opened this week in London, nearly a year later than originally expected. Managing director Peter Tyrie said building delays had been caused by the restrictions of working in the City of London on a heritage site. At one point a medieval well was discovered while a lift was being installed at sub basement level.

The 70-bedroom hotel is housed in the former Midland Bank building on Threadneedle Street. It includes a health and fitness club, and three small boardrooms. General manager Deborah Scott oversees 57 employees. Bonds, an 80-seat restaurant and 45-seat bar, with its own entrance, is also included in the former banking hall. It is run by manager Nicholas Tyrie. Tom Illic is the head chef.

Eton bought the 70-year lease to the building in 1999 and has invested a total of £19m in the hotel.