Formerly known as Crossrail, the Elizabeth Line is one of the more exciting recent projects in (central) London. With 41 stations, the service connects the eastern and western parts of the capital via the major railway lines.
Approved in 2007 and started in 2009, the line was opened by Queen Elizabeth II on the 17th of May, 2022, in honour of her Platinum Jubilee, hence the name Elizabeth Line. While the eastern and western sections won't launch till autumn, the central area — between Paddington and Abbey Wood — has operated 12 trains per hour since the 24th of May.
Passing through the main employment centres of the city and clocking up to one million journeys in five days, the Elizabeth Line is clearly a vital infrastructure. But, true to the Backdrop mission, we’ll be looking at the contribution of the Crossrail to the London soft life. The following backdrops are no more than 15 minutes away from Crossrail stops:
Yeotown Sussex Gardens from Paddington station
The restaurant opens this month (June 2022) in partnership with London’s first mindfulness hotel, Inhabit Hotel. Their focus is healthy eating and living, so the aura of wellbeing is imbibed in the food as well as the decor. It’s a less than ten-minute walk to Yeotown Sussex Gardens from Paddington station, and the entire space can be rented for private events.
Alto by San Carlo from Bond Street station
Alto by San Carlo is an exclusive Italian rooftop dining area less than five minutes away from Bond Street station (by car or on foot). Their most outstanding offerings are late-night openings every day of the week and a retractable roof, which allows for dining on the verandah even in the rain.
Bourne & Hollingsworth Buildings from Farringdon station
This greenhouse is a restaurant + bar known for its eclectic menu and creative scenery. Bourne & Hollingsworth Buildings is less than 15 minutes on foot and just about five minutes by car — given good traffic conditions. Conveniently, they're currently offering extra brunch days to celebrate the Jubilee bank holiday.
Bourne & Hollingsworth Buildings
Andaz London Liverpool Street - a concept by Hyatt from Liverpool Street station
Next door to the station, this luxury hotel has vogue offerings from the many rooms to any of the five restaurants and bars. You can even hold special events here, from weddings to meetings, and your pets are invited to join in on the fun.
Leman Locke, Aldgate from Whitechapel station
With a good service apartment feel, this boutique hotel calls for visitors to find a home in their (practically) customised rooms. In addition to your preferred space, you can have a more profound experience through yoga, food and art. The four-star hotel is a ten-minute drive away from Whitechapel station on a bad day and has an average walking distance of 14 minutes.
Pergola on the Wharf from Canary Wharf station
An eight-minute walk from Canary Wharf station, Pergola on the Wharf is paradise in every sense of the word. The flora, lighting, food, drinks and live music (and induced dancing) make the space a place for all. It’s open until late, so you also get to enjoy varied views — not only of the interior decor but also of the wharfside outside.
Woolwich Town Hall from Woolwich station
This historic destination is a maximum of 10 minutes (walking or driving) distance from Woolwich station. Tourists and locals alike visit to appreciate its impressive architecture and archival relevance. While it isn't exactly a museum or gallery, you can enjoy its protected exhibits of ancient military traditions.
The Stratford Hotel London from Stratford station
The Stratford Hotel is another of London’s best boutique hotels along the path of the newly opened Crossrail. Here, you get a New York extended stay hotel experience while the glass atrium provides impressive views of the London scenery. As cosy as your room is, though, you're encouraged to come outside to the Italian style cocktail bar, dining area and even the gym.
