The Whitby Hotel
In the buttoned-down, fast-paced world of Midtown Manhattan, The Whitby Hotel provides a refreshing oasis.Its airy, bright ambiance is filled with delightful textures, from the extensive array of original artwork to the padded fabric wallpaper that lines many of the guest rooms.
Opened in 2017, the 86-room property from London-based Firmdale Hotels exudes the creative spirit of company owners Tim and Kit Kemp. Kit, a former textile designer, oversees the look, creating spaces that are a far cry from the cookie-cutter experience found elsewhere in this Manhattan neighborhood.
The small lobby is graced with eye-catching works, most notably artist Hermione Skye O’Hea’s multicolored woven installation above the reception desk and the Real Time grandfather clock from Dutch designer Maarten Baas, which features a video of a man inside the clock, continuously updating the time.
Guest rooms are equally appealing, each with unique décor elements. The New York City hotel’s prime location, within walking distance of offices and tourist attractions, makes it attractive to both business and leisure travelers.
- The interiors of the boutique hotel don a playful English style. Each room is individually decorated with a different mix of vivid patterns and colors in the headboards, wallpaper and curtains.
- The 4,956 square feet of meeting and event space is especially attractive at The Whitby, with decorative touches that create the atmosphere of an artsy private social club rather than a bland corporate meeting space. The Library, for example, is lined with books purchased from Housing Works, a local nonprofit thrift shop.
- The property’s 130-seat theater, outfitted in Ferrari leather, is an uncommon feature for a New York City hotel. While mostly reserved for private events, the theater sometimes hosts public screenings, so it’s worth checking the schedule before arrival.
- Don't miss the Drawing Room, a cozy lounge that’s something like a VIP or concierge-level lounge, but in this case, it’s accessible to all hotel guests. Furnished with a fireplace and comfortable seating, it’s an inviting place to enjoy afternoon tea or a cocktail.
- The eclectic Whitby Bar & Restaurant has high ceilings, a 30-foot pewter bar and uniquely upholstered banquettes. Stop by for brunch to nosh on head chef Anthony Paris’ chai-spiced butternut squash soup or lobster grilled cheese with New York State cheddar.
- Handsomely designed dining room The Orangery can get busy during peak hours, so reservations are recommended.
- The 24-hour fitness center is small but well-equipped with Technogym equipment to help you squeeze in a workout.
- The Whitby is a pet-friendly hotel, with dog beds and feeding bowls available for four-legged friends.
- For extra space, request a room with a sofa bed — there is usually an extra charge for this.
- Take home a piece of The Whitby Hotel: fabric left over from the room décor is repurposed to create one-of-a-kind stuffed animals, which are sold at the front desk.
- Rooms on both sides of the building have typical Midtown Manhattan views; there’s no sweet spot that allows for an unforgettable vista of any major landmark, but all rooms offer the sensation of being in the heart of the city.
- No need to worry about ambient sound when staying on the street side — the large windows are effective noise blockers.
- All Headline Suites are furnished with a Pro-Ject record player and a Bluetooth Bose unit.
- If you're craving a soak during your stay, book a Junior Suite or above to enjoy a stylish ceramic and metal bathtub.
- More stylish pied-à-terre than hotel room, The Whitby Suite occupies the entire top floor with two bedrooms, a large living room, kitchen and two spacious terraces with sweeping city views.
- Central Park is a perennial favorite — and
since it’s only two blocks from the luxury hotel, even harried business
travelers can squeeze in some quality time with nature.
- Those looking to witness some of the Big Apple’s legendary live entertainment can see what’s playing at Radio City Music Hall, which sits five blocks away, or at the many theaters in Times Square, which is about nine blocks from the property.
24-hour room service 
Bar
Gym
Meeting rooms
Restaurants
