Lilibet shares her downtime essentials

Walpole: In a world where we’re always available, how do you separate your personal time from your work time?

Lilibet: Over the past six years since I joined the team at The Lanesborough, I've mastered the art of disappearing at those key moments when I am being asked for by a guest – or just when the workday gets too busy. If I need a break, I tend to find a place to sneak off to: a hidden corner, behind a plant or, even better, hopping up onto the highest shelf where no one can quite reach me. I know the importance of a good catnap, especially when there’s too much commotion in the lobby.

What’s one thing you do after the workday to help you unwind?

After a busy day of greeting guests and making sure everyone feels at home, I enjoy a calming stroll around the hotel and visiting all my favourite team members (who seem to have a never-ending supply of Dreamies). It's my way of unwinding and reflecting on the day. That said, I also enjoy staying up late to play with the night team.

What activity do you do in your time away from the office that helps you relax and recenter after a stressful week?

When I need to recentre, I find a cosy, quiet spot – unless there’s a ball of string or a ribbon nearby, in which case, my quiet time goes out the window. For some alone time,  I'll climb to the highest spot I can to take advantage of the views from the hotel out towards the Wellington Arch.

What’s something you’ve read, listened to, or seen in your spare time that’s helped you at work?

I don’t read, but I'm a keen observer. I've definitely been known to binge-watch birds on YouTube and I also enjoy a fish tank screen saver on the computers in the hotel's back offices. One thing I've learned over time is the power of body language. Over the years at The Lanesborough, I've honed my empathy skills and I'm good at being able to sense when a guest needs a little extra attention.

After home and the office, where’s your favourite ‘third space’?

That has to be the Belgravia Ballroom, where I can soak up the sun and keep an eye on everything happening around me. It's a peaceful escape from the hotel’s hustle and bustle – a place of calm and tranquility.

On Sunday night, how do you prepare yourself for the week ahead?

Sunday night for me is all about self-care. I enjoy a quiet evening in my favourite spot followed by a light snack and a bit of time to myself. It’s my way of mentally preparing for the week ahead, making sure I'm rested and ready for all the new faces that will come through the hotel doors.

Best reason you've had to turn your out of office on recently?

I recently had to turn my “out of office” on to go to the cat groomer's for a spa day. I must say, I came back looking really nice and fluffy – and smelled great.

Your go-to out of office outfit: My bespoke Ralph & Russo collar.

Your happy place anywhere in the world: The Lanesborough, of course.

Your favourite bar or restaurant: The Garden Room at The Lanesborough.

Something you booked recently that you'd recommend: Cats.

Something you've listened to or read recently that you'd recommend: Tea for the Tillerman by Cat Stevens.

A hobby you'd like to cultivate: Fishing.

A luxury that’s actually a necessity: Cashmere cat bedding and my favourite cat bed that a hotel guest brought me from Japan.

Best luxury under £25: Dreamies.

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