Martin Miller | My West London Life

Martin Miller, hotel owner and founder of his eponymous gin, reveals his favourite eateries, late night hangouts and antiques markets

Posted on 11/01/10

Where do you live?

Notting Hill.

What’s on your west London cultural hit list?

I like the Tabernacle and Angus Broadbent [of his eponymous gallery] is a personal friend.

What’s happening to Miller’s Academy [the popular arts and science centre previously located on Hereford Road]…?

We couldn’t get an alcohol licence for the Hereford Road premises, so we’re looking for a new place in Notting Hill.

What’s your favourite area for browsing for antiques in London?

I like Camden Passage [N1] because it has a lovely atmosphere and I can also enjoy a coffee and something to eat there. I also like Bermondsey Market [SE1] on a Friday morning, but you have to get up at the crack of dawn for it, which doesn’t happen much these days.

What’s your fave tipple?

A perfect G&T. I like the ritual of its preparation and it has to have good ingredients. It was much maligned for years by pubs, but it is now highly regarded by bar people.

You’ve admitted to getting caught out in the last recession. Do you feel that your past experience has prepared you for this one?

To a degree, although no one believes another one is coming. I no longer take on risky businesses. I suppose I’m older and wiser.

What do you put your success down to?

Luck. I have lots of ideas, but my problem is focus. When I do focus, the ideas come to fruition. When I started the antique price guides, no one else was doing it. Likewise with Miller’s Academy; no one else was offering a free 24-hour bar. It’s about offering something for the moment.

What are you most proud of and why?

Miller’s Antiques Price Guide was a number one bestseller for years.

Where do you like to eat in west London?

I used to like going to Anthony Worrall Thompson’s Notting Grill for Sunday lunch. I love Aphrodite Taverna [15 Hereford Road, W2] – it has been around for years and is comfortable.

What’s your fave late night hangout?

Miller’s Residence because I can drink and not have to worry about travelling anywhere. I like the relaxed nature of the place. There is a lot of guest interaction. I also like the Lonsdale [48 Lonsdale Road, W11] and Electric [191 Portobello Road, W11].

How would you spend an ideal Sunday?

I would get up late and have breakfast at Roul’s (after queuing for 10 minutes); then I would check out a gallery or museum followed by a late lunch at the Belvedere in Holland Park. Afterwards, I might go to the movies at Whiteley’s.

What’s your philosophy on life?

Life’s too short, so as long as your plans don’t have too adverse an effect, give it a go.

I hear you have a new hotel …

Miller’s at the Anchor is a 15th-century seaside hunting lodge located at Porlock Weir, Exmoor National Park. It’s crammed with antiques and run by my daughter, Tanya, while my daughter, Cara, runs the London hotel.

Any other plans?

As well as looking for a location for Miller’s Academy, we’re looking for premises somewhere in the countryside for a literary and arts retreat.

www.millersuk.com