Real-life “Mary Poppins” takes over at London’s Athenaeum hotel

A nationwide search for Britain’s best nannies resulted in three real-life Mary Poppins-like ladies who are now available to watch your little ones next time you’re in London.

The Athenaeum, hailed as one of London’s most family-friendly five-star hotels, went in search of the best nannies. A panel consisting of the hotel’s Kids Concierge, six-year-old and 10-year old, and actress Lynda Bellingham, star of “Calendar Girls” interviewed all the nannies and choose three who fit the job description: “Must be fun, creative and caring; practically perfect in every way!”

Now through September, the Athenaeum’s three “Fabulous Nannies” will look after and entertain the children of guests on weekends and evenings, leaving the parents free to enjoy London on adult terms. The hotel is offering up to three hours of complimentary nanny services for guests with the Family Fun Package through Sept. 30, 2010, that starts at $450 for a Deluxe Room, $799 for a Suite, with a three-night minimum. A second room or suite of the same type is offered at a 50 percent discount. Also included:

  • Daily full English Breakfast for two
  • Complimentary meals for children under 12
  • Picnic lunch for the family
  • Free Babysitting (three hours)
  • Complimentary transfer from any London airport
  • Complimentary snacks and soft drinks from the mini bar
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi

The only thing cooler than taking the kids to London is letting them play with Mary Poppins! If the kids start telling tales of tea parties on the ceiling or jumping across chimneys, it’s OK to believe them…