London is home to many luxurious and iconic hotels that offer world-class amenities and service. Here are some of the best hotels in London:
Located on Piccadilly in the heart of Mayfair, The Ritz London is an enduring symbol of Edwardian opulence and traditional British elegance. Opened in 1906, this iconic hotel has hosted royalty, celebrities, and heads of state, making it one of the most prestigious addresses in the city.
1. The Ritz Hotel
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- Rooms and Suites: Lavishly decorated in Louis XVI style, the rooms feature antique furnishings, chandeliers, and rich fabrics, blending classic charm with modern comforts.
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- Dining: The Michelin-starred Ritz Restaurant is known for its refined French cuisine, while afternoon tea in the Palm Court—with live harp or piano music—is considered one of London’s quintessential experiences.
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- Service: The hotel prides itself on offering white-glove service, with a personal butler available for suite guests.
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- Unique Feature: The Ritz is the only hotel in the UK with a Royal Warrant for banquet and catering services.
2. The Savoy:
Overlooking the River Thames and steps away from Covent Garden, The Savoy has been a bastion of glamour, innovation, and art deco splendor since its opening in 1889. It was the first luxury hotel in Britain to offer electric lights, lifts, and running water in every room.
Notable Guests: Frank Sinatra, Marilyn Monroe, and Winston Churchill have all stayed here.
Rooms and Suites: The interiors blend Edwardian and Art Deco styles, offering breathtaking views of the river and city skyline.
Dining: The Savoy is home to the world-renowned Savoy Grill by Gordon Ramsay and Kaspar’s, a stylish seafood restaurant. The American Bar—one of the oldest cocktail bars in London—is legendary.
Service: Known for its flawless concierge service and heritage in hospitality innovation.
3. Claridge’s:
A cornerstone of luxury in Mayfair, Claridge’s is a masterpiece of Art Deco style, long associated with royalty, dignitaries, and Hollywood’s elite. Often referred to as the “annex of Buckingham Palace,” it exudes a refined blend of history, style, and discretion.
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- Rooms and Suites: Each room is individually styled, combining traditional elegance with contemporary luxury. The Claridge’s Suites and Penthouse offer butler service and sweeping views of London.
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- Dining: Home to Claridge’s Restaurant and Davies and Brook, the hotel features Michelin-starred cuisine and creative culinary experiences.
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- Design: The Art Deco interiors, marble floors, and Lalique glass give the hotel a unique blend of old-world charm and modern luxury.
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- Special Experiences: World-famous afternoon tea, and a recently unveiled spa designed by Andre Fu.
4. Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park:
Perfectly positioned between Hyde Park and Knightsbridge, the Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park offers a fusion of Asian heritage and British tradition. The hotel underwent a multi-million-pound renovation, making it one of the most modern and stylish luxury destinations in the capital.
Guest Experience: Known for exceptional, personalized service, with many packages tailored to spa-goers, shoppers, or romantic getaways.
Rooms and Suites: Light-filled and spacious, many rooms have direct views of Hyde Park and are decorated in calming, contemporary tones with bespoke furnishings.
Dining: Home to Dinner by Heston Blumenthal, a two-Michelin-starred restaurant that brings historical British gastronomy to life, and The Aubrey, a vibrant izakaya.
Wellness: Features an award-winning spa and wellness center, offering holistic therapies, a 17-meter pool, and high-end fitness facilities.
5. The Dorchester:
Nestled on Park Lane in Mayfair, facing Hyde Park, The Dorchester has long been considered a hallmark of British glamour and traditional luxury. Since 1931, it has hosted the world’s elite, including movie stars, dignitaries, and royalty.
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- Rooms and Suites: Each room is richly appointed, many in classic English style, with marble bathrooms and park views. The Dorchester Suites offer grand scale and timeless elegance.
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- Dining: Culinary excellence includes Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester, one of only a handful of three-Michelin-starred restaurants in the UK. There’s also The Grill, and The Promenade for afternoon tea.
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- Spa and Wellness: The Dorchester Spa is renowned for its art deco design and luxurious treatments using top-tier skincare brands like La Prairie.
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- Legacy: Famously resilient, the hotel remained open during WWII and is now part of the prestigious Dorchester Collection.