A while back I wrote a blog post on the top neighborhoods to visit in London. One of the frequently asked questions since writing that post is what are some of the best places to stay when visiting London. The best hotels in these select locales provide more than just a place to sleep—they become a vital part of your travel experience, promising comfort, world-class amenities, and impeccable service. Whether you’re drawn to the majestic beauty of royal parks and the lively energy of trendy streets, your journey to the UK capital should be nothing short of spectacular. Here are some of my top recommendations.
Mayfair
Nestled near the verdant expanses of Hyde Park and the bustling thoroughfares of Piccadilly, Mayfair, is home to some of London’s most renowned hotels.
Claridge’s
With a fascinating backstory dating back to the 19th century, including its association with European royalty and Hollywood stars, Claridge’s boasts a timeless charm that blends classic elegance with modern comforts.
The hotel’s accommodation options range from traditional to Art Deco-style rooms and suites, offering luxurious amenities and personalized service, including 24-hour butler service in select suites. Culinary offerings, overseen by Culinary Director Simon Attridge, feature European classics and the world-renowned Afternoon Tea, complemented by bespoke teas curated by the Rare Tea Company. Additionally, the hotel’s ArtSpace Café and 1930s-style Fumoir bar provide unique dining and drinking experiences. Beyond its hospitality, Claridge’s is renowned for its subterranean spa, eco-friendly initiatives, and commitment to accessibility, ensuring a memorable and inclusive stay for all guests.
The Ritz London
The Ritz London, since its opening in 1906 by Swiss hotelier César Ritz, remains a symbol of old-school glamor and sophistication. With its unchanged public spaces like the beloved Palm Court and restaurant, the hotel exudes a sense of timeless elegance.
Accommodations feature fine fabrics, antique furniture, and understated lavishness, maintaining the original Louis XVI style. The popular afternoon tea, served in the opulent Palm Court, epitomizes tradition with crustless sandwiches, warm scones, and an array of sweets. Additionally, the Michelin-starred Ritz Restaurant and the chic Rivoli Bar offer exceptional dining experiences. Frequented by the famous and fashionable, including heads of state and royalty, The Ritz boasts impeccable service, highlighted by the superlative concierge desk. Situated near Green Park and Piccadilly, the hotel also offers convenient access to London’s top attractions, culture, and shopping destinations, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a quintessential London experience.
1 Hotel Mayfair
Shifting the focus to boutique luxury, 1 Hotel Mayfair brings a fresh, eco-conscious elegance to the neighborhood. Balancing original design with nature-inspired elements, it offers a serene escape just a stone’s throw from Hyde Park’s green tranquility. Embracing biophilia-inspired design and eco-friendly architecture, the hotel integrates over 1,300 plants and utilizes existing structures to minimize environmental impact. Each of the 181 rooms reflects a commitment to sustainability with natural materials and living moss walls, while the suites offer expansive views of Green Park and the city skyline.
Dining options include the Dover Yard cocktail bar and the acclaimed Dovetale restaurant, serving organic, locally sourced cuisine. The Bamford Wellness Spa further enhances guests’ well-being with bespoke treatments and fitness experiences. Conveniently located in Mayfair, the hotel provides easy access to shopping districts, parks, and restaurants, with Audi partnership facilitating city exploration for hotel guests. Exemplary service, inclusive accessibility features, and a dedication to sustainability underscore 1 Hotel Mayfair’s status as a trailblazer in eco-tourism and luxury hospitality.
Knightsbridge
If you’re planning a trip to Knightsbridge, you’re in for a treat. This exclusive neighborhood is one of London’s most affluent and polished quarters, synonymous with luxury shopping and high-end living. The streets are lined with boutique hotels that offer a more intimate experience. Shopping here is an event in itself, with Harrods only a stone’s throw away from where you’d be resting your head.
The Bulgari Hotel London
Designed by architect Antonio Citterio, this contemporary hotel stands out with its sleek design and sophisticated ambiance. The interior features elements of mid-century design, blending gleaming black floors, walnut walls, and plush furnishings with subtle flashes of silver, reflecting the brand’s heritage. Guests can indulge in the hotel’s vast subterranean spa, complete with massage rooms, saunas, steam rooms, and a stunning swimming pool. The hotel’s underground levels also house meeting and events spaces, including a cinema.
Rooms and suites in Bulgari are adorned in a palette of beige and silvery gray, complemented by polished wood floors and luxurious amenities. Lavish bathrooms, decked out in black Marquina marble, offer a sense of indulgence and relaxation. Sette, the hotel’s restaurant, delights guests with contemporary Italian cuisine served in a sultry and stylish setting. From flavourful pasta dishes to expertly prepared meats and seafood, Sette offers a culinary journey infused with subtle twists. Meanwhile, Nolita Social, the hotel’s basement bar, invites guests to unwind with an excellent cocktail menu and live music.
Related: Top Italian Dishes Worth a Trip to Italy!
The Egerton House Hotel
The Egerton House Hotel offers a charming home-away-from-home experience in the heart of London, nestled in two Victorian townhouses on a serene residential street. Its proximity to top museums and luxury shopping destinations like Harrods and Harvey Nichols makes it an ideal base for exploration.
With its understated elegance and antique furnishings, the hotel exudes a welcoming atmosphere reminiscent of an aristocratic residence. Guests are treated to seamless service, including a complimentary glass of champagne upon arrival and access to a nearby fitness club. The 28 individually decorated rooms and suites boast spacious layouts, luxurious amenities, and marble bathrooms stocked with upscale toiletries. The hotel’s renowned afternoon tea and martini masterclass offer delightful culinary experiences, while breakfast options range from hot à la carte dishes to delectable pastries and cheeses. Whether enjoying afternoon tea in the elegant drawing room adorned with artwork or indulging in a martini alongside Victorian portraits, guests at the Egerton House Hotel are sure to feel pampered and at ease.
The Knightsbridge Hotel
The Knightsbridge Hotel, nestled within discrete plane tree-lined Beaufort Gardens, offers a distinctive and stylish retreat just moments away from prestigious landmarks like Harrods and the V&A Museum. Reflecting the creative vision of its designer owner Kit Kemp, the hotel exudes individuality and character, evident in its vibrant interiors and eclectic artwork. Thoughtful touches abound, from the lobby’s display of red apples to the bold use of color and fabrics throughout the drawing room and library.
The hotel’s 44 elegantly decorated rooms showcase immense style with tall embroidered headboards, eye-catching wallpaper, and luxurious furnishings, ensuring a comfortable stay. While there is no formal restaurant, guests can enjoy delicious room service menus served in elegant surroundings, including afternoon tea in the drawing room or library. The hotel’s attentive service and array of amenities, from in-room massages to complimentary Blu-ray DVDs, elevate the guest experience, making the Knightsbridge Hotel a charming haven in the heart of London’s most exclusive neighborhood.
Related: London’s Top Museum and Upcoming Exhibitions
Victoria
In the heart of London, you’ll find Victoria—a seat of royalty and government, home to icons like Buckingham Palace and Big Ben.
The Goring
The Goring offers a quintessentially British stay with impeccable service, charming decor, and a prime location, making it a favorite among royalty, celebrities, and travelers seeking a truly memorable experience in London. Established in 1910 by Otto Richard Goring, this family-owned hotel has retained its classic appeal while continuously updating its offerings to provide a luxurious and comfortable stay for guests.
Situated across the road from Buckingham Palace, The Goring boasts a prime location with the added advantage of a vast private garden, offering a tranquil retreat in the heart of the city. The hotel’s distinctive style and character shine through in its unique decor and playful touches, including caricatures of staff and owners, whimsical plastic ducks in bathrooms, and life-sized sheep in bedrooms, adding a sense of personality to the ambiance.
The Goring’s service and facilities are exemplary, with long-serving staff ensuring guests receive warm and attentive hospitality throughout their stay. From complimentary cocktails upon arrival to butler service for suites provided by a ‘fleet of footmen,’ the hotel goes above and beyond to cater to guests’ needs and preferences.
Rooms at The Goring have been meticulously redesigned, offering a blend of glamor and homeliness with luxurious touches such as Gainsborough silks on the walls and marble bathrooms. Each room provides a comfortable and inviting retreat for guests to relax and unwind. In terms of dining, The Dining Room at The Goring was awarded its first Michelin star in 2015, showcasing head chef Shay Cooper’s imaginative cooking based on the best seasonal British produce. With elegant dishes and expertly matched wines, dining at The Goring is a culinary experience to remember.
Related: The History and Significance of Michelin Stars
The Taj 51 Buckingham
The Taj 51 Buckingham Gate Suites and Residences is a luxurious five-star hotel located in the heart of Victoria, London. Tucked away in a secluded courtyard, the hotel offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city streets while providing easy access to some of London’s most iconic attractions.
Upon entering the hotel’s leafy courtyard, guests are greeted by friendly elephant statues guarding the gates, creating an exclusive and inviting atmosphere. The Victorian townhouses that make up the hotel, along with its sister property St James’ Court, exude charm and elegance, with enchanting peacock-print wallpaper, contemporary art, and lavish furnishings adorning the interior spaces. Service is a cornerstone of the Taj 51 Buckingham Gate experience, with knowledgeable and attentive staff ensuring that guests feel pampered and well taken care of throughout their stay. The hotel offers a range of facilities to enhance the guest experience, including the Jiva spa, Europe’s first, located in a candle-lit underground space where guests can indulge in rejuvenating treatments and relaxation rituals.
Additionally, there is a fitness center and a bijou hair salon for guests to enjoy. Accommodations at Taj 51 Buckingham Gate are all suites, offering spacious living areas and fully equipped kitchens, making them ideal for families and long-stay guests. The rooms feature contemporary decor with neutral tones, marble bathrooms, and thoughtful amenities such as a library of DVDs and freshly popped popcorn for movie nights. Dining at the hotel is a delightful experience, with options ranging from refined international cuisine at Bistro to Michelin-starred south-west coastal Indian cuisine at Quilon. Afternoon tea at Kona is a must-try, featuring beautifully laid-out tables and creative dishes inspired by themes such as Alice in Wonderland and Jasmine Indian.
Covent Garden
The Savoy
Nestled behind its own forecourt on the Strand, the first thing you’ll see is the iconic stainless steel Art Deco sign, crowned by the gold statue of Peter II, Count of Savoy. The hotel’s marbled Edwardian front hall sets the tone for a stay marked by elegance and refinement, while the Thames Foyer, adorned with a winter garden gazebo, serves as the heart of the hotel where guests can indulge in afternoon tea accompanied by live piano music.
Each part of The Savoy exudes its unique atmosphere, from the brash American Bar to the theatrical Beaufort Bar, offering guests a variety of experiences within its storied walls. Following a meticulous three-year restoration completed in 2010, the hotel has seamlessly blended its original character with contemporary luxury, ensuring that its timeless appeal remains intact.
Service at The Savoy is attentive and professional, with staff members dedicated to providing guests with an exceptional experience from the moment they arrive. The hotel offers an array of facilities, including a wellness area with a pool, sauna, steam room, and well-equipped gym, as well as a business center and two treatment rooms. Suites at The Savoy offer unparalleled views of the Thames, along with classic yet comfortable decor and luxurious amenities, including complimentary minibars and Penhaligon products in the bathrooms.
With Gordon Ramsay overseeing all three of the hotel’s restaurants, staying at the Savoy for the food alone is worth it! From the timeless elegance of the Savoy Grill to the modern French tasting menus at 1890, guests can indulge in exceptional cuisine in a variety of settings.
The Covent Garden Hotel
As part of the esteemed Firmdale Group, Covent Garden Hotel shines as a beacon of distinctive design and personalized service. Located on Monmouth Street in the picturesque Seven Dials area, the hotel enjoys a prime position surrounded by independent shops and eateries. Guests can easily explore the vibrant neighborhood, with Covent Garden tube station just a short stroll away, providing convenient access to the city’s attractions and theaters.
Designed by Kit Kemp, the hotel’s interiors exude a laid-back yet sophisticated charm, reminiscent of a stylish home adorned with eclectic art and furnishings. The welcoming reception area sets the tone for a relaxed stay, while the wood-paneled Drawing Room on the first floor offers a tranquil retreat complete with an honesty bar and cozy library.
Service at the Covent Garden Hotel is both slick and friendly, with staff members ensuring that guests feel right at home from the moment they arrive. The hotel boasts a range of facilities, including a well-equipped gym and a 48-seat cinema in the basement, perfect for hosting screening nights of recently released films.
Accommodations at the hotel are a testament to Kit Kemp’s creative flair, with each of the 58 rooms and suites featuring colorful headboards, quirky furnishings, and marble bathrooms stocked with luxurious RikRak toiletries. Guests can unwind in style, with Bose Bluetooth speakers and charming window seats adding to the allure of the rooms. Brasserie Max, the hotel’s restaurant, offers a refined take on classic brasserie fare, with dishes like Dorset crab cakes and lobster linguine delighting the taste buds. Breakfast is a highlight, with a well-considered buffet featuring homemade treats and a tempting selection of à la carte options.
Southwark
The allure of the Thames is undeniable, and Southwark’s luxury accommodations harness this with scenic offerings that allow you to enjoy the riverside day and night. The district gives you access to a host of activities from a leisurely stroll along the Thames’ banks to a vibrant scene at Borough Market—all within walking distance of your hotel. Not to forget that Tate Modern is a stone’s throw away.
Shangri-La at The Shard
Located in the iconic Shard skyscraper, the Shangri-La at The Shard in London Bridge offers unparalleled views of the city skyline from every corner of the hotel. The hotel’s prime location makes it a perfect base for both leisure and business travelers, with easy access to Borough Market, London Bridge Underground, and rail stations. Additionally, many of the city’s key attractions are within walking distance or a short tube ride away, allowing guests to explore the vibrant neighborhoods of London with ease. Stepping into the Shangri-La at The Shard, guests are greeted by sleek and modern interiors, featuring muted colors and floor-to-ceiling windows that frame the stunning views of the cityscape. Fresh flowers add touches of color to the common spaces, while the Sky Lounge and Gong cocktail bar exude glamor with their stylish furnishings and vibrant ambiance.
Service at the hotel is exemplary, with friendly staff always on hand to assist guests with any requests or queries. The Sky Pool offers a unique opportunity to swim while enjoying panoramic views of London, while the fully equipped gym and spa provide opportunities for relaxation and rejuvenation. Accommodations at the Shangri-La are luxurious and well-appointed, with each room offering a slightly different layout and size to make the most of the unique building’s architecture. Asian-inspired artworks and plush furnishings create an atmosphere of elegance and comfort, while marble bathrooms feature rainfall showers and L’Occitane toiletries.
Dining options at the hotel include Ting, which offers a menu of Asian-inspired dishes with regularly changing offerings, and Gong, a sophisticated bar where guests can enjoy expertly mixed cocktails with breathtaking views of Tower Bridge.
The Hoxton
Situated just off the southern bank of the River Thames, The Hoxton, Southwark, offers a vibrant and welcoming stay in the heart of South London. Embodying the distinctive charm of The Hoxton brand, this hotel combines contemporary style with a neighborhood feel, making it a popular choice for travelers seeking a fun and lively atmosphere. The hotel’s location provides easy access to a wealth of attractions and amenities, including the iconic Borough Market, Tate Modern, the Southbank Centre, and various theaters and cultural venues. With Blackfriars and Southwark Underground stations just a short walk away, exploring the city is convenient and effortless.
Related: London Top 10 Museums and Galleries
Upon entering The Hoxton, Southwark, guests are greeted by a chic and modern aesthetic, characterized by exposed brickwork, lush greenery, and an eclectic mix of artworks. The interiors exude a relaxed yet stylish vibe, with touches of New York loft-style design complemented by vibrant velvet chairs and marble accents. Service at the hotel is casual and friendly, with staff knowledgeable about the local area and eager to assist guests with any requests. The open-plan lobby, which houses the Albie restaurant and a bar, creates a lively atmosphere where guests can mingle and relax.
Accommodations at The Hoxton, Southwark, are designed to provide comfort and style, with “Cozy” bedrooms featuring unique design elements such as red velvet headboards and retro-inspired furnishings. Amenities include tea/coffee-making facilities, a mini-fridge, and luxurious Blank toiletries in the green-tiled bathrooms. The hotel’s culinary offerings are centered around the rooftop restaurant, Seabird, which boasts stunning views of the city skyline. With a focus on Portuguese and Spanish-influenced seafood dishes, Seabird offers an unforgettable dining experience, while Albie provides a more casual setting for all-day dining and brunch.
Ready to Experience London Like Never Before?
As your dedicated personal travel advisor, I’m here to make your London experience truly exceptional from start to finish.
Why Choose Me as Your Personal Travel Advisor?
Exclusive Accommodation Benefits: Gain access to a treasure trove of perks and privileges, including complimentary room upgrades, special amenities, and insider deals at top hotels across London.
Tailored Itineraries: Say goodbye to cookie-cutter travel plans! I’ll work closely with you to craft a bespoke itinerary tailored to your interests, preferences, and budget. Whether you’re a culture vulture, foodie explorer, or history buff, I’ll ensure every moment of your London adventure is tailored to your tastes.
Insider Knowledge: Unlock the hidden gems and secret spots that only a local insider like me can reveal. From off-the-beaten-path attractions to trendy neighborhood haunts, I’ll help you discover London’s best-kept secrets and create unforgettable memories along the way.
Seamless Planning: Sit back, relax, and let me handle all the nitty-gritty details of your trip. From booking accommodations and arranging transportation to securing coveted restaurant reservations, I’ll take care of every aspect of your travel planning, leaving you free to focus on enjoying your London experience to the fullest.
Don’t settle for a one-size-fits-all travel experience—let me tailor your London trip to perfection! Contact me today to start planning your dream getaway!
Trackbacks/Pingbacks