London Calling: Our Editors Reveal Their Favorite Hotels in the UK Capital
London Calling: Our Editors Reveal Their Favorite Hotels in the UK Capital - Stay in Style at The Savoy
If you’re looking to experience London like royalty, there’s no better place to stay than The Savoy. This iconic luxury hotel has welcomed kings and queens, presidents and prime ministers, artists and actors since it first opened its doors in 1889. Staying at The Savoy today allows you to follow in the footsteps of legends and soak up the atmosphere of Britain’s most famous hotel.
The guest rooms and suites effortlessly blend Edwardian and Art Deco inspiration with modern amenities. Details like crystal chandeliers, gilded mirrors, and marble bathrooms transport you back to The Savoy’s glamorous past. At the same time, you’ll enjoy creature comforts like hypoallergenic bedding, Nespresso coffee makers, and complimentary WiFi.
While the rooms ooze old world elegance, the service at The Savoy is thoroughly modern. A team of highly trained butlers cater to your every need, available 24/7. No request is too big or small—simply pick up the in-room telephone and ask. From unpacking suitcases to drawing luxurious baths, The Savoy’s butlers excel at thoughtful touches.
Dining at The Savoy reaches the pinnacle of indulgence. The Savoy Grill brings the best of British cuisine with prime cuts of beef and seafood from the British Isles. Kaspar’s Seafood Bar & Grill highlights seasonal catches and sustainably sourced seafood. For a taste of France, the Thames Foyer offers a decadent afternoon tea with house-made pastries and Champagne. End your evening at the American Bar, largely considered the birthplace of the modern cocktail. Sip expertly crafted drinks in a setting bustling with live piano music.
The Savoy’s prime location on the River Thames places London’s iconic sights right at your doorstep. Stroll to the London Eye, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace and more. Hop across the river to visit Shakespeare’s Globe or the Tate Modern. Many of London’s renowned museums, galleries, and performance venues sit just a short taxi ride away.
What else is in this post?
- London Calling: Our Editors Reveal Their Favorite Hotels in the UK Capital - Stay in Style at The Savoy
- London Calling: Our Editors Reveal Their Favorite Hotels in the UK Capital - Experience British Tradition at The Dorchester
- London Calling: Our Editors Reveal Their Favorite Hotels in the UK Capital - Indulge at the Corinthia Hotel London
- London Calling: Our Editors Reveal Their Favorite Hotels in the UK Capital - Cozy Elegance at Claridge's
- London Calling: Our Editors Reveal Their Favorite Hotels in the UK Capital - Boutique Chic at The Ned
- London Calling: Our Editors Reveal Their Favorite Hotels in the UK Capital - Family Fun at the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge
- London Calling: Our Editors Reveal Their Favorite Hotels in the UK Capital - Step Back in Time at Brown's Hotel
- London Calling: Our Editors Reveal Their Favorite Hotels in the UK Capital - Eco-Friendly Luxury at The Kensington Hotel
London Calling: Our Editors Reveal Their Favorite Hotels in the UK Capital - Experience British Tradition at The Dorchester
Step into The Dorchester and instantly feel transported back to 1930s British grandeur. This five-star Mayfair hotel embodies quintessential London glamour, blending art deco design with impeccable personalized service. Having hosted royalty, celebrities, and dignitaries alike, The Dorchester masterfully upholds beloved traditions while continuously reinventing luxury.
From the outside, The Dorchester’s imposing facade and iconic marble entrance hint at the splendor within. Inside, soaring columns, decorative molding, and glittering chandeliers exude old world elegance. Neutral tones accentuate the natural sunlight streaming through tall windows. Throughout the Promenade and other public spaces, admiring the hotel’s extensive art collection becomes an experience unto itself.
The plush guest rooms continue The Dorchester’s harmonious mélange of classic and contemporary. While thoughtfully designed with relaxation in mind, rooms still possess an undeniably dignified ambience. Expect indulgent amenities like hypoallergenic bedding, afternoon tea service, and Molton Brown toiletries. Upgrade to a lavish suite featuring a separate living area, dining room, and pantry kitchen stocked with treats.
However, The Dorchester’s personable employees truly elevate each visit. From impeccably attired doormen to unparalleled butler service, staff members pride themselves on providing genuinely warm British hospitality. They excel at thoughtful gestures like unpacking suitcases, organizing personalized wake-up calls, and serving breakfast in rooms. Especially for long-term guests, The Dorchesterbutlers become trusted confidantes dedicated to anticipating every need.
Savoring afternoon tea in The Promenade remains a quintessential Dorchester tradition. Relax amidst uplifting florals and live piano as white-gloved servers present towers of finger sandwiches, scones, and pastries. Opt to add champagne for the ultimate indulgent experience. Later, delight in British cuisine at Dinner by Heston Blumenthal,或者 head to China Tang for mouthwatering Cantonese fare. Complete your evening sipping creative cocktails at The Bar while admiring one-of-a-kind Baccarat glassware.
London Calling: Our Editors Reveal Their Favorite Hotels in the UK Capital - Indulge at the Corinthia Hotel London
Indulge your senses at the Corinthia Hotel London, a five-star property where opulence meets impeccable service. As soon as you step into the grand lobby with its soaring marble columns, massive chandeliers, and sweeping dual staircase, prepare to be awed. This former government building transformed into a palace-like hotel, effortlessly fusing Victorian grandeur with contemporary flourishes. Staying at the Corinthia allows you to experience London at its most decadently luxurious.
The guest rooms exemplify understated glamour with plush furnishings in soothing neutral tones. Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the space with natural light, illuminating thoughtful amenities and sleek technological details. Upgrade to a suite to enjoy separate living and dining areas, walk-in closets, and balconies overlooking London. The Corinthia’s spacious signature suites provide the ultimate indulgence. Spread out in over 2,500 square feet of pure extravagance complete with a media room, full bar, and Erard piano.
However, top-notch service truly elevates a Corinthia stay. From the moment you arrive, the staff exude genuine warmth while catering to your every need. Take advantage of the Corinthia’s Clefs d’Or concierge service, providing insider recommendations and VIP access to London’s most exclusive happenings. Unpack your suitcase yourself? Perish the thought. Corinthia butlers meticulously tend to all aspects of your stay. Enjoy daily complimentary shoe shines and newspaper delivery, perfectly pressed garments, and unpacking/packing services.
Savoring exceptional cuisine becomes an art form at the Corinthia. Opt for refined British fare at Kerridge’s Bar & Grill led by Michelin-starred chef Tom Kerridge. Tantalize your taste buds with Mediterranean flavors at breakfast, lunch or dinner at The Northall restaurant. For the ultimate indulgence, book a private dining experience within the Corinthia’s exquisite wine cellar. With over 400 wines and champagnes to choose from, oenophiles delight in personalized food and wine pairings.
London Calling: Our Editors Reveal Their Favorite Hotels in the UK Capital - Cozy Elegance at Claridge's
Step into Claridge’s and enter a world of intimate, cozy elegance. This storied Mayfair institution encapsulates the richness of London’s heritage while pioneering the future of luxury hospitality. By blending impeccable service with charming sophistication, Claridge’s creates stays that feel like coming home.
From the moment you walk through the doors, Claridge’s warmly wraps you in plush luxury. The intimate lobby and reading room exude an inviting sense of old world charm. Yet modern flourishes like contemporary art installations and sleek furniture keep the experience feeling fresh. According to guests, Claridge's nails that delicate balance between stuffy tradition and contemporary chic. The result is an atmosphere both elegant and cozy.
That same harmony extends into the guest rooms and suites. Design pays homage to Claridge’s heritage while incorporating current comforts. Hand-painted Chinese wallpaper references the hotel's art deco beginnings in the 1920s and 30s. Meanwhile, cutting-edge tech like high-speed Wi-Fi and intuitive lighting controls cater to today's traveler. Signature art deco furniture blends seamlessly with luxurious bedding and spa-inspired bathrooms. Claridge's cofounders, professional skiers and brothers William and Richard Claridge, would adore the rooms' understated Alpine-inspired interiors.
However, Claridge’s employees truly make the hotel feel like home. The staff forge sincere relationships with guests, proving that first class service needn’t feel stuffy. As one guest describes, “The service at Claridge's wraps you in a blanket of care.” Concierges act as confidants, offering insider London knowledge and securing last-minute theater tickets. Butler service goes above and beyond, handling everything from unpacking suitcases to organizing personalized wake-up calls. Thoughtful touches like nightly chocolate and personalized weather reports make every day special.
Indulge in elegantly cozy dining experiences without ever leaving the hotel. Enjoy one of London’s most beloved institution, afternoon tea in the Foyer. Relax amidst charming florals and live piano music while partaking in towers of finger sandwiches, scones, and sweets. Later, savor award-winning European cuisine at Gordon Ramsay’s intimate Fera restaurant. Cap off evenings in the Fumoir bar, inspired by an original art deco cigar shop. Sink into a leather armchair with an expertly crafted cocktail and admire the crackling fireplaces.
London Calling: Our Editors Reveal Their Favorite Hotels in the UK Capital - Boutique Chic at The Ned
Tucked away in the former Midland Bank building, The Ned drips with playful opulence. This relatively new hotel regards stuffiness as its mortal enemy, exuding irreverent extravagance. By blending industrial glamour with a hint of retro nostalgia, The Ned attracts those craving a lively London basecamp.
The striking exterior foreshadows the visual feast within. The original 1920s architecture still captivates with imposing pillars and stately Portland stone. Inside, layers of texture and color energize the vast former banking hall. Vibrant velvet furniture, bold geometric carpeting, and exposed original tiling mingle effortlessly. Witty art deco touches like gold palm lamps and patinated brass elevators add retro flair. Throughout the public spaces, discover engaging design details everywhere you look.
That stunning setting extends into the 252 bedrooms and suites tucked behind the former counters of the banking hall. While fundamentally simple and pared back, rooms still surprise and delight. Textural woven headboards, leather desks, and auto-chromic glass bedside tables add tactile interest. Thoughtful amenities like yoga mats, acoustic guitars, and Smeg fridges stuffed with bubbly provide playful luxury. Upgrade to a suite for more space to lounge amidst designer furnishings and bold artwork.
Of course, The Ned also promises exceptional service—with its tongue firmly in cheek. Stylishly hip “Nedists” replace stuffy receptionists and concierges. Still, they deliver five-star treatment with genuine warmth and wit. Request unpacking assistance and return to find whimsical paper cutouts indicating the location of each clothing item. Forgot a coveted hair product? A Nedist will venture out and track it down for you.
For wining and dining, The Ned thrills with choice. Ten exciting restaurants and bars allow guests to effortlessly descend into debauchery—or sobriety. Kick-start days at Cecconi’s, enjoying a cappuccino and fresh pastries amidst soaring ceilings. Enjoy laidback Italian fare at Malibu Kitchen poolside, or shellfish platters with champagne at The Oyster Bar. Later, mix with London’s elite quaffing cocktails at the Punch Room or dance the night away at the moodily lit Zobler’s club downstairs.
When you stay at The Ned, location becomes your playground. The City of London stretches right outside with iconic sites like The Tower and Tower Bridge within walking distance. Cross the Millennium Bridge to visit St. Paul’s and the Tate Modern. For a change of scenery, stroll through nearby Covent Garden’s bustling lanes dotted with boutiques, street performers, and lively pubs. Of course, Nedists happily hail taxis or make recommendations for exploring further afield.
London Calling: Our Editors Reveal Their Favorite Hotels in the UK Capital - Family Fun at the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge
Navigating London with kids poses a uniquely exhilarating challenge. You want to revel in the magic of iconic sights like Buckingham Palace and the London Eye. Yet amidst the bustle, little ones require convenient creature comforts. Look no further than the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge for the ideal family home base. This playful hotel overlooking Big Ben blends central location with engaging amenities for a memorable family vacation.
Park Plaza recognizes families as honored guests, not hassles to accommodate. Kids delight in dedicated check-in areas complete with colored stools, activity packs, and wired consoles. Parents appreciate thoughtful touches like baby toiletries, board games, and toddler-size bathrobes. Flexible, interconnecting rooms make settling in seamless. Some even include bunk beds and PlayStation consoles, highly coveted by young travelers.
Of course, Park Plaza offers plenty to entertain beyond the rooms themselves. The heated indoor pool invites leisurely dips year-round with toys and inflatables at the ready. Playgrounds allow kids to scamper, while game zones equip teens with pool tables and videogames. Schedule an in-room “Cinema Under the Stars” complete with popcorn and candy for the ultimate family movie night. When you need a break, kids clubs supervise adventures with pizza making classes or theater workshops. Teenseven enjoy complimentary mocktail mixology lessons from the bartender.
Thanks to Park Plaza’s ideal South Bank location, family fun lies just steps away. Take advantage of early entry Family FastPasses for the iconic London Eye. Giddily soar 135 meters high in a climate-controlled capsule, spotting landmarks like Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, and Buckingham Palace. Cross Westminster bridge to snap selfies outside the bustling Houses of Parliament and Big Ben’s towering clock face. Treat tiny performers to interactive workshops and storytelling sessions nearby at the National Theatre.
Of course, Park Plaza also makes accessing top museums incredibly convenient. Avoid subway stress; the Tate Modern, Sea Life Aquarium, and London Dungeon all sit less than a ten minute walk away. Chug along the Thames aboard city cruise boats, disembarking next to the Tower of London to gawk at the crown jewels. With Covent Garden and its plethora of family-friendly shows just a short tube ride away, entertainment options feel endless.
Mealtimes delight at Park Plaza’s restaurants catering to pint-sized pallets. Kids clamor for homemade pizzas topped with smiley pepperoni faces at hotel restaurant Chino Latino. Picky eaters dig into free ice cream and choose from unpronounceable dishes at the playfully named wagamama noodle bar. Of course, Park Plaza also delivers 24/7 in-room dining, helpful for quelling late night hunger tantrums. Just ring down for burgers, mac-n-cheese, or fish sticks and milkshakes galore.
London Calling: Our Editors Reveal Their Favorite Hotels in the UK Capital - Step Back in Time at Brown's Hotel
Ensconced in a stately Victorian building in Mayfair, Brown’s Hotel transports guests back to the elegance of early 19th century London. Staying here allows you to vividly experience the atmosphere of Britain’s imperial heyday. For history buffs or literature lovers, Brown’s offers an unparalleled opportunity to walk in the footsteps of icons who once frequented its hallowed halls.
Brown's rich heritage becomes palpable from the moment you enter its intimate lobby. Display cases exhibit artifacts and images honoring notable guests like Winston Churchill, FDR, and Stephen King. According to the hotel's fascinating printed history, Alexander Graham Bell made his first UK telephone call from Brown's lobby in 1876. Moving deeper inside, admire antiques, oil paintings, and floral arrangements echoing the decor of Brown’s 1837 beginnings. Yet seamless contemporary details like high-speed WiFi keep the vibe refined rather than stuffy.
Throughout your stay at Brown's, make time to wander and uncover stories hiding in plain sight. In the Donovan Bar, ponder the photos of supermodel Twiggy or actress Elizabeth Taylor laughing over cocktails during the Swinging Sixties. Splurging on afternoon tea in The Albemarle allows you to sit upon the very same delicate wicker chairs favored by Queen Victoria herself. Peer out window no. 18 and imagine author Agatha Christie furiously scribbling plot twists that would later fill the pages of her mystery novel “At Bertram’s Hotel.”
Brown's 115 uniquely designed guest rooms exude quintessentially British grandeur with an intimate flair. Plush fabrics, gleaming wood furnishings, and marble bathrooms evoke the stylish sensibility of early aristocrats. Yet modern amenities like Nespresso machines, designer toiletries, and smart TVs keep you comfortably rooted in the present. For the full regal experience, book one of Brown’s opulent suites filled with ornate antiques and elaborate molding. Sleep like a royal while still enjoying little luxuries like Molton Brown products and complimentary WiFi.
According to Brown's global marketing manager Andrew Stembridge, "Staying here lets you vividly experience the spirit of 1837 through architecture, design and impeccable service.” The exceptional staff proudly uphold beloved traditions and expertise passed down for generations. On arrival, the porter unfailingly addresses you by name while adeptly maneuvering luggage and umbrellas. Your personal butler thoroughly briefs you on the hotel’s rich history and shares helpful hints to make the most of your stay. For a uniquely British experience, Brown's employees simply have no equal.
London Calling: Our Editors Reveal Their Favorite Hotels in the UK Capital - Eco-Friendly Luxury at The Kensington Hotel
Nestled in the heart of Kensington, The Kensington Hotel pioneers eco-conscious hospitality without sacrificing luxury. This refined boutique property regards environmentalism not as a chore, but an integral part of its identity. Implementing initiatives both big and small, The Kensington embodies sustainability as a lifestyle. For eco-minded travelers, staying here allows you to indulge guilt-free.
From solar panels to reusable amenity dispensers, examples of The Kensington’s green commitment greet you everywhere. The hotel’s combined heat and power generator provides 80% of its energy. Any power needed from the grid comes entirely from renewable sources. Natural light floods the lobby, accented by potted palms and a living wall of tropical foliage. Seasonal flower arrangements come directly from the on-site chef’s garden.
That gardening theme even extends into the stunning Harvest Suite. This light-filled corner room mimics a rooftop urban oasis with lush plantings and a mini-greenhouse. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame panoramic city views while you recline atop the Egyptian cotton bedding.
Beyond aesthetics, The Kensington integrates eco-friendly practices into every aspect of your stay. Thehyper-local “Farmers’ Market Breakfast” sources ingredients from nearby vendors to reduce food miles. Vegan, gluten-free and allergy-friendly options feature prominently on dining menus. Even the luxurious Ren amenities come packaged in recyclable aluminum bottles.
However, butler services provide the most eco-friendly perk. Your designated butler acts as your sustainability guide, providing eco-conscious recommendations and securing carbon-neutral rides. Glide through London in zero-emissions chauffeured BMW i3s stocked with complimentary sparkling water. For longer day trips, butlers book seats aboard eco-friendly train services complete with three-course meals served at your seat.
The Kensington also empowers guests to directly support environmental non-profits. Join one of the weekly RSPB birdwatching sessions and enjoy nature while contributing to conservation. Or, sponsor an endangered honeybee colony through the hotel’s hive adoption program.
Guest Mia Sanders describes The Kensington as “eco-luxury at its finest.” During her honeymoon stay, she appreciated touches like the all-natural mattresses and chemical-free cleaning solutions. The evokes the vibe of “a peaceful English cottage somehow transported into the heart of bustling London.” For her, the sustainable practices blended seamlessly with the elegant surroundings.