London, a city steeped in its own unique sense of opulence, is home to some of the world’s most luxurious hotels. For those seeking a truly extravagant experience, the capital’s 5-star stalwarts offer more than just a place to rest your head. They provide a gateway to the pinnacle of hospitality, where every detail is meticulously crafted to ensure an unforgettable stay. Here, we explore 7 of London’s most lavish hotels, each with its own unique brand of grandeur and all offering a truly 5 star stay.
Claridge’s, Mayfair
Ideal for art deco splendor that meets contemporary luxury…
Claridge’s, the art deco jewel of London, has been a favorite of the elite since the 1850s. Situated in Mayfair, this hotel is a perfect blend of history and modernity, known for its old-world glamour and avant-garde amenities.
5 Star Flourishes: The Foyer & Reading Room at Claridge’s serves up one of London’s most sought-after, aesthetically pleasing dining experiences, with its striking Dale Chihuly sculpture providing a dazzling centrepiece.
Fine Dining: After the closure of both Michelin-starred Fera and Davies and Brook in recent years, Claridge’s Restaurant is back – named eponymously for the first time in twenty years – and serving classic British dishes elevated with luxury ingredients. Think buckwheat crumpets finished with black truffle or wild garlic stuffed breast of Norfolk chicken. Yum.
Insider Tip: The Davies Penthouse, with its private terrace offering views of the London skyline, is a hidden gem. For a special experience, book this suite and enjoy a private butler service. Alternatively, The Brook Penthouse, with its wraparound terrace, offers a panoramic view of London’s rooftops. It’s a perfect choice for those who appreciate outdoor space in the city.
The Connaught, Mayfair
Ideal for a fusion of contemporary chic and classic sophistication…
In the heart of Mayfair lies The Connaught, a hotel that effortlessly blends contemporary style with traditional English charm. With its artful design, Michelin-starred dining, and a world-class art collection, The Connaught redefines modern luxury while paying homage to its storied past.
5 Star Flourishes: The Aman Spa at The Connaught is the first Aman Spa to be built outside the renowned Aman resorts, offering an exclusive sanctuary of tranquillity.
Fine Dining: Hélène Darroze at The Connaught, with two Michelin stars, offers an unforgettable dining experience. The restaurant serves up exquisite French cuisine with a focus on the finest British and French produce.
Insider Tip: Request a room on the Carlos Place side of the hotel for a serene view that overlooks the quiet, tree-lined cul-de-sac, and for a higher chance of receiving a complimentary upgrade, consider booking during the off-peak seasons.
The Ritz, Mayfair
Ideal for timeless elegance in the heart of Mayfair…
Since its opening in 1906, The Ritz London has been synonymous with the high life, attracting royalty, celebrities, and discerning travelers. Nestled in the prestigious Mayfair area, this iconic hotel is the epitome of timeless luxury, with its Louis XVI-inspired interiors and impeccable service.
5 Star Flourishes: The Ritz is renowned for its Afternoon Tea in the Palm Court, an experience so quintessentially British that it has been awarded an official Tea Guild accreditation.
Fine Dining: The Ritz Restaurant is not only one of the most beautiful dining rooms in the world but also boasts a Michelin star. Under the helm of Executive Chef John Williams, the menu features British classics with a modern twist, using the highest quality seasonal ingredients.
Insider Tip: For a chance at an upgrade, book a room categorised just below a suite. The hotel often favours these reservations for complimentary upgrades when available, especially if you’re celebrating a special occasion.
Please be aware that following enforced closure during the global pandemic, the hotel’s famed casino, the Ritz Club, hasn’t reopened. One of the UK’s online casinos is still available to play slots, of course.
The Savoy, Westminster
Ideal for a landmark of luxury on the River Thames…
The Savoy, standing proudly on the banks of the River Thames, has been an icon of elegance since 1889. Known for its Art Deco and Edwardian styles, the hotel has played host to royalty, celebrities, and leaders, offering an unmatched blend of history, sophistication, and charm.
5 Star Flourishes: The Savoy is home to the famous American Bar, the oldest surviving cocktail bar in London, which has been serving patrons since 1893.
Fine Dining: The Savoy Grill, operated by the Gordon Ramsay Group, offers a classic British Grill menu with a French touch and has a history of serving famous patrons, including Sir Winston Churchill. There’s also Restaurant 1890 by Gordon Ramsay under this hallowed roof, which was recently awarded a Michelin star.
Insider Tip: For a room with a view, ask for a high-floor River View Suite. These rooms offer stunning vistas of the Thames and the London Eye. Booking directly through the hotel’s website or over the phone can sometimes yield better room placements or complimentary benefits. Perhaps even more luxurious, The Royal Suite offers a stunning view of the Thames, is the epitome of luxury. Guests can enjoy a personalised service with an option for a Savoy butler.
The Dorchester, Mayfair
Ideal for quintessential luxury overlooking Hyde Park…
The Dorchester is one of London’s most exclusive hotels, offering guests a taste of the high life in a prime location overlooking Hyde Park. With its classic English residential design, the hotel exudes a comfortable, albeit luxurious, homeliness.
Fine Dining: The Grill at The Dorchester offers a modern take on British cuisine, while Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester, with three Michelin stars, presents contemporary French cuisine at its finest.
5 Star Flourishes: The Dorchester Spa brings an element of 1930s art deco glamour, providing a stylish retreat for guests to indulge in beauty treatments and relaxation.
Insider Tip: For a unique experience, book the Harlequin Suite, where Elizabeth Taylor received a marriage proposal from Richard Burton.
Rosewood London, Holborn
Ideal for a sanctuary of elegance in the heart of the city…
Rosewood London combines English heritage with contemporary sophistication. Located in High Holborn, the hotel is housed in a restored Edwardian mansion, providing a luxurious retreat from the bustling city.
Fine Dining: The Mirror Room at Rosewood London offers a fine dining experience in a stunning, mirrored salon. For a more casual setting, Holborn Dining Room serves up British classics with a twist and features London’s largest Gin Bar.
5 Star Flourishes: The Manor House Suite is the only suite in the world to have its own postcode, a testament to its exclusivity and grandeur.
Insider Tip: Guests looking for a quiet stay should request a room facing the inner courtyard. These rooms are known for their peacefulness in the heart of London.
Shangri-La Hotel at The Shard, London Bridge
Ideal for sky-high luxury with breathtaking views…
Occupying the 34th to 52nd floors of Renzo Piano’s iconic Shard building, the Shangri-La Hotel offers an unrivaled perspective of London with floor-to-ceiling windows providing 360-degree views of the capital.
Fine Dining: TĪNG restaurant, located on the 35th floor, offers modern British cuisine with an Asian twist, all while providing guests with spectacular views of the London skyline.
5 Star Flourishes: The infinity Skypool on the 52nd floor is the highest hotel pool in Western Europe, offering swimmers a serene escape with a side of stunning city vistas. Alternatively, at ground level there are some excellent restaurants close to the Shard, too.
Insider Tip: For a truly special experience, book the Shangri-La Suite, located on the 39th floor for unparalleled views of St. Paul’s Cathedral and the Thames.
The Bottom Line
Each of these seven hotels offers a unique slice of London’s 5-star luxury scene, complete with fine dining, exclusive flourishes, and insider tips to enhance your stay. Whether you’re in town for business or pleasure, these establishments promise to deliver an experience that is as grand as it is unforgettable.