London, a city steeped in history, culture, and sophistication, offers some of the world’s most luxurious and iconic hotels. Whether you’re seeking classic elegance, modern luxury, or something unique, London’s hotel scene has something to offer every type of traveler. This guide will walk you through some of the best hotels in London, each offering a unique blend of comfort, service, and style.
1. The Ritz London
Location: Piccadilly, Central London
The Ritz London is synonymous with luxury and opulence. Opened in 1906, this iconic hotel is renowned for its timeless elegance, exceptional service, and world-class amenities. The Ritz offers a quintessentially British experience, with its lavish rooms and suites, each decorated in Louis XVI style with antique furnishings, rich fabrics, and luxurious bathrooms.
One of the highlights of staying at The Ritz is the Afternoon Tea experience, served in the stunning Palm Court. It’s a must-do for any visitor to London. The hotel also houses the Michelin-starred Ritz Restaurant, which is celebrated for its classic British cuisine with a contemporary twist. Located in the heart of Piccadilly, The Ritz is perfect for those who want to explore central London’s attractions, such as Buckingham Palace, the West End theaters, and the Royal Academy of Arts.
2. Claridge’s
Location: Mayfair
Claridge’s is the epitome of London’s grandeur. Situated in the upscale Mayfair district, this Art Deco masterpiece has been a favorite among royalty, celebrities, and discerning travelers since the 19th century. Claridge’s combines traditional elegance with modern touches, making it one of the city’s most beloved hotels.
The rooms and suites are designed with impeccable attention to detail, featuring luxurious fabrics, antique furniture, and state-of-the-art technology. The service is second to none, with a team of staff who are attentive to every need. Dining at Claridge’s is an experience in itself, with its Foyer & Reading Room offering one of the best afternoon teas in London. For a more modern culinary experience, Davies and Brook, a restaurant by renowned chef Daniel Humm, offers a contemporary twist on classic dishes. The hotel’s location in Mayfair also places it within walking distance of Hyde Park, Bond Street, and the Royal Academy of Arts.
3. The Savoy
Location: Strand, Covent Garden
The Savoy is one of London’s most famous and historic hotels. Located on the Strand, just steps from the Thames River, Covent Garden, and the West End theaters, The Savoy has been a symbol of luxury and glamour since it opened in 1889. The hotel is known for its Edwardian and Art Deco interiors, with rooms and suites offering stunning views of the Thames or the vibrant Covent Garden area.
The Savoy is home to some of London’s most celebrated restaurants and bars. The Savoy Grill, overseen by Gordon Ramsay, offers a classic British menu, while Kaspar’s at The Savoy is renowned for its seafood. The American Bar, one of the oldest cocktail bars in London, is legendary and has been frequented by the likes of Winston Churchill and Frank Sinatra.
4. The Connaught
Location: Mayfair
Nestled in the heart of Mayfair, The Connaught is a perfect blend of traditional British charm and modern luxury. This five-star hotel has a long-standing reputation for its impeccable service, elegant design, and commitment to excellence. The Connaught’s rooms and suites are individually designed with a mix of traditional and contemporary elements, featuring luxurious fabrics, bespoke furniture, and beautiful artwork.
The Connaught is also home to some of London’s most acclaimed dining experiences. Hélène Darroze at The Connaught, a three-Michelin-starred restaurant, offers a unique and sophisticated take on French cuisine. The Connaught Bar, designed by David Collins, is considered one of the best bars in the world, known for its innovative cocktails and stylish atmosphere.
5. The Langham London
Location: Regent Street, Marylebone
The Langham London, located at the top of Regent Street, is one of the city’s most prestigious hotels. Opened in 1865, it has been a symbol of luxury and refinement for over 150 years. The Langham is known for its Victorian charm, elegant interiors, and outstanding service. The hotel’s rooms and suites are spacious and beautifully designed, offering a blend of classic and contemporary styles.
One of the highlights of The Langham is its culinary offerings. The hotel’s Palm Court is credited with inventing the tradition of Afternoon Tea over 150 years ago, and it remains one of the best places in London to enjoy this experience. The Langham also boasts the Michelin-starred restaurant Roux at The Landau, which offers an exquisite menu created by the Roux family. The hotel’s location is ideal for exploring London’s West End, Oxford Street, and the nearby Marylebone village.
6. The Goring
Location: Belgravia
The Goring is the last remaining family-owned luxury hotel in London, and it has a unique charm that sets it apart from other hotels in the city. Located in the exclusive Belgravia district, just a stone’s throw from Buckingham Palace, The Goring is known for its warm, personalized service and quintessentially British atmosphere. The hotel’s rooms and suites are individually decorated with a mix of traditional and modern elements, featuring luxurious fabrics, antique furniture, and spacious bathrooms.
The Goring’s restaurant, The Dining Room, holds a Michelin star and is celebrated for its British cuisine, with a menu that showcases the finest seasonal ingredients. The hotel’s private gardens are a hidden gem, offering a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city. The Goring is the perfect choice for those seeking a truly British experience with a touch of understated elegance.
7. Shangri-La Hotel at The Shard
Location: London Bridge
For those who want to experience modern luxury with breathtaking views, the Shangri-La Hotel at The Shard is an excellent choice. Occupying the 34th to 52nd floors of the iconic Shard skyscraper, this hotel offers unparalleled panoramic views of London’s skyline, including landmarks such as the Tower of London, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the Thames River.
The rooms and suites at the Shangri-La are spacious and elegantly designed, with floor-to-ceiling windows that make the most of the stunning views. The hotel’s infinity pool on the 52nd floor is one of the highest in Europe, offering a unique swimming experience with views of the city below. Dining at the Shangri-La is also an unforgettable experience, with its TĪNG Restaurant serving contemporary British cuisine with an Asian twist, and GŎNG, the highest hotel bar in London, offering creative cocktails and a sophisticated atmosphere.
8. The Rosewood London
Location: Holborn
The Rosewood London, located in the historic district of Holborn, is a stunning blend of Edwardian architecture and contemporary design. This five-star hotel is known for its sophisticated interiors, exceptional service, and luxurious accommodations. The Rosewood’s rooms and suites are among the most spacious in London, featuring elegant décor, marble bathrooms, and state-of-the-art technology.
The Rosewood is also home to some of the city’s best dining and drinking establishments. The Holborn Dining Room is a British brasserie that offers a menu of classic dishes with a modern twist, while Scarfes Bar is known for its creative cocktails, live music, and cozy, club-like atmosphere. The hotel’s Sense Spa is a sanctuary of relaxation, offering a range of treatments and therapies in a serene setting. The Rosewood’s central location makes it an ideal base for exploring London’s cultural and historical attractions, such as the British Museum, Covent Garden, and the West End theaters.
9. The Lanesborough
Location: Hyde Park Corner
The Lanesborough is one of London’s most prestigious hotels, known for its Regency-style architecture, opulent interiors, and impeccable service. Located at Hyde Park Corner, The Lanesborough offers easy access to some of London’s most famous landmarks, including Buckingham Palace, Hyde Park, and Harrods.
The hotel’s rooms and suites are the epitome of luxury, featuring handcrafted furnishings, rich fabrics, and state-of-the-art technology. Each room comes with 24-hour butler service, ensuring that guests’ every need is met with the highest level of care and attention. The Lanesborough’s Michelin-starred restaurant, Céleste, offers a menu of modern European cuisine in a stunning dining room with a glass ceiling. The hotel also boasts one of London’s most exclusive private members’ clubs, The Library Bar, which offers a wide selection of rare and vintage spirits.
10. The Ned
Location: City of London
The Ned, located in the heart of the City of London, is a unique hotel that combines luxury with a sense of history and grandeur. Housed in a former bank building designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens in the 1920s, The Ned offers a blend of classic and contemporary design, with a nod to its banking heritage.
The hotel features 250 rooms, each individually decorated with vintage furniture, rich fabrics, and marble bathrooms. The Ned is also home to a range of dining and drinking venues, including the iconic Nickel Bar, which offers live music and classic cocktails, and Cecconi’s, an Italian restaurant known for its handmade pasta and wood-fired pizzas. The hotel’s rooftop bar and pool offer stunning views of St. Paul’s Cathedral and the City skyline.
In addition to its luxurious accommodations and dining options, The Ned also offers a range of wellness facilities, including a spa, gym, and indoor pool.
