Luxury London Hotels
A handpicked selection of our favourite classic luxury hotels in London. Most of the capital's famous 19th century grande dame luxury hotels – including Claridge's and the Connaught – are no longer privately owned, which does change their character somewhat and dent their former imperviousness to the vaguaries of fashion. Others, such as the Ritz, the Goring and the Capital are still in private hands and if you look beneath the surface, you can tell. The Ritz has been owned since the 1990s by Sir David and Sir Frederick Barclay, who also own the Daily and Sunday Telegraph. The Goring has been in the hands of the delightful, and mildly eccentric, Goring family for its entire century long existence, and the Capital is still in the hands of its more recent founder David Levin. And that other great London luxury hotel - the Savoy - has reopened recently after a multi million pound facelift.
The order by which these luxury hotels are listed bears no reflection on our preference.
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The Goring Hotel
London
Sumptuous, family-run country-house style hotel in the heart of London, close to Buckingham Palace. Plush carpets, antiques, designer fabrics and fine dining set the tone.
71 rooms from $660Sights nearby - Great for Buckingham Palace, Westminster and the London EyeRomantic - Good for couples. -
Claridge's
London (Mayfair)
One of London's great hotels: an Art Deco masterpiece in the heart of prime Mayfair - seamless professional service, understated luxury, gourmet food, the perfect treat.
203 rooms from $546Designer Shopping5* Luxury - Very high service standards.Landmark - Comes with a reputation. -
The Capital Hotel
London (South West)
Private, discreet but lavish, this intimate luxury hotel boasts Michelin dining and an unrivalled position for designer shopping.
49 rooms from $387Restaurant - London outpost of Michelin starred Nathan OutlawRomantic - Good for couples.Recommended by - Frommers, Good Hotel Guide, Small Luxury Hotels, Travel Intelligence, Michelin Travel -
The Connaught Hotel
London (Mayfair)
Super discreet and understated ‘grande dame’, the epitome of old world Britishness. Impeccable service, numerous repeat guests, the ultimate in traditional comforts.
122 rooms from $6445* Luxury - Very high service standards.SpaRecommended by - Mr & Mrs Smith, Tablet, Fodors, Frommers, Johansens, Kiwi Collection, Travel Intelligence, Michelin Travel -
The Ritz
London (Mayfair)
As with other Ritz's around the world, this one is an experience. The 'Harrods of hotels', it's glitz and glamour personified - a treat. Great location overlooking Green Park.
135 rooms from $411Designer ShoppingViews - Fine views over Green ParkSpaLandmark - Comes with a reputation.
Fiona Duncan,
posted Monday, 19th April 2010
