No other city next to New York boasts more magnificent hotels than the captivating metropolis of London. Stalwarts like the Savoy, the Ritz, the Lanesborough, and the Connaught are the very heartbeat of London’s luxury hotels. An array of 5-star hotels rises to challenge the old guard, introducing a new era of luxury. Last year, seven extraordinary luxury hotels made their grand debut. Each one is a new jewel in the crown of London’s luxury hotel scene.
But competition is the undeniable catalyst of invention. It ignites a hunger among the old guard to elevate their standards to unprecedented heights. This happens in response to this surge of world-renowned, brand-named hotels. It’s a dramatic evolution, marked by inspiring renovations and unparalleled service enhancements.
So, where should you stay on your next exhilarating trip to London? Are the new openings living up to the buzz? Are the gilded icons still exuding their timeless charm? Here are the 15 most spectacular hotels in London!
Best Overall: Claridge’s
You’d revel in the grandeur of the King’s English if Claridge’s walls could talk. Undoubtedly, Claridge’s is London’s most exquisite grand dame. It has been that way since its grand opening in 1856. Its iconic top-hatted doormen have graciously welcomed legends such as Audrey Hepburn and Mick Jagger. Claridge’s recently completed a breathtaking refurbishment, dripping with Art Deco elegance. Marvel at the new penthouse. It showcases the world’s most extensive Damien Hirst private collection. Additionally, 79 stunning suites and rooms are added to its already prestigious 190-key accommodations. The masterful Andre Fu significantly influenced the redesign. He crafted the opulent 3,200-square-foot, multi-level glass Residence Suite by Andre Fu. The ultra-Zen spa features seven serene treatment rooms and a divine subterranean pool. Yet, the heart and soul of the hotel remain intact. The city’s most coveted afternoon tea is offered. Unmatched beck-and-call service makes every guest feel like royalty.
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Best New Hotel: Raffles London at the OWO
They say war is dirty, but everything at the Raffles London at the Old War Office glistens invitingly. The stately oak-paneled walls exude grandeur. The original mosaic tiles possess timeless beauty. The mesmerizing Piastracchia Italian marble on the grand staircase also holds timeless beauty. This stunningly crafted luxury hotel, born from a $1.6 billion renovation, is one of London’s most breathtaking marvels. Its striking beauty and intricate, maze-like interiors whisk you away to the grandeur of the early 1900s. Here, you can almost hear Winston Churchill’s triumphs. You can uncover spies’ secrets. You can immerse yourself in the thrill of James Bond’s adventures. The dazzling speakeasy Spy Bar crafts the finest martinis in town. At the same time, the culinary brilliance of Mauro Colagreco is remarkable. The rooftop wonder Kioku by Endo stands out. Both are destined for Michelin star glory. Beneath is the Raffles’ subterranean Guerlain Spa. It has nine lavish treatment rooms and a grand swimming pool. This invites you to a sanctuary of pure indulgence. Choose from 120 splendid rooms and suites. Consider the majestic Haldane Suite, where pivotal war decisions were made in history. Alternatively, enjoy the Turret Suite, which offers breathtaking views of Big Ben.
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Best Location: The Peninsula London
They say good things come to those who wait. However, the wait for this gem was almost cruel. It tantalized us for 30 long years! Finally, the anticipation exploded into euphoria with the breathtaking debut of the Peninsula in the majestic shadow of Buckingham Palace. Opened in September 2023, this marvel is adorned with 190 exquisite rooms and suites. These rooms and suites were masterfully designed by Peter Marino. Each is a jewel in the Peninsula Hotels’ crown. Echoing the splendor of its Hong Kong counterpart, its views are beyond captivating, potentially leaving you breathless. From floor-to-ceiling panoramas of Hyde Park Corner to Wellington Arch, every glance entices you to explore London. The exploration is best experienced on the hotel’s complimentary Peninsula Pashley and Brompton bikes. Are you yearning for supreme luxury? Their fleet of electric cars stands ready for you. With “Peninsula Time,” you can check out whenever your heart pleases. The temptation is irresistible. You might want another sublime massage in the seven-room holistic spa. Perhaps, a few more refreshing laps in the 82-foot swimming pool. Or maybe a tempting dim sum lunch at Canton Blue.
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Best for Couples: The Chelsea Townhouse
Chelsea’s newest city escape is like stepping into the elegant sanctuary of your most sophisticated great aunt. The retreat epitomizes refined indulgence. Since its grand opening in September 2023, it offers a seamless blend of stateliness and charm. It is nestled just a heartbeat away from its sister property, 11 Cadogan Gardens. You are invited to dive into its luxurious amenities too. Enveloped within three grand Victorian townhouses, previously known as the Draycott Hotel, its 36 rooms and suites exude opulence. The interiors celebrate British heritage, with crown molding, gilded mirrors, and chandeliers illuminating 18th-century British art and bespoke curtains. Each bedroom is a haven of comfort. It features Harrison Spinks beds. These beds are so inviting you’ll find it hard to get out of the sumptuous bed. Yet, the allure of English Breakfast tea entices you to the dining salon. The intimate library is also enticing, both brimming with character. These lounges boast marble gas fireplaces, plush velvet furniture, and elegant antiques, all bathed in abundant natural light. After savoring your perfectly poached eggs and satisfying toast, you will find a hidden gem. Discover the private entrance leading to the enchanting Cadogan Place Gardens.
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Best for Old-School British Elegance: Brown’s Hotel
This Rocco Forte hotel, opened in 1832, was London’s first luxury hotel. It has been the cherished host to almost every dignitary and debutante across Europe. With the hotel’s meticulous and awe-inspiring room refurbishments near completion this year, its 115 rooms and suites exude timeless elegance. The Sir Paul Smith Suite is a dazzling collaboration with the celebrated designer from nearby Savile Row. It was rejuvenated last year. The suite showcases vibrant stripe-filled creations from Smith’s home collection. It also features exquisite vintage furniture. Brown’s Hotel, the epitome of Mayfair sophistication, is the destination for power lunches and divine afternoon teas. Under the culinary brilliance of Michelin-starred chef Adam Byatt, Charlie’s delights with British classics. At the same time, the Drawing Room offers a sublime cucumber sandwich. The spaces have been splendidly revamped in the past year. Furthermore, its serene three-treatment room spa offers a divine range of treatments. These include an Irene Forte facial or massage. Each is thoughtfully designed for those living with or recovering from cancer.
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Best for Arts Obsessives: Beaverbrook Town House
The pastel-pink pineapples instantly captivate your gaze, daring you to look away. The vibrant turquoise walls, the exquisite chessboard floors, and the mesmerizing blue Art Deco tiles—are all vying for your attention. Color bursts forth at Beaverbrook Town House in every direction. It orchestrates a dazzling symphony of kitsch, fun, and elegance. This is perfect for the chic new 14-room townhouse in the ritzy and glamorous Chelsea. Each suite proudly carries the name of a renowned London theater. This infuses the space with theatrical flair. The suites are adorned with rare vintage play posters. They have striking black and white theater photos. An eclectic mix of bold furniture patterns, tasseled pillows, and vibrant shower tiles harmonize like a virtuoso ensemble. The bar and restaurant here are a tribute to Japan. They feature sake-inspired cocktails. Guests can enjoy opulent truffle-laden sushi. There is also an impressive showcase of vintage Mount Fuji art.
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Best for Young Creatives: The Twenty Two
London is the epitome of cool, and The Twenty Two fits seamlessly into its vibrant landscape. This breathtaking new Mayfair boutique hotel captivates with 31 magnificent rooms and suites. They are housed within an opulent white-stone Edwardian mansion at the prestigious corner of Grosvenor Square. A New York jewel is poised to debut this year. Step inside. You are immediately immersed in a maximalist Parisian dream. The interior features leopard print carpets, luscious taffeta curtains, bold Pierre Frey wallpaper, and dazzling mirrored ceilings. The decor is extravagant. Yet, the ambiance remains irresistibly intimate. It creates a sublime retreat for its members-only library. The sumptuous red velvet-clad basement club is cherished by A-listers. The passion and warmth extend to its charming Restaurant. Indulgence takes the form of signature pasta and beef Wellington. It allows you to relish each bite in one of London’s most exquisite new havens.
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Best for Sustainability: 1 Hotel Mayfair
Directly across from the iconic Ritz, an electrifying marvel has burst onto the scene. It transforms British grandeur into a blissful So-Cal sanctuary. Opened just last year, 1 Hotel Mayfair is an enchanting oasis. It passionately beckons you away from the city’s relentless pace. From the moment you arrive, a repurposed 200-year-old fallen oak tree’s soothing presence embraces you. It is set against a striking vertically stacked stone wall. Every corner of this haven brims with earthy materials. It ranges from Tom Sellers’ exquisite Dovetale restaurant to Dover Yard bar. All materials are sustainably sourced. Petrified wood tables and linen couches create an irresistibly relaxed and inviting atmosphere. Within its 181 rooms and suites, rope-woven furniture, soft timber, succulents, and pristine white furnishings maintain an effortlessly chill vibe. Devoted to its eco-friendly ethos, each room boasts a filtered water tap nestled within a lush vertical green wall. Guests are thrilled with the luxury of daily chauffeured electric Audi cars. These cars are available on a first-come-first-serve basis. For a transcendental dose of tranquility, visit the hotel’s Bamford Spa. Indulge in a soul-soothing massage. The massage promises pure, stress-melting bliss.
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Best for Imbibing: The Londoner
You’ll uncover an electrifying design-centric gem in the heart of Leicester Square and the West End. The expansive lobby is graced with Champagne- and rosé-hued furniture, all leading towards its glamorous Champagne bar. It features an impressive selection of 65 varietals. Soulful crooners serenade post-theater crowds on its stage. They fill the air with magic. This property is celebrated as the world’s first “super-boutique hotel.” It offers 350 cozy yet chic rooms and suites. These are spread across 16 captivating stories. The vibrant energy pulsates throughout the venue. It includes the rooftop bar serving exquisite Japanese whiskey and beer. There’s also the speakeasy-style British pub. Finally, the elusive whiskey room offers a chance to savor a rare 1938 Macallan. When you’re nursing a hangover the next day, they even offer an in-room IV drip hydration. Cheers to that!
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Best for Design Enthusiasts: Broadwick Soho
Stepping inside Broadwick Soho’s lobby feels like starting an otherworldly adventure. It’s straight out of Alice In Wonderland. The experience is in the most mesmerizing way imaginable. The pastel green and pink walls are a spectacle, adorned with vibrant parrots and punctuated by vintage artwork. Tasseled elephant lamps grace pink marble surfaces as the stylish staff, dressed head-to-toe in leopard print suits, welcome you warmly. The elevators are a sumptuous cocoon. They are lined with hand-stitched French silk. They lead you to your haven in this Martin Brudnizki–designed masterpiece. It opened in Soho in late 2023. Its 57 rooms and suites feature whimsical and eclectic touches that captivate without overwhelming. Highlights include herringbone timber floors, floral rugs, and golden hand-shaped bed feet. Bathrooms display blue leopard-print wallpaper. The rooms are complemented by mirrored furniture, soft pastel hues, and a Toucan-shaped handle for the mini-bar. The Wes Anderson–esque rooftop bar, Flute, is a perfect place for Saturday night. The enticing basement restaurant, Dear Jackie, is also a must-visit. Dress to the nines; you never know which fascinating personality you may encounter.
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Best for Spa Lovers: Corinthia London
Since its grand opening in 2011, this Whitehall hotel has been a jewel in London’s hotel crown. It boasts an extraordinary 283 rooms and suites. It is crowned by seven breathtaking penthouses. The Royal Penthouse is the epitome of luxury, offering unobstructed views of the iconic London Eye from its lavish terrace. Every detail is crafted to enchant. This includes the dedicated butler and car service. Guests have access to an exclusive wine collection and an opulent spa suite. Dive into the underground spa, arguably the city’s most awe-inspiring haven of relaxation. Though the Raffles has surpassed its size, ESPA Life at Corinthia’s spa remains unrivaled with its 17 treatment rooms. It offers over 40 specialized treatments, ranging from osteopathy to nutrition. Revel in the luxury of heated Cleopatra beds. Enjoy a serene steam room and an all-glass sauna. Relax in a vitality pool and a heated swimming pool. When all that indulgence awakens your hunger, choose from three exquisite restaurants. They offer culinary delights ranging from classic British to vibrant Italian. Yet, the pièce de résistance is the Crystal Moon Lounge. Afternoon tea and scones are served beneath a breathtaking chandelier of 1,001 shimmering crystal bubbles.
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Best for Business Stays: The Ned
Housed inside the magnificent former 1920s Midlands Bank headquarters, the Ned imbues London’s rich business history. The grand Banking Hall welcomes you with its imposing 26-foot-high ceilings. It also features 92 breathtaking African Green volcanic stone columns and ushers you into the hotel’s vibrant heart. You will find endless places to savor delights. Seven exquisite restaurants and bars buzz with the lively after-work finance crowd. They offer the soulful strains of live jazz. This is the birthplace of the now-iconic Ned hotel brand and Ned’s Club membership. Club members revel in exclusive access to a heated rooftop pool and restaurant. They also enjoy the hidden Vault bar, concealed behind a formidable 20-ton bank vault door. The hotel’s 250 rooms and suites pay a stunning homage to the Art Deco elegance. This elegance is inspired by 1930s transatlantic ocean liners and train travel. Its meticulously appointed member’s gym features a chic 65-foot marble pool alongside an opulent eight-room spa. You can find cutting-edge facials nestled within the vault where gold once lay. These facials will leave you glowing with unparalleled luxury.
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Best for Theatre Lovers: NoMad London
This five-story building is directly across from the iconic Royal Opera House. It brims with history having once served as the Bow Street Magistrates’ Court and police station. Imagine the echoes of Oscar Wilde and Britain’s brave suffragettes who were once held here. You can now step into the past at the Bow Street Police Museum within the hotel. The hotel’s 91 rooms and suites are spectacular. They boast whimsically wallpapered fireplaces and stunning Calacatta gold mosaic tiled bathrooms. Guests are dazzled by vibrant chandeliers and an astonishing 1,600 original artwork spread throughout. Dining in the towering glass-ceilinged all-day Atrium is an indulgent affair. The Side Hustle offers an atmospheric experience where tequila cocktails are served. Tantalizing tacos with house-made hot sauce are presented with flair. Book the Ultimate Royal Opera Experience for a truly unforgettable evening. It offers exclusive behind-the-scenes access to performance rehearsals. Enjoy exclusive box seats and a specially curated menu. Stay in the opulent two-story Royal Opera Suite overlooking the theater. Feel the magic and history come alive in every corner of this extraordinary hotel.
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Best Service: The Dorchester
The Dorchester’s doormen have welcomed the world’s most influential and vibrant personalities since its glorious opening in 1931. In 2022, the hotel embarked on a head-to-toe transformation. It was its most magnificent in 30 years. The transformation included the majestic Promenade, where Liberace’s piano serenades you. You can indulge in Champagne and delightful scones there. The updated rooms will keep expanding into next year. This will culminate in a stunning penthouse. An exclusive members-only club is also being prepared. Adorned with the signature Dorchester rose, the 241 rooms and suites feature a royal-blue or yellow color theme. They include opulent marble bathrooms, elegant hardwood floors, and sumptuous velvet furniture. These elements create a blend of palatial luxury with an inexplicable sense of home. Butlers here are prepared to cater to your every whim. This service is reserved for those in a Hyde Park suite level and up. Services include “as long as it’s legal.” Delight in services like babysitting. You can luxuriate in the exquisite nine-room spa. Savor an evening at the hotel’s Michelin three-star Alain Ducasse restaurant. Conclude your lavish day in the enchanting Martin Brudnizki–designed Vesper Bar. Enjoy an unforgettable flight of one-of-a-kind Louis XIII Cognac. You’ll also receive an exclusive invitation to the family’s estate in France for $15,000.
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Best for Exclusivity: The Emory
London’s latest address is not just an addition; it’s an epitome of luxury and extravagance. The Emory dazzles with opulence. The price might leave you breathless. However, the unparalleled perks make it worth every penny. This all-suite hotel redefines sumptuous living. It offers every guest a personalized two-way airport transfer and a bar stocked with local delights. Guests have access to the ultra-exclusive Surrenne wellness center. A dedicated assistant is available, along with usage of the hotel’s sleek fleet of luxury electric cars. The 61 suites have magnificent floor-to-ceiling windows. They serve as a canvas for the genius of world-renowned designers. Designers like Andre Fu, Alexandra Champalimaud, Pierre-Yves Rochon, and Patricia Urquiola had two floors each. They used these to showcase their breathtaking creativity. Indulge in the gastronomic brilliance of Michelin three-starred chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten at the U.K.’s first of his illustrious ABC kitchen brands. As day turns to night, ascend to the seductive rooftop bar. Every bespoke cocktail spun is meticulously recorded in their “little black book.” This ensures your pleasures are remembered for your next indulgence.
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