20 Top Luxury London Hotels

Our Gurus' list of the top luxury London hotels is a handpicked selection of our favourite classic luxury London properties. Most of the best luxury hotels in London offer a central postcode but their design greatly varies. Choose from one of the city's grande dames where you can expect classic British service, original features, and a real sense of place or opt for one of the city's newer properties for sleek modern design. With something to suit most trips whether you are on a cultural city break, a romantic escape, or a family getaway — why not browse through our collection to start planning your next luxury city stay?

For traditional style

• Claridge's is an amazing Art Deco-inspired, luxury-centric, institution of a hotel in the heart of Mayfair. The service is impeccable, the afternoon teas are much-lauded and accompanied by light, live piano music, the spa and gym are excellent and the lift is manned. The restaurant and bar are frequently updated, but the glamour of the decor never gets old. If one had bottomless bank accounts there would be no reason to ever stay elsewhere.
• The Savoy is a stunning Grand Dame in the heart of London’s West End, that shows no signs of flagging. You can expect beautiful traditional style, plus numerous original features, coupled with excellent dining including Gordon Ramsay at the Savoy Grill. Exceptional luxury and service that won’t disappoint.
• Brown's Hotel is an old-world Mayfair institution transformed by Olga Polizzi into an elegant and polished five-star hotel, with a spa and top bar. Rooms and suites deliver understated elegance at their finest and the whole place oozes style and sophistication.
• The Stafford is a perfectly-positioned luxury townhouse hotel near St James’s Palace with a rich history, contemporary art, and smart rooms. Enjoy British classics at The Game Bird restaurant and cocktails at the American bar. An elegant choice in a perfectly central position.
• The Langham is a historic luxury hotel that offers a contemporary edge to its opulent Victorian décor. Expect classicly styled, spacious and comfortable rooms and suites. Dining is overseen by the Roux dynasty while a spa and pool are a bonus. An upscale escape aimed at those in search of high-class pampering.
• The Dorchester is an iconic hotel whose signature is traditional British luxury and service that’s out of this world. Here you'll find ritzy-yet-comfortable rooms, Italian marble bathrooms and an opulent central lounge that’s a riot of gilt, fabric, statues and chandeliers. The place to go to be treated like royalty.
• The Beaumont is a beautiful Art Deco style luxury property a stone's throw from Bond Street and Selfridges. Rooms are spacious and bright with a keen eye for detail and continue the gorgeous period feel. Plus there's the Colony Grill for great food and celeb spotting and a spoiling basement spa with hammam. Perfect for a luxury shopping trip.

For contemporary design

• Shangri-La at The Shard is a bucket list destination property that really has the “Wow” factor and offers Asian influenced interiors, with five-star luxuries as standard. Floor-to-ceiling windows in both bedrooms and bathrooms make the most of the spectacular views over London. With a standout spa, and a fabulous infinity pool on the 52nd floor, this is a truly spoiling choice.
• One Aldwych is a perfect base for those wanting to be in the heart of Covent Garden and Theatreland. Classic on the outside, but wonderfully contemporary on the inside. Expect spacious rooms and suites, a buzzy lobby bar, superb dining and a luxury spa. A stylish and convenient option.

For discretion

• The Connaught Hotel is a super-discreet grand dame of a hotel, the epitome of old fashioned Britishness, with impeccable service from the fleet of butlers, and every imaginable traditional comfort. Though it has recently been revamped, adding a beautiful new conservatory for breakfasts and two new bars. One of the restaurants has two Michelin stars.
• The Franklin is a small luxury hotel in the heart of Knightsbridge. This is a seriously stylish property that will suit anyone who likes to exist slightly off the radar. Sumptuous rooms and suites boast rich silks and velvets, Frette linens, and marble bathrooms as standard. With access to a private garden and an excellent Italian restaurant — this is a spoiling stay.

For couples

• For A Big London Treat stay at the Corinthia Hotel. An intricately restored grand hotel with a 21st-century approach. It is ritzy, glitzy and glamorous in all the right ways; in short, a total class act. The legion of staff have been fully drilled at Charm School, the flowers are photograph-worthy, and the scale of the original 1880’s building is magnificent.

For grandeur

• The Ritz is a privately-owned and perfectly-reserved dream of an experience. This is the kind of place to stay if you want to be clear about how flash you’re being. It’s glitz and glamour from the dapper doormen to the lavish hallways and Neoclassical features — though the Rivoli Bar is beautifully Art Deco. And it’s right by Green Park.
• Rosewood London is a stunning five-star property in the heart of London. Exquisitely designed in a listed Edwardian building, you'll find an eclectic mix of contemporary and traditional which oozes style. An atmospheric cocktail bar, excellent dining and an indulgent spa ensure that this is a stay to remember.

For the spa

• Four Seasons Hotel London at Ten Trinity Square is a beautiful listed city building that has been given a superb makeover to become a luxury property in the heart of London. Rooms and suites effortlessly blend contemporary and classic styles. Expect Michelin dining on-site and an expansive lower ground floor spa that offers a huge range of treatments, plus a pool, hammam, and more!
• Hotel Cafe Royal is a luxurious reinvention of a London institution. Spacious rooms and suites whose interiors perfectly blend the modern and contemporary with beautiful period features and bathrooms of sheer indulgence, carved from stunning Carrera marble. Expect good dining options and a seriously cool spa and pool.

For the restaurant

• Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park is a legendary London luxury hotel that has been recently renovated. With great views of Hyde Park, access to the city's best shopping, two-star Michelin dining, a stunning spa and a sophisticated bar — you'll want for nothing here!
• Nobu Hotel London Portman Square is a stunning lifestyle hotel in Marylebone. But what many book a Nobu property for is the exceptional Japanese/Peruvian influenced food they can expect in the onsite Nobu Restauarant, and this one is no different. We'd advise going for one of the superb Omakase tasting menus to experience plate after plate of outstanding quality. A must for any foodie!
• Dukes Hotel is wonderfully situated in the heart of St James's, just a few minutes from Piccadilly. Recently renovated, the hotel combines history with more modern touches. At GBR — or Great British Restaurant — top quality modern British food is served by knowledgeable and friendly staff in a smart and buzzy atmosphere. A great choice for a very British stay.

For a country house feel

• The Goring Hotel is a sumptuous spot, with plush carpets, antiques, fine dining and every comfort, in the very heart of Belgravia, right by Buckingham Palace. This is family-owned luxury at its finest; the fourth Mr Goring has kept the lawns manicured, the afternoon tea award-winning and the restaurant Michelin starred!

Still not sure where to book?

• Consider our Guru’s list of the best boutique hotels in London or the best London Spa Hotels
• Check out our recommendations for the best Hotels in Knightsbridge, or the best Hotels in Kensington
• Consult our list of all the best places to stay in London,
• or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

  • The Goring Hotel London (Belgravia) 69 rooms from $461

    
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    Sights nearby  -  Great for Buckingham Palace, Westminster, Mayfair, Knightsbridge, Sloane Street and the Royal Parks.

    Great walks  -  Green Park in the summer is a sea of green with deck chairs for people to lounge in and relax.

    Traditional  -  The property has a quintessentially English feel.

    Full of character

    

    Recommended by  -  Frommers, Good Hotel Guide, Small Luxury Hotels, Tablet

    A family-owned luxury hotel in the heart of Belgravia with manicured lawns, award-winning high tea and proximity to some of London's most famous sights. Plush carpets, antiques and designer fabrics make up the rooms. Do not miss fine dining at the Michelin star restaurant. Magical stay. See More

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  • Claridge's London (Mayfair) 197 rooms from $961

    
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    Spa  -  Claridge's Spa combines Japanese healing rituals with restorative bodywork and the best in bio-innovations

    Sights nearby  -  Nestled in the embassy district of town, you will see many old grand buildings.

    Romantic  -  Good for couples.

    Outstanding location

    

    Recommended by  -  Tablet, Frommers, Kiwi Collection

    Art Deco-inspired, luxury-centric hotel in the heart of Mayfair offering seamless service, spa treatments and gym facilities. Large, contemporary rooms exude comfort. Whether it is the famous Afternoon Tea in the 1930's Reading Room or a gourmet meal at the restaurant, be ready to be spoiled. See More

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  • Corinthia London London (Westminster) 251 rooms from $545

    
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    Spa  -  ESPA Life — an enormous spa London's largest

    Spa breaks

    Private Hot Tub  -  Book the Hamilton Penthouse for a private outdoor hot tub

    Restaurant  -  Tom Kerridge's Bar & Grill for classic British cuisine

    

    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith

    Grand hotel with a 21st century approach, top quality and irresistibly seductive. Perfect. See More

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  • The Connaught Hotel London (Mayfair) 121 rooms from $769

    
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    Spa breaks  -  World renowned Aman spa offering green-tea foot baths, Oriental oil massages and red clay body wraps with Navajo herbs.

    City Style  -  The last word in luxurious London hotels

    Swimming Pool  -  Stunning black granite indoor pool filled with ionised water. Child and family friendly sessions are available.

    Sailing  -  During the summer months rowing and pedal boats are available for hire in nearby Hyde Park

    

    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, Tablet, Fodors, Frommers, Kiwi Collection

    The discreet and understated ‘grande dame’ of Mayfair. This hotel is the epitome of old world Britishness meets contemporary elegance and design. Impeccable service from the fleet of butlers, the ultimate in traditional comforts. Chic restaurants and bars match the world class Aman spa. A must stay. See More

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  • The Ritz London (St James's) 136 rooms from $506

    
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    Romantic Break  -  From your first Martini at the Art Deco Rivoli, to the final dance in the ballroom this is sure to be a weekend to remember.

    City Style  -  Louis XVI-style interiors in the heart of London with Belle Époque furnishings and opulent silk upholstered headboards.

    Foodies

    Sights nearby  -  Just minutes from the famed Picadilly Circus and the shows of the Westend.

    

    Recommended by  -  Frommers, Kiwi Collection

    Glitz and glamour from the dapper doormen to the lavish hallways and Neoclassical features. Large beds and luxurious features make up the classically decorated rooms. The Rivoli Bar is an Art Deco lover's dream, whereas the restaurants house fine art works and British cuisine. Don't miss High Tea. See More

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  • Rosewood London London (Holborn) 306 rooms from $807

    
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    Local exploring  -  Great location just ten minutes walk from Covent Garden and London's West End.

    Spa  -  Sense, A Rosewood Spa offers a range of restorative treatments from Sodashi, Maison Caulières, EviDens de Beaute & Face Place

    Restaurant  -  The Holborn Dining Room offers superb brasserie style dining & specialises in seafood & pies!

    Sights nearby  -  Central location, with many of London's sights accessible on foot.

    

    Stunning five star property in the heart of London. Exquisitely designed in a listed Edwardian building, you'll find an eclectic mix of contemporary and traditional which oozes style. Atmospheric cocktail bar, excellent dining and an indulgent spa ensure that this is a stay to remember. See More

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  • The Dorchester London (Mayfair) 250 rooms from $404

    
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    Restaurant  -  Alain Ducasse's award winning restaurant

    Four poster beds  -  For romantics.

    Opulent

    Traditional

    

    Recommended by  -  Tablet, Fodors, Frommers, Kiwi Collection, Michelin Travel

    Iconic hotel whose signature is traditional British luxury and service that’s out of this world. Ritzy-yet-comfortable rooms, Italian marble bathrooms and opulent central lounge that’s a riot of gilt, fabric, statues and chandeliers. The place to go to be treated like royalty. See More

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  • The Beaumont London (Mayfair) 73 rooms from $577

    
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    Sights nearby  -  Bang in the centre of town. Easy access to all of London's highlights.

    Designer Shopping  -  A stone's throw from Bond Street

    City Style

    Restaurant  -  The Colony Grill serves classic fare from both sides of the Atlantic.

    

    Art deco style luxury hotel in a quiet side street a stone's throw from Bond Street and Selfridges. Rooms are spacious and bright with keen attention to detail continuing the art deco theme. Delicious food and A Lister spotting in the Colony Grill. Perfect for a luxe shopping break! See More

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  • The Savoy London (Covent Garden) 267 rooms from $700

    
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    Views  -  Book a river view room for stunning views up and down the Thames

    Sights nearby  -  Houses of Parliament, Buckingham Palace, the London Eye, Trafalgar Square & National Theatre all within walking distance

    Restaurant  -  There are several on site restaurants including Gordon Ramsay at the Savoy Grill

    Spa  -  With pool, sauna and steam rooms, plus wide range of treatments

    

    A stunning Grand Dame in the heart of London’s West End, that shows no signs of flagging. Beautiful traditional style, plus numerous original features, coupled with excellent dining including Gordon Ramsay at the Savoy Grill. Exceptional luxury and service that won’t disappoint. See More

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  • The Langham London London (Marylebone) 380 rooms from $500

    
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    Spa breaks  -  Chuan Spa is a subterranean sanctuary with a range of signature treatments plus fabulous 16m indoor pool

    Local exploring  -  The Langham is the ideal base whether you want to shop, sightsee or enjoy London's buzzing nightlife.

    Sights nearby  -  Within two miles of Trafalgar Square, Buckingham Palace and Big Ben.

    Swimming Pool  -  Indoor pool in what was originally a large bank vault!

    

    Historic central London luxury hotel that offers a contemporary edge to its opulent Victorian décor. Classicly styled, spacious and comfortable rooms and suites, dining overseen by the Roux dynasty plus spa and pool. An upscale escape aimed at those in search of high-class pampering. See More

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  • Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park London (Knightsbridge) 181 rooms from $737

    
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    Views  -  Great views from hotel

    Spa

    Restaurant  -  Recommended.

    Landmark  -  Comes with a reputation.

    

    Recommended by  -  Tablet, Fodors, Kiwi Collection

    Legendary London luxury hotel which has been recently renovated. Great views of Hyde Park, close to the best shopping, with Michelin star restaurant, stunning spa and sophisticated bar. See More

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  • Nobu Hotel London Portman Square London (Marylebone) 249 rooms from $588

    
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    5* Luxury  -  The standard of luxury here is top notch, with beautiful bed linens, fabulous bathrooms and incredible TVs!

    Local exploring  -  Situated in the heart of Marylebone with its village-like atmosphere, yet a stone's throw from Marble Arch

    Foodies  -  A visitor to any Nobu Hotel expects fabulous Japanese cuisine and this one does not disappoint

    Restaurant  -  As well as the acclaimed Nobu Restaurant, there's relaxed dining in the lounge and Nobu Bar

    

    A stunning lifestyle hotel in Marylebone. Minimalist rooms and suites channel oriental vibes and western comforts. Think plenty of wood and pale colours, indulgent bathrooms and large windows for city views. Dining is as spectacular as you’d expect and the cocktails should not be missed. Superb! See More

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  • Four Seasons Hotel London at Ten Trinity Square City of London 100 rooms from $577

    
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    Local exploring  -  Ideally located for exploring both the city, Southbank and further afield.

    Spa  -  There is a huge spa on the lower ground floor where they offer a huge range of relaxing treats, plus a pool, hammam & much more!

    Restaurant  -  There are two on site restaurants either Michelin starred or Asian cuisine.

    Sights nearby  -  You are a stone's throw from the Tower of London and Tower Bridge

    

    A beautiful listed city building has been given a superb makeover to become a luxury property in the heart of the London. Rooms and suites effortlessly blend contemporary and classic style and you'll find all the pampering you'd expect from a Four Seasons property, plus Michelin dining on site! See More

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  • One Aldwych London (Covent garden) 105 rooms from $429

    
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    Restaurant  -  Indigo - modern British & Eneko Basque Kitchen & Bar

    Child friendly  -  DVD and games library plus wii console and games

    Theatre  -  Perfectly positioned for London's theatreland

    Swimming Pool  -  Large Indoor Pool - chlorine free

    

    Recommended by  -  Tablet, Frommers, Good Hotel Guide, Kiwi Collection, Michelin Travel

    The perfect base for those wanting to be in the heart of Covent Garden and Theatreland. Classic on the outside, but wonderfully contemporary on the inside. Spacious rooms and suites, buzzy lobby bar, superb dining and a luxury spa for relaxing after a hard day's sightseeing! See More

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  • Dukes London London (St James's) 90 rooms from $577

    
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    Foodies  -  Michelin-starred chef Nigel Mendham serves up a classically British menu in the hotel's restaurant GBR - a must visit

    Local exploring  -  Located centrally in Mayfair, Dukes is the ideal spot for those looking to get to know London

    Restaurant  -  GBR open all day

    Sights nearby  -  Wander over to Piccadilly Circus, check out Big Ben or take a ride on the London Eye

    

    Recommended by  -  Small Luxury Hotels

    Dukes Hotel is wonderfully situated in the heart of St James's, just a few minutes from Piccadilly. Recently renovated, the hotel combines history with more modern touches to provide a truly excellent stay. Relax in the garden with a cigar and a cognac or grab a martini at the bar! See More

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  • Hotel Café Royal London (Soho) 160 rooms from $564

    
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    Local exploring  -  Perfectly situated in the heart of London with easy access to all the best sights and nightlife

    Spa  -  Stunning subterranean spa with surely the coolest pool in town

    Restaurant  -  Laurent at the Cafe Royal for Grill and Sushi Bar and Papillon for more cafe-style dining.

    Sights nearby  -  You can easily get to all of London's top attractions either on foot or by tube

    

    A luxurious reinvention of a London institution. Spacious rooms and suites whose interiors perfectly blend the modern and contemporary with beautiful period features and bathrooms of sheer indulgence, carved from stunning Carrera marble. Good dining options and a seriously cool spa and pool. See More

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  • The Franklin London London (South Kensington) 35 rooms from $538

    
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    Sights nearby  -  A stone's throw from the famous V&A and Natural History Museums, and the rest of London's highlights easily accessible.

    City Style  -  With interiors designed by Anouska Hempel, this is a seriously stylish stay.

    Designer  -  Uniquely designed interiors.

    Full of character

    

    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith

    Intimate discreet townhouse hotel with interiors by Anouska Hempel. Thirty five sumptuous rooms and suites with rich silks & velvets, Frette linens and marble bathrooms as standard. Superb restaurant serving inventive Italian cuisine, excellent service and access to the private Egerton Gardens See More

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  • Brown's Hotel, London London (Mayfair) 115 rooms from $1025

    
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    Romantic Break  -  This classic property is ideal for romantics with its sophisticated decor, discreet service and excellent food and drinks

    Designer Shopping  -  Minutes from Bond Street and the best designer stores in London

    Sights nearby  -  The Royal Academy, Green park and Picadilly are all within walking distance

    Restaurant  -  Charlie's Restaurant serves classic British cuisine done very well!

    

    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, Tablet, Frommers, Kiwi Collection, Michelin Travel

    Olga Polizzi transformed an old-world Mayfair institution into an elegant and polished five-star hotel with a gym, spa and top bar. Rooms and suites deliver understated elegance at its finest, and the whole place oozes style and sophistication. Don't miss Afternoon Tea and Charlie's for dinner. See More

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  • The Stafford London (St James's) 107 rooms from $506

    
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    Sights nearby  -  Buckingham Palace at one end of The Mall, and Trafalgar Square at the other.

    Local markets  -  Southbank is home to food markets all year around.

    Restaurant  -  The Game Bird, opened in 2017.

    Full of character

    

    Recommended by  -  Frommers, Kiwi Collection, Michelin Travel

    A perfectly-positioned luxury townhouse hotel near St James’s Palace with a rich history, contemporary art and comfortable rooms. Enjoy British classics at The Game Bird restaurant and cocktails at the American Bar. See More

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  • Shangri-La The Shard London (Southwark) 202 rooms from $491

    
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    Swimming Pool  -  Awesome indoor pool on the 52nd Floor. It's Europes highest infinity pool and a must for all guests!

    Views  -  The Shard must have some of the best views over the whole of London.

    Sights nearby  -  Situated right next door to London Bridge, all of London's best bits are easily accessible.

    Local markets  -  Trendy Borough Market is round the corner

    

    Bucket list destination property that really has the “Wow” factor. Asian influenced interiors, with five star luxuries as standard. Floor to ceiling windows in both bedrooms and bathrooms to make the most of the spectacular views over London. Everyone must stay here once – despite the price tag! See More

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Written by Fiona Duncan

posted Wednesday, 14th February 2024