There are many things the British do well - bespoke tailoring, television period pieces, automobiles, and luxury hotels. London, in particular, offers some of the most decadent and regal luxury experiences available. Be it The Ritz, the only hotel that finds its name in the Oxford Dictionary, or The Ned, with its art museum heritage, here are five luxury stays in London where your money will always be well spent.
Built by Caesar Ritz in 1906, London's most iconic luxury hotel is gilded in the opulence of a bygone era and is the only luxury stay licensed by the British Monarchy. Structural integrity and an overall look, referring to the neoclassical Louis XVI period style, are painstakingly maintained throughout the 133 guest rooms and the grand archway running along the building. The USD 2000 rule for the liveried staff explains how magnanimously the hotel offers an unforgettable experience. The hotel staff is always prepared to use this money at their discretion without reporting to the manager to improve untoward customer experiences without attracting attention. Follow British tradition and indulge in some afternoon tea at The Palm Court, headed by their certified Tea Master Giandomenico Scanu, who sifts through tea plantations all around the globe for their delightful teas.
Address: The Ritz London, 150 Piccadilly, London, W1J 9BR
Contact: +44 (0) 20 7493 8181 www.theritzlondon.com
The Ned, a luxurious five-star hotel in London, is housed in the former Midland Bank headquarters designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens. Step in and feel just like Gatsby in the swinging twenties because the theme from that era stays in vogue here. It opened in 2017 and boasts 250 opulent rooms adorned in 1920s glamour. The hotel offers a range of experiences, including the popular "bottomless brunch" at Ned's Feast on Sundays and discounts on room rates for guests staying three nights or more. The Ned offers plush experiences, and guests can choose from various packages, such as the Ned Weekender, A Stay Fit For a King, and Ned Night In, ensuring that guests feel at home.
Address: 27 Poultry, London EC2R 8AJ, UK
Contact: +44 (0)20 3828 2000 www.thened.com
Claridge's, a beacon of sophistication since 1856, is in London's Mayfair district and part of the prestigious Lartisien Collection. Its rooms, including the Mayfair Balcony, Superior, and Claridge's Rooms, feature a tranquil atmosphere with warm tones. The hotel accommodates its guests' every need, from Robert Downey Jr requesting a gym in his room to an Arab princess booking forty rooms for her shopping haul. Celebrities like Cary Grant and Audrey Hepburn have stayed at Claridge's, and dignitaries like Winston Churchill had suite 212 declared Yugoslavian territory just so that crown prince Alexander II could be born on British soil. The hotel boasts a Michelin-starred restaurant and a glamorous Fumoir bar, while taxis and concierge service are available to take guests wherever they wish.
Address: Brook St, London W1K 4HR, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 (0)20 7629 8860 www.claridges.co.uk
The Langham, Europe's first "Grand Hotel", was built on Sir James Langham's mansion and offers amenities like Michelin-starred cuisine at The Landue and the Chuan Health Club and Spa, which uses the "Five Elements theory" to guide wellness treatments. The hotel has a rich historical significance, with Victorian high society attending the inauguration day in 1865 and HRH Diana being a regular visitor in the 2000s. During WWII, the hotel was converted into a military post for soldiers. Currently, the hotel is celebrating King Charles III's Coronation with a special royal afternoon tea in their famous Palm Court and offering horse-drawn carriages to explore Regent Park's stunning sceneries. The Langham takes a holistic approach to taking care of customers.
Address: 1C Portland Pl, London W1B 1JA, UK
Contact: +44 (0) 20 7636 1000
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The Shard Tower in London is Western Europe's tallest building, offering panoramic views of the city from its 34th floor, where The Shangri-La hotel is situated. Guests can indulge in the luxury of floor-to-wall windows in their rooms, taking in the stunning views of London's landmarks, including the River Thames and St. Paul's Cathedral. The hotel's infinity-edge swimming pool on the 52nd floor offers a refreshing break from the city bustle, while the Gong bar serves expertly crafted cocktails. Dine at TING restaurant, which specialises in fusion European and Asian cuisine, or try creative British dishes at the LNG restaurant to end your day in style.
Address: 31 St Thomas Street, London SE1 9QU, United Kingdom
Contact: (+44 20) 7234 8000 www.shangri-la.com/london/shangrila/
