London is home to some of the world's most iconic luxury hotels. As a city with a seemingly endless list of tourist attractions and one of the largest sets of 5-star hotels in the world, London draws a high number of luxury travelers. Add to that a variety of fine dining options and luxury shopping few cities (if any) can match, it's no wonder the city is a tourist magnet.
With all that in mind, a visit to London isn't a hard choice. The next thing to think about is where to stay. London isn't exactly 'friendly' when it comes to traffic, so the places you want to visit may dictate the best hotel to stay.
If you're one of the few who don't care much for tourism (frequent/business visitors), fine dining options may be more of a draw. To help you make an informed choice, we've included each hotel's unique features, top suite, nearby sights, and dining/afternoon tea options. After all, it would be wrong to visit London without trying the quintessential afternoon tea.
Visiting the best tourist attractions in London
It's only fair to mention that you can claim that some of the other 5-star hotels in the city should be on this list. However, you can't go wrong with any of the listed hotels.
The Langham London
Neighborhood: Marylebone
The Langham is one of the city's oldest hotels, with a history dating back to 1865. It offers guests a blend of traditional luxury and timeless elegance. A frequent feature on the silver screen with scenes in movies like Wonderland and Burnt, the Langaham was also featured in the Netflix series 5-Star Chef.
One of the highlights of the Langham is the Artesian Bar. It offers tasty cocktails and is often ranked among the world's best bars. The hotel is also home to Chez Roux, an eatery led by chef Michel Roux. Here, guests can indulge in modern British cuisine blended with French culinary methods.
The Langham's Sterling Suite is one of London's most opulent hotel suites. Its 4,800 sq ft space include six bedrooms, a dining room, a large marble bathroom, stunning views of the city, and a butler service.
For a little extra, the Langham Club, an exclusive lounge, offers breakfast, all-day treats, and evening cocktails.
Combining rich history with refined luxury, The Langham is an ideal choice for those seeking a classic London experience.
The Dorchester
Neighborhood: Mayfair
A cornerstone of luxury and one of the hotels in the famous Dorchester Collection, The Dorchester is located on Park Lane in the heart of Mayfair. The hotel is close to Hyde Park, so visitors can enjoy great views of the storied park and take strolls in the famous green space as often as they please. Renowned for its service and timeless elegance, the hotel has been a favorite of royalty, celebrities, and dignitaries since it opened in 1931.
Dining at The Dorchester is a delight, with options like Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester, a three-Michelin-starred restaurant that serves French cuisine, and The Grill by Tom Booton, which offers a modern British menu in an Art-Deco setting.
The hotel's Harlequin Penthouse is its best suite. It is known for its vibrant decor, grand piano, and views of Hyde Park from a private terrace. Previous famous guests at the suite like Elizabeth Taylor, have boosted its allure.
Wellness fans will like The Dorchester Spa, which is one of the best in London. It offers luxury treatments in a glamorous setting.
With its world-class service and rich history, The Dorchester represents one of the best of British luxury.
Corinthia London
Neighborhood: Westminister
Located near Trafalgar Square and Whitehall, Corinthia London combines grand Victorian style with modern interiors. Known for its attention to detail, Corinthia offers exceptional service and a range of world-class amenities.
The hotel's Crystal Moon Lounge is a stunning space for afternoon tea, with a grand Baccarat 1001 crystal chandelier as its centerpiece. Dining options include Kerridge's Bar & Grill, overseen by Michelin-starred chef Tom Kerridge. It offers British classics with a modern twist.
The Royal Penthouse at Corinthia is a 5,000 sq ft suite with two floors, complete with a private elevator and a rooftop terrace with views of London's skyline. These include a view of the London Eye, which makes it appear like you could reach out and touch the iconic Ferris wheel. The suite also has a private spa area, access to a private wine collection, and a personal butler.
The hotel also boasts the ESPA Life at Corinthia, one of the city's best spas. It has wellness services, The Daniel Galvin Hair Salon, and a state-of-the-art gym.
Corinthia's blend of historical charm and modern luxury makes it a standout hotel.
The Lanesborough
Neighborhood: Westminister
Located on the Southeast end of Hyde Park, a short distance from Buckingham Palace, The Lanesborough, one of the hotels in the Oetker Collection, is a Regency-style hotel famous for its elegant decor and British hospitality. Walking by the Lanesborough, the muted façade doesn't reveal the fact that it is a 5-star hotel
However, the hotel's interiors, designed by the late Alberto Pinto, evoke 19th-century grandeur with a modern twist. The Lanesborough Grill, the hotel's flagship restaurant with executive chef Shay Cooper managing the menu, offers modern British cuisine in a dining room with a domed glass roof. The Library Bar is another highlight, with a wide range of rare cognacs.
The Royal Suite is one of London's best, with seven bedrooms, two living rooms, and a large dining room that seats up to 12 guests. This 4,790 sq ft space with period furniture has a 24-hour butler service. You don't need to book all seven rooms, but if you do, you get the added benefit of a chauffeured car.
The Lanesborough Club & Spa offers wellness services that combine various techniques, with a modern gym, and various spa treatments.
With its opulent interiors and world class service, The Lanesborough offers a good British luxury experience.
The Royal Horseguards Hotel
Neighborhood: Westminister
Nestled along the banks of the River Thames near Whitehall, the Royal Horseguards Hotel blends Victorian elegance with modern luxury. While facing stiff competition from The Corinthia across the street on Whitehall Place, the historic hotel has served as a key landmark since the early 20th century and offers guests good views of the London Eye and Big Ben.
One Twenty One Two, the hotel's fine dining restaurant, offers an à la carte menu with modern cuisine in a setting that reflects the hotel's rich history. It also has an impressive wine list. The Equus Bar provides a charming spot to unwind with cocktails in a room with a historical ambiance.
The two-level Tower Suite is the Royal Horseguards' best suite. It offers a 270-degree view of the Thames, St Paul's Cathedral, and Canary Wharf from the living room on the second level. It also features a spacious lounge and bedroom.
Guests can enjoy the serene outdoor space of the hotel's private gardens while marveling at its historical significance and refined comfort.
The Ritz
Neighborhood: Mayfair
Possibly London's most iconic hotel, The Ritz London on Piccadilly, is renowned for its timeless luxury and British elegance. Established in 1906, The Ritz is reputed as one of the world's finest hotels.
It is famous for its Palm Court, where guests can enjoy afternoon tea, and Michelin-starred The Ritz Restaurant, which offers exquisite cuisine in a lavish setting. The restaurant has elaborate chandeliers, gold leaf detailing, marble columns, and floor-to-ceiling windows. It's worth noting that there is a dress code for guests at each of these eateries.
The Ritz's Deluxe Suites are the epitome of grandeur, with Louis XVI-style décor and views of Green Park and Piccadilly. Guests are treated to airport transfers, a private Ritz butler, and unique touches like the option to combine the suites for up to five bedrooms.
With its opulence and world class service, The Ritz remains a cornerstone of British luxury and a top choice for anyone seeking to see London in the most elegant way.
The Savoy
Neighborhood: Westminister
Located on the Strand close to the River Thames, The Savoy is one of London's best known hotels. It is famous for its Art Deco styling and first-class service.
Opened in 1889, The Savoy is home to great fine dining, including Savoy Grill, run by Gordon Ramsay (one of three restaurants run by the famous chef in the hotel), offering classic British dishes. The hotel's American Bar, one of the world's oldest bars, is renowned for its classic cocktails and ambiance.
Described as the 'Jewel in The Savoy's crown of suites,' the 2,852 sq ft two-bedroom Art Deco Royal Suite has a private butler service. It spans the entire riverside of the 5th floor and offers river views. Guests staying here have access to unique amenities, including an airport/train station transfer.
The Savoy's rich history and prime location near Covent Garden make it an ideal choice for visitors looking to see London's heritage with a touch of glamour.
Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park
Neighborhood: Hyde Park
Nestled between Hyde Park and the shops of Knightsbridge, the imposing Mandarin Oriental offers a retreat in one of London's most sought-after locations. Not to be mistaken for the Mandarin Oriental Mayfair (another marvelous hotel that didn't make the list), the hotel is known for its great service.
The hotel is home to two-Michelin-starred Dinner by Heston Blumenthal, which offers unique takes on British cuisine. With a talented pastry team, the award winning Rosebery is the hotel's afternoon tea option, and you can also enjoy all-day dining and champagne cocktails here.
The 4,779 sq ft Penthouse Suite is the hotel's crown jewel, with three bedrooms, a kitchen and dining area, two living rooms, a white marble bathroom, and a private terrace with views of Hyde Park. The suite blends British elegance with Asian-inspired touches.
The hotel also boasts a world-class wellness center that includes an indoor pool, bespoke treatments, and an Oriental spa suite.
With its combination of culinary excellence, high-end amenities, and London's best shopping not far away, the Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park is a favorite among discerning travelers.
The Landmark London
Neighborhood: Marylebone
The Landmark London is renowned for its Victorian style and spacious interiors. It is a grand structure you simply can't ignore when driving or walking by.
Its Winter Garden Restaurant, located in an eight-story glass roof atrium, is one of the most beautiful dining spaces in the city, serving British and European cuisine in a tropical, light-filled space with towering palm trees. The Great Central Bar & Restaurant offers a more private dining experience, perfect for cocktails and classic British fare.
The hotel's palatial Presidential Suite is a lavish space that's a perfect example of luxury living. It has an large lounge, an elegant dining room, a tastefully furnished bedroom, and a grand white marble bathroom.
The hotel also has a full-service wellness center, complete with an indoor pool, sauna, and steam rooms, which give guests a serene escape from the busy city.
The Landmark's grandeur and excellent service make it a top choice for travelers seeking a blend of historical charm and modern luxury.
Bulgari Hotel London
Neighborhood: Westminister
Located in Knightsbridge, just south of Hyde Park, the Bulgari Hotel London combines Italian luxury with British elegance. A relatively new entrant to the world of luxury hotels in the city, it offers a chic retreat that's less common in the city's luxury hotel scene.
The hotel's Sette restaurant serves refined Italian cuisine in an elegant setting, while the Bulgari Lounge, with its contemporary design, is perfect for afternoon tea or cocktails.
One of the standout features of the Bulgari Hotel is its spa and wellness center. It spans two floors and includes a 25-meter swimming pool, a fully equipped gym, and a range of treatments. The private cinema with HD sound and a 4K screen is a unique feature guests can take advantage of.
The hotel's presidential Bulgari Suite I is one of the best suites in London, offering a spacious living area, a dining room for eight, a private kitchen, and views of Hyde Park. Guests in this suite enjoy unique amenities such as private dining experiences and a concierge service.
Known for its modern design and emphasis on privacy, the Bulgari Hotel London is a favorite among celebrities and the jet set who like subtle luxury and good service.
The Goring
Neighborhood: Westminister
The Goring is a family-run hotel located near Buckingham Palace. It is renowned for its English charm and personal service, having hosted dignitaries for over a century. While it opened its doors in 1910, it didn't gain its current popularity until Kate Middleton (Princess of Wales) chose to stay there the night before her wedding in 2011.
The hotel's Michelin-starred Dining Room was recently renovated and relaunched in the spring of 2024. With a brand new kitchen and an inviting dining area with twinkling chandeliers, and large windows that let in plenty of natural light, the restaurant offers delightful classic British cuisine.
The 1,625 sq ft Royal Suite (where the princess stayed) at The Goring is a celebrates opulence and British craftsmanship. This penthouse suite is decorated with silk wall coverings (same as those used in the first-class dining room of RMS Titanic), antique furniture, and curated artwork, including a life-size portrait of Queen Victoria.
The suite offers a nice view of the hotel's private garden and a bespoke four-poster bed, ensuring a stay that is as luxurious as it is memorable.
Claridge's
Neighborhood: Mayfair
Claridge's is, without a doubt, one of London's most iconic luxury hotels. The hotel proudly boasts of its Art Deco design and elegance few others in the city can match. Located in the heart of Mayfair, the property has been welcoming guests since 1856 with a blend of tradition and modernity. It's no wonder it continues attracting royalty and celebrities throughout its history.
Claridge's is famed for its exceptional service and a small collection of restaurants, cafes, and bars that offer traditional British favorites and private dining you'd expect from such a storied hotel.
Highlights include the Claridge's restaurant with its signature Art Deco styling and The Fumoir bar, which offers creative cocktails. Afternoon tea is available in The Foyer & Reading Room, where you'll find the famous Chihuly sculpture hanging like a chandelier.
The in-house spa was designed by Andre Fu, inspired by visits to traditional Japanese temples and Zen gardens. You'll notice the extensive use of elements like wood, water, and limestone in the spa that delivers world-class wellness treatments.
Claridge's offers a collection of suites, with the Penthouse at Clarideges being the best in the house. The 11,840 sq ft four-bedroom suite occupies the entire top floor of the hotel and offers emperor beds, a 4,305 sq ft garden, a private pool, and great views of Mayfair.
Brown's Hotel
Neighborhood: Mayfair
Brown's Hotel, a member of the Rocco Forte collection of hotels, is on Albemarle Street in Mayfair, a street that looks fairly mundane at first glance. However, after exploring it for some time, you'll quickly realize the collection of high-end retailers it hosts. These include Boodles, Lugano, The Royal Arcade, and Tiffany.
Blending well into its highbrow environment, Brown's Hotel offers its guests a blend of history, elegance, and luxury. Opened in 1837, this hotel is steeped in heritage, having hosted notable figures such as Rudyard Kipling and Queen Victoria. Not to rest on its laurels, the hotel underwent a massive update in 2004 and was reopened by former Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher (the Iron Lady).
The hotel's The Drawing Room is the place to go for afternoon tea, and Charlie's (named after Lord Charles Forte), a refined British restaurant by Michelin-starred chef Adam Byatt, delivers great fine dining. Guests can also unwind and enjoy cocktails at the Donovan Bar, which pays homage to 1960s photography.
The 1,722 sq ft Kipling Suite is the hotel's best space. It is named after Rudyard Kipling, who wrote The Jungle Book while staying at the property. The suite features an elegant design with vintage accents, including curated artwork, hand-painted Lewis & Wood wallpaper, and antique furniture.
A private library, grand living room, and marble bathroom with a TV embedded in the wall make the Kipling Suite a standout choice for those seeking a unique and culturally enriched stay in London.
Raffles at the OWO
Neighborhood: Westminister
Unlike many of the hotels on this list, Raffles at the OWO is new to the luxury hotels scene in London. So, what makes it iconic? It is housed in the storied Old War Office (OWO) building and brings with it the reputation of the legendary Raffles Hotel in Singapore.
The building once housed the headquarters of the Defence Ministry and the office of former Prime Minster Winston Churchhill. As you can imagine, many crucial political decisions were made within the walls of the building.
Following the impressive conversion of the building to a 5-star hotel, it now houses grand hallways that have maintained the elegance of the old government building,120 rooms, a well-equipped wellness center within a 27,000 sq ft space, nine restaurants, and three bars.
Highlights include the restaurant headed by 3-Michelin-starred Chef Mauro Colagreco, which offers a unique menu. Also noteworthy are the Guards Bar and Lounge for cocktails and Café Lapérouse in the elaborate courtyard where you can enjoy all-day dining.
The 5,382 sq ft Whitehall Wing is a special suite that seeks to redefine opulence. It occupies the west wing of the second floor with room for up to 12 guests in six bedrooms. Major features of the suite include polished wood walls, period furniture, nice fireplaces, dark marble bathrooms, and a convenient control panel housed on an iPad.
The Connaught
Neighborhood: Mayfair
Opened in 1815 as an offshoot of Grillion's Hotel, the Connaught is another of London's storied hotels. It is close to Grosvenor Square in Mayfair and prides itself in the level of service it offers to its guests. There is a very liberal use of polished wood in the interior of the hotel and no shortage of alluring artwork in the hallways.
The hotel boasts of a Michelin-starred restaurant, Helene Darroze at The Connaught and the award-winning Connaught Bar. Time your visit right, and you'll be at the hotel on days when the decorated chef is in the kitchen (she shuttles between her London and Paris outlets weekly).
When not having dinner under the care of Chef Darroze or sipping award-winning cocktails, guests can enjoy the Aman Spa, which the hotel claims to be the first Aman Spa built outside the renowned Aman resorts.
The 3,068 sq ft Apartment Suite is the pinnacle of luxury at The Connaught. The 2 bedroom penthouse suite is one of the best in London. It includes a dining room with seating for eight guests, a sizable living room, and an oversized dressing room. Guests staying here are offered perks like a 24-hour butler service and private transfers to any of London's airports in an electric BMW.
Rosewood London
Neighborhood: Holborn
Rosewood London epitomizes refined British luxury within a grand Edwardian building. The hotel's dining experiences are equally distinguished. The Mirror Room offers an immersive 'Art Afternoon Tea' experience with the latest collection inspired by Japanese artist Katsushika Hokusai. This experience features Japanese-style sandwiches, exquisite pastries, and a curated selection of teas.
For a more relaxed atmosphere, Scarfes Bar combines the ambiance of a drawing room with a classic gentleman's club (no, not that other kind of gentleman's club), offering creative cocktails amidst Gerald Scarfe's caricatures. The Holborn Dining Room is a brasserie renowned for its extensive gin selection and the adjoining Pie Room, where handcrafted pies are prepared on a marble pastry counter.
The pinnacle at Rosewood London is the 2-level Manor House Suite, a 1,991 sq ft. residence that redefines opulence. This suite features two double bedrooms, marble bathrooms, a spacious living area, and a dining room with space for eight. While there are plenty of competing suites in the Big Smoke, this is the only hotel suite in the world with its own postcode.
When combined with six connecting rooms, it transforms into the Grand Manor House Wing, complete with a private entrance and elevator. The suite's design exudes the charm of a private residence, with bespoke furnishings, a circular marble bathtub, and a library.
Pan Pacific London
Neighborhood: Square Mile (Financial District)
Pan Pacific London, situated in the heart of the city, offers a luxurious retreat that blends modern elegance with Southeast Asian hospitality. The hotel's Straits Kitchen presents a fusion menu combining Western techniques with the vibrant flavors of Southeast Asia.
Guests can indulge in signature dishes crafted with the finest ingredients in a sleek setting that enhances the dining experience. The Ginger Lily Bar & Lounge provides a selection of cocktails and wines, perfect for unwinding after a day in the city.
You can indulge in Afternoon tea in the serene Maxwell Room. The tea collection is inspired by British summertime garden herbs and tropical fruits, creating a vibrant display of savory and sweet delights. Guests can savor hand-cut mint and strawberries combined with exotic flavors like banana and mango. The tea selection, curated by The Rare Tea Company, complements the culinary offerings, ensuring a delightful experience.
The top place to stay at the hotel is the Pan Pacific Suite. Spanning 1,280 sq ft, the suite offers panoramic views of London's skyline, including landmarks such as The Gherkin and The Shard. The suite features a serene lounge and dining area, a private study, a guest washroom, and a master bedroom. The marble bathroom includes heated floors and a double shower. The suite also offers guests a butler service.
Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane
Neighborhood: Mayfair
Being part of a prestigious chain that needs no introduction, the Four Seasons at Park Lane epitomizes luxury and sophistication in the heart of Mayfair. Not to be outdone by two Dorchester Collection hotels that are just a few blocks away, the hotel offers a stay that's as opulent as any in Mayfair.
A highlight of the hotel's culinary offerings is Pavyllon London, the Michelin-starred restaurant by Chef Yannick Alléno (remember him from Hotel Hermitage?). Guests can enjoy a unique dining experience with counter seating that offers front-row access to the dynamic, open kitchen. Overlooking one of London's finest postcodes, The Pavyllon Lounge offers a place for all-day dining.
Afternoon tea at the Four Seasons is a refined affair, served in the Pavyllon Lounge. The menu features a selection of pastries, savory bites, and specialty teas, all paired with champagne.
If you want the best the hotel has to offer, the 2,098 sq ft Presidential Suite is the one to select. Located on the fifth floor, this spacious three bedroom suite features floor-to-ceiling windows with sweeping views of Park Lane and Hyde Park, a fireplace, rosewood paneling, and dining space for six. The suite also includes a full marble bathroom, a guest powder room, and the option to add two more bedrooms.
Four Seasons Hotel London at Tower Bridge
Neighborhood: Tower Hill
Housed in a building that was once home to the Port of London Authority, the Four Seasons Hotel London at Tower Bridge isn't too far from its Mayfair sibling. The building's dramatic Corinthian columns lend it an alluring, old-world charm.
The hotel's dining options include Mei Ume, a Chinese and Japanese fine dining restaurant that seamlessly blends tradition and modernity. It offers sushi, sashimi, and expertly crafted Chinese main courses. The Rotunda Bar & Lounge, set beneath a beautiful domed ceiling, serves as the perfect venue for breakfast and after-work drinks. The lounge menu features beverages inspired by neighboring London landmarks, including the River Thames and the Tower of London.
Afternoon tea at the Four Seasons is a modern twist on the classic tradition, curated by renowned East End artisan baker Lily Vanilli. Served in the grand Rotunda Bar & Lounge, the "London by Lily Vanilli" afternoon tea features decadent bakes, savory bites, and playful cocktails.
If you're in town for a while and don't want to miss out on your regular goodies, the 9078 sq ft. Skyline Penthouse stands as the best suite in the house. The four-bedroom residence features a private gym, cinema room, office, garden oasis, and a wraparound rooftop terrace with views of Tower Bridge and the Tower of London.
The Kensington
Neighborhood: South Kensington
South Kensington, one of London's most alluring neighborhoods, plays host to a hotel that shares its name. The Kensington (part of the Doyle Collection family-owned chain of hotels) offers a cultural experience for its guests with its Victorian grandeur. The hotel's fine dining options include the Town House restaurant, which provides a serene setting for breakfast, brunch, and dinner, as well as a delightful afternoon tea experience.
The K Bar, with its elegant décor of oak panels and polished brass accents, serves expertly crafted cocktails. The hotel's afternoon tea served in the Drawing Room is known as "The Art of Afternoon Tea." It has a curated selection of desserts, making it unique and artistic.
The 2,000 sq ft. Kensington Suite stands out as the hotel's most opulent place to stay. It combines two Signature Suites with a Luxury Studio Suite, creating a spacious apartment-like setting. The suite is ready to cater to guests' every whim.
It features three bedrooms, three bathrooms, two separate living rooms with decorative fireplaces, and two balconies offering charming views of the street. The suite also features VIP amenities, including a turndown service and airport transfers.
