Palace hotels in London
6 palace hotels in London, chosen and checked by the Atlas. The grand hotels of the world: palaces on the great squares, family houses that have kept their standards for a century or more, and a few modern masterpieces.
Claridge's
Mayfair's most famous address, beloved of royalty and celebrated for its Art Deco interiors. Afternoon tea in the Foyer and a drink in the Fumoir are London rites of passage.
The Savoy
Opened by Richard D'Oyly Carte in 1889 on the Thames, the Savoy was among the first hotels in Britain lit throughout by electricity. Its American Bar is one of the oldest surviving cocktail bars in London.
The Connaught
A discreet Mayfair institution with one of the world's most celebrated bars and Hélène Darroze's three-star restaurant under the same roof.
The Ritz London
Opened in 1906 overlooking Green Park. Afternoon tea in the Palm Court is an institution, and the restaurant still asks gentlemen to wear a jacket and tie.
The Dorchester
Park Lane's great hotel since 1931, looking over Hyde Park, and home to Alain Ducasse's three-star restaurant.
Raffles London at The OWO
The Old War Office on Whitehall, where Churchill worked, opened as a Raffles hotel in 2023.
Good to know
Book direct
The best rooms and upgrades usually go to guests who book with the hotel itself, by phone or through its own website.
Ask for the history
Grand hotels are proud of their past. Ask the concierge which suite was whose; the answer is often worth the question.
Dress for the public rooms
Bars and restaurants in palace hotels expect smart dress in the evening, and a few still ask for a jacket.