Timeless Sophistication - Iconic Luxury Hotels in London

London is home to some of the world's most iconic luxury hotels. As the city with the largest number of 5-star hotels in the world by a wide margin, London continues to draw a high number of luxury travelers. With its seemingly endless tourist attractions, a variety of fine dining establishments, and luxury shopping few cities (if any) can match, it's no wonder the city continues to be popular among travelers.

With all that in mind, a visit to London isn't a difficult choice. What's more interesting to carefully consider is the best place 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 tourist attractions (particularly for frequent/business visitors), fine dining options may be more interesting. To help most people make a choice, we've included each hotel's unique features, top suite, nearby attractions, and dining/afternoon tea options. Afterall, it would be wrong to visit London without the quintessential afternoon tea experience.

It's only fair to mention that an argument can be made that some of the other 5-star hotels in the city should be on this list. However, your sensitivity to location aside, you can't go wrong with any of the listed hotels.

1. The Langham London

Neighborhood: Marylebone

Nearby Attractions: Regent's Park, London Zoo, The Wallace Collection

The Langham is one of the city's oldest and most prestigious hotels, with a history dating back to 1865. Known for its timeless elegance, The Langham is celebrated for offering guests a blend of traditional luxury and modern sophistication. It is also reputed as the most expensive hotel in the capital of the United Kingdom. A frequent feature on the silver screen with scenes in movies including 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 specializes in innovative cocktails and is consistently ranked among the world's best bars. The hotel is also home to Chez Roux, a renowned restaurant led by chef Michel Roux, where 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. The highlights of the 4,800 sq ft space include six bedrooms, a dining room, a large marble bathroom, stunning views of the city, and a personal butler.

A major amenity available to loyal guests is The Langham Club. The exclusive lounge offers a private and luxurious experience with complimentary breakfast, all-day refreshments, and evening cocktails.

Combining rich history with refined luxury, The Langham is an ideal choice for those seeking a classic London experience.

2. The Dorchester

Neighborhood: Mayfair

Nearby Attractions: Hyde Park, Marble Arch, Buckingham Palace

A cornerstone of London 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's proximity to Hyde Park means visitors can enjoy great views of the park and take strolls in the famous green space as often as they please. Renowned for its exquisite 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 culinary delight, with options like Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester, a three-Michelin-starred restaurant that serves contemporary French cuisine, and The Grill by Tom Booton, which offers a modern British menu in a beautiful, art-deco-inspired setting.

The hotel's Harlequin Penthouse is its most exclusive accommodation. It is known for its vibrant decor, grand piano, and panoramic views of Hyde Park from a private terrace. Previous famous guests at the suite like Elizabeth Taylor, have boosted its allure

Wellness fans will be delighted by The Dorchester Spa, which is considered to be one of the best in London. It is an oasis of relaxation, offering luxury treatments in a glamorous setting

With its world-class service and rich history, The Dorchester represents the pinnacle of British luxury.

3. Corinthia London

Neighborhood: Westminister

Nearby Attractions: Trafalgar Square, Houses of Parliament, London Eye

Located near Trafalgar Square and Whitehall, Corinthia London combines grand Victorian architecture with modern, luxurious 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, featuring 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 spanning two floors, complete with a private elevator and a rooftop terrace with panoramic views of London's skyline. These include a remarkable view of the London Eye, which makes it appear like you could reach out and touch the iconic Ferris wheel. The suite also includes a private spa area, access to an impressive private wine collection, and a personal butler.

The hotel also boasts the ESPA Life at Corinthia, one of the city's most impressive spas, with facilities that include a pool, The Daniel Galvin Hair Salon, restorative wellness services, and a state-of-the-art gym.

Corinthia's blend of historical charm and contemporary luxury makes it a standout hotel.

4. The Lanesborough

Neighborhood: Westminister

Nearby Attractions: Hyde Park, Harrods, Buckingham Palace

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 renowned for its elegant decor and traditional British hospitality. Driving or walking by the Lanesborough, the muted façade of the building doesn't immediately 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 Shay Cooper managing the menu, offers modern British cuisine in a dining room with a domed glass roof. The Library Bar is another highlight, featuring a wide selection of rare cognacs and a sophisticated ambiance.

The Royal Suite is one of London's most luxurious, spanning an unprecedented seven bedrooms, two living rooms, and a large dining room that seats up to 12 guests. This 4790 sq ft, period furniture decorated suite includes a 24-hour butler service. You don't necessarily need to book all 7 rooms, but if you do, you get the added benefit of a complimentary chauffeur-driven car.

The Lanesborough Club & Spa offers wellness experiences that combine traditional and modern techniques, including advanced aesthetics, a modern gym, and various spa treatments.

With its opulent interiors and exemplary service, The Lanesborough offers an authentic British luxury experience.

5. The Royal Horseguards Hotel

Neighborhood: Westminister

Nearby Attractions: Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, London Eye

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 wonderful 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 British and European cuisine in a sophisticated setting that reflects the building's rich history. It also has an impressive wine list. The Equus Bar provides a charming spot to unwind with classic cocktails in a room with a historical ambiance.

The two-level Tower Suite is the Royal Horseguards' most prestigious accommodation. It offers a 270-degree panoramic 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 luxurious bedroom.

Guests can enjoy the serene outdoor space of the hotel's beautiful private gardens while marveling at its historical significance and refined comfort.

6. The Ritz London

Neighborhood: Mayfair

Nearby Attractions: Lancaster House, The Green Park, Buckingham Palace

Possibly London's most iconic hotel, The Ritz London on Piccadilly, is synonymous with timeless luxury and British elegance. Established in 1906, The Ritz has maintained its reputation as one of the world's finest hotels.

It is famous for its Palm Court, where guests can enjoy the quintessential British afternoon tea experience, and Michelin-starred The Ritz Restaurant, which offers exquisite French cuisine in a lavish setting. The beautiful 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 complimentary airport transfers, a private Ritz butler, and personalized touches, including the option to combine the suites for up to five bedrooms.

With its opulence and unparalleled service, The Ritz remains a cornerstone of British luxury and a top choice for anyone seeking to experience London in the most elegant way possible.

7. The Savoy

Neighborhood: Westminister

Nearby Attractions: Covent Garden, Westminister Abbey, The National Gallery

Located on the Strand close to the River Thames, The Savoy is one of London's most celebrated hotels. It is famous for its Art Deco styling and first-class hospitality.

Opened in 1889, The Savoy is home to several iconic restaurants, 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 cocktail bars, is renowned for its classic cocktails and luxurious ambiance.

Described as the 'Jewel in The Savoy's crown of suites,' the 2852 sq ft Royal Suite is an impressive two-bedroom suite with elegant Art Deco furnishing and a private butler service. It spans the entire riverside of the 5th floor and offers stunning river views. Guests staying here have access to exclusive 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 experience London's heritage with a touch of glamour and sophistication.

8. Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park

Neighborhood: Hyde Park

Nearby Attractions: Hyde Park, Harrods, Buckingham Palace

Nestled between Hyde Park and the fashionable shops of Knightsbridge, the imposing Mandarin Oriental offers a luxurious 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 exceptional service.

The hotel is home to Dinner by Heston Blumenthal, a two-Michelin-starred restaurant offering inventive takes on historic British cuisine. The Rosebery is perfect for afternoon tea, and you can also enjoy all-day dining and champagne cocktails here.

The 4779 sq ft Penthouse Suite is the hotel's crown jewel, featuring three bedrooms, a kitchen and dining area, two living rooms, a gorgeous white marble bathroom, and a private terrace with panoramic views of Hyde Park. The suite's luxurious interiors blend 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 proximity to London's best shopping, the Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park is a favorite among discerning travelers.

9. The Landmark London

Neighborhood: Marylebone

Nearby Attractions: The Regent's Park, London, Hyde Park

The Landmark London is renowned for its grand Victorian architecture and spacious, luxurious interiors. It is a grand structure you simply can't ignore when driving or walking by.

Its Winter Garden Restaurant, located in a stunning 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 environment with towering palm trees. The Great Central Bar & Restaurant offers a more intimate dining experience, perfect for cocktails and classic British fare.

The hotel's palatial Presidential Suite is a lavish accommodation that's a perfect example of luxury living. It has an expansive 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 swimming pool, sauna, and steam rooms, providing guests with 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.

10. Bulgari Hotel London

Neighborhood: Westminister

Nearby Attractions: Harrods, Kensington Palace, Hyde Park

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, contemporary 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 impressive spa and wellness center. It spans two floors and includes a 25-meter swimming pool, a fully equipped gym, and a range of personalized 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 most luxurious 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 exclusive amenities such as private dining experiences and a dedicated concierge service.

Known for its modern design and emphasis on privacy, the Bulgari Hotel London is a favorite among celebrities and discerning travelers who appreciate understated luxury and personalized service.