In the mood to stay at a five-star hotel in London? You’re in the right place.
These opulent hotels boasting everything from decadent spa experiences to trendy Michelin-starred restaurants are worth the splurge.
After all, this is a city that deserves to be explored in style. And there’s no better way to do that than with a lavish stay in one of London’s most luxurious hotels.
Best 5-Star Hotels in London: At a Glance
| Best 5-Star Hotels in London – Top Picks | Hotel |
| Best Overall 5-Star Hotel in London | The Ritz |
| Best Stylish 5-Star Hotel in London | The Ned |
| Best Elegant 5-Star Hotel in London | Batty Langley’s |
| Best Renown 5-Star Hotel in London | The Goring |
Best Five Star Hotels in London
The Ritz
Probably one of the most iconic hotels in the UK, The Ritz does not disappoint when it comes to expensive hotels in London. You’ll feel more like you are staying in a palace than a hotel with the opulent decor at every corner. And while there is no official 7-star hotel in London, The Ritz comes close.
Everything about this hotel is glamorous, from the exquisite dining room to the high tea in the Palm Court. In 2002, it even became the first hotel to ever receive a Royal Warrant for its banquet and catering services. Since it’s one of the most expensive hotels in London, it’s no wonder they can boast such accolades.
The staff are faultless from the moment you set foot inside the grand lobby and the attention to detail throughout the hotel is impeccable. Add some more glitz to your stay by exploring London in the chauffeur-driven Rolls-Royce before ending off the evening with a Ritz’s French 75 cocktail in the Art Deco-style cigar shop.
Claridge’s
This wouldn’t be a list of the best luxury hotels in London if Claridge’s wasn’t close to the top. Statesmen, film stars and A-list celebrities stay at this glamorous establishment year after year.
A black and white chequerboard floor and cascading chandeliers welcome you into the lobby. These stylish elements run throughout the hotel. It’s a true Art Deco gem in Mayfair with interiors that characterize the years of the roaring twenties.
The culinary experiences at Claridge’s are top-notch. Afternoon tea at the establishment is one of the best in London. Or indulge in fine dining at the Michelin-starred restaurant, Davies and Brook. After a great meal, or a relaxing day at the rooftop spa, you’re well-placed to scope out Mayfair’s many attractions.
The Ned
A huge bank turned hipster hotel – The Ned is a cool amalgamation of old meets new – but done with superior style. This includes large Art Deco pillars, walnut-coloured walls and crystal chandeliers.
If we had to describe it, we’d say Victorian mixed with a touch of the urban loft feel. It shouldn’t work, but it does.
Featuring frilly chandeliers, contemporary sofas and large brass standing lamps, the rooms are no less impressive. The opulent marble bathrooms in every room are also sure to delight you, along with the tranquil views of the courtyard.
Facilities-wise The Ned has everything you need – from the wellness centre with swimming pool, sauna and steam room to the nail bar, cowshed spa, makeup parlour and barbershop. And don’t miss a dip in the spectacular rooftop pool with views of St Paul’s Cathedral.
Ham Yard Hotel
Located just off the vibrant Piccadilly Circus, style and character seep through every crevice of Ham Yard Hotel. It’s a hot contender for the most luxurious hotel in London, thanks to cool interiors with brightly coloured walls and an eclectic furniture collection.
The gorgeous rooms in the hotel don’t skimp on anything. The floor-to-ceiling warehouse-style windows will give you breathtaking views of either the leafy courtyard or London’s skyline. Oh, and if you are looking to plan a lavish private party – the onsite bowling alley and private cinema are the ideal way to charm your guests.
Other things that you can look forward to are a spa, gym and residents-only Drawing Room and Library, where you can help yourself to drinks and snacks. The guests-only terrace with kitchen garden on the 4th floor is also a stunning place to spend a lazy afternoon.
The Goring
The Goring is a favourite among royalty – the Middleton family and Duchess of Cambridge stayed here the night before the Royal Wedding. Just a stone’s throw away from Buckingham Palace, Kate Middleton put this place on the map of the best 5-star hotels in London.
Each room in the quintessentially English hotel is individually decorated by renowned British designers. Your chambers will boast elegant and striking wallpapers and bespoke Italian furniture. The bathrooms are just as luxe as the rooms and here you’ll find Egyptian cotton towels and bathrobes.
The Savoy
World-famous and one of the oldest five-star hotels in London, The Savoy is simply exquisite. The tangible sense of tradition is what keeps this hotel thriving, along with the immaculate staff who go above and beyond to cater to your every need.
If you are wondering what sets The Savoy apart from other 5-star luxury hotels in London, it’s the exceptional attention to detail. From the resident pianist to the ‘Literary Ambassador’ who will help you select novels to read.
If you’re after a delicious meal once you’ve checked into your Art Deco style room, you’ll be spoilt for choice. You can’t go wrong with Gordon Ramsey’s Savoy Grill and The Beaufort Bar will also delight your taste buds. Opt for a room with views of the Thames.
Sea Containers
Boasting riverfront views from its location in London’s South Bank, Sea Containers is one of the top luxury hotels in London. And while it’s near impossible to find cheap 5-star hotels in London, this is one of the more affordable luxury options on this list.
The interior of the hotel was redone by designer Tom Dixon in 2014, who took inspiration from the shipping company that used to inhabit the building. Bright metallics and hallways with moody lighting will greet you in an attempt to mirror the glamour of a 1920s cruiser. The décor of the rooms is slightly more modest, allowing the views to be the hero.
If you love a glitzy party or late-night drink, this is the place for you. The bar, Lyaness, made the list of the World’s 50 Best Bars.
Batty Langley’s
Wooden four-poster beds, dark mahogany furniture and marble bathrooms with stand-alone bathtubs are what you can look forward to in your room at Batty Langley’s. The Georgian style that runs throughout the hotel gives you a glimpse into a rather elegant past with plush velvet drapings, floral upholstered armchairs and wall tapestries.
The staff are helpful and friendly, allowing you to relax and feel at home. The Tapestry room is a great place to spend a lazy afternoon. Grab a drink from the honesty bar (or try whipping up a cocktail for yourself using the recipe book provided) and head to the courtyard.
There is no full-service restaurant at the hotel but you’ll have access to a small room service menu with options like sandwiches and risotto. You’re a short 10-minute walk from some of London’s best restaurants, so this won’t bother you at all.
The Henrietta
While this may be a 4-star hotel, The Henrietta deserves a spot on the list of most luxurious and exclusive hotels in London. With contemporary designs throughout, this hotel appeals to the design-conscious traveller.
Another drawcard of this stunning boutique hotel is that it only has 18 rooms, ensuring a private and intimate stay.
Situated on Henrietta Street close to Covent Garden, you really can’t get a much better location for boutique shopping, fabulous wine bars and beautiful cafés and restaurants. The rooms are playful with padded and colourful headboards. Deco bathrooms have marble skirtings and luxurious double-ended bathtubs.
Westin London
Sleek and modern finishes are what you can expect throughout this Westin hotel in London City. This is one of the new five-star hotels in London, opening its doors in November 2021. With an enviable location on the Thames, you’ll have a direct link between the river and the city.
Designed and decorated by British architects, Dexter Moren Associates, the aim was to create a fluid space with a residential aesthetic that blended well with the surrounding River Thames. This thoughtful design creates the perfect stay for both business and leisure.
Each room is a sanctuary and you’ll forget that you are in the city centre. With calming neutral tones mixed with light wooden floors and dim lighting, the spaces exude a completely peaceful atmosphere. Making Westin one of the most tranquil 5-star hotels in central London.
Westin London
Sleek and modern finishes are what you can expect throughout this Westin hotel in London City. This is one of the new five-star hotels in London, opening its doors in November 2021. With an enviable location on the Thames, you’ll have a direct link between the river and the city.
Designed and decorated by British architects, Dexter Moren Associates, the aim was to create a fluid space with a residential aesthetic that blended well with the surrounding River Thames. This thoughtful design creates the perfect stay for both business and leisure.
Each room is a sanctuary and you’ll forget that you are in the city centre. With calming neutral tones mixed with light wooden floors and dim lighting, the spaces exude a completely peaceful atmosphere. Making Westin one of the most tranquil 5-star hotels in central London.
Four Seasons Ten Trinity Square
Set in the perfect location overlooking Tower Bridge and the Tower of London, the grand building of the Four Seasons Ten Trinity Square is your gateway to exploring all this exciting city has to offer. However, if you do want to stay indoors, you’ll have 24-hour in-room dining on offer in your elegant suite or room.
The interiors of the hotel are cool and contemporary, creating a stylish aesthetic that you would expect from one of the top 5-star hotels in London. Get pampered at the spa before enjoying a sumptuous meal at the hotel’s French restaurant, which has a 3-Michelin star chef.
St. Pancras Renaissance
Next up in our guide to luxury five-star hotels in London is a place that looks more like a palace than a spot you’d check into for the night – the St. Pancras Renaissance. With the oldest part of the building dating back to 1873, you’re in for some old-world Victorian elegance in your room and throughout the hotel.
Since it forms part of the St Pancras International Train Station, you’ll have easy access to the Eurostar, train and tube. If you aren’t rushing off anywhere, chill out in the tea lounge after a workout in the 24-hour gym. If feeling zen is on the agenda, be sure to book one of the world-class treatments at the spa and relaxation pool.
The Connaught
The grand lobby of The Connaught sets the tone for the rest of your stay at this dazzling establishment. You’ll find shiny marble floors and the mahogany staircase that Ralph Lauren adored so much he had it replicated in their flagship store.
You’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to dining and drinks. Voted number 1 by the World’s 50 Best Bars, The Connaught Bar is reason enough to check in. The restaurant, Hélène Darroze, is three-Michelin-starred and equally impressive.
The hotel is full of character and you’ll see a mixture of styles come together in perfect harmony to create what The Connaught is today. From cabinets with fresh flowers to artworks from Damien Hirst adorning the walls, it’s no wonder this is one of the top five-star hotels in London.
Rosewood Hotel
The Rosewood is another one of those super-luxury hotels London has to offer. Just one look at the outside of this place and you’ll know what we mean. A mix of Edwardian and Belle Époque styles went into the building’s design, and give it the impression of a Viennese royal palace though in fact the building was built for a wealthy insurance company.
Inside the styles make a subtle jump toward the modern. The Rosewood has something of the American taste in luxury to it. The many lounges and restaurants ooze class and sophistication without any of the stuffy, smoking-room pretension that you might find in its up-market British counterparts.
One of the major perks of staying here (other than the obvious luxury) is that you’ll be within walking distance to most of the action in London. Covent Garden and the West End are a stone’s throw away, and you’ll be a two-minute walk from Holborn station where you can zip to and from other parts of the city with ease on the Underground.
Mandarin Oriental, Hyde Park
Overlooking the leafy acres of Hyde Park, the Mandarin Oriental, a luxury Edwardian-style hotel is just as fabulous as its views. Service is incomparable and on arrival, you’ll be greeted with a hot flannel and a soothing cup of lemongrass tea. Rooms are sleek and modern with Art Deco touches, and the beds are heavenly.
With 8 treatment rooms and a 17m-long pool, the gorgeous spa is the best place to spend a day unwinding. The two-Michelin star restaurant by Heston Blumenthal serves up acclaimed British dishes, while the Mandarin Bar serves up delicious cocktails.
Charlotte Street Hotel
With an eye-catching mint exterior, the Charlotte Street Hotel is a charming hotel in the heart of Fitzrovia and a true gem. Mixing contemporary London life with period fireplaces and a wood-panelled library room, Charlotte Street Hotel is the perfect blend of new and old.
Rooms have a quintessentially British aesthetic, each uniquely designed and featuring gorgeous wallpaper prints. If you feel like some pampering in the comfort of your own space, you can also organise in-room spa treatment from partner Temple Spa.
Oscar Bar and Restaurant will treat you to some culinary delights and you’re also within walking distance of some of the best restaurants in Marylebone.
Blakes Hotel
A luxury boutique hotel tucked away in a quiet part of South Kensington – what more could you want than Blakes?
The dark exterior of the building already depicts the uniqueness of the hotel, with quirky finishes following throughout the hotel. The rooms are equally fascinating, with rich fabrics and antiques filling the spaces.
The sophisticated Asian-style restaurant will keep even the fussiest foodie satisfied and it’s worth visiting the Chinese Room and Bar next door for a signature cocktail. The eclectic mix of styles found in this hotel, paired with the faultless service and dining, make this one of the best five-star hotels in Kensington, London.
The Dorchester
As far as posh hotels in central London go, The Dorchester tops them all. The lavish interiors of the hotel will wow you, from the marble floors up to the gold-leaf ceilings. Oh, and let’s not forget the stunning floral arrangements made up by the in-house florists.
The 300 contemporary rooms and suites are large and comfortable. Many feature white marble bathrooms and deep bathtubs.
Known for its culinary excellence, the French fine-dining restaurant, Alain Ducasse, is one of few in London to hold 3-Michelin stars. The Afternoon Tea is also something of a glamorous experience and won’t disappoint.
The Standard
Five-star hotels in London aren’t always about the old-world charm. Sometimes they come, just as in the case of The Standard, as sleek and modern as you can imagine – an uber hip.
Conveniently located in the heart of King’s Cross, making travel to and from London, as well as around it, very easy indeed, and boasting some pretty spectacular views from its upper floors, there’s much to consider about this place.
The rooms, and the hotel itself, is all super modern. Trendy new decor jobs have been done throughout in order to keep the hotel up to standard (excuse the pun) with what’s cool right now.
Being five-star, we probably don’t need to run through the list of amenities that you’ll get with your stay but know that two of King’s Cross’ best restaurants and bars will be at your disposal and when the weekend comes around The Standard’s culture hub, The Sound Studio packs in the crowds with live DJ sets and musical talent.
Practical Tips for Booking Luxury 5 Star Hotels in London
- Booking into a luxury hotel anywhere in the world can be expensive. You want to ensure you secure the best price possible, so be sure to keep an eye out for any London 5-star hotel deals. Booking.com usually has a best price guarantee so you can’t go wrong here.
- One of the benefits of booking into London’s luxury hotels is the stellar concierge service provided by the properties. From the newest restaurants in town to late-night hangouts and unmissable sights, they’re always on hand to help you make the most of your trip.
- Choosing the location of your hotel is paramount – areas such as Covent Garden and Soho are well-placed for exploring central London, whereas The City is best if you’re going to be spending a lot of time in the financial district.
