The Dorchester
COST: $$$$$
With a prime address on Park Lane facing Hyde Park, this grande dame embodies a posh formality that’s attracted Prince Philip (who held his bachelor party here in 1949) as well as rock and Hollywood royalty who regularly take up residence. Rooms are spacious and charmingly designed; you’ll also find excellent service, afternoon tea in the opulent lobby lounge, a smart gift shop (think bespoke bathrobes), a luxurious spa, and China Tang, David Tang’s Art Deco-inspired Cantonese restaurant and classic cocktail bar. Its 195 rooms and 55 suites are light and airy, and feature floral drapes and carpets, antique furniture and inviting armchairs, and marble bathrooms (with what may be the deepest tubs in town). For a large hotel, it’s still reassuringly exclusive.
Insider Tip: Don’t skip the immaculately landscaped flower gardens.
Room to Book: One of the Junior or Dorchester suites; each has access to a tech-savvy “E-Butler,” on call daily to solve any Internet or plasma-screen-TV issues.
As Featured In...
From Travel + Leisure, Jun 2006
“...have a cozy chat in an alcove, and you'll feel as if you're on a catwalk when you approach reception...” MORE>>
From Travel + Leisure, Dec 2004
“Last year the 250-room Mayfair classic came off a refurbishment so complete it practically amounts to a rebranding...” MORE>>
From the T+L 500
1931 Mayfair legend with opulent interiors, opposite Hyde Park.
- Stats:
- 250 rooms; 4 restaurants; 2 bars.
- Competitive Edge:
- History and glamour, coupled with 21st-century sex appeal, courtesy of a new Alain Ducasse restaurant.
- Rooms to Book:
- Deluxe doubles on the 8th floor ending in 08, 12, and 14 command the best park views.
- Don't Miss:
- A Ruby Rhu cocktail (rhubarb-infused vodka, vanilla liqueur, and peppercorns) in the redone bar.
lastArticle = 12/2007 and lastAward = 01/2008
