Spellbindingly romantic from the moment one twirls through its revolving doors, Claridge’s radiates old-world charm in abundance. But that’s hardly surprising for a 168-year-old hotel of such illustrious heritage, whose guest list has included everyone from Sir Winston Churchill and Queen Elizabeth II, to Audrey Hepburn and Mick Jagger.
There’s an undeniable magic that envelops the glitzy lobby, where one can’t help but envision the who’s who of elegant figures that have gracefully sashayed down the sweeping staircase throughout the years. It is at the foot of the grand staircase, the legendary Claridge’s Christmas tree, created by a different world-renowned designer each year, resides, ushering in a palpable wave of joy throughout London every November, marking the start of the festive season.
As my luggage is whisked away, I can’t help but notice the vibrant atmosphere circulating The Foyer restaurant. The clinking of champagne flutes and the gentle stirring of fragrant tea compose a melodic symphony. Afternoon tea is ceremoniously being served. It’s a revered ritual here – many thanks to esteemed pastry chef, Jérôme Chaucesse. The glitzy Art Deco setting is truly captivating. The walls glisten with original decorative mirrors while mesmerising music emanates from the grand piano. Breakfast, lunch and dinner can also be experienced at The Foyer (the seafood cocktail, I am told, is remarkable). I’ll wear the special dress this evening, I thought.
Stepping into my charming abode, its history instantly transports me to a bygone era of the Jazz Age. A captivating fusion of rich-history-meets-modern-comforts, The Mayfair Terrace Suite is festooned in pastel-hued furnishings and one-of-a-kind period features. Its elegant grey and white marble bathroom is a delight, enhanced by the luxurious Bamford amenities I instantly recognise from my visits to other Maybourne hotels including The Berkeley, The Maybourne Riviera and The Emory. The suite’s private terrace, overlooking the leafy splendour of Mayfair , serves as the perfect setting for a nightcap on a balmy summer evening. Do take a moment to visit the in-house wine cellar downstairs, where an exquisite selection awaits guests’ perusal.
Restaurants and bars are a true highlight at Claridge’s and the hotel boasts an array of exquisite options nestled within its storied walls. As dusk descends, Claridge’s Bar and The Painter’s Room spring to life. Within the elegant confines of the former, visitors are treated to an impressive selection of rare champagnes and masterfully crafted cocktails. Meanwhile, The Painter’s Room, paying homage to the artistic haunts of Provence and Italy, offers an intimate spot for those wishing to savour a pre-dinner vintage from a meticulously curated wine list. Its blush-pink marble bar is absolutely stunning.
Recently celebrating its first birthday, the re-invented Claridge’s Restaurant, designed by the esteemed Bryan O’Sullivan Studio, pays tribute to the hotel’s illustrious Art Deco design legacy – complete with exquisite mosaic flooring and fabulous pendant lamps. Offering contemporary reinterpretations of classic British cuisine within its glamorous dining room, perfectly formed plates of Cornish crab with crème fraîche and pickled apple, or salt baked beetroot with goat’s cheese, figs, pecans and aged balsamic, are a delight. Showstopping main courses include the Claridge’s fish pie, the celeriac wellington and the Tomahawk of Herefordshire beef.
Desserts curated by the exceptional pastry team are, without doubt, delightfully decadent. One must not overlook the vanilla mille-feuille, the chocolate soufflé tart, or the profiteroles draped in hot chocolate sauce. The restaurant has also recently unveiled a unique all-British cheeseboard, sourced from Nottinghamshire to St. Andrew’s, complemented by seasonal chutney and delicate plum crackers.
Discreetly tucked away, a visit would remain incomplete without a post-dinner stop in The Fumoir, where Londoners in the know have enjoyed a quiet tipple since 1929. I recommend the Fumoir Negroni, a wonderful nod to the famed classic.
When it’s time to seek a sanctuary of relaxation, one will find solace at the spa, a subterranean epicentre of wellness inspired by the tranquil Zen gardens of Kyoto. A project finished in 2022 that required excavating five floors into London clay to create, Claridge’s Spa offers an array of therapeutic treatments designed to enhance emotional, physical and spiritual wellbeing. Among its distinguished offerings is the revered Bamboo & Silk Ritual — a comprehensive mind and body experience that commences with a soothing foot ceremony, followed by an indulgent full-body massage utilising warmed bamboo sticks, culminating in a deeply restorative silk facial. To fully embrace the experience, arrive early to enjoy a cup of crystal-infused water and a rejuvenating dip in the indoor swimming pool. The spa floor is also home to a hair and beauty salon by celebrity hair colourist, Josh Wood.
Claridge’s transcends the ordinary realm of hospitality. It stands as a paragon of quintessential British luxury, artfully navigating the currents of modernity while expertly upholding the esteemed traditions of a classic five-star hotel. The ambience here radiates an aura of grandeur and elegance, completely void of any pretence.
Nestled just moments away from the renowned theatres, museums, parks and other cultural treasures of the West End, Claridge’s presents an unparalleled setting in which to commence married life. I cannot wait to plan a return visit…
Images courtesy of Claridge’s
