When it comes to luxury hotels in London, few cities in the world can rival the capital’s blend of history, glamour, and innovation. Whether you’re checking in for a weekend of shopping in Mayfair, a business trip in the City, or a romantic escape overlooking the Thames, London’s hotel scene offers something for every type of traveller. From London hotels with a balcony, to those with sprawling suites overlooking some of the city’s best parks, when looking for somewhere opulent to stay, you’re spoilt for choice.
With more than 100 five-star hotels in London, it’s a city where world-renowned icons meet contemporary newcomers. From legendary names like The Ritz and Claridge’s, to design-led retreats and boutique sanctuaries, choosing the right hotel can transform your trip into something extraordinary.
Recent trends show a move toward personalised luxury – think wellness suites, private art collections, and exclusive in-room dining from Michelin-starred chefs. But even within this elite bracket, you can still find ways to experience London’s luxury for less. In this article we’ve put together the top luxury hotels in London that are ideal for your opulent stay in the city.
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Top Luxury Hotels in London
When it comes to the top luxury hotels in London, certain names are synonymous with timeless sophistication and exceptional service. These are some of the best that we’ve rated based on our own experience and visits, as well as the various accolades and other reviews the hotels receive.
The Savoy
The Savoy remains one of the city’s most famous addresses and is a firm favourite of mine. First opened in 1889, it’s home to opulent suites overlooking the Thames, world-class dining at Gordon Ramsay’s Savoy Grill, and the legendary American Bar, perfect for an evening martini. With impeccable service and a quinessentially British heritage, it’s a bucket list luxury hotel in London that everyone has to stay at at least once.
Claridges
The epitome of Mayfair sophistication, Claridge’s blends Art Deco opulence with contemporary refinement, creating an atmosphere of quiet grandeur. Its newly restored interiors include the serene Claridge’s Spa and a stunning collection of modern British art. Guests can savour refined cuisine at Claridge’s Restaurant or indulge in the hotel’s world-famous afternoon tea beneath glittering chandeliers. Beloved by royalty, designers, and discerning travellers alike, Claridge’s remains one of the best luxury hotels in London, where every detail is meticulously crafted and every stay feels personal.
The Peninsula London
A newcomer at Hyde Park Corner, The Peninsula London merges cutting-edge design with understated Asian elegance. Each spacious suite features hand-painted silk panels, floor-to-ceiling windows, and seamless in-room technology. Dining is world-class, from Canton Blue’s exquisite Chinese cuisine to Michelin-starred Brooklands by Claude Bosi. Guests can unwind at the tranquil spa or enjoy skyline views from the rooftop bar overlooking Buckingham Palace Gardens. Redefining modern hospitality, The Peninsula London has quickly become one of the top London hotels for travellers seeking refined, contemporary luxury.
The Langham London
An icon of refined British luxury, The Langham has been welcoming guests since 1865 and remains one of the top hotels in London for those who value classic elegance with a modern twist. Located at the top of Regent Street, it blends timeless charm with contemporary comfort. From beautifully appointed rooms to the award-winning Artesian Bar and Roux at The Landau, its Michelin-starred restaurant. The hotel’s Chuan Spa is a sanctuary of wellness inspired by traditional Chinese medicine, while afternoon tea at Palm Court is a London ritual in itself.
Bvlgari Hotel London
Sleek, stylish, and unapologetically glamorous, the Bvlgari Hotel London brings Italian sophistication to the heart of Knightsbridge. Its minimalist design and polished marble interiors reflect the brand’s jewellery heritage, while the Bulgari Spa spans two floors and offers one of the most luxurious wellness experiences in the city. The hotel’s restaurant, Sette by Scarpetta, serves refined Italian cuisine that mirrors its Milanese roots, and the private cinema adds an exclusive touch. Just steps from Harrods and Hyde Park, Bvlgari is the go-to for travellers seeking five-star hotels in London with an international edge.
Rosewood London
Occupying a grand Edwardian building on High Holborn, Rosewood London perfectly captures the spirit of contemporary British heritage. Behind its stately façade lies a world of quiet sophistication, from the marble courtyard entrance to its elegant rooms and suites designed with residential warmth. Guests can unwind with cocktails at Scarfes Bar, a favourite among locals and celebrities, or dine at The Mirror Room, known for its creative afternoon teas. With its exceptional service, world-class spa, and blend of tradition and innovation, Rosewood London stands among the best luxury hotels in London for modern travellers.
Shangri-La in The Shard
Perched between the 34th and 52nd floors of London’s tallest building, Shangri-La The Shard offers sky-high luxury with panoramic views stretching across the city skyline. Its sleek, Asian-inspired interiors and floor-to-ceiling windows create a serene contrast to the bustle below. Guests can unwind at the infinity pool on level 52, dine at TING Restaurant, or enjoy cocktails at GŎNG Bar, the highest bar in Western Europe. Blending five-star service with unmatched vistas, it’s one of the best luxury hotels in London for travellers who want an unforgettable perspective of the capital.
Four Seasons Hotel London at Ten Trinity Square
Occupying a beautifully restored Beaux-Arts building near the Tower of London and Tower Bridge, the Four Seasons Hotel at Ten Trinity Square delivers sophisticated elegance with a hint of historic grandeur. Its spacious rooms feature marble bathrooms and bespoke furnishings. The hotel also boasts a lavish spa, complete with a Roman-style pool and vitality baths, offering tranquillity in the heart of the city. Combining world-class service with architectural beauty, it’s a standout among top hotels in London. I was lucky enough to stay here for my birthday last year and it’s a hotel that will stick with me forever for its beautiful decor, ambience and the spa of course!
Pan Pacific London
Located moments from Liverpool Street Station, Pan Pacific London merges Asian hospitality with contemporary London design. As one of the new generation of five-star hotels in London, it impresses with sleek interiors, a 24-hour wellness floor, and the city’s first infinity pool with skyline views. Guests can enjoy modern Singaporean cuisine at Straits Kitchen, afternoon tea in the Orchid Lounge, or signature cocktails in the Ginger Lily bar. Elegant yet understated, Pan Pacific offers a calm, refined retreat for both business and leisure travellers in the heart of the City.
Hotel Café Royal
A fixture of London’s cultural and social scene since 1865, Hotel Café Royal seamlessly blends Belle Époque glamour with cutting-edge modernity. Set on Regent Street, it has welcomed everyone from Oscar Wilde to David Bowie. Today, it offers spacious suites, the serene Akasha Holistic Wellbeing Centre, and exquisite dining, including Cakes & Bubbles by Albert Adrià. The interiors balance golden grandeur with minimalist design, while its location between Soho and Mayfair makes it one of the best hotels in London for guests seeking both history and high style.
Finding Cheap Luxury Hotels in London
Luxury doesn’t always have to come with an extravagant price tag. For those seeking cheap luxury hotels in London, planning and timing are everything.
Consider staying during off-peak seasons (January–March and late October–November) when rates can drop by up to 40%. Booking mid-week or using loyalty programmes can also make a huge difference.
Websites like Booking.com, Trip.com, and Secret Escapes frequently feature limited-time deals on luxury accommodation in London – perfect for spontaneous getaways or business travellers upgrading their stay without breaking the bank.
Another insider tip? Opt for boutique hotels slightly outside central zones such as Marylebone, South Kensington, or Shoreditch. You’ll often enjoy premium amenities and distinctive design for a fraction of the cost of Mayfair or Knightsbridge counterparts.
Luxury Hotels Near London
If you’re looking to escape the bustle of the city while staying close to it all, several luxury hotels near London provide an idyllic alternative.
Just 45 minutes from the capital, Cliveden House in Berkshire combines aristocratic grandeur with Michelin-starred dining and countryside views. Similarly, The Grove in Hertfordshire is a favourite for golfers and spa lovers, while Coworth Park near Ascot offers a countryside retreat with polo fields and five-star service.
These hotels blend the best of both worlds, easy access to London’s attractions, plus the tranquillity and space to truly unwind.
New 5-Star Hotels in London
London’s luxury scene never stands still and there are always stunning new properties to discover. The past few years have seen several exciting newcomers redefining what a new 5-star hotel in London looks like.
The aforementioned Peninsula London made waves with its refined Asian hospitality and design-forward aesthetic and is one of the best new 5-star hotels in London. Other include:
Raffles London at The OWO
A dazzling addition to the capital’s luxury scene, Raffles London at The OWO has transformed the historic Old War Office in Whitehall into one of the most exciting new 5-star hotels in London. Steeped in history yet unapologetically modern, it features 120 opulent rooms and suites, nine restaurants and bars, including Mauro Colagreco’s fine-dining masterpiece, and the city’s first Guerlain Spa. Every corner tells a story, blending Edwardian architecture with contemporary artistry, making it a must-stay for travellers who appreciate heritage reimagined through a lens of modern luxury.
1 Hotel Mayfair
London’s first 1 Hotel brings eco-conscious sophistication to the heart of Mayfair. A sanctuary of sustainable design, it pairs natural materials with refined comfort — think reclaimed wood, living green walls, and tranquil, plant-filled interiors. Guests can dine at Dovetale, the restaurant by Michelin-starred chef Tom Sellers, or unwind at Bamford Wellness Spa. Overlooking Green Park, the hotel delivers a calming retreat without compromising on elegance or location. As one of the best new luxury hotels in London, 1 Hotel Mayfair sets a new benchmark for mindful, modern five-star stays.
Mandarin Oriental Mayfair
Sophisticated and intimate, Mandarin Oriental Mayfair offers a fresh expression of the iconic brand’s world-class hospitality. Located on Hanover Square, this new 5-star hotel in London features 50 elegant rooms and suites. Designed by Studio Indigo, they blend subtle Eastern influences with quintessential British craftsmanship. Dining is a highlight, led by Michelin-starred chef Akira Back, who brings inventive Japanese-Peruvian cuisine to the capital. With a serene spa, discreet service, and proximity to London’s best shopping and galleries, Mandarin Oriental Mayfair is an urban oasis. It’s ideal for travellers seeking refined luxury in the city’s most exclusive neighbourhood.
The Most Expensive Hotel in London
The Lanesborough Hotel London
Curious about the most expensive hotel in London? That title often goes to The Lanesborough, where the Royal Suite can cost upwards of £24,000 per night. Guests receive round-the-clock butler service, chauffeur-driven Rolls-Royce access, and interiors fit for royalty.
Overlooking Hyde Park Corner, it epitomises Regency-era grandeur and personalised luxury. Every room is uniquely designed with rich fabrics, antique furnishings, and 24-hour butler service that ensures every guest feels like royalty. The hotel’s restaurant, The Lanesborough Grill, offers exquisite fine dining beneath a domed glass ceiling, while the Lanesborough Club & Spa provides a serene escape with world-class wellness treatments. Combining traditional British elegance with impeccable attention to detail, The Lanesborough delivers an experience that’s both indulgent and unforgettable.
However, even at this price point, the experience is far more than luxury for luxury’s sake, it’s about exclusivity, privacy, and creating unforgettable memories.
Conclusion: Choosing the Best Hotel in London
Selecting the best luxury hotel in London depends on what luxury means to you. For some, it’s heritage and prestige; for others, it’s innovative design or culinary excellence.
When booking, consider location, amenities, and the style of experience you want – whether that’s the timeless grandeur of Claridge’s or the modern serenity of The Peninsula. Personal touches like bespoke butler service, in-room spa treatments, or curated cultural tours can elevate your stay from indulgent to unforgettable.
London’s hotel scene is ever-evolving, offering something truly special for every traveller – whether you’re indulging in ultimate opulence or uncovering cheap luxury hotels in London for a savvy stay. These top luxury hotels in London should offer everything you want and so much more for your next break away.
