The Dorchester, UK Hotel

London, UK

Taking pride of place on Park Lane since 1931, this Mayfair icon may be one of London's grandest of dames, but she moves with the times. Only last year, The Dorchester revealed a major revamp of public spaces, rooms and suites – the first since the Eighties. The famous promenade received a fresh look, rooms were reconfigured and redesigned by lauded designer Pierre-Yves Rochon and the new Vesper Bar (a deserving winner in the 2024 Food and Travel Reader Awards) and Cakes & Flowers shop appeared. Stepping within today feels like the start of a new chapter in the hotel’s story, although that grounding sense of hospitality heritage is never far from mind. It’s in the warm efficiency of the staff, who wear the weight of the institution proudly on their smart starched sleeves. It’s in the grandeur of the space, the sense of occasion.

Taking their cue from neighbouring Hyde Park, generous rooms are an ode to the pastel hues of English gardens. But don’t let that deceive you: this is no whimsical affair and every design note sings loud and proud. Soft textiles, hand-painted headboards, Bang & Olufsen tech, gorgeous marble bathrooms and well-placed seating and lounging areas set the tone for an incredibly relaxing stay. And that’s before you’ve hit the spa, with its cosseting treatments and cradling relaxation loungers with high-tech meditation settings.

It’s worth pulling yourself back to earth for the lovely reality that awaits at The Grill by Tom Booton. The modern British menu is a nuanced array that delivers punchy flavours with the humblest of ingredients, while offering playful spins on classics. There’s also art deco China Tang and three-star Alain Ducasse to tempt. After, be sure to grab a well-crafted libation at vibey Vesper.

Doubles from £727.

Words by Blossom Green.

This article was taken from the Christmas 2024 issue of Food and Travel. To subscribe today, click here.