I strolled to Buckingham Palace in ten minutes, while Harrods and Knightsbridge beckoned just a short walk away. For outdoor enthusiasts, it’s a paradise perfect for leisurely strolls and horseback riding—truly, this location has it all. Perfectly situated for exploration!
Timeless Elegance Awaits
During my stay at The Lanesborough, I was captivated by its Regency charm, giving it an air of timelessness despite being just over thirty years old. Here, service is paramount, beginning with the doorman who graciously opens the door for me. The compact lobby belies the hotel’s grand scale; with only 93 rooms and a dedicated staff available 24/7, the guest experience is truly exceptional. I savoured Earl Grey in the opulent Withdrawing Room, complete with crystal chandeliers and exquisite trompe l’oeil artistry, where the friendly resident cat, Lilibet, greeted me.
A feline companion has become something of a signature for Oetker Collection properties, and Lilibet, a charming Siberian Forest Cat, perfectly fits the bill. With her luxurious, fluffy fur, she embodies the fun-loving and energetic spirit of her breed, all while being hypoallergenic—a true joy for every guest.
The Regency styling flows seamlessly throughout the hotel, creating a refined ambiance. My spacious suite boasted 45sqm, featuring a separate lounge with a cosy sitting area and a business desk, along with an elegant bedroom. It felt like a true retreat, perfectly designed for both relaxation and productivity.
Spa…Aah !
As I stepped through the LOBBY, I felt like Alice chasing the White Rabbit, weaving through endless corridors in search of the elusive spa. Fortunately, the Spa Club members knew the secret: a discreet spiral staircase leading to an unmarked black door. Upon entering, I found myself in a lavish expanse of 1,672 square meters, adorned with hints of art deco glamour. The furnishings—claret, plum, and blush pink—alongside touches of mother-of-pearl, silk, leather, glass, crystals, and mirrors—created an enchanting atmosphere.
Meanwhile, the spa dining room unfolded like a sumptuous forest of greens, offering healthy smoothies as part of its all-day menu. In place of a traditional lap pool, the spa featured an enormous hydropool, complete with a cascading wall of water and delightful bubbles that danced at the touch of a button, reminiscent of frothy Krug champagne. One of my favourite indulgences was stepping from the sauna into a cold mist shower—an exhilarating experience that left me invigorated without any winces or shivers. For those familiar with ila, the ‘beyond organic’ brand found its natural home here. My foot massage, infused with lemongrass and rose marie argan oil blends, incorporated swift strokes to release energy flow. I surrendered to the experience, allowing myself unhurried moments in the lounge and spa that lingered far beyond my initial plan.
The Quintessential Afternoon Tea
Set against the opulent backdrop of 1813 London, Netflix’s ‘Bridgerton’ enchants with lavish balls, exquisite Georgian fashion, and delightful tea rituals, all while Lady Whistledown’s clever commentary resonates. In this vibrant tapestry, the tradition of masala chai emerges as a cherished connection, echoing the warmth of Regency soirées. The Executive Chef Shay Cooper invited me to experience a limited-edition afternoon tea inspired by ‘Bridgerton’, a collaboration with Netflix and Shondaland.
The tea featured delightful creations: The Lady Whistledown, a bittersweet grapefruit and raspberry mousse; The Book of Eloise, a cheesecake encased in delicate blue chocolate; and my personal favourite, Colin’s Travels—a dark chocolate delight. The true highlight was The Social Butterfly, a stunning pistachio and mandarin mousse, perfectly encapsulating transformation.
Regal Ambience, Exquisite Flavours
While the Garden Room provided a cosy spot for snacks and cigars; one of London’s premier cocktail destinations is The Library Bar, renowned for its exceptional mixology and its remarkable ‘liquid museum’ of spirits.
The bar boasts an impressive collection of cognacs dating back to the 1770s, all expertly crafted into cocktails by the award-winning team led by Bar Manager Mickael Perron. Alongside the extensive cocktail menu, the bar offers a delectable selection of classic British dishes, all set to the backdrop of live music most evenings, which transitions to a mellow DJ vibe later on. I was particularly eager to sample The Library Bar’s own Lanesborough London Dry Gin. This delightfully smooth spirit, infused with natural botanicals inspired by the lush flora of the nearby Royal Gardens of Hyde Park, St James’s Park, and Green Park, pairs beautifully with the tonic of your choice, a slice of citrus, a sprig of rosemary, and plenty of ice.
The talented mixologists here also elevate traditional cocktails, such as The Lanesborough Spritz—a refreshing twist on the classic Negroni, featuring their gin, Campari, sweet vermouth, a hint of orange bitters, topped with soda, and finished with edible flowers and rosemary.
Fast Facts
Website: www.oetkercollection.com
Address: Hyde Park Corner, London SW1X7TA, United Kingdom
Call: +44 20 7259 5599
The Junior Suite costs £ 1,154 including taxes per night and comes with a complimentary fourth night. Steps from Hyde Park, Harrods, and Sloane Street, this luxury mansion features Alberto Pinto’s renowned renovation.
