Why Go?
For a sophisticated London staycay with a heart-warming dose of 1930s glamour, mixed with the most exquisite cuisine and lashings of luxury. Couples are guaranteed to feel spoiled, thanks to the personalised butler service, and no ask is too much here.
Honeymoon Style
The Dorchester has attracted the world’s most elite for decades, thanks to its unrivalled service and decadent interiors. Couples who are seeking a total switch-off from the outside world post-wedding should check in here and beprepared for ultimate indulgence throughout their stay. Foodies also flock to the hotel, to experience fine dining at Alain Ducasse, or the Cantonese delights of China Tang – it’s so much more than a hotel stay.
Set The Scene
Upon entering, you’re greeted by the green-coated doormen, followed by the dazzling hotel lobby with its cascading crystal chandelier. Adjoining, is the famous Promenade (the lounge room), which is sure to impress any guest checking in. Attentive staff will whisk you to your room, or suite, and introduce you to your own personal butler to kick-start your celebrations. There’s an in-house chocolatier, and renowned florist Philip Hammond can provide personalised in-room delights. As you settle into your stay at this iconic hotel– and soak up the classic ambiance and elegance of the 1930s interiors – this timeless wonder impresses, and effortlessly stakes its claim as one of the best hotels in the world.
Rooms
The Dorchester is home to two exceptional penthouses and a vast array of individual rooms and suites, many tastefully refurbished in 2024. For honeymooners, The Pavilion Suite is hard to beat. The interiors are as rich and opulent as you’d expect, with mint panelled walls and jewel-toned velvets mixed with classical floral fabrics and antique furniture. There’s a fabulous lounge area with dining table, fully stocked bar and spacious walk-in wardrobe; little quirks add to the magic, such as a Cecil Beaton limited-edition book, which sits proudly on the coffee table. All suites feature their own terrace to soak up city views; The Pavilion Suite overlooks the front entrance of the hotel, Park Lane and Hyde Park. All rooms feature sumptuous king-size beds and indulgent marble bathrooms, and guests can expect personal touches: the freshest fruit platter or homemade banana bread, and Champagne on arrival. Suites also come with your own personal butler, who will ensure you settle into the luxurious surroundings and want for nothing during your stay.
Food & Drink
When it comes to dining, you are truly spoiled for choice at The Dorchester. It’s home to three-Michelin-starred restaurant Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester, where Jean-Philippe Blondet masterfully executes the Alain Ducasse vision of French fine-dining with modern tasting menus. Then there’s the renowned China Tang for dim sum lovers, with its fabulous Art-Deco interiors and creative cocktail menu. The Grill, by young masterchef Tom Booton, is also not to be overlooked; the delightful space features many ornate original 1930s details, grand Murano chandelier and open kitchen for theatre. The modern grill serves up steaks expertly finished on charcoal barbecue, the Big Green Egg, the Beef Wellington to share is also recommended and the innovative twist on the apple crumble is otherworldly. Naturally, there’s an extensive wine cellar, with sommelier and trolley to serve pairings in style. Breakfast is served in the decadent Promenade or The Grill, and cocktails in both The Vesper Bar and Artists’ Bar are a must.
The Story
The hotel has an enchanting story dating back to 1792 when Joseph Damer, 1st Earl of Dorchester made it home. In 1910 it became the American Embassy, and during World War I it was used as a hospital. The hotel was born in 1931 when Sir Robert McAlpine first created a vision for the ‘perfect hotel’. His state-of-the-art design was built in record-breaking time over 18 months, and became the world’s first hotel to be constructed from reinforced concrete. Since The Dorchester’s grand 1930s opening, the hotel has played host to many royal state banquets and iconic parties, and continues to evolve. Recent renovations in 2024 by renowned interior design firm Pierre-Yves Rochon brought freshness and light while injecting some 1930-40s-inspired magic.
Family-friendly
Little ones are warmly welcomed at The Dorchester. The hotel goes the extra mile to make their stay as special as yours, with gifts such as a personalised teddy in the room. The team will also ensure you have every amenity needed, a cot, changing mat, baby bath and toiletries will all be provided. The Grill by Tom Booton welcomes kiddies for dinner, and the children’s menu features many family favourites, cooked to the same high standard as the main menu. Book a booth table, which is perfect for young families.
Spa
The Dorchester Spa is a hidden gem for newlyweds, a tranquil space designed for unwinding and those seeking inner calm. It’s as luxurious as you would imagine and has revealed cutting-edge additions, such as the new MLX quartz beds and Welnamis relaxation beds, plus an extensive wellness treatment menu from Dr Uliana Gout. If you’re looking to press reset, book the rejuvenating Ishga Poultice Massage where a nourishing massage is performed using poultices filled with heated sea salt and seaweed granules. This specialised technique aims to relax muscles, release tension and nourish the skin with a rich blend of vitamins and minerals. The poultices, elevated to their maximum detoxing potential through heating, are skilfully stroked and kneaded in a rhythmic manner across the body. The massage is truly transformative, thanks to the ultra-Zen setting and techniques used by the therapists to create a true sense of relaxation. After your treatment, you can head to the Relaxation Room, for a freshly squeezed juice of the day and make use of other facilities such as the manicure and pedicure suite, steam room or sauna.
Location
For a romantic city break, look no further than The Dorchester, located on Park Lane in the heart of Mayfair, opposite leafy Hyde Park. The hotel is 45 minutes by car from Heathrow Airport and 45 minutes by car from London City Airport, so is very accessible for all. And the shops, restaurants and many London landmarks are all on your doorstep for exploration.
To book go to: https://www.dorchestercollection.com/london/the-dorchester
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