What can you say about Claridge’s, really? That it’s historic, grandiose and imposing? That it’s grounded in tradition, baked into London culture and unremittingly uncompromising with regards to standards? Yes, to all of this. But you already know all that. How about this: Claridge’s is also good value for money.
Value for money? Surely not. Only a culturally blinkered, oblivious aristocrat could think such a thing. But it’s true. If you want to splash out on a special meal or a magical hotel stay, Claridge’s gives you genuine bang for your buck (it’s just in this case there’s more than the usual amount of buck). Unlike a lot of expensive hotels, Claridge’s pulls off high-end luxury with an alarmingly easy-going, joyful expression. A lot of the staff have been there for decades, and the sense of communal affection for the hotel is infectious. Yes it’s expensive. But so is loads of stuff.
Inarguably one of Europe’s finest hotels, Claridge’s has a top-to-bottom vibe that exudes art deco glamour, historical significance and smoky old-world naughtiness. The 269 rooms are as comfy and as elegant as you’d imagine (and if you’re ever in a position to stay in one of the ones with the balcony, you should, as there are few flexes that compare to drinking your morning espresso looking down on Bond Street). Also worth pointing out that Claridge’s also now has a mahoosive basement (that was dug out by hand, no less) featuring a subterranean spa, wine shop and extremely swanky gym. Meanwhile, both principal eateries, the Claridge’s Restaurant and the Foyer, manage to justify their price tags with high-quality cooking, exceptional service and the ever-present, aforementioned levity. A truly special place.
Neighbourhood
A little place called Mayfair. Very Georgian, very polished, but to be honest, if you’re a relatively normal person you’ll probably not stick around Mayfair itself, and instead use the opportunity to run wild and free through London’s west end. Soho is a 10-minute walk away, or if you fancy something a bit leafier, both Hyde Park and Regents Park are nearby. Indeed you can see them both from some of the hotel’s higher floors.
Nearby
The Audley for a genuinely good pint, in a decent pub, in the middle of Mayfair. Yes, such a thing exists. Helps that one of London’s best restaurants is upstairs too.
David Zwirner for challenging, brilliant art, displayed all over a towering Mayfair townhouse.
Bibi for an exploration of traditional fine-dining Indian cooking. Come for the Lahori chicken served with a cashew-and-yoghurt-whey sauce.
Time Out Tip
The Claridge’s Bar is famous, but you’d be a mug to miss out on the Fumoir, the hotel’s 1930s cocktail room. A dark and moody bar that’s several leagues more credible than all of the city’s immersive “speakeasies” combined.