Situated in the heart of Mayfair and excellently located for Regent Street, Green Park and Old New Bonds Street is the prestigious 90 room boutique gem The Dukes Hotel. The Dukes London Hotel is historically a brilliant example of quintessential English charm at its best. It is located in one of the quiet streets of Mayfair London. From the moment I saw it, I knew I was going to be in for a real treat. The lobby is an indication of how one once lived. As I made my way to my Suite called, The Duchess Of Cleverland’s Suite. I noticed this hotel was steeped in heritage with a mix of contemporary and traditional art that had been collected for over a hundred years.
Decadent Comfy Corner
There’s always a comfy corner to be found in the hotel for those times you want either meet and greet people or grab champagne with a nice book. There are plenty of special boutique amenities, such as the cognac and cigar garden. The drawing room is where traditional afternoon tea is served. My favourite opulent corner was the alluring, Perrier – Jouet Champagne lounge.
The Duchess Of Cleveland’s Suite
I love historical lifts. So make sure to use it when heading to the room. There is nothing more endearing trying to have a battle with a historical double metal door lift.
Traditional lift
Ever since King Henry 8th built his palace here in the 16th Century, St. James has been the exclusive retreat of writers, musicians, politicians and royalty. So when I was given a key to enter the room and I noticed that the keyhole was very low. I was told historically when staff would enter the rooms they had to be in a position of bowing down for the guest, before entering the room. Hence why the keyhole is so low. A priceless time in history that can only be experienced here at the Dukes Hotel London.
All of the suites had been newly refurbished in soothing pastel colours, creating a relaxing luxurious space. This was excellent to entertain my business guests. The dedicated lounge room offering unlimited complimentary treats and coffee was why my stay was very special. The fresh fruit basket, cakes and bar space to entertain clients certainly left a huge impression.
My view from my Suite. Very quiet for central London
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- Very quiet for central London
The King size bed was very lavish and once again the endless space was brilliant. Sleeping in this room with my oversize pillows was just what a princess required. Beside my bed was a mobile phone, a new addition to the hotel. You could use this throughout your stay with endless FREE phone calls in the UK, France and Dubai. This was very handy considering I had two mobile phones that decided to die on me during my stay. There was free WIFI access and endless information about places to shop, sightsee and explore in central London. Make sure you use it, what a luxury treat.
Bathroom
I am a huge fan of marble bathrooms with all the extra touches. It was a brilliant way to chill after a hard days work in central London.
Ian Fleming For James Bond’s Signature Martini’s
The Dukes Hotel had a dedicated classic bar. This legendary cocktail bar, I was told, was the very place to have inspired Ian Lancaster Fleming who was an English author, journalist and naval intelligence officer. He was best known for his James Bond series of spy novels. The writer for James Bond took the existing rules for the signature Martini and decided to recreate them. For the record as you can see here in the video. Expert Alessandro Palazzi shows us how to make a real Martini. Did you know that Martini’s are never to be shaken let alone stirred? Even though, it was where Ian Fleming’s birthplace of the famous “Shaken, not stirred” line.
Did you know that, Martini’s are never to be shaken let alone stirred.
This classic bar is perfect for catching up with friends or business opportunities. There is no music played here, it’s all about enjoying the bar and talking. It was the best Martini experience, I’ve ever had. Please be aware, this is a unique experience, so make sure to showcase personal style and book in advance.
Breakfast – With Thirty Six
ThirtySix is headed up by Michelin Starred Chef, Nigel Mendham. So breakfast was a real treat and excellent service. There were plenty of healthy options on the menu and the setting was a clear indication of luxury at it’s best.
Conclusion
Dukes London is one of those hotels with a notable history in London. It is a place for those that are regularly wanting to visit London. In where you can spend as much time as you like enjoying the finer things in life. The access to all the luxury boutiques and restaurants just makes the stay extra special. The staff were very helpful and if for nothing else staying here to taste what I would say for now the best Martinis in London.
Details
- Room reviewed: The Duchess Of Cleverland’s Suite
- Website: www.dukeshotel.com
- Address: 35 St James’s Pl, St. James’s, London SW1A 1NY, UK
- Phone: +44 20 7491 4840
