What’s It Like To Stay At The Dorchester?

One of London’s most recognisable hotels, The Dorchester remains a go-to – long favoured by royalty, Hollywood stars and world leaders since it first opened its doors in 1931. Built on the site of the former Dorchester House, it was conceived as the most advanced hotel of its time, and quickly became a symbol of British glamour and discretion. Overlooking Hyde Park from its prime Park Lane perch, this storied Mayfair landmark continues to deliver impeccable service and a quietly decadent experience that never goes out of style.

Hotel Review: The Dorchester, London

STAY

While it may be the flagship of the ever-expanding Dorchester Collection – which recently added The Lana in Dubai and has Tokyo and Rome in the pipeline – The Dorchester remains true to its roots. There’s a quiet grandness to the rooms, many of which have been sensitively refreshed by designer Pierre-Yves Rochon, who layered the spaces with a soothing palette of creams, blush pinks and soft greens. Expect thick carpets, floral motifs and tailored drapery, alongside indulgent marble bathrooms with deep soaking tubs. 

Suite guests have access to dedicated butlers who anticipate every whim – whether it’s unpacking a suitcase, drawing a personalised bath with essential oils, or arranging a private in-suite dining experience.

DO

The location couldn’t be more central. Step out the door and you’re right by Hyde Park, minutes from Bond Street, Mount Street’s boutiques, and a quick cab ride from the West End. After a busy day, The Dorchester Spa is a calming retreat with a menu of  treatments from brands like Valmont, Natura Bissé, and ishga and Carol Joy, whose London Lifting Facial is a must. Afterward, head to The Spatisserie for a healthy juice, a light bite,  or an indulgent pastry served with a side of serenity.

EAT

With no less than 12 drinking and dining options, The Dorchester remains one of the capital’s best dining destinations, anchored by Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester, the three-Michelin-starred heavyweight that continues to set the tone for fine dining in London. But it’s The Promenade that’s perhaps the hotel’s most recognisable space. Taking centre stage just beyond the lobby, its high ceilings, come for breakfast and stay for afternoon tea, where delicate finger sandwiches and warm scones are served against soft lighting, and gorgeous  floral arrangements.

There’s also The Grill by Tom Booton, where the chef brings a dose of energy to British classics. Expect elevated dishes like scallop ‘thermidor’ bisque and beef Wellington with duck fat chips – best enjoyed from a seat at the counter. Downstairs, China Tang is glamorous, eccentric, and reliably delicious, with its signature Peking duck and dim sum that draws in a loyal crowd.

As for after hours, Vesper Bar offers a cinematic take on old-school glamour, with white-jacketed bartenders serving up  martinis beneath vintage Murano glass chandeliers. 

FINAL WORD

Still the cornerstone of the Dorchester Collection, The Dorchester proves that true icons don’t need reinvention. As the collection expands globally, this London original continues to set the standard: elegant, enduring, and unmistakably timeless.

BOOK IT

Rooms at The Dorchester start from around £1,200 per night. dorchestercollection.com