Dukes London: A classic, elegant hotel, transporting you back to the timeless charm of London. From the moment you arrive, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a storybook.
This hotel is a must-visit for anyone seeking a quintessential British experience. With its rich history, exceptional service, and luxurious amenities, Dukes is a timeless gem in the heart of London.
The Dukes Experience: A Journey Back in Time
Imagine a peaceful cobblestone courtyard, hidden from the bustling Piccadilly. There, you’ll find Dukes, an imposing redbrick building draped in lush green ivy and a billowing Union Jack flag. This iconic landmark exudes a classic British charm that feels as if it were plucked straight from a Mary Poppins story.
A Slice of History
St James’s, the neighborhood where Dukes resides, has long been a haven for London’s elite. Since the 16th century, when Henry VIII built St James’s Palace, this area has been a hub for exceptional restaurants, traditional shops, and charming hotels. Dukes, established in 1908, has maintained much of its Edwardian allure.
Recently, a complete renovation revitalized the hotel, breathing new life into its classic features. The hotel’s signature vintage elevator, with its bench for weary travelers, whisks guests from the lobby, adorned with monochrome tiles, dark wood, and grand grandfather clocks, to their luxurious accommodations.
Your Palatial Retreat
Stepping into a room at Dukes feels like entering a palatial wing. Muted colors, antique furniture, and rich fabrics create an ambiance of timeless elegance. The recent makeover brought a refreshing touch to the guest rooms, with calming country-manor pastels offset by vibrant accents.
The bathrooms are truly breathtaking, clad in gleaming marble, featuring large soaking tubs and double sinks. While the views may not be spectacular, with glimpses of neighboring townhouses, the rooms themselves are so inviting that you’ll be tempted to draw the curtains and embrace the tranquility.
Culinary Delights and Martini Magic
GBR, the hotel’s ground-floor restaurant, is renowned for its classic British cuisine. Indulge in melt-in-your-mouth beef cheek with parsnips and red wine sauce, or savor the hearty lamb-neck fillet with swede confit in lamb dripping, accompanied by their irresistible cauliflower cheese.
But the real star of the show is Dukes Bar, a haven for discerning drinkers and a legendary spot. Ian Fleming, the creator of James Bond, was a regular here and is said to have drawn inspiration for 007’s signature drink, the Martini, shaken not stirred, from this very bar. Alessandro Palazzi, the head bartender, a master of his craft, impeccably dressed in a white tuxedo, has been mixing cocktails at Dukes since 2007. His Martinis are legendary, and he’ll personally prepare your drink at your table, ensuring each sip is perfection.
Unparalleled Service
The staff at Dukes is renowned for its discreet, efficient, and charming service. Guests are greeted as if they were old friends, and many are, as the hotel has a devoted clientele.
Who Visits Dukes?
From American tourists seeking an authentic British experience to Martini aficionados who have been enjoying Palazzi’s creations for years, Dukes draws a diverse and sophisticated crowd.
A Chic Neighborhood
St James’s, with its aristocratic past, is one of London’s most fashionable neighborhoods. But despite its prestige, it’s not stuffy or pretentious. Some of Piccadilly’s most popular restaurants are just steps away, including Angela Hartnett’s Café Murano, Quaglino’s, Princess Margaret’s former favorite, and Scully, led by former Ottolenghi chef Ramael Scully.
Escape to Tranquility
While Piccadilly offers a lively atmosphere, Dukes provides a tranquil escape. Enjoy a classic afternoon tea at the nearby Ritz, then stroll through Green Park, a serene oasis just a short distance away.
A Taste of Luxury
Breakfast at GBR is perfectly fine, but with London’s endless culinary options, it’s worth venturing out to explore. The Wolseley, a short distance away, is known for its exceptional brunches, with tempting options like gooey Gruyère omelets and fluffy pancakes.
Hidden Gems
For those seeking a taste of the good life, Dukes offers a Cognac and cigar garden, a haven for relaxation and indulgence. For a more wholesome escape, ask the staff for the secret shortcut to Green Park – they’ll happily guide you.
A Classic London Experience
Dukes London is an experience unlike any other. For a timeless, classic London hotel stay, Dukes is a top contender. It’s a place to savor the elegant atmosphere, indulge in exquisite cocktails, and enjoy impeccable service. It’s a hotel that will leave a lasting impression.
