My writing retreat at the Grosvenor House, one of London’s most renowned hotels, began with a touch of the unexpected. While I was diligently working on my article, the quiet was broken by a series of visits. First, a curious gentleman inquired about my use of the minibar, followed by two charming ladies bearing a delightful fruit platter and a chocolate dog. And then, to my surprise, a duo entered to “water the orchids.” Who knew orchid watering could be so exciting? One of them even commented on the suite’s name, the “Howard suite,” and shared that it was named after “Howard Hartley, a lovely man who retired last year.”
This is Grosvenor House, where the usual expectations of a luxurious five-star hotel are blended with a distinct English charm – a touch of eccentricity. It’s not just about the constant flow of people in and out of your suite, it’s about the effortless way in which every imaginable luxury is at your fingertips. This is evident not only in the three high-end restaurants – JW Steakhouse, Rüya, and Corrigan’s Mayfair – but also in the abundance of other places to eat and drink. During my stay, I enjoyed a lavish breakfast in the exclusive guest lounge, savoring Clarence Court scrambled eggs and a superb green juice. It’s a place of immense comfort and genuine hospitality, going the extra mile to ensure guests are not just satisfied but truly happy.
A Grand History and a Luxurious Present
Adding to its unique charm, Grosvenor House also serves as a prominent venue for London’s grandest events. The Great Room, located in a subterranean area, was once a vibrant Art Deco skating rink, hosting luminaries like the Prince of Wales-turned-Edward VIII-turned Duke of Windsor. Today, it continues to host the city’s elite, creating a vibrant and lively atmosphere. Though I missed the A-list shindig happening that evening, I retreated to the Howard suite for an early night.
Hotel room service can be a gamble, but ordering the scallop and mushroom linguine and a half-bottle of Nyetimber felt like a safe bet. My caution was unfounded. The food was exceptionally good, comparable to many of Mayfair’s high-end Italian restaurants, and the exquisite combination of delicious pasta and fine English sparkling wine in the comfort of my suite was a truly delightful experience. It’s a luxury to be savored, not overindulged, but enjoyed in moderation.
More Than Just a Hotel
I awoke the next morning feeling refreshed and rejuvenated, enveloped in the luxurious embrace of my oversized bed and indulging in Bulgari toiletries. The desire to prolong my stay was intense, but alas, my departure was inevitable.
Grosvenor House is a rare gem, a place that transcends the traditional hotel experience. It’s a destination, an experience, where guests arrive as strangers and depart as honored guests. My longing for a return visit is already burning bright, and I eagerly await my next stay. It can’t come soon enough.
JW Marriott Grosvenor House, 86-90 Park Lane, London, W1K 7TN. For more information, including details of rooms and suites, and current offers, please visit www.marriott.co.uk.
