The Chesterfield Mayfair, nestled in the sophisticated Mayfair district of London, is a quintessential British hotel, a true testament to old-world charm and elegance. Its three Georgian townhouses come together to create a haven of refined comfort, transporting guests to a bygone era.
Stepping Back in Time
As you step inside The Chesterfield, prepare to be captivated by a symphony of classic design. A grand chandelier illuminates the space, casting a warm glow over the wood-paneled walls, majestic pillars, and Chesterfield furniture. The monochromatic floor gleams, adding a touch of sophistication to the already impressive setting.
A Glimpse into the Past
Take a stroll through the hotel’s interior, and you’ll find yourself immersed in a treasure trove of antique pieces. Oversized furniture, chandeliers, and dark woods create a sense of timeless elegance. Every corner seems to whisper tales of a bygone era, with paintings of various styles adding splashes of color to the richly textured décor.
A Blend of Tradition and Convenience
The Chesterfield’s design exudes a reassuringly old-fashioned charm, transporting you to a tranquil countryside retreat. Yet, its central London location ensures you’re within easy reach of the city’s vibrant pulse. A five-minute stroll takes you to the serene Hyde Park and Green Park, offering a welcome respite from the urban bustle. The award-winning restaurants and bars of Mayfair are just a stone’s throw away, promising a tantalizing culinary experience.
A Rich Tapestry of Experiences
The Chesterfield keeps guests entertained, offering an array of unique experiences. From gin and jazz evenings to whiskey tastings and beer and cheese tasting sessions, there’s something for everyone. Local tours delve into the rich history of the area, revealing hidden gems and fascinating stories.
A Sweet Treat and a Touch of Luxury
One of the hotel’s standout features is its delightful sweet shop, tempting guests with sugary delights. And for a truly memorable experience, indulge in one of the hotel’s fantastically themed afternoon teas. These traditional treats are the perfect way to inject some fun and charm into your stay.
A Sanctuary of Comfort
The Chesterfield is part of the Red Carnation Hotel Collection and boasts 94 rooms and 16 suites. Each room is a unique oasis of comfort and creativity, meticulously designed by the hotel’s founder, Bea Tollman, and her daughter, Toni. The rooms are adorned with sumptuous fabric-covered walls, colorful prints, and personal touches like fresh-cut flower bouquets, creating an atmosphere of warmth and welcome.
A Room with a View
My room was a testament to the Chesterfield’s signature style, featuring bold and distinctive décor. Classic features, such as fabric walls, heavy patterned curtains, and a decorative carpet, all in a matching pattern, created a rich and inviting ambiance. While the patterned décor was a bit heavy, the ornate furniture and gold-edged mirrors added an elegant touch, reminding you of the hotel’s rich history.
A Place to Unwind and Indulge
The room offered all the amenities you need to relax and unwind. Two fabric armchairs beckon you to recline, while a bathroom and separate shower room provide the conveniences you need. A large antique wood writing desk invites you to put pen to paper, and for those seeking modern conveniences, a large flat-screen television, 24-hour room service, and free Wi-Fi are readily available.
A Culinary Journey
As you are in Mayfair, the heart of fine dining in London, expect a delightful culinary experience. Executive Chef Nathan Hindmarsh and his team create creative cuisine using seasonal, organic British ingredients, ensuring every dish is a treat for the senses. Butlers Restaurant, famed for its Dover sole filleted at the table, is the hotel’s fine dining establishment, while The Terrace Bar and The Conservatory offer inviting spaces to enjoy a drink or a light bite.
A Touch of Hospitality
During my December visit, Covid-19 measures were in place, so I dined in The Conservatory, a light-filled space with lush greenery. Normally, I would highly recommend enjoying a pre-dinner drink at the bar before venturing into the chandelier-adorned restaurant.
A Symphony of Flavors
My three-course dinner was a delicious journey of flavors, and the exceptional service from the hotel staff added to the experience. I began with the Orkney scallops with cox’s apple, celeriac, hazelnuts, and tarragon, and I was blown away by the quality of the scallops and the accompanying elements. The dish was a perfect balance of gentle, refreshing, crunchy, and creamy, creating a symphony of textures and flavors that left me wanting more.
A Culinary Masterpiece
Next, I indulged in the wellington of Yorkshire venison. The wellington was a culinary masterpiece, showcasing high-quality meat and impressive culinary skills. The accompanying roast butternut squash, celeriac remoulade, and blackberry sauce elevated the dish to new heights. While the famed Dover sole with wilted spinach and hollandaise certainly piqued my interest, I was captivated by the wellington from the moment I saw it.
A Sweet Ending
Though I have a fondness for cheeseboards, the sticky toffee pudding called to me on this particular evening, and I’m glad I listened. The butterscotch sauce, vanilla ice cream, and sticky dates created a truly sumptuous dessert. The menu offered other tempting options like blackberry pavlova and Valrhona chocolate with praline, hazelnuts, and cognac ice cream, all promising a satisfying ending to a delicious meal.
A Haven of Relaxation
The Chesterfield Mayfair is ideally situated, benefiting from three local parks, offering a respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. Guests seeking serenity can enjoy spa treatments in the comfort of their room or suite, delivered by qualified masseuses and beauty therapists. Alternatively, guests can take advantage of a complimentary pass to a nearby Fitness First gym or borrow a yoga mat and DVD from the concierge for an in-room yoga session.
A London Gem
The Chesterfield Mayfair has a unique personality and offers London luxury in a traditional setting. When we can travel freely again, London will be waiting to welcome guests with its renowned warmth and hospitality. This centrally located gem more than deserves a visit.
All imagery used in this article credit: The Chesterfield Mayfair
