Imagine: Stepping out of a rainy London morning into the grand Dukes Hotel with your children, their eyes wide with excitement. This is the start of a family adventure you won’t soon forget, one that will leave you all with lasting memories.
This summer, while most of Europe sweltered under scorching heat, I found myself in London, escaping the oppressive temperatures and enjoying the cool breeze wafting through St James’s Park. It was a welcome change from the usual summer routine, and a perfect opportunity to reconnect with my children and explore London through their eyes.
Exploring London Together
The Duke of Clarence suite at Dukes Hotel was a delight for both the children and me. The spacious suite provided ample room for games of hide-and-seek, and the children were thrilled with the luxurious surroundings. I couldn’t help but feel a sense of joy at their delight, and realized that I need to unplug them from their screens more often and encourage them to explore the world beyond their usual comfort zone.
But the hotel itself wasn’t just about the suite; it was about the details. Spiderman duvet covers, dachshund-shaped treats, fruit smoothies, board games, and even a wigwam made the experience feel truly special. The staff ensured that every need was met, even down to a bottle of Pommery chilling in the ice bucket, a welcome treat after a fantastic picnic.
Embracing Family Traditions
This family tradition experience at Dukes Hotel captured the magic of staying in a hotel as a child. The excitement of being in a new place, more glamorous than their usual surroundings, with attentive staff willing to indulge their childish whims, was the perfect recipe for unforgettable memories. I could still remember my first hotel experiences vividly, and I knew that this trip would be just as special for my children.
Dukes, with its blend of intimacy and grandeur, provided a unique backdrop for a family adventure. The children were fascinated by the grand lift, the dramatic black and white photographs in the dining room, and the sheer elegance of the hotel. The staff embraced them with open arms, catering to their needs and making them feel like the VIPs they truly were.
Creating Lasting Memories
To keep us entertained, we set out on a London adventure equipped with a map, a Polaroid camera, and book vouchers for Hatchards. We snapped photos of the children at iconic landmarks, visited Hyde Park, Buckingham Palace, Trafalgar Square, and Chinatown, and even ended up soaking wet exploring the glorious surrounds of Hatchards, where the children happily spent their book vouchers.
The children’s verdict on the trip was simple: “I loved the little details in the room,” said Romilly. “It was cool,” said Hector. These simple pronouncements, filled with innocent joy, spoke volumes about the success of our family vacation. I knew that these memories would stay with them forever, just as my own childhood hotel experiences had.
As we left Dukes Hotel, I felt a sense of satisfaction. We had created memories that would last a lifetime. This wasn’t just a vacation; it was a family tradition in the making.
Discover the magic of Dukes Hotel for yourself. Visit dukeshotel.com to learn more about their Family Tradition experience. Prices start from £2,149 for a two-night stay in two Deluxe Rooms.
