Imagine the gentle thud of old doors closing, the soft hum of a quiet London evening, and the sense of calm that washes over you. This is St. James’s Place, a sanctuary of discretion where even the bustling Mayfair seems ostentatious. Dukes London is a hotel that embodies this discreet charm, tucked away in this historic corner of the city.
A Legacy of Elegance
The cobblestone streets of St. James’s Place whisper tales of a bygone era, a time when Beau Brummell, the epitome of Regency dandyism, roamed these streets. White’s, the exclusive gentlemen’s club, still stands as a testament to this history, a place where Brummell would indulge in claret and legendary betting sprees. Today, this exclusive club remains a bastion of tradition, admitting only members vouched for by a select group.
Dukes London, however, offers a different kind of welcome – one that embraces all. It’s a warm, genuine hospitality that feels refreshingly genuine in a world of corporate hotel chains.
A Timeless Oasis
Stepping inside Dukes is like stepping back in time. The hotel is intimate, boasting only 90 rooms and suites. Forget grand, sprawling spaces; here, you’ll find cosy rooms designed for comfort and relaxation. Even the Duke of Clarence penthouse, with its breathtaking views of Clarence House, offers a cozy retreat.
The rooms themselves are a testament to refined taste – mustard-colored bed runners, marble bathrooms, and dark oak wardrobes exude a sense of classic elegance. The hotel embraces the past, evident in the elevator dating back to its opening day and the drawing room filled with comfortable wingback chairs. It’s a place where time slows down, where the day begins with an leisurely breakfast and a well-chosen newspaper.
A History of Distinction
Dukes has been welcoming guests since 1908, its history intertwined with the rich tapestry of St. James’s Place. The current building, once a small inn, served as a London residence for the sons of British aristocracy before becoming the hotel we know today. Its walls have witnessed the lives of literary giants like Lord Byron and Oscar Wilde, and musical legends such as Chopin and Edward Elgar, who frequented the hotel during its early years.
A Culinary Masterpiece
Dukes embraces tradition in its cuisine, as well. While its former restaurant, Thirty Six, was a haven for culinary foams and drizzles, the new GBR – Great British Restaurant offers a contemporary twist on classic British fare.
The restaurant’s design echoes the Art Deco movement, with its parquet floors, glass cabinets showcasing fine wines, and framed photographs of aristocratic gatherings from the mid-20th century. The menu is unique in its flexibility, allowing guests to enjoy any dish in either starter or main course size, catering to both restrained appetites and indulgent cravings.
The Art of the Martini
No discussion of Dukes London is complete without mentioning its legendary Dukes Bar. This is the place where Ian Fleming, the creator of James Bond, is said to have conceived 007’s signature cocktail. Here, the martini ritual is as much about the visuals as the taste.
White-jacketed barmen, seasoned veterans of the trade, present the iconic martini on a rosewood trolley. Each glass is carefully rinsed with dry vermouth before receiving a generous pour of icy gin, followed by a twist of Amalfi lemon peel. The experience is a masterclass in meticulous detail, where every element, from the temperature of the gin to the precise number of shots, is carefully considered.
A Sanctuary of Freedom
In a world obsessed with hidden fees and rigid rules, Dukes stands out as a refreshing exception. This is a hotel that embraces genuine hospitality, where guests are treated not as numbers but as valued individuals. The hotel’s philosophy is one of freedom and indulgence, evident in its willingness to accommodate even the most unusual requests.
Dukes is a place where time seems to stand still, a haven of luxury and discretion amidst the hustle and bustle of the city. It’s a reminder that true hospitality is not about grand gestures but about thoughtful details, genuine warmth, and a commitment to making guests feel truly at home.
