It’s summer, and the heat is scorching across Europe. But here in London, a gentle rain falls, creating a refreshing scene. I’m gazing out my window, watching raindrops dance on the green expanse of St James’s Park, with Buckingham Palace standing proudly in the distance. Inside, my children are running wild in the Duke of Clarence suite at the Dukes Hotel London, their laughter echoing through the spacious room. It’s a world of playful excitement for them, and even at 12 and 10, they’re still captivated by the magic of a luxurious hotel stay. This trip is a reminder to me that I should ditch the PlayStation and embrace their youthful enthusiasm more often.
A World of Indulgence
Our suite is a playground for children, with Spiderman duvet covers, dachshund-shaped biscuits (a nod to the hotel’s mascot), and an array of games like Uno, Ludo, and even a wigwam. It’s a far cry from our ordinary home, and for a moment, we feel like true VIPs. And let’s not forget the bottle of Pommery chilling in the ice bucket – a delightful perk for the parents. The day started with a splendid picnic planned for Green Park, but the rain forced us to retreat to the covered courtyard. It was still a feast for the senses, with jam sandwiches, sausage rolls, potato salad, fruit cake, freshly squeezed orange juice, and more. We were joined by my mother and my children’s older cousin from New York, making it a true family affair.
A Magical Family Escape
This experience, I believe, embodies the essence of the Dukes Family Tradition program. Staying in a hotel as a child holds a unique magic that adults often forget. The thrill of being in a glamorous setting, with staff who cater to every need – even a second glass of juice with a wink – creates memories that last a lifetime. I can vividly recall my own first hotel experiences.
Dukes, a luxurious and intimate hotel nestled in the heart of London, offers a perfect balance of elegance and warmth. For the children, the elevated lift is a thrilling ride, while the black and white photographs in the dining room spark their curiosity. The family offering puts children first, and even our dog enjoys the personalized bowl, treats, and chef-made chicken and rice dinner.
Exploring London’s Wonders
In the afternoon, we set out on a London adventure, armed with a map, a polaroid camera, and book vouchers for Hatchards. Our mission: capture our children at iconic landmarks. We strolled through Hyde Park, marveled at Buckingham Palace, climbed the lions in Trafalgar Square, and soaked in the vibrant atmosphere of Chinatown and Piccadilly. Our final stop was the beautiful Hatchards bookstore, where the children used their vouchers to purchase new books. Romilly chose an Agatha Christie novel and a ghost story, while Hector picked up “Call of the Wild” and an anime book.
Making Memories
The children’s verdict? “I loved the little details in the room like the teepee and the cookies we got to decorate and it was really fun when we got to go around London taking photos,” said Romilly. “It was cool,” added Hector. Their simple yet heartfelt words spoke volumes. This trip was a success, a testament to the magic of experiencing London through a child’s eyes. I can’t wait to return, especially for their first Dukes martini in a few years. That’s a memory they’ll cherish forever.
Dukes Hotel’s Family Tradition program starts from £2,149 for a two-night stay in two Deluxe Rooms. Visit dukeshotel.com for more information.
