Imagine being a tourist in your own city, seeing it afresh through the eyes of your children. It’s an incredible experience, one that can reignite your own sense of wonder and discovery. This summer, I had the privilege of doing just that, embarking on a family adventure in London with my two children.
A Grand Stay at Dukes Hotel
While much of Europe was sweltering under record-breaking temperatures, we found ourselves comfortably nestled in the heart of London, gazing out at the verdant expanse of St. James’s Park from our suite at the Dukes Hotel. My children, a 12-year-old and a 10-year-old, were enthralled by the luxurious surroundings. The suite was large enough for them to play hide-and-seek, and they delighted in the little extras: the Spiderman duvet covers, the dachshund-shaped biscuits, and the fruit smoothies. It was a welcome change from the routine of home, and a reminder for me to put away the PlayStation and encourage their natural curiosity.
Our stay at Dukes was more than just a hotel experience; it was a family tradition in the making. We enjoyed a splendid picnic, complete with jam sandwiches, sausage rolls, and freshly squeezed orange juice, which was initially planned for Green Park but relocated to the hotel’s covered courtyard due to the summer rain. Joining us was my mother and my children’s older cousin from New York, making the experience even more special. It felt like something out of a movie – a large, extended family gathered in a luxurious hotel in a major city, a scene that I had always imagined but never truly experienced.
Exploring London’s Charms
Dukes, a discreet and intimate luxury hotel, provided the perfect balance of grandeur and warmth. The children were mesmerized by the lift with its internal seating and the glamorous black and white photos in the dining room. It was clear that Dukes understood the needs of families, putting children (and their dog) first. Our four-legged friend even received his own personalized bowl, treats, and chef-prepared chicken and rice dinners.
To add to the adventure, we embarked on a London exploration, equipped with a map, a polaroid camera, and book vouchers for Hatchards, a legendary bookshop. Our mission? To capture our children in iconic London landmarks, creating lasting memories. We strolled through Hyde Park, marveled at Buckingham Palace, illegally climbed the lions in Trafalgar Square, immersed ourselves in the sights and sounds of Chinatown and Piccadilly, and ended our day at Hatchards, where our children eagerly spent their £20 vouchers. Romilly, my daughter, selected a new Agatha Christie and a Ghost Story book, while Hector, my son, chose Call of the Wild and an Anime book.
A Memorable Family Getaway
Looking back, I’m so grateful for this opportunity to see London through my children’s eyes. It reminded me of the simple joys of discovery and the magic that can be found in unexpected places. My children’s reaction was the ultimate confirmation: “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,” said Hector.
This experience at Dukes, with its family-friendly atmosphere and thoughtful touches, will surely be one that we will cherish for years to come. Who knows, maybe someday they’ll be taking their own children to experience the magic of Dukes and the wonders of London.
