London: A city brimming with history, culture, and endless things to see and do. But sometimes, even locals like myself crave a break from the everyday hustle and bustle, a chance to truly experience the city as a tourist.
My mother’s 60th birthday presented the perfect opportunity. My sister and I wanted to make it a special occasion, and what better way to celebrate than with a luxurious stay in a London hotel? We wanted something classic, elegant, and sophisticated, much like my mother herself.
The Chesterfield Mayfair: A Timeless Gem
The Chesterfield Mayfair, a member of the renowned Red Carnation Hotels Group, seemed to be the perfect fit. It’s consistently ranked among London’s top hotels on TripAdvisor and has won numerous awards for its accommodation and service. We had high expectations, and they were far surpassed.
A Warm Welcome and a Touch of Luxury
Upon arrival, we were greeted by the warm and friendly Guest Relations Manager, Letitia. She surprised us by upgrading our room to a stunning Executive Suite and left us a generous pampering gift. It was a clear indication that our stay was going to be extraordinary.
A Prime Location for Exploring London
Situated just off Berkley Square in the charming Shepherds Market, the Chesterfield Mayfair provides an ideal base for exploring London’s iconic landmarks. Buckingham Palace, Knightsbridge, and Hyde Park are all within easy reach, and the Green Park underground station is just a short walk away, offering easy access to the entire city.
A Sense of Home Away from Home
Despite its size, the Chesterfield Mayfair doesn’t feel like a large, impersonal establishment. The atmosphere is relaxed and informal, making you feel instantly at ease.
An Executive Suite Fit for Royalty
We were blown away by our Executive Suite, which boasted a separate lounge area. Recently renovated, the room was bright and comfortable, with traditional yet timeless furnishings. The suite had everything we needed, including a room safe, complimentary Wi-Fi, and air conditioning.
The centerpiece was undoubtedly the king-sized four-poster bed, while the padded walls and electric blinds added a touch of luxury. The lounge area offered a flat-screen TV, a dining space, and a well-stocked mini-bar.
The gleaming bathroom was spacious and luxurious, with a large bathtub, a separate shower cubicle, and a mirrored ceiling that created a sense of openness.
Thoughtful Touches that Made the Difference
Letitia’s pampering gift was truly exceptional. It included champagne, snacks, face masks, bubble baths, and a homemade candle. She even remembered the children, adding soft toys for my daughter.
Relaxing in Style
After a delightful dinner, we returned to find lavender mist sprays on our pillows, a thoughtful touch that helped us unwind. Wrapped in fluffy white bathrobes, we relaxed and enjoyed a movie, laughing at each other’s face masks.
A Refreshed Start to the Day
We woke feeling refreshed and even indulged in a small lie-in, which we truly appreciated.
Cocktails, Jazz, and Scrumptious Treats
Before dinner, we headed to the Terrace Bar, where we enjoyed cocktails while listening to live jazz. The gin and tonic experience sounded tempting, but we opted for a selection of gin cocktails, including a refreshing Martin Miller’s and tonic with strawberry and crushed pepper.
The bar staff provided excellent service, ensuring we felt comfortable and well-looked after. They even spoiled us with a selection of delicious snacks and canapes.
A Culinary Journey at Butlers Restaurant
We couldn’t resist trying the hotel’s renowned Butlers Restaurant, known for its “best Dover sole in London.” The extensive menu features classic dishes like roast chicken, steaks, and both À La Carte and pre-theatre dinner options.
The atmosphere at Butlers is elegant and timeless, with opulent red window dressings, crisp white linen tablecloths, and spacious tables.
I opted for the glazed lobster omelette in a Thermidor sauce and traditional fish and chips. The rich and decadent lobster omelette was served in a skillet, while the fish and chips were accompanied by gherkins, triple cooked chips, and rich gravy and curry sauce.
A Birthday Celebration to Remember
My sister and mother were equally impressed with their meals, and to top off the evening, the staff surprised my mother with a birthday cake and a card signed by the dining team. It was a touching gesture that made her feel truly special.
A Breakfast Fit for a King (or Queen)
The next morning, we enjoyed a continental selection and a cooked breakfast menu that included eggs benedict and the full works. The breakfast was as delicious as the dinner, and we observed many guests laughing and joking, enjoying their first meal of the day. It was clear that the Chesterfield Mayfair had happy customers.
A Blend of Tradition and Modernity
The Chesterfield Mayfair expertly combines classic British charm with a contemporary flair. It’s not overly extravagant, but it does offer impeccable service and a strong emphasis on tradition.
A Stay to Remember
The staff were not only friendly and helpful but also genuinely seemed to enjoy their work. They went above and beyond to make every guest feel special. The extra touches, like the pampering treats and birthday card, made my mother feel truly spoiled.
A Luxurious Getaway in the Heart of London
The Chesterfield Mayfair may not be the cheapest hotel in London, but it’s worth every penny. With double rooms starting at £200 per night, including breakfast, it offers competitive prices for the level of luxury and service you receive.
Our stay was perfect, from the stylish rooms and delicious food to the impeccable service and attention to detail. The only question is: when can we go back?
We received a complimentary stay at the Chesterfield Mayfair hotel, but as always my thoughts and opinions are my own.
