This week, London pulsates with excitement as the King’s Coronation draws near. The city is adorned in celebratory attire, with flags waving and streets brimming with royal spirit. Dukes Hotel is an ideal refuge for those seeking a luxurious and historic escape, conveniently nestled in the heart of St. James’s.
Dukes: An Iconic English Escape
Dukes is steeped in history and royal connections, having served as a favourite haven for Princess Diana and the Queen Mother. It is even rumoured that a secret tunnel connects the hotel’s bar to nearby St. James’s Palace, adding to the mystique. The hotel’s unique charm is evident from the moment you step into its courtyard entrance and ride its original wood-panelled lift complete with a sofa.
A Bond with British Heritage
The hotel’s legacy extends beyond royal connections. Its bar, famously frequented by Ian Fleming, the creator of James Bond, was where his fondness for martinis was ignited – a quintessential British ritual. Dukes is a perfect embodiment of English heritage, offering a truly immersive experience.
A Royal Welcome and Opulent Surroundings
From the moment you arrive, Dukes welcomes you with an air of sophistication and personalized service. The reception staff knows your name and your luggage is whisked away before you can even utter the iconic “shaken, not stirred.” Opulence surrounds you, from the oil paintings adorning the lobby walls to the plush carpets beneath your feet. The 90 rooms and suites exude understated luxury, with the Duke of Albany Suite being a particular highlight. Its separate living room features a charming mini balcony, cozy sofas and chairs, and an elegant bedroom with a super-king-size bed adorned with fine linens. The marble bathroom boasts luxurious amenities, including thick towels, Turkish cotton bathrobes, and Noble Isle toiletries, adding an extra touch of Britishness.
Celebrating the Coronation
To commemorate the King’s Coronation, Dukes offers a captivating Royal Connoisseur Package, available until December 20, 2023. This exclusive experience delves into the heart of St. James’s – a prestigious neighborhood where royalty and society’s elite gather. The package includes an array of gifts and experiences from renowned British brands, such as Floris candles, The King’s Ginger Liqueur, a behind-the-scenes tour at Lock & Co. Hatters, and a traditional hot towel shave or haircut at Truefitt & Hill, the world’s oldest barbershop.
A Royal Culinary Journey
Dukes elevates the royal experience with a specially designed Royal-themed breakfast that includes scrambled eggs with Exmoor salted caviar, toasted brioche, and a glass of Champagne. The Great British Restaurant (GBR), an all-day brasserie, further embodies this royal celebration with a special four-course menu inspired by the King’s favourite dishes. The menu features traditional British favourites, such as H Forman’s Smoked Salmon and Beef Wellington, presented with a contemporary flair.
Dukes: A Timeless Experience
Dukes offers a harmonious blend of tradition and modern sophistication. Its Great British Restaurant is a contemporary haven with Venetian-style mirrors, black and white fashion-led photographs, and velvet booths, offering a vibrant atmosphere where guests can enjoy a carefully curated menu of British cuisine with a continental twist.
Conclusion
A stay at Dukes is a journey through time, a celebration of British heritage, and a gateway to the heart of London’s royal spirit. It is a place where tradition and modernity intertwine, creating a timeless experience that captures the essence of a new era in the United Kingdom. With its Royal Connoisseur package, Dukes provides a captivating opportunity to immerse yourself in the magic of the King’s Coronation and the grandeur of St. James’s.
