5 Best Hotels in St. James's, London

If you're wondering if the Downton Abbey–style world of the old British upper class still exists, look no further than here; The Ritz is as synonymous with London's high society and decadence today as it was when it opened in 1906. The central lobby, with its chandelier and sweeping balconies, is as photogenic as any in London. The lounges are as gorgeous as ever, and the bedrooms are bastions of Louis XVI style, with acres of luxurious fabric and glittering chandeliers. With a ratio of two staff members to every bedroom, you're guaranteed personal service despite the hotel's massive size. Note that the Ritz is still committed to the ancient regime of English manners, and the dress code remains inflexibly strict—woe betide a gentleman if he doesn't wear a jacket. The staff, however, are incredibly polite and courteous, particularly the concierge who stand smiling outside, ready to open the door for those visiting for afternoon tea.

A former gentlemen's club that began life in 1857, with members that included Ian Fleming, Winston Churchill, and Henry James, a stay here will see you follow in the footsteps of the British aristocracy. In a quiet cul-de-sac just off Piccadilly, this luxury boutique hotel is the perfect spot for a special night or two, with an ideal location close to Buckingham Palace and St. James's Palace. With suites like the Penthouse or St. James's, you'll have the luxury of your own private elevator, a large lounge and dining area, or a terrace with views of St. James's Palace. Seven Park Place is the fantastic on-site restaurant from Michelin-starred head chef William Drabble. Whether you choose to eat in the bar or the main dining room, you'll be served exquisite, modern French dishes using British ingredients, with an extensive menu of wines and ports. Make sure you find time to lounge in the bar too—not least for its history—as the cocktail-making is exquisite. The wonderful staff will go out of their way to make this a memorable stay.

This is a rare find: a posh hotel that's equal parts elegance and friendliness, and located in one of the few peaceful spots in the area, down a small lane behind Piccadilly. All the accommodations are luxurious and chic, but those in the 18th-century Carriage House, some of which feature fireplaces and exposed beams, are especially pleasant. Those who prefer more contemporary style should ask for a suite in the Mews. The restaurant's incredible wine cellar—several hundred years older than the hotel itself—is one of the best in the city. A curious historical nugget; in the 1930s almost every large hotel in central London opened an "American Bar," to entice the sought-after U.S. clientele (and their notoriously deep pockets). The Stafford has one of only two left in its original form (the other is at the Savoy), and certainly leaves you in no doubt of its heritage, with virtually every space filled with knickknacks of vintage Americana from model airplanes to club ties. 

Located across the road from Fortnum & Mason (one of the most luxurious department stores in the world), it seems appropriate that the Cavendish comes with a touch of Gilded Age history, a whiff of historical scandal, and a pleasant air of joie de vivre. The hotel was opened in 1906 by one of 20th-century London's great characters, Rosa Lewis (otherwise known as the Duchess of Duke Street), who rose from humble origins to become one of the most feted chef-proprietors of the age (and, infamously, the king's mistress). Today the hotel's genuinely warm and thoughtful service really stands out, and the guest rooms, though small, are comfortable and cozy; upper rooms have memorable city views. 

At this small exclusive hotel in a discreet cul-de-sac, ample natural light brightens the classically elegant rooms. The bar is a delight—don't even think about staying here without dropping in for a cocktail—and the cigar and cognac garden is a pleasingly retro addition. The GBR, which stands for Great British Restaurant, offers all-day dining, creating delicious meals out of classic British flavors; appealingly enough, the kitchen also eschews modern gadgetry as much as possible, in favor of traditional techniques. But the hotel's real trump card is the location—just a hop and a skip from Piccadilly and Green Park, yet tucked away enough that it feels peaceful.