Escape To: The Royal Lancaster Hotel, London

Set against the lush backdrop of Hyde Park, the Royal Lancaster Hotel is a timeless luxury destination in the heart of London. The hotel is known for its exceptional service, sophisticated design, and prime location in the city making it a perfect spot for your trip to London.

Location and Accessibility

Situated on the edge of Hyde Park, the Royal Lancaster boasts one of the most enviable locations in London. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a morning walk through the park, explore nearby Kensington Palace, or shop on Oxford Street, everything is just a short stroll away.

Getting around London is easy from the hotel. Lancaster Gate tube station is only a minute’s walk from the hotel, and there is also a bus stop with buses that can take you all across London.

If you are arriving by train, Paddington Station and its Heathrow Express link are conveniently close around a 7-10 minute walk, making it ideal for both international and domestic travelers.

Rooms: The Park Suite

We stayed in the Park Suite, which perfectly encapsulates the elegance and comfort the Royal Lancaster is known for. Located on the corner upper floors, the suite offers incredible panoramic views over Hyde Park with windows overlooking the park in the bedroom, bathroom and living areas.

The Park Suite is very spacious, featuring a separate living area with two sofas, television and dining table. The bedroom was extremely comfortable with black out blinds and luxurious linens. The marble bathroom, complete with underfloor heating, a deep soaking tub, and rainfall shower, added an extra layer of indulgence to our stay. I also especially loved the Jo Loves amenities, the shower gel scent was divine!

The highlight of this room was waking up to those stunning park views, which even on a rainy day did not disappoint!

On-site Amenities and Activities

The Royal Lancaster offers a variety of amenities that cater to both relaxation and productivity if you are visiting on a work trip. The hotel’s 24-hour gym is equipped with state-of-the-art fitness equipment, making it easy to stay active during your stay. For business travelers, the hotel provides meeting rooms and event spaces with modern facilities.

As well as the on site amenities the hotel can help you with organizing activities around London and booking theatre tickets or experiences. They also partner with local experiences, such as horse riding in Hyde Park.

Dining at the Royal Lancaster: The Botanical Afternoon Tea

One of the standout dining experiences during our stay was the British Blooming Afternoon Tea. The tea is a collaboration between The Royal Lancaster Hotel and the Natural History Museum which is a 30 minute walk from the hotel through the park. The traditional afternoon tea takes inspiration from the museums art archives and its newly transformed garden to create a floral inspired experience.

The tea also takes inspiration from the Royal Lancaster being the first hotel in London to install bee hives on its roof. Throughout the hotel you will see references to this in the gold honeycomb ceiling design, to the nods to nature and butterflies in the art in your room.

The afternoon menu features a delightful selection of finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and an array of delicately designed cakes including a Toffee Dome (my fave), Daisy and the Bee vanilla sponge with lemon curd, Beehive honey cake and Blooming Berries orange blossom chocolate ganache.

For those looking to elevate the experience, (like us!) there’s also the option to enjoy a glass of champagne.

Overall the tea was the absolute highlight of our stay. The staff were incredibly attentive and shared details about the inspiration for the tea, the hotel and each of the courses that we were served. This is the perfect way to unwind in the afternoon and a recommended experience in London whether you are staying at the hotel or not.

Overall Experience

Our stay at the Royal Lancaster was defined by luxury, comfort, and exceptional service. Every detail, from the moment we arrived to the time we left, was thoughtfully curated to enhance the guest experience.

The Park Suite provided a peaceful retreat with stunning views, while the hotel’s amenities and dining options offered everything we needed for a relaxing and memorable stay. Whether you’re in London for business or leisure, the Royal Lancaster promises an experience that blends sophistication with the warmth of classic British hospitality.

Is This the Right Hotel for You?

The Royal Lancaster is perfect for travelers who value both luxury and location. Its proximity to Hyde Park and central London attractions makes it an ideal base for exploring the city. It’s also an excellent choice for business travelers, with its modern amenities and convenient access to transportation hubs like Paddington Station.

If you’re looking for a hotel that combines impeccable service, stylish rooms, and top-tier dining, the Royal Lancaster should be at the top of your list.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Stunning views over Hyde Park from the Park Suite
• Excellent location near key attractions and transport
• Luxurious, modern rooms with thoughtful amenities
• Botanical Afternoon Tea is a must-try experience
• Excellent breakfast buffet that rivals any other I have experienced!
• Attentive, friendly staff providing impeccable service

Cons:

• The hotel’s modern style may feel too minimalist for those seeking a more traditional “English” aesthetic
• Some amenities, like the spa, are off-site

Booking Your Stay

Booking your stay at the Royal Lancaster is easy through their website, where you can find exclusive offers and packages.

We highly recommend the Royal Lancaster for those looking to experience the best of London in style.