Staying in a Hotel Suite has usually been seen as the epitome of extravagance. But more and more, the decision to take a suite rather than just a room is becoming as much a question of practicality as one of luxury. And it’s not just V.I.P.s or business executives who are making that choice either.
How does a hotel suite differ from a hotel room? The answer is in the question. While occasionally, a Junior Suite is merely a bedroom with a seated area, a suite usually consists of multiple rooms, offering much more space and comfort. The main added space is usually a separate living room. Sometimes a Junior Suite will comprise a bedroom, a living room, a small kitchen area, and a bathroom – perfect for a family. The Executive Suite, as it sounds, is geared towards the business executive with a working area – desk and chair – plus living area suitable for meetings. Beyond this are, of course, the ‘Presidential Suite’ and the ‘Penthouse Suite’, both more akin to a luxury apartment with multiple rooms, enhanced service, and, very often, a spectacular view. Not to mention a spectacular cost.
But the practicalities of a hotel suite actually suit so many people for so many reasons. It’s mostly about having that extra space and privacy. For business purposes, yes – hotel suites are usually pleasant surroundings in which to work and conduct business meetings. However, a suite is perfect for a family holiday too, whether it’s a weekend break in the city or a longer visit. Practicality and comfort are most important, say for instance, when parents are able to enjoy the living room space while their children sleep. A hotel suite can undoubtedly provide that feeling of ‘a home away from home’.
The prices of suites obviously vary, from area to area, hotel to hotel. But, quite rightly, we are only concerned with the very best that London has to offer, so be our guest as we take you through them below.
Mayfair Suite, Claridges, Mayfair
When you talk about famous London hotels, none are more famous than Claridge’s, and few are more glamorous; since the mid-19th Century, it’s been the host to royalty, world leaders, and Hollywood superstars alike. With an elegance that mixes Art Deco and Modern, the Mayfair Suite is the choice of hotel accommodation for the privileged few. The hotel’s ballroom remains its heart and centrepiece but the suites match that for style and luxury with a luscious décor of velvets, silks, and marbles. Pure indulgence.
Park Suite, The Berkley, Knightsbridge
Overlooking Hyde Park, these spacious, beautifully furnished apartments feel more like home than a hotel, an easy place to relax in, knowing that every amenity you may need is just minutes away. Whether that’s the world-famous Berkley Bar, Spa and heated rooftop pool, or Cédric Grolet pâtisserie, all can be found within the hotel. Five-star family-friendly, this bright and cheerful hotel has a refreshingly contemporary feel to it, especially its Park Suite.
Grand Premier Suite, Rosewood London Hotel, High Holburn
Another hotel suite that feels more akin to a private luxury apartment, the décor is very much cosy rather than over-grand, ensuring you feel relaxed and at home. Especially when you have butler service catering to every little whim. Slightly off the beaten track, this grand-looking hotel might not have the prestige views, but it’s still only a brisk walk away from the West End, Oxford Street, and Covent Garden.
Waterloo Bridge Suite, One Aldwych Hotel, Covent Garden
Seen as one of the more romantic hotels in the choice of London’s fine establishments, the Waterloo Bridge suite in the One Aldwych has a décor chosen with luxurious relaxation in mind. Overlooking Waterloo Bridge, the sprawling living room is a particularly comfortable place to unwind with a drink and take in the amazing view. So, you’re not just paying for a stunning city apartment in a thrilling London location; you might just be in the right place for a beautiful Waterloo Sunset too.
Hyde Park Suite, Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park Hotel, Knightsbridge
This choice is not just about its location – the suite looks over the treetops of Hyde Park and South Carriage Drive, where the Queen's horses often trot along – but it’s about the suite’s unique design and décor, the work of renowned designer Joyce Wang. Both elegant and glamorous, there are beautiful touches in the furnishings reflecting its surroundings outside as well as adding sophistication in the living space, including the suite’s own bar, leather-topped desk, library and fireplace.
Harlequin Suite, The Dorchester, Park Lane
Glamour is the first word that springs to mind with this hotel suite – it is in the world-famous Dorchester, after all. The Harlequin is the largest of the five-star hotel's roof suites, offering bespoke luxury and unparalleled service. Marble and onyx feature throughout the two bedroomed suite, giving it that Hollywood movie star vibe. And no hotel suite in London has a finer view, especially as The Harlequin has a secluded terrace looking out over Hyde Park and beyond. The service available ensures you’ll feel like a movie star too.
Marylebone Suite, Marylebone Hotel, Marylebone
The Marylebone's beautiful suites offer visitors the best, most spectacular views of the City of London over the rooftops of Marylebone and Mayfair, across to The Shard and way beyond. And the largest of the suites, The Marylebone, is spectacular in itself. Spacious and tastefully furnished in oak, brass and silks, this suite has its own amazing terrace which expands to 40 square metres, and has its own fireplace, outdoor TV, and retractable roof, ideal for all weather conditions. Pure luxury even outdoors.
This is just a sample of the choice of prestige hotel suites. London is home to many more. But whether they’re spectacular, beautiful, historic, or modern, none of them come cheap. When staying in the wonderful metropolis that is London, the ideal is to stay in a hotel that is itself a landmark of the grand old city. And if you have the resources to do that, it is worth staying in the lap of luxury, even for one night only.
