Jumeirah Carlton Tower

It’s hard to miss this towering hotel, which at the time of its opening in 1961 was the tallest building in London. The property has tried to remain loyal to its ‘60s heritage and the exterior blends perfectly with neighboring properties. Inside, however, it’s entirely modern and luxurious. Polished floors and large bronze flower pots that heave with white blooms welcome travelers while a harpist plays in the nearby Chinoiserie. This grand and theatrical entrance sets the tone for a property that's generous and extravagant throughout. While there are some references to the hotel’s past, including paintings in the lobby and a bull statue in the Rib Room, these are subtle and in keeping with the polished vibe. Guests and visitors tend to make the most of the hotel's extensive features. As a result, the Chinoiserie, Club Room, and Spa were all bustling with activity during our early 2018 visit. The Jumeirah Carlton Tower Hotel appeals mostly to shoppers keen on exploring the nearby designer stores, those with special occasions to celebrate, and business people with work in London’s financial center, The City. 

This hotel’s location is perfect for leisurely shopping breaks in the city. There’s even a useful drop-off service on offer. Guests can be driven -- free of charge -- to local hotspots in the hotel’s very own branded Mini Clubman. The car itself is a reference to a famous ‘60s photoshoot which took place at the Carlton Tower Hotel, with Twiggy advertising the new Mini Cooper. For those who’d rather walk, it’s a mere five minutes to Harrods and six minutes to Sloane Street, where you’ll find designer stores like Dior, Gucci, and Versace. In the opposite direction, it’s a short 10-minute walk to the Sloane Square Tube station. From here, it’s easy to make your way to Chelsea on the train or explore the nearby Saatchi Gallery. While Knightsbridge and Chelsea are great for luxury stores and nightlife, Belgravia is a leafy neighborhood with a village feel. It’s just a five-minute stroll to the heart of Belgravia from the hotel, where you'll find beautiful gardens, independent stores, and impressive architecture. Just past Knightsbridge station, 10 minutes from the hotel, is the world-famous Hyde Park. For guests traveling on from London via coach, Victoria Coach Station is a five-minute drive away. Heathrow is the closest airport; expect a 40-minute drive, though this will vary depending on the traffic. 

Fresh and modern, the 216 rooms were designed by leading design agency Lynne Hunt London, and the results are contemporary spaces with an air of sophistication. Expect dark wood alongside naturally hued soft furnishings, and subtle patterns in the curtains and carpets. The Deluxe Balcony Rooms are particularly breathtaking, with their private balconies looking out over London and Cadogan Place Gardens. The Royal Suite is the most decadent and expensive suite on offer. It’s a vast space right at the top of the hotel, with incredible cityscape views and a large living area that's ideal for entertaining. There’s a separate dining area, complete with a bar, and a 24-hour butler service included with this suite. Furnishings here are more decadent than the other room categories, from handmade rugs and granite flooring to the Swarovski crystal ceilings and marble bathtub in the bathroom. Though the rooms vary in size and layout they all include Molton Brown bathrooms products, flat-screen TVs, minibars, electric kettles, Nespresso coffee machines, closets, and free Wi-Fi. 

Unsurprisingly, this hotel has an extensive list of features, which are evident from the moment you enter the property. The Chinoiserie is just beyond the lobby and is an elegant lounge serving light meals and afternoon tea. It’s traditionally furnished in a quintessentially British style, with comfortable, plush armchairs. There’s also the Sundown event each day, which signals the beginning of the evening with a free gin and tonic for all guests present. For more formal dining, the award-winning Rib Room Bar & Restaurant is an atmospheric and social spot. It’s here that the hotel's ‘60s influences can be seen, with traditional dishes such as prawn cocktail and rib of beef as well as more seasonal and contemporary dishes. With its extensive range of wines, Champagnes, and gin, The Rib Room Bar is a favorite among Knightsbridge residents as well as guests. There’s even an ambient smoking terrace for an after-dinner cigar and whiskey. The jewel in the hotel’s crown, however, is undoubtedly The Peak Health Club & Spa. With a gym, two fitness studios, spa treatment rooms, Jacuzzi, steam rooms, sauna, and 20-meter indoor pool, it’s the ultimate urban escape. The equipment is all state-of-the-art and the spa focuses on results-driven anti-aging skincare, there’s even a celebrity nail artist, Deborah Lippman, doing manicures and pedicures. Despite its proximity to many of London’s top stores, the hotel also has a suit shop on-site, where guests can have a tailor-made suit created during their stay. Flexible function spaces for meetings and events are also availale. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel, as is the drop-off Mini Clubman service.