The Gore – Starhotels Collezione

Built as a serviced residence for visitors to London’s 1851 Great Exhibition, the hotel has had an esteemed past life. Under the patronage of Prince Albert, its frequent guests included Judy Garland, who stayed so often she eventually donated her bed. Inspired by its illustrious history, the design throughout is unwaveringly classical. Original tapestries line the walls in communal areas alongside 18th and 19th century classical paintings. A wrought iron staircase climbs upwards, and there’s a smattering of Tudor influences too, like the dark-wood paneling and painted stuccos. The bar is particularly attractive and -- like the rest of the building -- it has a story to tell. In 1968, the Rolling Stones had their "Beggars Banquet" launch party here and so there are photos of Mick Jagger and Keith Richards as well as the album’s gold record on the walls. The vibe is laid back and the space remains informal despite its obviously posh pedigree. Checked fabrics and an overload of wood create a warm and inviting atmosphere that's unsurprisingly popular with guests. This hotel’s rates are high -- even for a Central London property -- but tourists and special-occasion celebrants are frequently drawn to the charming style and history of the place. 

The Gore sits in quiet and well-to-do Queen’s Gate, which is conveniently nestled between South Kensington and Hyde Park. It’s perfectly positioned to explore some of London’s most beloved attractions, and most are within walking distance. The Royal Albert is a three-minute walk from the hotel and a four-minute stroll from Hyde Park. The Natural History Museum and the Science Museum are both under a quick 10-minute walk from the hotel. Kensington Palace takes 10 minutes to reach on foot. For culture and art lovers, The Victoria and Albert Museum is a must for its collection of decorative arts and is just 12 minutes away on foot. It’s a slightly longer 20-minute walk to Knightsbridge, one of London’s best shopping districts and home to Harrods and Harvey Nichols. It’s possible to cut the walking time in half by taking a bus instead. South Kensington station is the closest underground station and takes 13 minutes to reach on foot, although most landmarks such as Buckingham Palace are best reached by bus in around 20 minutes. Heathrow is the closest airport and is an hour away by train or half an hour driving, depending on the traffic. It takes around an hour to drive to Luton Airport. 

The 53 rooms are all classically styled and include details like regal beds with ornate headboards. Interiors vary across the categories, and each room has an individual look. Configurations range from Singles to the Tudor Suite. The rich color palette of deep reds and blues is a hallmark across the board, and accents like heavy draped curtains, oak carved headboards, grand antiques, and period artwork with thick gilded frames all contribute to the dramatic effect. For fans of this look, it’s an immersive and decadent step back in time. For those who prefer a more modern and refined look, these rooms can feel overwhelming and stuffy. Beds are comfortable and large, made with Frette linens. All rooms have at least an armchair or desk chair, while the larger suites feature sofas and separate seating areas. This hotel appeals more to leisure travelers, but there are still work desks in every unit. Amenities include flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, coffee-and-tea-making facilities, air-conditioning, plus wardrobes with safes. Each room has a Handy smartphone too, which allows guests to make international calls and contains maps and useful information. Bathrooms are particularly special. Varying from room to room, some are decked out all in black with statues beside the bathtub. Elsewhere, redwood clad bathrooms feature regal toilets disguised as wooden thrones. There’s even a mythical Roman mural on the tiles of one bathroom. Expect hairdryers and high-end bath products as well.The best rooms are the Suites. The Judy Garland Junior Suite is home to the star’s own bed, which has a gold gilded headboard of carved roses, as well as stained glass windows and an ancient Roman-inspired bathtub. The most impressive option, however, is the Tudor Suite, with its mahogany four-poster bed, oak-beamed ceilings, stone fireplace, stained glass windows, and 15th-century minstrels’ gallery. 

As you’d expect from a hotel of this caliber, features are high end. Michelin-starred chef Daniel Galmiche heads up the kitchen at the 190 Queen’s Gate restaurant. The food is classically British and locally sourced, but with a sophisticated French twist. The restaurant opens for all three meals including a continental breakfast and traditional Afternoon Tea. Just across the lobby from the restaurant is Bar 190. It’s been a firm fixture on the London nightlife scene for years and secured its position as the place to be seen with the launch party for The Rolling Stones. Today it serves an extensive range of spirits, but particularly champions rum and whiskeys. Small plates are also served here. The hotel has a number of meeting and event spaces including The Library, Tapestry Room, and Mulberry Room. Each is decorated individually and are best suited to intimate weddings, events, meetings, and conferences. The hotel’s dedicated event staff can provide equipment as well. Wi-Fi is high-speed and signal boosters ensure a speedy connection for events. Finally, the hotel runs several tours including the best, a Landmarks of London Tour. This three-hour tour takes place in a classic car from the 1920s to the '60s, including a rather fancy Daimler.