VIBE

Old school opulence popular with a distinctly well-heeled clientele. While not stuffy, it is formal, so don’t expect to walk around in scruffy jeans. That said, while you may have to break out your Louboutins and Balenciaga bags when you stay here, you can expect to be served like the princess you’re dressed as in return.

GO HERE WITH

Mother or Father; significant other; friends when looking to treat yourselves

WHY WE LIKE IT

The quintessential “luxurious British hotel” (in a good way!). With its unobtrusive yet attentive service (among many, many other charms), the Dorchester has an appeal that turns guests into repeat customers. The food options are delicious, and it’s in a great location for Knightsbridge and Mayfair shopping.

AMENITY WE LOVE

The Promenade: By day, it serves all meals including a charming afternoon tea (our fave). And by night, this isn’t your typical stuffy, blah hotel bar. There’s a festive scene with classy but fun music that even has people dancing on a weekday night. Be sure to indulge in the chic Art Deco spa, too.

WHAT WE WOULD CHANGE

It may be just a tad large and a tad impersonal for some tastes, but the service quality in no way suffers. (Depending on your preferences, this might actually be a good thing for you.)

GOOD TO KNOW

Three staff members per guest (translation: impeccable service). Learn to cook from the Dorchester’s Executive Chef with master classes in the Krug Room (see website for schedule). Restaurant China Tang is by Sir David Tang (of Shanghai Tang fame) and has a bar to boot. The hotel is part of The Dorchester Collection, which includes properties such as Le Meurice (Paris), Plaza Athénée (Paris), The Beverly Hills Hotel (LA), and the New York Palace (NYC), among others.

CLOSEST COMPS

The Ritz (London); Claridge’s (London); Plaza Athenee (Paris); George V (Paris)

Read more about The Dorchester in The Diary

Click here for our full-form mobile travel guide, The Purple Passport to London