The Stafford, London
Classic, sophisticated, a hidden gem that is a home away from home, all of this only begins to describe The Stafford, one of our traveler’s favorite places to stay in all of London. While many of London’s finest hotels are located on busy streets clogged with tourists and double decker buses, The Stafford has the feel of a private club that has been tucked away and only those who know where it is can find it. Only steps from the bright lights of busy Piccadilly, yet a world away in quiet St. James’, The Stafford is on its own little road that ends right by the door. Ask the doorman to point out the secret passageway across from the hotel that leads you straight out into Green Park and you can just glimpse Buckingham Palace through the trees.
From here you are only a few minutes’ walk to many of London’s most iconic landmarks and to the classic shopping on Piccadilly, in St. James’, and beyond to Bond Street and the covered shopping arcades. The surrounding roads feel as though they have been preserved in time, where you will find specialist shops selling cigars, fine wines, morning suits, handmade shoes, and the finest hats at Lock & Co.
These hats in particular have long been a favorite of well dressed men from Winston Churchill to Oscar Wilde, Jeremy Irons, and David Beckham. Even Admiral Lord Nelson's hat worn at the Battle of Trafalgar was purchased from Lock & Co.
In many ways, The Stafford is the epitome of traditional British luxury, steeped in history and character. Enjoy their private courtyard for tea or drinks and enjoy a feeling of the old world as the hotel wraps around you in three buildings, each with their own identity. When you stay here you can choose from rooms in the Main House, the Mews Suites, and the Carriage House, which is ideal for families as it includes a luxurious two-bedroom, three-story suite called The Gatehouse. It is said that The Gatehouse has a secret passage connected to nearby St. James’ Palace through which Henry VIII could pass between the two. If you’re interested in history, be sure to have a tour of the wine cellars which were used as an air raid shelter during the Blitz for the American and Canadian officers who frequented the hotel. Even today, the cellars acts as a museum which contains numerous items left behind by these officers when the war ended.
The Game Bird restaurant offers delicious modern British comfort cooking executed with style and panache, all wrapped in a sophisticated and welcoming ambience. Also be sure to visit the renowned The American Bar which is decorated with a collection of artifacts donated by patrons and guests. The American Bar is also a favorite spot for those who prefer to go out for cocktails without drawing attention to themselves. With a very private entrance to the hotel and discreet staff, you can often find well known visitors like the Beckhams sipping a cocktail in one of the quiet corners.
After a day of exploring London and sipping a nightcap at the bar, you will find that the stylish and inviting rooms will surely help you relax. Rooms in the Main House are a blend of Victorian grandeur and modern comfort, while the Mews Suites and Penthouse offer classic, contemporary elegance and the comfort and discretion of your own private residence. Many suites offer Juliet balconies overlooking the London rooftops, but the best view is from the Penthouse where you have a beautiful private terrace with a view that feels right out of Mary Poppins!
Many of our small group tours, including our upcoming Britain in Bloom: The Cotswolds, include a stay at The Stafford along with a wonderful afternoon tea to welcome you to London.