Claridge's: Timeless Art Deco Elegance in Mayfair
Claridge's radiates art deco glamour. This Forbes Travel Guide Verified Luxury London hotel has been opening its doors to guests since 1856, becoming a regular go-to for a roll call of who's who, including Queen Victoria and Audrey Hepburn. As Spencer Tracy once said, "Not that I intend to die, but when I do, I don’t want to go to heaven. I want to go to Claridge's." From the dramatic Foyer with its Dale Chihuly chandelier to the intimate Fumoir Bar and the legendary afternoon tea, Claridge's remains the epitome of timeless elegance.
🏅 Our Inspector's Highlights
A Legendary Guest List
Queen Victoria, Audrey Hepburn, and Spencer Tracy — plus more than eight heads of state during the 2012 Olympics. "Which king, sir?" is a legendary quote from the switchboard.
The Fumoir Bar
A glamorous 1930s-style hideaway with dim lighting, dark wood walls, etched mirrored murals, and eggplant-colored velvet banquettes. Only a handful of tables — intimate and exclusive.
The Foyer & Dale Chihuly Chandelier
1898 art deco décor preserved. Designer Thierry Despont added a modern touch: an elaborate sculptural chandelier by Dale Chihuly made of over 800 curlicue glass pieces.
Afternoon Tea Institution
More than 100 years of tradition. Live piano music, jade-and-white-striped teacups, and a curated selection of teas by connoisseur Henrietta Lovell.
Iconic Christmas Tree
An annual must-see event. Past collaborators include Dolce & Gabbana, John Galliano, Burberry, Louboutin, and Paul Smith.
👑 "Certainly, Sir — But Which One?" A Hotel of Royalty and Stars
A diplomat once called Claridge's and asked for the king, and the phone operator famously replied, "Certainly, sir — but which one?" That was back in 1947, but it still happens — more than eight heads of state stayed at Claridge's during the Summer 2012 Olympics. Everyone from Audrey Hepburn to Anne Hathaway has checked in. And guest Spencer Tracy once said, "Not that I intend to die, but when I do, I don’t want to go to heaven. I want to go to Claridge's."
🍸 The Fumoir Bar: A Glamorous 1930s Hideaway
Snag a seat in the intimate Fumoir Bar. While there are only a handful of tables, the dim lighting, dark wood walls, etched mirrored murals, black-and-white vintage photos, and eggplant-colored velvet banquettes give the small space a glamorous ’30s feel. Slip behind an original Lalique door panel to find this inviting hideaway.
👑 The Royal Suite & Designer Suites
The Royal Suite draws design inspiration from Queen Elizabeth II’s 1953 coronation, specifically her embroidered gown and the celebratory dinner that was at Claridge's. The Prince Alexander Suite was the birthplace of the exiled Yugoslavian crown prince. Designers David Linley, Guy Oliver, Diane von Furstenberg, Rigby and Rigby, Michelle Wu, and Bryan O'Sullivan helped give the spaces a timeless art deco elegance.
🛌 Rooms & Suites: Art Deco Elegance & 12 Pillow Options
If the provided pillows don’t lull you into sleep, call the front desk to choose from 12 different options, including a V-shaped one that helps your back and a crescent variety that sits around the neck. The Claridge's Suites evoke the Victorian and Art Deco eras with details like an ornate fireplace, marble bathroom, grand entrance hall, and spacious sitting room.
🍽️ Culinary Excellence: Afternoon Tea & Multiple Dining Venues
- 🍰 The Foyer & Reading Room – One of London's top spots for afternoon tea. Symmetrical sandwiches, perfect patisserie, and a curated selection of teas by Henrietta Lovell. Also open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
- 🎨 The Painter's Room – An ode to Provence and Italy. Fine lines and bright accents form a striking canvas for creative spirits and seasonal bites.
- 🍽️ Claridge's Restaurant – A classic yet contemporary spot serving modern twists on British flavors. Partners with Dante (Greenwich Village) for cocktails, including the signature Negroni.
- ☕ Claridge's ArtSpace Café – Bringing café culture to the property for the first time. Dedicated entrance on Brook's Mews.
- 🍸 Claridge's Bar – Always a crowd. Red leather stools, armchairs, sofas, and more than 50 champagne labels, including Louis Roederer Cristal Brut, under a silver-leafed ceiling.
📍 Brook Street, Mayfair — Heart of London's Most Elegant Neighborhood
Located in the heart of Mayfair, Claridge's is steps from Bond Street, Oxford Street, and the luxury boutiques of Mount Street. Hyde Park, Green Park, and Buckingham Palace are within walking distance. London Heathrow (LHR) is approximately 45 minutes by car.
📞 TEL: +44 20 7629 8860
✈️ Arrival: Approximately 45 minutes from London Heathrow Airport (LHR) by car.
All inspector’s highlights, verified luxury status, and hotel details are sourced from Forbes Travel Guide. The original page includes exclusive editorial insights and verified distinctions.
Why Claridge's is the World's Most Glamorous Art Deco Hotel
Claridge's is more than a hotel — it's a London institution. Since 1856, it has welcomed royalty, celebrities, and heads of state with equal grace. The art deco interiors, preserved since 1898, are a masterpiece of design — from the Foyer's Dale Chihuly chandelier to the Fumoir Bar's 1930s glamour. Afternoon tea at Claridge's is a ritual enjoyed for over a century. The suites, designed by luminaries like Diane von Furstenberg and David Linley, are timeless. And the annual Christmas tree, created by fashion houses like Dolce & Gabbana and Burberry, is a must-see event. As a Forbes Travel Guide Verified Luxury property, Claridge's delivers an experience that is both historic and utterly contemporary — a true icon of Mayfair.
Whether you're enjoying afternoon tea in The Foyer, sipping champagne in Claridge's Bar, or simply relaxing in the Royal Suite, this hotel offers an unforgettable immersion into the elegance of London's most glamorous address.
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