LIFE

Where Style Insiders Stay In London

Primely placed within the capital city, these six luxurious locations are fashion set-approved.

by Alison Syrett

Exterior of 11 Cadogan Gardens

Much like the city itself, London’s fashion scene is a unique blend of heritage-steeped institutions (see Burberry, Churches, and Barbour) and wildly creative disrupters (ahem, Alexander McQueen, Vivienne Westwood, and JW Anderson). So it comes as little surprise that the local hotels most frequented by discerning style tastemakers reflect this same traditional-meets-modern ethos. From the iconic palace-like The Dorchester to the artsy-cool BoTree, there’s an insider-vetted option for every sensibility.

Find the best spot for your next stay in the English capital with the six beloved spots below. These see-and-be-seen places to stay reflect a range of aesthetics (from old school opulence, to hyper-stylized design, to quirky artistic flair) but all offer wonderfully luxurious experiences. You’re sure to be treated to the highest level of service, visual inspiration galore, and no shortage of well-dressed guests—especially during London Fashion Week.

The Dorchester

Located in the posh West London neighborhood of Mayfair, this lavish 5-star destination has been a go-to for VIPs since opening in 1931. Notable patrons of yore include late actress Elizabeth Taylor—she celebrated several personal milestones on the property—and the recently passed Queen Elizabeth, who announced her 1947 engagement to Prince Phillip while staying at the hotel. But some of its closest ties are to those in the fashion crowd: besides being a hub for some of the industry’s most-recognized figures (including Kate Moss, who recently enjoyed her 51st birthday on-site), its Art Deco-decorated spaces have served as the backdrop for editorial shoots and several runway shows over the years. Most recently, it was where Richard Quinn presented his Spring/Summer 2025 collection.

Courtesy of The Dorchester

The hotel has always put a premium on beautiful spaces, a dedication that’s apparent in its newly re-designed first floor—the work of renowned French interior designer Pierre-Yves Rochon—and revamped Vesper Bar, a project helmed by Swedish architect Martin Brudnizki. Additionally, this November, The Dorchester will unveil a renovated version of its famous Oliver Messel Suite, a theatrical series of rooms (picture canary yellow walls, gold leaf moldings, and sumptuous floral draperies) named for the famed stage designer who created them.

Courtesy of The Dorchester

45 Park Lane

Located just across the street from The Dorchester, this sleekly upscale location is something of a swankier little sister to its neighboring historic property. Since both spots are owned by the same hospitality group, guests have access to the amenities of both. At 45 Park Lane, this includes a heated swimming pool and hot tub, as well as Cut, a decadent steakhouse from chef Wolfgang Puck (his only London location).

Cut at Park Lane

Courtesy of 45 Park Lane

The hotel also has a legacy of hosting art exhibitions, and currently, through the end of November, guests will be treated to a selection of works celebrating 30 years of Phaidon’s Contemporary Artists Series. However, the location can also be considered a cultural institution in its own right: some of the world’s most glamorous celebrities, including Rihanna, as well as Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie, have been spotted within its well-appointed rooms.

Courtesy of 45 Park Lane

The Mayfair Townhouse

It’s easy to see why this glamorous gem, located in the West End area of Mayfair, speaks to the fashion crowd: the cozy-meets-classic decor of the rooms feels luxurious but never stuffy; the on-site Dandy Bar is buzzing with chic patrons; the shopping nearby is excellent. But those in the know will also tell you that the hotel is a veritable hive of media players during London Fashion Week. This makes it an ideal place to be if you are part of the industry scene—or just want to enjoy observing it at a remove as you sip a fancy cocktail.

Courtesy of The Mayfair Townhouse

The BoTree

Situated at the intersection of three buzzy London areas—Marylebone, Mayfair, and Soho—this newbie on the scene has quickly captured attention for its covetable and convenient location within the city. What truly sets it apart, however, are playfully designed interiors: there are flower-bedecked ceilings, plush and velvety furniture, and boldly colored artwork everywhere. Moreover, the hotel frequently partners with local creatives on special exhibits and events (past partnerships have included the likes of celeb-favorite designer Di Petsa).

11 Cadogan Gardens

Although this Chelsea getaway is near some of London’s busiest shopping streets, it feels like a hidden sanctuary. This is thanks to its private garden access (a rarity in London hotels), as well as its homey atmosphere. The 56 rooms and suites are all located within a historic townhouse, giving the hotel an intimate residential feel.

It is, of course, a lovely spot for a leisurely vacation, but also an ideal booking if you’re in town with a busy work schedule and want a quiet retreat at the end of the day. Either way, the picturesque interiors, which feel like they were lifted straight from an aspirational British romcom, will make you feel like you’re the star of your own movie (or, at least, give that impression in all of your photos). And if you’re looking for even more privacy? Consider one of the hotel’s six private, full-floor apartments, located in a terracotta Victorian building nearby.

The Rosewood London

Set in an Edwardian manor, this indulgent destination combines grand and stately architecture and decor with warm, unpretentious service. Beyond all the usual amenities one might find at a luxury hotel (spa treatments, a fitness suite, butler services), The Rosewood is known for its keen attention to detail. Dog lovers, for example, are offered a selection of accessories for their four-legged friends, and rooms are equipped with monogrammed pillows.

Over the years, The Rosewood London has frequently partnered with industry luminaries like Naomi Campbell and Edward Enninful on events and collaborated with iconic British brands—including Stella McCartney, Anya Hindmarch, and Métier London—on special collections and pop-up shops. Beauty lovers will also delight in visiting the Face Place clinic at its only location outside the United States for a complexion-reviving facial.

Courtesy of Rosewood London