London is famous for its pubs but they can often be intimidating for the visitor. Here are a few hotel bars that offer a unique experience, from rivals for London’s finest martinis to London’s first hotel and Europe’s first ‘Grand Hotel’.
Dukes Hotel
The best Martini in London? Perhaps. Certainly, after two, you’ll think they are - and that you’re drinking them in the best place in London if not the world. And you love the barman and whoever you’re with. Phew! Thank goodness they limit you to two.
35-36 St. James's Place SW1
Tel: +44 (0)20 7491 4840
Tube: Green Park
www.dukeshotel.com
The Stafford
Despite Duke’s claim to the best martini in London, the Stafford’s American Bar is a close rival. The American influence means the preference is for vodka, rather than gin, making for a smoother drink. Further research is called for.
16-17 St. James's Place SW1
Tel: +44 (0)20 7493 0111
Tube: Green Park
www.thestaffordhotel.co.uk
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Cocktails
St James’s Hotel & Club
Breathtaking decor provides a luxurious setting for classic and new cocktails from bar manager Joel Lawrence. An amazing art collection forms a fascinating backdrop, while cool sounds also feature - with a live DJ every Thursday evening from 6pm-11pm.
7-8 Park Place SW1
Tel: +44 (0)20 7316 1600
Tube: Green Park
www.stjameshotelandclub.com
Brown’s Hotel
The Donovan Bar - named for fashion photographer Terence Donovan - is a cosy Mayfair retreat featuring such delights as a chocolate truffle martini (pictured). Brown’s was London’s first-ever hotel but a £24m refit has brought it bang up to date.
33 Albemarle Street W1
Tell: +44 (0)20 7493 6020
Tube: Gre
www.brownshotel.com
The Langham
Opened as Europe’s first Grand Hotel in 1865, the Langham is a byword for excellence. Its exotic Artesian Bar - named for the well under the hotel - specialises in rum, but has a wide range of other cocktails, while its ice is ‘purer, colder and with a higher density’ to last longer.
1C Portland Place W1
Tel: +44 (0)20 7636 1000
Tube: Oxford Circus
www.artesian-bar.co.uk
The Gore
Bar 190 at The Gore has a country club feel and the steep prices do seem designed to keep the riff-raff out. Elegant Art Deco touches add to the atmosphere and the 1am opening attracts an interesting mix of people as the evening wears on.
190 Queen's Gate SW7
Tel: +44 (0)20 7584 6601
Tube: South Kensington
www.gorehotel.com
