Amazing Destinations Magazine Autumn 2021

HOTELS: HIGHLIGHTS
THE STAFFORD LONDON,
ST JAMES’S
Minutes from the West End and tucked away in the heart of historic St. James’s, Mayfair,
is the five-star luxury hotel The Stafford London - a vibrant place to stay conveniently
located on the doorstep of London’s most iconic landmarks.
After our first visit in 2019, we classed The Stafford as one of our
favourite London venues. How would it fare two years and one
global pandemic later?
Visitors will now find new measures to keep guests and staff safe,
including thermal scanners, increased hand sanitisation facilities,
and a robust audit process ensuring new regimes are consistently
implemented. The extensive measures will reassure you more than
they’ll feel invasive or tedious.
Open since 1912, The Stafford has maintained its splendour and
doesn’t look at all dated - on the contrary, the interiors are stylish
and modern. Guests can also take a tour of the grand 380-year-old
wine cellar that boasts 8,000 bottles of wine. Once used as a bomb
shelter in WWII, it’s a time capsule of history where you’ll find
old papers and cigarette packets preserved by the hotel. It’s a must
for any history boff.
Rooms
Suites are spread across three buildings: the Main House, Carriage
House and the Mews. Smaller but more on the traditional side are
the Main House’s plush rooms, each decorated with rich tones.
Converted from old stables is the Carriage House, and it proudly
shows its history with its country house vibe - soft colours and
large beds framed by enormous, curved headboards. From the
outside, the Mews building looks to be the least luxurious, but its
interior proves to be the polar opposite. With lush bedrooms and
marble bathrooms, each equipped with tubs and both overhead and
separate showers, this is the true five-star treatment. Our stunning
Penthouse Suite had its very own terrace from which we enjoyed
views over the rooftops of Mayfair and St James’s.
Food
The award-winning Game Bird is the main restaurant, which
focuses on seasonal modern British comfort cooking - aptly described
as a ‘theatre of the senses.’ Regular changing game options
include roast pigeon, venison loin or mallard. We enjoyed dishes
including scallops, smoked salmon, pigeon and the signature
chicken kiev dish. Everything was first-rate and only matched by
the impeccable service. There’s also the atmospheric American Bar
with a broad range of Mediterranean inspired dishes and signature
cocktails. Overseen by Bar Director, Benoit Provost, whose creations
are referenced by cocktail lovers worldwide. Special mention
goes to the outstanding full English breakfast which once again,
knocked our socks (or bathrobes) off.•
FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT:
www.thestaffordlondon.com
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“Our verdict
The Stafford London lives up to its five-star reputation
with its rich history, convenient proximity to London’s
landmarks, plush accommodation and sophisticated dining
experience. Moreover, it remains one of our favourite and
top-rated hotels in London.
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