James’s Park London
A cosseting institution with just the right flicker of cool
Once a gentleman’s club, the St James’s Park London and Club has undergone a complete transformation. Classic London meets 21st-century chic in a stylish modern way.
Not only does it have a superb location, in a quiet cul-de-sac in the heart of Mayfair, but heaps of personality. Interiors are brimming with urban sophistication and hushed opulence. Dramatic touches abound, particularly with the outstanding artwork from the Rosenstein collection dotted throughout the James’s Park London. This distinctive flair makes for gorgeous guestrooms – they are individual masterpieces of soft subtle palettes enhanced by luxurious finishes, swathes of sensuous fabrics and stunning Murano chandeliers. Exceptional comfort mixed with every mod-con. A great plus is that many have a balcony or terrace, some with great views over the rooftops. With the vast Penthouse Suite you get your own personal piece of the skyline from a deck so large you can entertain all your friends.
The decadent design extends to the intimate gourmet restaurant where you are treated to impeccably ‘haute’ cuisine. For top-notch cocktails the bar is definitely the place to go. On top of all this the staff are unbelievably helpful and courteous yet unobtrusive.
With its relaxed and discreet privacy it is not hard to see why this elegant townhouse hotel and club is a firm favourite with celebrities.
A masterpiece of taste
The hottest ticket in town is a table at the hotel’s Seven Park Place restaurant. Chef-in-residence is the super-talented Michelin starred William Drabble. This culinary genius is one of London’s brightest shining stars; his creative cuisine is a mouth-watering combination of modern French style with the best of British ingredients.
London, who can tire of it? It’s the right address, interior-designed exquisitely in great comfort. Take the Penthouse in summer and have a party on the roof terrace.
The royal treatment
A night to remember at the Royal Opera House. Treat your guests to a world-class performance, start with an exclusive backstage tour, before Champagne overlooking the stunning auditorium, seats in the Royal Box and dinner served by your butler in the Royal Retiring Room. At the end of the night, watch the cast take their bows from the wings and take home wonderful memories of an extraordinary evening.
London through the lens
Explore London’s East End with a teacher from the London School of Photography who will coach you on how to capture those amazing urban shots of London’s colourful neighbourhoods with your digital camera. Stun your friends with your amazing work.
Café deluxe
Since 1987 The River Café has been cooking up a storm, earning a Michelin star in 1988. It was the learning ground of several famous chefs including Jamie Oliver. It’s all about the ingredients in the kitchen and the wild mushroom risotto will not disappoint. The service is second to none. Ruthie Rogers is an icon. Culinary magic.
Royal parks
A private walk around St James’ Park with a historical expert who will show you the gorgeous view across the lake, originally laid out during the reign of King Charles II. The hotel will supply a bag of bread to feed the ducks and pelicans. Quack quack. No ugly ducklings here.
Featured images:
- License: Creative Commons image source
- License: Creative Commons image source
Sevy is the editor in chief of Onesmalltowngirl.com. She lives in Britain and would love to visit St James’ one day.