What it is

A 1907 Edwardian War Office transformed into an opulent hotel with 120 immaculate rooms and suites, a ginormous Guerlain Spa, and nine unforgettable restaurants.

What it isn't

Thirsty. The hotel has two distinct bars, including The Guards Bar and Lounge (which has a panorama of the Buckingham Palace entrance) and The Spy Bar, a subterranean speakeasy.

What we think

Bond, James Bond, was here. Literally. Not only did the British writer behind Bond, Ian Fleming, stop by here myriad times, but later films shot on location within the former Old War Office. Certainly, its latest reincarnation as an ultra-luxe hotel would suit Bond and his love interests fittingly. Even the “starter” guest room is sumptuous, thanks to interiors by the late French starchitect Thierry Despont; 334 square foot Classic rooms are fitted with marble-lined bathrooms with underfloor heating; custom-designed furniture and bed linens (plus a pillow menu); loaner iPads; Raffles robes and slippers; and bespoke bath amenities by London “nose” Azzi Glasser. Want to indulge even further? We’re somewhat obsessed with the 2,045 square foot Churchill Suite, where Sir Winston himself toiled in World War II; it’s now a plush hideaway with two bedrooms, an antique fireplace hearth, and its own 24-hour Raffles London Butler.

You're here because

The Guerlain Spa is a whopping 27,000 square feet and has perfected high-tech treatments like “Royal Glow” facials, with their microdermabrasion and photo-biomodulation light therapy.

The Moment

Michelin starred chef Mauro Colagreco knows how to wow with his menus, but reclining in your tufted banquette at Saison, what’s dropping your jaw is the space itself: a tree lined, interior courtyard with lattice walls in the airy light filtering through a restored glass ceiling.

Restaurants & Bars

Mauro Colagreco - Chef Mauro's elegant restaurant conveys the culinary experience as a journey of travel, discovery, ambition, commitment and focus.

Mauro's Table - An intimate and elevated tasting experience for special events and occasions.

Saison - Enjoy breakfast, brunch, lunch or dinner bathed in natural daylight from the lovingly restored historic glass ceiling.

The Drawing Room - Relaxed all day dining, cocktails, fine wines and Champagnes

Pillar Kitchen - For healthy options, offering a fresh selection of sweet and savory snacks, fresh juices, smoothies and coffees.

The Guards Bar and Lounge - An elevated space for guests and visitors to enjoy drinks surrounded by the majestic pomp and circumstance of Whitehall, overlooking the official entrance to Buckingham Palace and Horse Guards.

The Spy Bar - A subterranean speakeasy bar for a uniquely evocative experience.

Location

The buzzing heart of London’s Westminster, just a block from The Household Cavalry Museum (home to the royal family’s stables).