What it is

A collection of brick townhomes that feel like, well, home—whether you’re a distant member of the British monarchy or merely aspire to be.

What it isn't

High-gloss and hipster. Dukes is anglophile tradition at its best; no succulents in sight.

What we think

If “Bond, James Bond,” is your calling card, Dukes is your stay. Ian Fleming reportedly conceived his iconic novels at the hotel bar, which is every bit the legend today, thanks to on-point martinis (the New York Times deemed them among the world’s best) and an adjacent Cognac and Cigar garden because…why not? Rooms are ready to indulge any Buckingham Palace overflow guests (it’s a mere five-minute stroll away), with buttoned-up mahogany furniture, Floris London amenities and gratis calls to the US, Canada, France, China and the UAE—a small window into the jet-setting clientele, surname Bond or otherwise. We especially adore the Duchess Rooms, tailored to women traveling alone, with all female staff, fresh flowers and glossy magazines at-the-ready.

You're here because

When in London, you like to do as the British do—and here, that means a Gin & Tonic afternoon tea (that’s actual tea, with housemade tonic syrup and a gin infusion) served in the conservatory.

The Moment

You’re a sucker for a picnic. But a butler-arranged picnic in the Royal Parks, complete with poached Loch Duart salmon, artisan British cheeses and chutney, and lemon posset? That’s not a picnic. It’s heaven.

Restaurants & Bars

Restaurant Thirty Six by Nigel Mendham

Jouet Champagne Lounge, Drawing Room

Location

On St. James’s in Mayfair, a one-minute walk from Spencer House—a manse that was built by, yes, those Spencer’s in 1756. No surprise Princess Diana reportedly adored this hotel.