English writer and poet Samuel Johnson once said “When a man is tired of London, he is tired of life; for there is in London all that life can afford.”
No matter how many times I’ve been to London, my heart still skips a beat as the plane approaches the city below. There’s just something special about this place where each visit brings its own magic.
On my last trip to the United Kingdom, I decided to do something very different. This London getaway was about doing it in high luxury style. And why not? Who would say no to a London Luxury Trip? We all had to put travel on hold for so long, it was about time to treat myself to an amazing time in one of the most magnificent cities in the world.
Flying on Virgin Atlantic
Prior to embarking on this London luxury travel trip, I’d never flown Virgin Atlantic. So, here’s my word of warning. Once you do, you are spoiled forever. I was thrilled to get upgraded to their “upper class” cabin, known as “first-class” on other airlines. But honestly, every passenger is treated like gold on this stellar airline.
Onboard, the flight attendant offered me a glass of champagne and escorted me to my seat. Not just a seat as it converts into a fully flat bed with the touch of a button. I could personally select my meals, which were absolutely top-notch and served on China. After more wine, followed by English tea and desserts, it was time to settle in for the night. My bed was made up for me, and a flight attendant handed me a bag with soft jammies, slippers, and toiletries.
We all know the feeling of jet lag on red-eye flights. But that didn’t happen this time as I arrived in London the next morning rested, refreshed, and ready to explore.
Staying at The Londoner
Premiering in 2021, The Londoner is owned and operated by Edwardian Hotels London and is unlike anything the hotel industry has ever seen. It’s the largest boutique hotel in the world, an engineering feat, and an absolutely sensational place to stay.
One of the top benefits of staying at The Londoner is its location right in the heart of the city. Situated in Leicester Square in the West End, the hotel is within walking distance or a short taxi ride from many London favorites. I’ve been to London on numerous visits, and believe me, this hotel is ideal for exploring this vibrant city.
Doormen greet visitors in formal attire and each guest is seated and offered tea during check-in. I was escorted to my gorgeous corner suite with stunning views of the city, the London Eye, and Big Ben. The best surprise was when the bellman pointed out that right outside my bathroom window was the home Isaac Newton once lived in.
My king-sized bed featured 400 thread count Irish linen, feather down pillows, and a luxurious mattress topper. The bathroom sported a marble vanity, illuminated theatre mirror, high-end bath products, a super soft plush bathrobe, and cushioned slippers. Unbelievably, there’s even a premium Japanese Toto washlet (toilet) with a heated seat.
With its high-end restaurants, incredible service, and stunning décor, this is perhaps the best luxury boutique hotel in London to treat yourself to the best of lavish experiences. A stay here is definitely a must on your London Luxury Trip! Book your stay at the Londoner here>>
Treat Yourself to a Spa Day
Hotel guests of The Londoner have access to an amazingly tranquil and beautiful Hydro pool surrounded by private cabanas. But most take advantage of The Retreat, located on an entire subterranean floor to disconnect, unplug, and relax in an immersive therapeutic environment.
This Retreat is a sanctuary offering pampering, holistic remedies, body treatments, and massage therapy. Patrons can choose from several treatments from soothing to deep tissue. My 60-minute relaxing massage was one of the best I’ve ever had, and I couldn’t have been more pleased. Afterward, a swim in the pool followed by a healthy vitamin-infused beverage in my private cabana was a perfect finish to a perfect spa day.
Immerse in the Tradition of Afternoon Tea
Pinkies up, and let’s go. You can’t be in London and not imbibe in the marvelous and unforgettable tradition of British afternoon tea. This English pastime was introduced by Anna, the seventh Duchess of Bedford in 1840 and remains a bedrock of British culture.
It was spectacular, not only because I was staying at the hotel, but it’s well known that The Londoner has one of the very best afternoon teas, even attended by some members of the Royal family.
Reservations are required for this must-do experience. The observance is impeccably carried out here beginning with champagne followed by a choice of English teas, an impressive sandwich tower, followed by a delightfully delectable selection of artesian patisseries. Waiters are formally dressed, the tea is accompanied by live piano, and whole the experience is like a ballet performance executed to perfection. The only thing missing was Mary Poppins!
Take in a Play at the West End
I love Broadway but there’s nothing like attending a live play performance in London’s famous theatre district known as the West End.
London’s West End is a vibrant cultural hub that’s home to spectacular shopping, a top-notch restaurant scene, and a world-renowned theatre district.
Visitors can book plays in advance to some incredible shows as Wicked, Les Misérables, The Phantom of the Opera, The Glass Menagerie, and so many more. I had the privilege of seeing Hamilton at the stunning Victoria Palace Theatre on a past family trip. We all loved it, and attending this spectacular performance in London just takes the cake!
Schedule a Magnificent Dining Experience
A must-do for those taking in a West End play is to dine at one of London’s top pre-theatre restaurants.
If there was a reward for the most glamorous and elegant of London restaurants, my vote goes to the Savoy Grill. This 1920s-style dining room is located in one of London’s most iconic landmarks, the Savoy Hotel situated on the banks of the scenic River Thames. This fine-dining establishment has played host to some of the biggest stars ever to grace the silver screen like Audrey Hepburn, Vivien Leigh, Marlon Brando, Sophia Loren, and Laurence Olivier. Not to mention the likes of Winston Churchill, Queen Elizabeth, Prince Phillip, and many famous writers and poets.
The Michelin starred restaurant has been restored to its former glory days alluring theatre-goers and those wanting a special romantic dinner for two. Two and three-course pre-theatre meals feature the amazing combination of British and French-inspired cuisine prepared to perfection. The menu includes incredible classics like caviar, foie gras, beef Wellington, Dover sole, Lobster Thermador, and prime-aged steaks.
Every visitor should try the Savoy Grill at least once. Dishes are divine, service is impeccable, and you’ll feel as though you’ve been transported back to a more elegant time with its shimmering chandeliers, polished wood, burnished mirrors, and white-clothed, candlelit tables. It’s a dining experience you’ll long remember.
If you’re looking for high-end (meaning 155-meters high) with stunning sunset views, you’ll love dining at London’s highest public garden. You can book a free ticket for a look at Sky Garden during the week or better yet, dine at Fenchurch Restaurant, a not-to-be-missed Contemporary British foodie experience sporting seasonal ingredients, innovative flavor combinations, and beautiful presentations.
Book a Private Tour
From famous stories and iconic attractions to high style, London is many things in the blink of an eye. There are so many things to do, you could tour it for months on end and barely get to know it. Of course, travelers can visit the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, the National Gallery and so many other iconic landmarks on their own. But if you’re looking for something very unique and special in a more up-close-and-personal fashion, booking a private tour can provide unforgettable memories of the splendorous side of London.
Noteworthy Exquisite Travel Experiences offers a treasure trove of behind-the-scenes opportunities, specializing in itineraries that suit every member of the family, no matter their age or interests. Guides and hosts bring history to life with fun, entertaining, and educational stories.
Imagine a visit to London’s iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace, with a ring-side view away from the crowds clustered on the other side of the fence. How about riding in a private capsule on the London Eye, or a thrilling haunted tour around the Tower of London? History buffs would love to get behind the glass barriers of Churchill’s untouched War Rooms, wander Prince Charles’ Garden at Highgrove, or dine in the Orangery at Kensington Palace.
On my next London itinerary, I plan to visit Highclere Castle, the 300-room home of the 8th Earl and Countess of Carnarvon — more famously known as ‘Downton Abbey’ from the hit British TV series.
Visit a Royal Park
Central London’s Hyde Park is the largest of the city’s four Royal Parks. Hyde Park encompasses 350 acres forming a chain from the entrance of Kensington Palace through Kensington Gardens, Hyde Park Corner, Green Park, and past the main entrance to Buckingham Palace. The stunningly picturesque park was once the recreational hunting grounds of King Henry VIII.
The tranquil atmosphere of the park and gardens is unparalleled anywhere else in the city and Kensington Palace – the London home of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge – sits on the gardens’ western edge. With famous statues, bandstands, picture-perfect rose gardens, crystalline meandering Serpentine Lake, and the beautiful Princess Diana fountain, a visit to this incredibly splendid park is a not-to-be-missed experience.
Shop in London High Style
If you appreciate glamour, new fashion, and shopping in style, you’ll love London. From its fabulous department stores, fascinating boutiques, and alluring perfume shops, this shi-shi trend-setting city is a shopper’s paradise.
The locals will say that if you’re a true Londoner, the only place to shop is Selfridge’s for its luxe air and awesome array of goods. Personally, I love Harrod’s – one of the largest and most iconic department stores in the world. I love the beauty and decadence of The Egyptian Hall, and Harrods’ colorful food halls, famous in their own right.
Covent Garden is one of London’s most popular shopping districts, home to a wide range of world-class fashion, beauty, and lifestyle stores. From Tom Ford and Mulberry to Polo Ralph Lauren and Tiffany & Co., this is the place to see and be seen.
So, the next time you’re planning a visit to Britain’s capital–one of the coolest, most modern cities in the world, consider doing it as a high-style London luxury trip. Trust me, it will be an amazing experience!
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