With magnificent architecture, sumptuous amenities, and a superb Hyde Park Corner locale, The Peninsula’s newest hotel soft opens 12 September 2023.
The Peninsula, whose portfolio of luxurious worldwide properties has drawn discerning travellers for nearly a century, is thrilled to announce that its stunning new hotel, The Peninsula London, is now accepting reservations for stays from 12 September 2023.
The Peninsula London has made its grand debut in the heart of Belgravia, offering a spectacular new style and luxury experience for its discerning guests. With its magnificent architecture, sumptuous amenities, and prime location at the junction of Hyde Park Corner and Wellington Arch, this newly-built hotel is set to become one of London’s most prestigious destinations.
Designed to showcase the finest British craftsmanship, The Peninsula London seamlessly blends in with the heritage buildings of Belgravia while exuding a sleek and spacious aesthetic. The interior design, masterfully crafted by renowned architect Peter Marino, bathes the hotel in natural light, creating an atmosphere of timeless elegance.
One of the standout features of The Peninsula London is its expansive off-street courtyard, reminiscent of a classic English garden. This tranquil oasis, adorned with cascading ivy, wisteria vines, and century-old Japanese maples, sets the stage for a graceful and convenient arrival experience with valet parking and an underground garage. Guests can easily explore the city’s iconic attractions, such as Buckingham Palace, The Royal Parks, The Palace of Westminster, Harrods, and the boutiques of Bond Street, all within a short walk or a chauffeured ride in one of the hotel’s luxury cars.
The accommodation at The Peninsula London is nothing short of exquisite. The 190 guest rooms and suites, ranging from 51 to 59 square meters (549 to 635 square feet), have been meticulously designed to evoke the ambiance of chic private residences. Bespoke furnishings, textiles, and artworks adorn the rooms, while mahogany-panelled dressing rooms and honey onyx bathrooms with custom fittings crafted by British artisans add a touch of refinement. Floor-to-ceiling windows offer breathtaking views of Wellington Arch and the historic neighborhood of Belgravia.
For those seeking event spaces, The Peninsula London offers a range of venues that will open later this year. The highlight is the St. George Ballroom, a sweeping pillarless space that can accommodate large gatherings and even features back-of-house elevators large enough to transport motorcars. In addition, the hotel offers versatile conference rooms, intimate private cinemas, and other well-equipped event spaces, all supported by state-of-the-art technology and the attentive service of the hotel’s dedicated staff.
Culinary delights await at The Peninsula London’s elegant restaurants, bars, and lounges. The signature rooftop restaurant, Brooklands, helmed by Michelin-starred Chef Director Claude Bosi, offers modern British cuisine and a tasting lounge, accompanied by a collection of spaces inspired by British aviation and motorsport. Canton Blue and its adjacent bar, Little Blue, celebrate the fusion of Asian and British cultures through innovative Chinese cuisine, cocktails, and teas. The Lobby serves traditional Peninsula Afternoon Tea and globally inspired fare in a majestic setting beneath soaring ceilings. Throughout the day, The Peninsula Boutique and Café cater to more casual dining needs with fresh salads, sandwiches, and sweets.
With rates starting at ~£1300, the new luxury hotel may cater primarily to an elite clientele. Additionally, while the collaboration with renowned architect Peter Marino is noteworthy, some may argue that the design concept, although elegant, leans towards a safe and predictable aesthetic. In a city as dynamic as London, it would have been intriguing to see a bolder and more innovative approach to the hotel’s interiors, challenging the boundaries of contemporary design.
Another point of scrutiny could be the pricing of the hotel’s dining options. Furthermore, the emphasis on British craftsmanship and collaborations with local artists is commendable. However, one could argue that the hotel missed an opportunity to engage with the vibrant and diverse London art scene on a deeper level. Showcasing works from emerging artists or incorporating more interactive and immersive art experiences could have added a layer of cultural richness to the hotel’s identity.
Lastly, while the hotel promises extensive relaxation and wellness choices, the availability of these facilities at a later date may disappoint early guests. Managing expectations regarding the full range of amenities from the outset would have ensured a more comprehensive experience for visitors during the soft opening phase.
While these critical points are worth considering, they do not diminish the overall grandeur and sophistication that The Peninsula London undoubtedly brings to Belgravia. It is important to acknowledge that every new opening faces challenges, and it will be intriguing to observe how The Peninsula London addresses and evolves in response to these considerations.