Review of The Stafford London

The Stafford London stands as an icon of refined British luxury, offering 107 individually styled rooms and suites, the acclaimed Game Bird restaurant, the legendary American Bar, and a historic wine cellar dating back nearly 400 years. The hotel distinguishes itself among London’s elite boutique properties with its prime location, storied past, elegant accommodations, and consistently impeccable service. 

Perfectly positioned in St. James’s, The Stafford is moments from Buckingham Palace, Piccadilly, Jermyn Street, and Bond Street. Since opening as a hotel in 1912, the Main House has evolved from grand private residences, later expanding to include the 18th-century Carriage House and the contemporary all-suite Mews building. 

During World War II, the wine cellar served as a secure air-raid shelter while the hotel welcomed American and Canadian officers stationed in London. Today, guests also enjoy access to a state-of-the-art fitness studio, equipped with the latest in exercise technology. 

Hidden on a tranquil lane in London’s prestigious Mayfair, The Stafford offers a discreet yet central base for discovering the capital. Within minutes, guests can stroll to the vibrant West End via Piccadilly or immerse themselves in the city’s best shopping and cultural attractions.

Many rooms and suites present sweeping views of Green Park and London's iconic skyline. Hyde Park, with its famous Serpentine lake, is easily accessible on foot, while Buckingham Palace, the London Eye, and Westminster are all within a pleasant walk.

Surrounded by the sartorial excellence of Jermyn Street, luxury boutiques of Mayfair, and signature gourmet destinations, guests are also steps away from renowned wine merchants like Berry Bros. & Rudd, heritage cigar shops, and the celebrated Fortnum & Mason—ideal for curating a bespoke picnic for Green Park. 

The hotel is conveniently located approximately 50 minutes by car from Heathrow Airport, and enjoys excellent rail connections, with the Heathrow Express at Paddington, Eurostar at St. Pancras, and Gatwick Express at nearby Victoria Station.

The Stafford features 107 rooms and suites, including the exclusive all-suite Mews building, the historic Carriage House, and the stately Main House. Entry-level rooms span a generous 26 square metres and are appointed with bespoke writing desks, Nespresso machines, widescreen TVs, plush beds with oversized headboards, thick carpets, and opulent marble bathrooms featuring both rainfall showers and soaking tubs, complemented by Floris amenities. All guests enjoy complimentary access to the well-equipped fitness centre.

Deluxe Main House rooms evoke the charm of a refined English country retreat, with soothing hues, elegant floral art, golden lighting, and inviting armchairs.

The Mews suites offer a fresh, contemporary take on London luxury, with spacious layouts averaging 45 square metres, stylish lounges, and curated antiques for a sophisticated yet modern atmosphere.

Formerly stables for British nobility, the Carriage House now houses rooms with sleek design, indulgent fabrics, and period features such as wrought iron lamps and exposed beams—each approximately 34 square metres and opening onto a serene private courtyard. 

The recently refurbished Stafford Park Suite, spread across two levels, feels like a private penthouse apartment. Guests enjoy separate living and sleeping areas, an expansive outdoor terrace ideal for entertaining, and a marble-and-onyx bathroom with a walk-in rain shower and deep soaking tub. Upstairs, a grand open living and dining space with a Calacatta marble fireplace opens onto the terrace, offering breathtaking cityscape views.

The Stafford London’s service epitomizes discreet British hospitality, delivered with warmth and precision. The experience begins at the entrance, where bowler-hatted doormen greet guests personally, setting the tone for a highly attentive stay. 

The celebrated concierge team—led by the renowned Frank Laino, frequently recognised as the world’s premier concierge—offers deeply personalised service. From providing umbrellas on rainy days to curating bespoke London itineraries, their expertise is unmatched. Valet parking is also available for guests’ convenience.

The hotel’s boutique Technogym fitness suite, located in the Mews, is equipped with leading-edge cardio and strength equipment, free weights, and rowing machines. In-room spa treatments, including massages and facials, can be arranged on request, catering to guests seeking privacy and relaxation. 

The atmospheric 380-year-old wine cellar, which doubled as a WWII bomb shelter, offers private tours arranged by the concierge, showcasing a museum area and an impressive 8,000-bottle collection. Rumours persist of an underground passage to St James’s Palace, adding to the allure.

While interconnecting rooms are available for families, the tranquil and sophisticated ambiance is ideal for business travellers, couples, and solo explorers. The property is fully accessible and welcomes pets, ensuring an inclusive and accommodating environment.

Entering The Stafford London feels like stepping into a grand country manor, with a crackling fireplace and rich wood panelling welcoming guests in the lobby. The interiors, crafted by London’s Rosendale Design, extend across the Main House, the all-suite Mews, and the characterful Carriage House.

Every detail reflects classic English sophistication—floral draperies, intricate cornicing, polished mahogany, and arrangements of fresh flowers create an inviting, homely atmosphere. Sash windows frame the tranquil courtyard, while patterned wallpaper and antique furnishings evoke the charm of a private residence. In spring and summer, the cobbled courtyard bursts with vibrant blooms, offering a serene retreat from the city’s bustle.

Balancing heritage with modern comforts, The Stafford is a paragon of British five-star tradition. Its storied past dates to the 17th century, when the buildings were private homes—number 17 was once owned by Lord and Lady Lyttelton, the latter serving as nanny to Queen Victoria’s children. 

Throughout its history, The Stafford has welcomed dignitaries, including American and Canadian officers during WWII. The prestigious ‘Better ‘Ole Club’ still honours notable guests, including the Prince of Wales. 

Discerning travellers return for the hotel’s unbeatable location, sumptuous accommodations, and peerless service. American visitors, in particular, are drawn to the quintessentially British ambiance, especially in the American Bar, where alfresco dining and storied cocktails await. The Game Bird’s celebrated cuisine also attracts a loyal local following. 

Under the culinary direction of Chef Ben Tish and Executive Chef Jozef Rogulski, The Stafford’s dining program is among the best in London. The Game Bird, the hotel’s flagship restaurant, is celebrated for its modern British menu—signature dishes like the renowned Chicken Kiev and expertly crafted Sunday roasts exemplify comfort and innovation.

Evenings here are a gastronomic journey, starting with canapés such as beef tartare crostini or goat’s cheese tarts, followed by starters like smoked salmon with dill and horseradish crème, and mains such as Beef Wellington, ending with nostalgic desserts like sticky toffee pudding or bread and butter pudding with a twist.

For those who prefer dessert in privacy, the ‘Sweet in Your Suite’ service delivers decadent treats and Champagne directly to your room. Options include classics like lemon tart, Eton Mess, or a shareable tiramisu for two.

Afternoon Tea at The Game Bird is a highlight, with tiers of imaginative pastries, savoury bites, and freshly baked scones served with Cornish clotted cream and preserves.

The American Bar is a destination in itself, adorned with memorabilia and autographed photographs from global luminaries. Open for breakfast through dinner, it extends into the charming courtyard, where, in the warmer months, guests can enjoy alfresco meals and expertly grilled dishes. 

The menu features inventive sharing plates, such as spiced lamb arancini with mint, or smoky aubergine with green tahini, alongside charcoal-grilled British ribeye with chermoula.

One of London’s last true American cocktail bars, the venue exudes old-world glamour and a convivial spirit. Bar Manager Benoit Provost, with over 25 years at The Stafford, curates a cocktail menu inspired by American history, literature, and culture. Signature drinks include The Raven—a nod to Edgar Allan Poe—featuring whisky, peanut butter infusion, and chocolate bitters. The Bootlegger, celebrating the Prohibition era, blends moonshine, Glenfiddich 21, and pistachio for a truly unique experience.

The Stafford London is committed to responsible luxury, implementing a suite of sustainability measures. The culinary team sources ingredients from local, eco-conscious suppliers and prioritizes seasonal produce, reducing food miles and supporting the community. Paper use has been minimized throughout the property, with digital directories and in-room menus accessible via smart TVs. Guests can opt for less frequent linen and towel changes to conserve water and energy. The hotel’s bars have replaced plastic straws with biodegradable alternatives, further minimizing environmental impact.

• The Stafford is a discreet sanctuary in the heart of St. James’s, offering both proximity to Mayfair’s attractions and a sense of refined privacy.
• The American Bar remains a celebrated London institution—its lively atmosphere, unique memorabilia, and engaging bartenders create an unforgettable experience, whether you’re enjoying a creative cocktail or listening to the team’s fascinating tales. 
• Service is truly outstanding—every request is met with enthusiasm and expertise. The concierge team stands out as one of the finest in the capital.

   Varun Sharma   Editor-In-Chief   Businessclass

• Our dedicated staff—The Stafford is home to one of London’s most loyal teams, with several members boasting decades of service. We pride ourselves on our warm, approachable professionalism and strive to make every guest’s stay exceptional.
• Our unbeatable location—Guests enjoy instant access to London’s most iconic landmarks, with Green Park, Buckingham Palace, and the best of Mayfair just steps away. 
• Our rich heritage—The Stafford is steeped in stories and traditions. Our team is always delighted to share the unique history that makes a stay here so memorable.

   Stuart Procter   Chief Operating Officer   The Stafford Collection

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