THE GORING'S 'DINING ROOM' GAINS MICHELIN STAR

 Last week's announcement of the Michelin Guide's 2016 winners saw only four London restaurants gain new stars; one of whom is the gorgeous Dining Room at the Goring Hotel. The restaurant, headed by Chef Shay Cooper, brings British food to life with inspired modern British classics made from the freshest produce - all served in fine Edwardian surroundings (in true Goring Style!).

The award winning team comprises of Cooper, Head Sommelier Olivier Clausse and Manager Miko Jappinen who combine forces each day for the sole purpose of 'delighting their guests'. Michelin said of the Dining Room 'The menu is an appealing mix of British classics and lighter, more modern dishes, all prepared with great skill and understanding'. This year has been a fantastic one for The Goring who recently enjoyed a full refurbishment, we wish them the best of luck in their continued success as a true historic London institution.

If you'd like to book a stay at the Goring or would like some more information, please visit our website or give us a call 020 7724 9911

FRIDAY FEATURE: 5 THINGS TO DO THIS BANK HOLIDAY WEEKEND

The May bank holiday weekend is finally here and for those of us choosing to stay in the capital over the next three days, here are some ideas to help you make the best of your long weekend....

Stay in a luxury hotel

Many people living in London or those visiting frequently have never experienced the tourist attractions that people travel far and wide to witness. Seize the opportunity and explore our amazing city! Stays at the Savoy or Corinthia hotels allow easy access to the city's glittering West End with Covent Garden and Trafalgar Square nearby, or, opt for a Knightsbridge hotel such as the Mandarin Oriental or the Bulgari if you're in the mood for some shopping.

Museums and Art Galleries

Take advantage of London's vast array of museums and art galleries. From the British Museum in Russell Square, one of the finest in the world with more than 7 million artefacts on show, to the Tate Modern on Southbank housing the best in modern art from 1900 onwards, there is something to cater for all tastes.

Madame Tussauds

Madame Tussauds are celebrating the release of the new Star Wars film with a Star Wars display. The feature comprises of 16 of the series' life-sized heroes and villains as well as the films' most iconic moments offering visitors a 'unique and immersive experience'.

Luxury Picnic in a Royal Park

Pass by renowned Fortnum and Mason and pick up a luxury picnic hamper to enjoy in nearby Green Park. A wide range of themed picnics are available catering from 2 to 10 people making it a lovely day out for all the family - weather permitting!

Electric Cinema

If the weather's a little less favourable, head down to the Electric Cinema in Dalston or Portobello Road where you can watch great movies in style. Having replaced the traditional cinema seat with arm chairs, beds and sofas all with foot stalls and cashmere blankets for your comfort, the Electric takes cinema back to the golden age of film providing a sense of occasion and romance.

If you'd like any more information regarding London hotels please visit our website or give us a call on 020 7724 9911

TOP TEN: BOUTIQUE HOTELS IN LONDON

If you're looking for an intimate, more personal hotel, a boutique hotel is the choice for you. Boutique hotels are smaller than traditional hotels with a more individual feel, without compromising their luxury or grandeur. The following hotels are some of London's finest five star establishments, offering a wide range of amenities and facilities all the while retaining their boutique feel.

45 Park Lane

45 Park Lane exudes style and glamour with its Art Deco inspired interior and deep natural furnishings, all the while remaining warm and welcoming. As its name suggests, its location is rather enviable, situated near London's exclusive Knightsbridge with views overlooking the infamous Hyde Park. 45 Park Lane is home to Wolfgang Puck's fantastic CUT restaurant which provides a novel approach to its classic steak and chips themed menu.

The Baglioni

From the moment you walk into reception the Baglioni oozes Italian style and chic, its cascading waterfall feature offset by oversized gold vases set the precedent for each of its 67 rooms. On its doorstep lies the gorgeous Kensington Gardens which can be enjoyed from its alfresco dining terrace area. Guests can also lap up the luxury in the Brunello Restaurant which serves cutting edge Italian cuisine accompanied by an impressive wine list stocking over 500 labels.

Browns

London's first luxury hotel, Browns is steeped in history. A charming bastion of sophistication and refinement, apparent in each of its 117 rooms, it continues to remain one of London's most private and secluded luxury establishments. Quintessentially British, it's no surprise Browns' Hix Mayfair restaurant serves up one of London's best roasts along with a fantastic afternoon tea.

Bulgari

An outpost of the high fashion brand, its name alone incites a sense of sumptuous style. Guests are greeted at reception by a mix of cool steel and marble furnishings creating a sensational sultry feel, a grand steel staircase sweeps down from the bar area to Bulgari's sleek Rivea restaurant which serves the finest Italian cuisine. Along with 24 hour butler service, the Bulgari also boasts more staff than there are rooms, all of whom are always on hand to fulfil guests' every request.

The Connaught

Due to its recent renovation, the Connaught is a mix of contemporary amenities in a classic, more traditional setting. The best of both worlds, guests can choose between traditional rooms with a more classic, subtle elegance or rooms finished with clean lines and striking modernity. Although a London luxury staple since 1897, the Connaught consistently continues to be at the forefront of excellent service, year upon year the Connaught bar tops the list of world's best bar. 

The Milestone

Found in classy Kensington, one thing this charming hotel isn't short on is character. An exclusive hotel, with only 57 rooms to cater for, enabling staff to provide a personal and tailor made service for each guest. Each of their rooms is individually designed and immaculately finished, ensuring a unique and unforgettable experience with each stay. 

The Wellesley

At the forefront of London's most exclusive and private hotels lies the Wellesley. This Knightsbridge hotel offers an intimate stay with only 36 rooms, without compromising on any five star luxuries. Rooms are stylish with an Art Deco inspired design, adorned with the latest pieces from the contemporary art scene. A personal favourite of this London hotel is its cigar terrace, stocked with the finest vintage Havanas and limited edition Behikes.

Belgraves

Thompson's first hotel in Europe, this ultra trendy and style conscious hotel mixes a New York fashion feel with a carefully thought out British design. Describing itself as 'Britannia meets Bohemia', its ideal location in Knightsbridge, a stone's throw from Buckingham Palace, makes it the perfect base for those wanting to explore London

The Halkin

This hotel is perfect for guests in search of tranquillity amidst the hustle and bustle of London. A large renovated townhouse with soft curving corridors and bright rooms overlooking a courtyard garden finished in clean natural tones, all located in a peaceful Belgravia street allowing guests to be near the action but not in it.

Looking for a hotel? Check out our website or give us a call on 020 7724 9911

FRIDAY FEATURE: EASTER AFTERNOON TEA IN LONDON

Easter bank holiday is always a much needed mid-season break, many establishments at this time of the year offer a special Easter themed afternoon tea to mark the occasion, ensuring you have a fantastic afternoon - with a glass of champagne in hand!

Claridge's

Mayfair, W1K 4HR

A choice of twenty four seasonal teas from all around the world accompanied by an array of finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones with Polo gelée and cornish clotted cream, hot cross buns, Simnel cake and of course Laurent Perrier Champagne to wash it all down. Children's options are also available for those between five and ten years old, making it the perfect Easter half-term outing. 

Available 3rd - 6th April 2015, £75 per person, £35 per child 

The Landmark

Marylebone, NW1 6JQ

The Landmark's Easter tea is one for the chocolate lovers, allowing you to indulge to your heart's content. Breathtaking pastries such as white chocolate nests revealing a hidden pistachio cream and exotic coconut bavarois with mango jelly palate cleansers alone highlight this afternoon tea as a must. Of course, savoury options are also provided in the form of traditional finger sandwiches.

Available 30th March - 6th April 2015, £40 per person or £42 for Chocolate Afternoon Tea

The Dorchester

 Park Lane, W1K 1QA

For their Easter tea. the Dorchester is serving their award winning Champagne afternoon tea. Seated in the infamous Promenade, guests can enjoy a glass of Laurent-Perrier whilst sampling the delicious finger sandwiches and hot cross buns along with Easter themed pastries.

Available 3rd - 6th April 2015, £59 per person or £65 for NV champagne Laurent-Perrier Cuvee Rose 

The Ritz

Piccadilly, W1J 9BR

Another great afternoon for the whole family, The Ritz' Easter afternoon tea begins by offering children a chance to meet the Head Pastry Chef, Lewis Wilson and create their very own Easter egg. A chef's apron and hat will be provided as a lasting reminder of their wonderful afternoon whilst adults can enjoy 16 varieties of tea along with hot cross buns, scones and finger sandwiches. 

Available £50 per adult, Children's Egg making event £50 per child only available on 4th April 3.30pm - 5.30pm and must be pre-booked 

The Bulgari 

Knightsbridge, SW7 1DW

The high class fashion house's London hotel is celebrating Easter with an all chocolate afternoon tea. Their classic afternoon tea has been 're-imagined' by pastry chef Alexandre Talpaert, offering a chocolate inspired selection with chocolate chip scones, chocolate Madeleines along with savoury classics. Of course no afternoon tea would be complete without.....tea, of which a variety will be available. 

Available 30th March - 6th April 2015, £35 Classic Afternoon Tea or £47 with a glass of Champagne R de Ruinart

To find out more about luxury hotels, please visit our website.