Althoff St James’s Hotel & Club London

Hotel Description

You know what struck me first about the Althoff St James’s? It’s tucked away on this tiny street called Park Place that most tourists walk right past, but honestly, that’s exactly what makes it special. I mean, you’re literally a two-minute walk from St. James’s Street where all the old-school gentlemen’s clubs are, and Green Park is right there – like, you can see the trees from some of the windows. The location is ridiculously central, but it doesn’t feel touristy at all.

The building itself has this proper London townhouse vibe going on, which makes sense since it actually used to be a private club. Walking in, you get hit with that mix of old leather and subtle cologne that expensive hotels somehow perfect – not overwhelming, just… refined, I guess? The lobby’s intimate rather than grand (we’re talking boutique scale here, not Savoy-sized), and check-in was surprisingly smooth even during what felt like a busy afternoon. The staff actually remembered my name by the second day, which doesn’t happen often at five-star places these days.

What really won me over were the little details that show someone’s actually thinking about the guest experience. The rooms – well, they’re not massive by American standards, but this is central London, so you adjust your expectations accordingly. What they lack in size they make up for in character though. Mine had these gorgeous period features mixed with modern touches that actually worked together, plus the bed was legitimately comfortable (I’m picky about mattresses). The bathroom was compact but clever, with decent water pressure – always a gamble in older London buildings. Honestly, the whole place feels more like staying at a well-appointed private residence than a traditional hotel, which I suspect is entirely intentional.

The restaurant downstairs is where locals actually eat, not just hotel guests, which tells you something. I ended up there three nights running because the food was genuinely good and the atmosphere felt authentically London rather than trying too hard. Breakfast was included in my rate and actually worth getting up for – proper coffee, not the watery stuff you sometimes get, and they do a full English that doesn’t feel like it came from a heat lamp.

Location-wise, you’re spoiled for choice without fighting crowds. Jermyn Street with all those traditional shirtmakers is a five-minute stroll, Piccadilly’s right there when you need the big shops, and if you cut through St. James’s Park, you can walk to Westminster or Buckingham Palace easily. The Green Park tube station is practically around the corner, so getting anywhere else in London is straightforward.

Is it perfect? Well, the rooms can get a bit warm in summer (older building, you know), and if you’re someone who needs a massive bathroom and tons of space, this might feel cramped. But honestly, for the location and the genuine character of the place, plus service that feels personal rather than scripted, it’s become my go-to when I’m in London for work. The 8.1 rating feels about right – really solid without being flawless, but with enough personality to make you want to come back.

Rooms

• Superior Room with 1 double bed for 2 adults
• Deluxe Room with 1 large double bed for 2 adults
• Executive Room with 1 extra-large double bed for 2 adults
• Junior Suite with 1 extra-large double bed for 2 adults
• Deluxe King Suite with 1 extra-large double bed for 2 adults
• Signature Suite with 1 extra-large double bed for 2 adults
• King Room with Balcony with 1 extra-large double bed for 2 adults

Facilities