By Jill Bauman, National Sales Director
On a recent trip to Europe I popped into the St. James Hotel & Club for a quick two night stay. The luxury boutique hotel is set within a beautifully restored 19th-century townhouse on Park Place, a quiet cul-de-sac that once housed diplomats and aristocrats. St. James’s Hotel is a discreet property that feels more like a private residence than a hotel. While it is tucked into the charming St. James’s neighborhood, it is a quick five minute walk to the buzzing Piccadilly. I particularly enjoyed the proximity to the Green Park and the secret passage to get there.
I arrived in the morning and after a refresh, was taken on a walking tour by Graham Luff, the head concierge. Graham was a wealth of knowledge and showed me all the hidden gems and historic buildings in this charming neighborhood.
With just 60 rooms and suites, I was able to tour most of the room which include:
- 22 Superior Rooms: queen-size bed
- 21 Deluxe Rooms: king-size bed or twin (available on request), some with a balcony.
- 7 Executive Rooms: king-size bed or 4-poster bed, some of the rooms have a balcony or alcove 4 Junior Suites: separate bedroom with king-size bed, living room and spacious bathroom
The show-stoppers are the stunning Westminster & St. James Suites, both with private lifts and private rooftop terraces with sweeping views of Westminster and beyond. Each room is individually styled with rich fabrics, bespoke furnishings, and modern touches.
The hotel’s Seven Park Place Bar & Lounge is an intimate, quiet and comfortable spot during the day to work. In the evening the charming bar offers craft cocktails and lite bites. I was unable to experience Francatelli Restaurant by William Drabble this trip, but hope to be back very soon.
I also enjoyed learning about the art collection that adorns the hotel featuring 300 unique pieces from the 1920’ to the 1940’s by leading contemporary artists, displayed throughout the public spaces and guest rooms.
Staying at the St. James Hotel & Club felt like stepping into a private London townhouse — the service, staff are impeccable and the neighborhood is full of historic charm. It’s the perfect location for those visiting London looking for a unique boutique hotel centrally located yet intimate.
