As avid travellers, we are always on the lookout for unique and luxurious hotels to stay in during our trips. The Athenaeum in London, UK caught our attention with its impeccable reputation and stunning location. Located in the heart of Mayfair, this 5-star hotel has been providing guests with exceptional service and top-notch amenities since 1850. With its rich history and modern touches, we were eager to experience what The Athenaeum had to offer.
History of The Athenaeum
The Athenaeum dates back to 1850 when it was originally known as The Athenaeum Club. It was a prestigious club that attracted famous writers, artists, and politicians. Over the years, the club expanded and eventually transformed into a hotel. Today, The Athenaeum is still owned by the same family who founded it, making it one of the few remaining family-owned and run hotels in London.
Location and Accessibility
One of the main draws of The Athenaeum is its prime location in the affluent neighbourhood of Mayfair. Situated on Piccadilly, the hotel is surrounded by high-end stores, restaurants, and attractions. It is within walking distance to popular landmarks such as Buckingham Palace, Hyde Park, and Green Park. The nearest tube station, Green Park, is only a 3-minute walk away, providing easy access to other parts of the city.
Upon arrival, we were greeted by the hotel’s doorman who assisted us with our luggage and welcomed us inside. The lobby area exudes elegance with its marble floors, chandeliers, and plush furnishings. We were immediately struck by the warm and friendly atmosphere of the hotel.
Nearby Attractions
- Buckingham Palace
- Hyde Park
- Green Park
- Piccadilly Circus
- Trafalgar Square
Rooms and Suites
The Athenaeum offers a variety of rooms and suites to cater to different types of travellers. We stayed in a Deluxe Room which was spacious, elegantly decorated, and had all the amenities we needed for a comfortable stay. The king-sized bed was incredibly comfortable, and the linens were of high quality. Our room also had a seating area, work desk, and a large flat-screen TV.
The highlight of our room was the floor-to-ceiling windows that offered stunning views of the London skyline. We could see Buckingham Palace from our window, and it was truly a magical sight, especially at night. The Athenaeum has a total of 164 rooms and suites, each uniquely decorated with a blend of traditional and contemporary elements.
Room Amenities
- King-sized bed with premium bedding
- Floor-to-ceiling windows
- Seating area
- Work desk
- Flat-screen TV
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
- Luxury toiletries
- Mini-bar
- Nespresso machine
- Bathrobes and slippers
- 24-hour room service
Dining Experience
The Athenaeum has two restaurants: Galvin at The Athenaeum and The Garden Room. Galvin at The Athenaeum is a Michelin-starred restaurant run by renowned chefs Chris and Jeff Galvin. It offers an upscale dining experience with a modern British menu featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients. The Garden Room, on the other hand, is more casual and serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. We had breakfast at The Garden Room each morning, and it was always a delightful start to our day. They offer a wide variety of options, including a full English breakfast, pastries, cereals, and fresh fruit.
Aside from the restaurants, The Athenaeum also has a bar, The Bar at The Athenaeum, which offers a selection of cocktails, wines, and small plates. We enjoyed a couple of drinks at the bar one evening, and the atmosphere was lively and inviting.
Private Dining
The Athenaeum also offers private dining options for special occasions or events. We had the opportunity to dine in their private dining room, which can accommodate up to 12 people. It was an intimate setting with excellent service and delicious food. The menu can be customized, and they offer a variety of options to suit different dietary requirements.
Spa and Wellness
After a long day of exploring London, we were excited to relax and unwind at The Athenaeum’s spa and wellness centre. The spa offers a wide range of treatments, including massages, facials, and body treatments, all using natural and organic products. We indulged in a couple’s massage, and it was a truly rejuvenating experience. The therapists were skilled, and the atmosphere was serene and tranquil.
In addition to the spa, The Athenaeum also has a fully-equipped gym with state-of-the-art equipment. They offer personal training sessions for those looking for a more structured workout. The hotel also has a partnership with nearby David Lloyd Clubs where guests have complimentary access to their facilities, including a swimming pool and tennis courts.
Family-Friendly Hotel
One thing that sets The Athenaeum apart from other luxury hotels is its family-friendly approach. As a family-owned and run hotel, they understand the needs of families travelling with children. The hotel offers a range of services and amenities specifically for families, including:
- Kid’s concierge – assists with arranging activities, tickets, and childcare services
- In-room amenities for children such as books, toys, and games
- Children’s menus at the restaurants
- Complimentary baby cots and high chairs
- Babysitting services upon request
Special Packages and Offers
The Athenaeum offers various packages and offers throughout the year, catering to different types of travellers. From romantic getaways to family vacations, there is something for everyone. During our stay, we took advantage of their “Romance in London” package, which included a bottle of champagne, chocolates, and a late check-out.
Other packages include:
- Family Fun Package – includes tickets to nearby attractions and breakfast
- Discover London Package – includes a private tour of London and afternoon tea
- Suite Dreams Package – includes a complimentary upgrade to a suite and a bottle of champagne
Staff and Service
One of the aspects that stood out to us during our stay at The Athenaeum was the exceptional service provided by the staff. From the doorman to the receptionists to the servers at the restaurants, everyone was friendly, professional, and went above and beyond to ensure we had an enjoyable stay. They were always willing to offer recommendations and assistance whenever we needed it.
Guest Services
- 24-hour reception
- Concierge services
- Laundry and dry-cleaning services
- Complimentary shoe shine
- Valet parking
- Luggage storage
- Airport transfers upon request
Sustainability Efforts
The Athenaeum is committed to reducing its environmental impact and has implemented several sustainable practices within the hotel. They have a Green Team that regularly reviews and updates their sustainability policies. Some of their initiatives include:
- Use of energy-efficient lighting and appliances
- Recycling and waste management program
- Use of environmentally-friendly cleaning products
- Partnership with local charities and organizations
- Encouraging guests to reuse towels and linens to reduce water and energy consumption
Final Thoughts
Our stay at The Athenaeum was nothing short of exceptional. From the moment we arrived until we checked out, every aspect of our stay was perfect. The hotel’s attention to detail, warm hospitality, and luxurious amenities exceeded our expectations. We highly recommend The Athenaeum to anyone looking for a top-notch hotel in London. It truly is a hidden gem in the heart of Mayfair.
Pros:
- Prime location in Mayfair
- Luxurious rooms and suites
- Excellent dining options
- Family-friendly amenities and services
- Exceptional service by staff
- Commitment to sustainability
Cons:
- No swimming pool on-site (although guests have access to nearby facilities)
- Higher room rates compared to other hotels in the area
Room Amenities
When staying at The Athenaeum, guests can expect a range of luxurious room amenities to enhance their stay and provide a comfortable environment during their time in London.
Comfortable Accommodations
The rooms at The Athenaeum are elegantly designed with a blend of traditional and contemporary elements to create a stylish and welcoming space for guests. Each room features:
| Room Amenities |
|---|
| – King-sized bed with premium bedding |
| – Floor-to-ceiling windows |
| – Seating area |
| – Work desk |
| – Flat-screen TV |
| – Complimentary Wi-Fi |
Luxurious Touches
In addition to the basics, The Athenaeum goes above and beyond to ensure guests have everything they need for a relaxing stay. Some of the additional amenities include:
- Luxury toiletries
- Mini-bar stocked with a selection of beverages and snacks
- Nespresso machine for coffee enthusiasts
- Soft bathrobes and comfortable slippers for added comfort
Exceptional Service
Guests can also enjoy the convenience of 24-hour room service to cater to any needs or requests throughout their stay. Whether it’s a late-night snack or a morning coffee, the attentive staff at The Athenaeum are ready to assist at any time.
The combination of these amenities creates a luxurious and comfortable experience for guests at The Athenaeum, setting the stage for a memorable stay in London.
Dining Experience
The dining options at The Athenaeum offer a culinary journey that showcases the best of British cuisine in a variety of settings, from casual meals to fine dining experiences.
Galvin at The Athenaeum
Michelin-Starred Excellence
One of the highlights of dining at The Athenaeum is experiencing Galvin at The Athenaeum, a Michelin-starred restaurant led by renowned chefs Chris and Jeff Galvin. This upscale dining experience features a modern British menu that emphasizes fresh, seasonal ingredients prepared with precision and creativity. Guests can expect a culinary adventure that delights the senses and showcases the best of British gastronomy.
The Garden Room
Casual Elegance
For a more relaxed dining experience, guests can visit The Garden Room, which serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a casual yet elegant setting. The menu offers a wide range of options to suit every palate, from hearty full English breakfasts to light salads and sandwiches. The Garden Room provides a comfortable space to enjoy a leisurely meal while taking in views of the hotel’s lush greenery.
The Bar at The Athenaeum
Stylish Cocktails
To complement the dining experience, The Athenaeum also features a stylish bar where guests can enjoy a selection of expertly crafted cocktails, wines, and small plates. The bar’s vibrant atmosphere and skilled mixologists make it the perfect spot for pre-dinner drinks or a nightcap after a day of exploring London.
Whether indulging in gourmet creations at Galvin at The Athenaeum, enjoying a casual meal at The Garden Room, or sipping cocktails at the bar, dining at The Athenaeum is a culinary delight that caters to every taste and occasion.
Private Dining
For those looking to celebrate a special occasion or host an intimate gathering during their stay, The Athenaeum offers private dining options that combine personalized service with gourmet cuisine.
Intimate Settings
Exclusive Dining Experience
The private dining room at The Athenaeum provides an exclusive setting for gatherings of up to 12 guests, offering privacy and personalized attention. Whether hosting a family celebration or a business dinner, the private dining room allows guests to create unforgettable memories in a refined and elegant atmosphere.
Customized Menus
Tailored Culinary Offerings
The dedicated culinary team at The Athenaeum works closely with guests to create customized menus that reflect their preferences and dietary requirements. From multi-course tasting menus to bespoke cocktail receptions, the private dining experience is designed to exceed expectations and elevate any event.
Impeccable Service
Attentive Hospitality
In addition to exceptional cuisine, guests can expect attentive service from the professional staff at The Athenaeum’s private dining events. From seamless event coordination to flawless execution, every detail is taken care of to ensure a memorable and stress-free experience for hosts and guests alike.
Whether celebrating a milestone moment or simply gathering with loved ones, private dining at The Athenaeum offers a sophisticated and intimate setting that elevates any occasion.
Conclusion
In conclusion, The Athenaeum in London is a luxury hotel that offers a unique blend of elegance, comfort, and top-notch service to discerning travelers. With its prime location in Mayfair, beautifully designed rooms, exceptional dining options, and a range of amenities to cater to both leisure and business travelers, The Athenaeum sets itself apart as a premier destination for those seeking a memorable stay in the heart of London.
From the moment guests arrive until they depart, The Athenaeum strives to provide a personalized and unforgettable experience that combines the best of British hospitality with modern comforts. Whether relaxing at the spa, savoring gourmet cuisine, or exploring the city’s attractions, guests can expect nothing less than excellence during their stay at The Athenaeum.
