Pure Luxury @ the Landmark London Hotel

Rachel
May 12, 2024
3 min read

Updated: Aug 24, 2024

Is this the best hotel in London?

Twenty-five years ago I worked an evening shift performing the turn-down service at the Landmark London.

During the day, I was on an apprenticeship IT course, learning how to build websites and, living in London in a flat-share, I had no option but to top up my income.

After working the day job, I took the tube to Marylebone to work a four-hour evening shift almost every night of the week for a year and a half.

I loved the Landmark as soon as I walked into it 25 years ago, and I promised myself I would return one day.

On the tenth anniversary of losing my Dad, it felt like the right time to tick this particular dream off my bucket list.

It was the greatest thrill to walk up to the main entrance and have the door opened for me by a doorman in a top hat, rather than use a staff entrance tucked away from sight.

As I had worked in the housekeeping department, I never saw much of the main hotel, so it was exciting to explore the public areas.

I had only seen pictures online but I knew it would not disappoint.

There is something magical about this place, the atmosphere is relaxed yet romantic, stylish yet homely, and a perfect blend of contradiction.

The Landmark is a hotel that deserves to be admired and appreciated.

The architecture and décor are works of beauty and style that should not be rushed while indulging in their looks. There is so much intricate detail everywhere.

Bedrooms at the Landmark

I booked an Executive Room and was lucky to be allocated a room overlooking the Winter Garden restaurant.

The room had two Juliette balconies, but sadly I could not open the doors.

That was the biggest downside to having a room facing into the atrium - not being able to open a window or have any fresh air.

That said, I was on the fifth floor and could see that this would be a health and safety issue if I could open them.

Not long after breakfast, the piano in the Winter Garden is set to auto-play. If your bedroom or suite overlooks the atrium, you'll be treated to the beautiful sounds of classical music wafting into your room.

Come dinner-time, they have a real musician play the piano, and it's divine.

The rooms are comfortable and elegant, decorated to a very high standard and exceptionally clean.

My bathroom was huge, with a large wardrobe, double sink, separate bath and shower, and a cubicle toilet.

Having such a beautiful and relaxing space made me want to revamp my ensuite at home, though I think I could fit mine into this bathroom three times over it was so big!

My room included a king-size bed, desk, large TV, coffee machine, and a mini fridge, ideal for storing a few essential items.

The Winter Garden

Despite using my fridge, as I had waited two and half decades to stay here, there was no way I would turn down the opportunity to eat in the Winter Garden!

It's bliss, with the live music, the lights, and palm trees.

What an amazing setting!

Even if you're dining alone, it remains a romantic experience.

The service is as excellent as expected from a high-calibre hotel, and the food certainly didn't disappoint. The menu didn't offer a wide selection, but there were vegan and vegetarian options for starters, main, and dessert.

When I worked here in the housekeeping department, it was often dark when I arrived to start my shift at 6 pm.

The Landmark is made for the night, when you see it alight, both externally and internally, you know you're experiencing something special.

If I ever return, it will have to be at Christmas time, I suspect the magic reaches another level.