Bernadette Chua joins the upper crust of London society in one of the city’s most exclusive hotels. But only for a few nights…
Hidden in the backstreets of Belgravia lies a doorway into a secret world. From the outside, The Goring Hotel is like any other classic Edwardian building with its ivy-covered balconies, sandstone portico, and a grand awning bearing the historic property’s name.
The London fixture is steeped in history and heritage – established in 1910 it was the property where the Duchess of Cambridge, Kate Middleton spent the night before her wedding; where Winston Churchill met allied leaders during World War II; and where the Queen Mother often dined for lunch. But more on that later.
It’s the only luxury hotel in London which is still owned by the same family.
Stepping into the lobby, it’s hard not to feel intimidated by the solid oak desk, the tail-coated bell boys, the decadent marble floors, and the beautiful hand-painted wallpaper.
You would think such a property would be stiff, stuffy, and full of airs. But in fact, it’s the complete opposite.
The staff give me a warm welcome, making jokes and playfully jesting with one another.
As they take my passport and credit card details, out of the corner of my eye, I spy a stuffed sheep on the floor and my eyebrow raises. Then my glance turns to the wallpaper – it shimmers as the light passes through the window, showcasing the exotic drawings of animals. But upon further inspection, there are caricatures of the staff and the owners are also illustrated. This place is not what it seems to be.
Jeremy Goring, the CEO, took over his family’s property in 2005. It’s said when he cycles into work, he often helps the guests with their bags in his zoot suit. It’s these little touches that make it feel like a quaint and unique hotel.
I’m taken to my suite, the Splendid Garden Room, which overlooks the immaculate sprawling green lawns and manicured hedges. The walls are wallpapered with Italian silk and there’s a desk, sitting chair, large wardrobe and a separate bathroom. But the best feature is the huge balcony terrace, where you can enjoy your full English breakfast.
Curiously, another stuffed sheep has been placed on the bed.
It’s no surprise the Royal Suite where the Duchess of Cambridge stayed is the most requested out of the 69 rooms. The one-bedroom penthouse has its own dining room, sitting area and a balcony that runs the entire length of the top floor.
Downstairs, the lobby leads to The Goring Cocktail Bar which features signature classics and old favourites, such as the “Thank you your Majesty”, which pays tribute to the King, and the “Garden Negroni”, Grandpa Goring’s favourite morning drink. With beautiful paintings, plush armchairs and Italian drapery, it’s a lovely place to enjoy an evening drink by the roaring fire during the winter.
And of course, by the fireplace, more sheep. Regular guests remarked the hotel reminded them of the English countryside, which is why The Goring commissioned these delightful wooden sheep, all named Baa-bara, from a man in Devon, to be placed all around the hotel.
Connected to the bar is The Veranda which offers spectacular views of the garden. Floral chairs and huge fiddle-leaf figs fill the observatory-style room. During London’s warmer months, you’ll find guests playing croquet with a Pimms and lemonade in hand. It’s also where non-hotel guests come for the afternoon tea, an exquisite tradition the hotel has perfected over the 100 years it has been open. But here, guests can also have breakfast, a light lunch, or dinner.
The Dining Room, which has previously held Michelin stars, has always had a strong focus on British produce and classics. The elegant restaurant has recently reopened after a refurbishment. It’s the best place to enjoy The Goring’s full English breakfast, complete with black pudding and a strong brew.
Queen Elizabeth II and the Queen Mother would often visit The Dining Room to savour their favourite dish, oeufs Drumkilbo – a cold starter of lobster and boiled eggs, served at The Goring with caviar, that remains a staple on the menu. There are also private dining rooms that overlook the gardens where the Royal Family still have dinners.
As the closest hotel to Buckingham Palace, The Goring still serves as a home away from home for the royals and in 1990, the late George Goring accepted an OBE from Queen Elizabeth II. This was followed by the appointment of a Royal Warrant to The Goring in 2013, the only hotel to have been granted a Royal Warrant for hospitality services.
The hotel is just a stone’s throw from some historic landmarks, making its location perfect for a quick few days in London. It is a short stroll to Westminster Cathedral and Trafalgar Square as well as the fashionable King’s Road in Chelsea.
The Goring’s warmth and generosity of hospitality make it the best place to come back to after a long day of exploration. But don’t be surprised if Baa-bara is wearing a pair of sunglasses, sunning herself on the armchair by the window.
The Goring is priced from $1293 per night. It is located at 15 Beeston Place, London, SW1W 0JW, United Kingdom.
