Our review of The Athenaeum Hotel & Residences:
This posh hotel sits smack-dab in the heart of London, right across from the Royal Parks and Buckingham Palace.
It’s got comfy rooms, good food, and staff that bend over backward to help. While it’s a top-notch place, it comes with a hefty price tag that might make your wallet wince.
Also, some rooms can be on the small side, which is typical for central London but might surprise American visitors.
Despite these minor hiccups, The Athenaeum is a great pick for folks who want to splurge on a ritzy stay in London.
It’s perfect for travelers who want to be close to the big sights, or business travelers who need a swanky place to impress clients.
If you’re bringing Fido along, you’re in luck – they welcome pets too.
Key Points
- The Athenaeum Hotel & Residences boasts an exceptional location opposite the Royal Parks and Buckingham Palace, offering convenience for both leisure and business travelers.
- The hotel provides a range of luxurious accommodations, featuring contemporary design, modern amenities, and attention to detail for guest comfort.
- Guests can enjoy delectable dining experiences at the acclaimed restaurant, with seasonal menus highlighting local ingredients and attentive service.
- The hotel maintains exceptional guest ratings, with staff praised for their outstanding service and the property recognized for its cleanliness and comfort.
- The Athenaeum Hotel & Residences implements sustainable practices, including energy-efficient systems, waste management, and the use of locally-sourced and organic ingredients.
Exceptional Location and Accessibility
The Athenaeum Hotel & Residences boasts an exceptional location rated 9.5/10 by guests.
Situated opposite the Royal Parks and Buckingham Palace, it’s just a 15-minute walk from Oxford Street and the West End theatres.
Guests appreciate the hotel’s prime position, allowing them to easily explore the city’s iconic landmarks and vibrant shopping districts.
With its strategic location, the Athenaeum provides the perfect base for both leisure and business travelers to experience the best of London.
The hotel’s accessibility and proximity to major attractions contribute to its popularity among guests seeking a convenient and well-connected stay in the heart of the city.
Luxurious Rooms and Suites
Luxuriously appointed rooms and suites await guests at the Athenaeum Hotel & Residences.
The hotel offers a range of accommodations, from spacious Superior Rooms to the lavish Green Park Suite. Each room features contemporary design, floor-to-ceiling windows, and flat-screen TVs. Guests can enjoy the convenience of complimentary WiFi and tea/coffee making facilities.
The hotel’s One-Bedroom Apartments and Superior Townhouse Rooms provide even more space and privacy, perfect for longer stays.
Throughout the rooms, attention to detail and modern amenities ensure a comfortable and relaxing experience for all guests.
Dining Experiences at 116
At the heart of the Athenaeum Hotel & Residences lies 116, the property’s acclaimed restaurant.
Led by Executive Chef Ian Howard, 116 offers seasonal menus that emphasize local ingredients. Guests can expect:
- Delectable breakfast options, from Continental to Full English/Irish and Vegetarian.
- An emphasis on fresh, locally-sourced produce for lunch and dinner.
- Attentive service and a diverse wine list to complement the menu.
- Flexible dining experiences, whether it’s a leisurely meal or a quick breakfast to-go.
With its focus on quality, creativity, and exceptional service, 116 provides a dining experience that complements the Athenaeum’s commitment to luxury and guest satisfaction.
Exceptional Guest Reviews and Ratings
Consistently, guests at the Athenaeum Hotel & Residences have expressed exceptional satisfaction with their experiences.
Based on over 878 reviews, the hotel has earned an impressive overall rating of 8.5/10. Guests have particularly praised the friendly and attentive staff, awarding them a superb 9.1/10 score.
The hotel’s cleanliness (8.9/10) and comfort (9.0/10) have also been consistently highlighted. Notably, the property’s unbeatable location facing the Royal Parks and Buckingham Palace has earned a near-perfect 9.5/10 rating.
Staff members like Matt, Jason Friends, and Kathren have earned special recognition for their outstanding service.
With these exceptional reviews, the Athenaeum Hotel & Residences has established itself as a premier accommodation choice in the heart of London.
Sustainable Practices and Certifications
Committed to environmental sustainability, the Athenaeum Hotel & Residences holds third-party certifications that validate its eco-friendly practices.
The hotel’s sustainability efforts include:
- Utilization of energy-efficient lighting and appliances to reduce carbon footprint.
- Implementation of a comprehensive waste management system to minimize landfill waste.
- Sourcing of locally-produced and organic ingredients for the on-site restaurant.
- Ongoing staff training to promote sustainable practices and guest awareness.
These certifications and initiatives demonstrate the Athenaeum’s commitment to responsible tourism and reducing its environmental impact, offering guests a more sustainable hospitality experience.
Additional On-Site Amenities
The Athenaeum Hotel & Residences offers an array of convenient on-site amenities to enhance guests’ experiences.
Guests can take advantage of the property’s airport shuttle service, making arrivals and departures hassle-free. The hotel also provides daily housekeeping and laundry services, ensuring a clean and comfortable stay.
For business travelers, the hotel offers well-equipped business facilities to cater to their needs. Plus, the property maintains 24-hour security, providing a safe and secure environment for all guests.
Pets are welcome with possible charges, and various activities, such as bike rentals and local tours, are available to help guests explore the surrounding area.
Concierge Services and Personalized Hospitality
At the Athenaeum Hotel & Residences, the concierge team excels in providing personalized hospitality to guests.
The knowledgeable staff, including standouts like Matt, Jason Friends, and Kathren, offer exceptional service tailored to each visitor’s needs. Guests consistently praise the concierge for their attentiveness and ability to curate unique experiences, such as:
- Arranging private tours of local landmarks and attractions
- Securing hard-to-get dinner reservations at the finest restaurants
- Coordinating seamless airport transfers and luggage handling
- Recommending the best shops, cafes, and cultural events in the area
The Athenaeum’s commitment to exceptional service is evident in the high ratings and positive reviews from satisfied guests.
Pet-Friendly and Activity Options
The Athenaeum Hotel & Residences welcomes pets, with potential charges, and offers a variety of on-site and nearby activities for guests to enjoy.
Those traveling with furry companions can inquire about the hotel’s pet-friendly policies.
Beyond accommodating pets, the hotel provides bike rentals, allowing guests to explore the surrounding area on two wheels.
Plus, the concierge can arrange local tours, providing insider knowledge and curated experiences for visitors.
With these diverse offerings, the Athenaeum ensures guests have ample opportunities to customize their stay and make the most of their time in London.
Common Questions
Can I Book a Special Event or Function at the Hotel?
Yes, the hotel offers spaces for special events and functions. They have meeting rooms, event halls, and catering services to accommodate various occasions like weddings, corporate events, or private celebrations.
Do You Offer Any Loyalty Programs or Discounts for Returning Guests?
The hotel offers a loyalty program that provides discounts and special offers for returning guests. Repeat visitors can enjoy exclusive perks and personalized services to enhance their stays.
Are There Any Restrictions or Additional Fees for Children or Families?
Children and families are welcome at the hotel. There may be additional fees or restrictions for extra guests, rollaway beds or cribs. It’s best to check with the hotel directly for their family policies and pricing.
What Are the Check-In and Check-Out Times, and Is Early/Late Check Available?
Check-in time is typically 3 PM, and check-out is at 12 PM. Early check-in and late check-out may be available for an additional fee, subject to availability. Guests should contact the hotel directly to inquire about these options.
Can I Arrange for Any Special Requests or Customized Services During My Stay?
The hotel offers a range of customizable services to meet guests’ specific needs. From personalized concierge assistance to tailored in-room amenities, the staff is happy to accommodate special requests during your stay. Just let them know how they can make your experience more enjoyable.
The Last Word
After our visit, we can confidently say that The Athenaeum Hotel & Residences offers an exceptional experience for discerning travelers. Its prime location, luxurious accommodations, renowned dining, and commitment to sustainability cater to the diverse needs of guests. From personalized concierge services to pet-friendly amenities, we found The Athenaeum delivers an unparalleled urban retreat where impeccable service and contemporary design create an unrivaled stay. If you’re interested in booking this hotel, we recommend using the button below to check availability and prices on Booking.com, which typically offers competitive rates for The Athenaeum.