Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London

BACKGROUND This grand property first opened as a gentlemen’s club in 1889 and then as a hotel in 1902. Under the ownership of Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group since 1996, it has undergone two major renovations. During the second, in June 2018, a fire interrupted the planned reopening, but the “reinvented and reimagined” property was finally unveiled on April 15, 2019, featuring all-new guestrooms and suites and refurbished facilities and public spaces. In my opinion, it was well worth the wait.

WHAT’S IT LIKE? “The Mandarin Oriental hotels are pretty incredible. They are the lap of luxury and it is very hard to leave,” says actor Stanley Tucci, adding that his favourite MO is “the one in Knightsbridge”. I could not agree more. I’ve always been an MO fan and stayed at the London property pre-refurbishment. I was impressed then, but the reinvention has elevated the hotel experience to great heights. From the outstanding interior design and immaculate service to the destination restaurants and luxury leisure facilities, it’s a cut above the rest. The recent multi-million-pound restoration saw designer Joyce Wang oversee the design of all rooms, suites and public areas, inspired by the natural beauty of Hyde Park and the glamour of the 20th century Golden Age of travel. The result is breathtaking. ROOMS We stayed in a Hyde Park Suite overlooking the royal park. This privileged view was the backdrop to a residential-style suite with outstanding art-deco inspired features including custom-designed furniture and artworks. I particularly appreciated the library of books curated by historic London bookseller, Heywood Hill, the yoga mat, GHD hair straighteners and Diptyque bathroom amenities. The bedroom, in dark moss green and golds, featured a king bed, dressing table and huge wardrobes, while the lounge o ered a sofa, co ee table, desk and a very generous bar with Nespresso machine. Complimentary fruit, drinks and a creative chocolate welcome gift were the icing on the cake of this impeccable hospitality experience.

The reinvention has elevated the hotel experience to great heights

FOOD AND DRINK MO Hyde Park is a culinary destination, with two Michelin star restaurant Dinner by Heston the cornerstone venue (see p65). The restaurant also serves an extensive la carte breakfast. I opted for seasonal fruit, Greek yogurt and poached eggs on sourdough with avocado. I asked if watermelon juice was available and they arranged to have one squeezed! There’s also the Mandarin Bar – perfect for pre-dinner drinks coupled with irresistible bar snacks – and The Rosebery, a bright and airy venue where the quintessential afternoon tea is served.

BUSINESS Stunning venues with a real sense of place include The Ballroom where Queen Elizabeth II learned to dance, The Loggia with its distinct circular design and the al fresco Mandarin Terrace.

LEISURE Include the revamped The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, London, a sizeable gym with plenty of equipment for all types of workouts, and a basement lap pool.

VERDICT A flawless and memorable stay. A great place to wow your clients with afternoon tea at The Rosebery, a drink at the Mandarin Bar, or a special meal at Dinner by Heston. Gemma Greenwood

BEST FOR Location, service, exquisite dining

DON’T MISS Dinner by Heston

PRICE From £588 (US$807) per night in September

CONTACT 66 Knightsbridge; +44 (0)20 7235 2000; mandarinoriental.com/london