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The Rubens at the Palace is the closest you'll get to a sleepover with the Queen without a state visit invitation. The hotel is directly across from the royal residence on property that enjoys a colorful past – the Duke of Buckingham lived here in the 1600s, followed by an apothecary and a Court dressmaker. The Rubens, which was built in 1912, housed the Polish army during WWII and gave respite to exiled Charles de Gaulle. The hotel's decadent – and often equally colorful – rooms and suites are a comfortable home base in the epicenter of London.
The Rubens at the Palace
39 Buckingham Palace Road
London, England
SW1W 0PS
Nearest Airport: LHR
I can’t say enough positive things about our experience at Rubens at the Palace. This is our second stay at a Red Carnation hotel in London. We were traveling with my senior in-laws with some mobility challenges and their professionalism made things much easier. Staff in the lobby always welcomed us back in with a big smile. I found myself chatting with our doorman Andy (not a phrase I get to use often) and probably getting in the way, but it was one of my favorite parts of the stay. The bellmen were exceptional at flagging down the few scarce black cabs during the Tube strike. The restaurant servers were happy to accommodate some of our peculiar American requests. If you’re visiting London for the first time or returning, Rubens at the Palace would be an excellent choice.
Afternoon_Negroni
This was our 4th visit back to the Rubens and it never disappoints. From the moment we stepped out of the taxi when we arrived, to the moment we sadly had to leave, we were treated as VIP's and part of an amazing family. Our room, the food, the atmosphere, the whole experience was simply magical. Huge shoutout to their amazing Doorman Andy and Raj. Two unbelievably kind and wonderful gents who ensure you know they are there to take care of you and welcome you into the hotel they refer to as home. (I even got a Birthday hug x) So if you want to stay in a beautiful traditional hotel where they guests are the most important people alive, then this is the pace for you. Now looking forward to 2026 when we can treat ourselves again and visit our 'best home' in London. x
michellehR9928ZR
All if the staff are so helpful and kind. Charlie was a Concierge and was so accommodating on our first day. Milan was also very helpful. The doormen were so kind and helpful in obtaining cabs when needed. The tube & train workers were on strike and the traffic was crazy! The rooms are small but extremely comfortable. Bed is comfy. Beef Wellington is a must at The English Grill, it was outstanding. Want to return for a longer stay soon. Wanted to have afternoon tea in the English tea room but didn’t fit in with our activities, next time! Perfect location. Walking distance to great bars. The Phoenix has the best fish & chips in London. We went there twice, great atmosphere. Bag ‘O Nails s a great bar too!
piratefirstmate - Langley, Oklahoma
We stayed at The Rubens at the Palace for 2 nights. It was one of the best hotel experiences we have had. Every single staff member that we encountered was extremely friendly and helpful from the staff on the door, concierge, reception, room attendants. We have now found our new favourite hotel in London and will stay here each time we visit.
Jemma D
This vacation was one of the most enjoyable I’ve had so far. The staff was absolutely phenomenal. I’d like to leave special shout outs to Andy the doorman extraordinaire Taylor a concierge, Alicia at the front desk, and Angelina a server in the bar/restaurant.
Rosemarie O
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We were simply blown away by every single detail.
-M. Otai
I just returned from an amazing 6 nights at The Rubens. My trip was for business and at the last minute, I had to bring my baby along. This worried me greatly, but thanks to the wonderful staff of the hotel, my week went off without a hitch. The staff couldn't have been any kinder, more helpful, or professional. From the moment we arrived, special attention was paid to the baby and any assistance I needed. There is no doubt that I will be returning to this hotel. It has won a special place in my heart.
-Dr. K. Greene
Our package at the Rubens at the Palace let my mother and me live like a queen. From the flowers in the room, the beautiful suite, the daily high tea, the staff - everything was a deluxe vacation opportunity. My previous vacations to London pale in comparison to this experience.
-P. Conway
I stayed at the hotel and found it to be delightful. It was a good, central location with comfortable, well-appointed rooms. The staff was outstanding, and the food was quite good. I would definitely stay there again!
-L. Read
I can't say enough about the amazing service at the hotel. Everyone was so friendly and helpful whenever we had questions or needed help. The concierge was wonderful and went out of his way to come check on us and see how our day our was turning out. It made us feel very welcome and almost like family! The room was very comfortable, the food in the bar was great, service was amazing. We'll stay here again!
-K. O'Brien