Raffles London at The OWO

This was our second experience staying at Raffles at OWO in London. This time we were there over the holiday and it was truly magical. We had suite and junior suite and both rooms were lovely. But the staff were outstanding and the best part of the stay. They took the time to get to know us and our daughter (and her little dachshund) and provided everything we asked for with a smile and accommodation. When we had a dog emergency on Christmas they provided the number to the local emergency vet and followed up to see all was OK. The pool and spa are absolutely phenomenal and one of the largest pools in London I am sure. It was never crowded although the hotel was full. Christmas decorations were elegant. We enjoyed the drawing room for breakfast each day (although it could be a little slow at times). We also had the holiday dinner at Saison. While very good and enjoyable it was not outstanding. The spy room bar was fun. Would only make 2 recommendations for the ministerial suite. There was no full length mirror in the suite anywhere which was odd and no door to the actual bedroom which you might expect in a 1 bedroom suite (we previously stayed in a westminster suite which had both). Also no mirror close to an outlet which was challenging for hair dryer. But these issues did not deter us from really enjoying our suite and holiday at such an amazing place. We will return for sure!

The hotel is outstanding. The building is newly refurbished and packed with history. The spa/swimming pool is great. The staff is very attentive. Ivan, Simeon and Tony were always there to help and answer any questions we had.

First, I wanted to go back to London, where my wife and I had spent two months in 1970 while I was studying medicine. So, to see the now Royal London Hospital, which was superb. Secondly, I wanted to go to Oxford for some short term study, and Lo and Behold, Smithsonian came up with a week long course, which I chose with Archeology. I went with a dear friend, and we had a blast, at Oxford studying/discussing/etc. We did spend a week in London, as noted above, and got reacquainted with the Tube, saw my required Turner paintings at the Tate Britain, and spent quite a bit of time at the British Museum and the War Museum. We did do a day trip to Canterbury, Dover, and Leeds Castle, which we both would have preferred to see by ourselves rather than a group visit, especially Canterbury. Overall, a wonderful time, and I would definitely wish to go back again and study and travel and eat. The bookstores in London and Oxford were amazing and worth the trip by themselves.

Raffles surpasses all expectations of hotel hospitality. The grandeur of this incredible property, rich in British history in the heart of Whitehall is breathtakingly stunning. Met by a 5 star team who were fun, efficient and charming really added to the luxury interior designed curation. Olivia Campbell was the perfect hostess personified. Christmas tea, with a selection of 25 varieties were explained to me by the team in detail. The highlight being the art sculpture pastry delectable ! A "must" experience is to book at concierge Steve Clark who can take you on a fascinating secret tour on the history of surrounding areas. He has variations of the tours, some with mystery and intrigue! I have also stayed in Raffles in Singapore prior to boarding the Eastern and Orient to Bangkok and Iam over the moon that the wonderful exquisite "RAFFLES" experience continues. I salute a wonderful A-team Louis Mariette

Raffles was a joy from our first steps into reception until we left several days later. The staff always chatted and ask if there was anything they could help you with, the food was always prepared to an excellent standard as was the service. The Astor Suit was a wonder, comfortable and all controlled from a pad. House Keeping was exemplary and the swimming pool and jacuzzi's were tranquil and relaxing. We enjoyed the choice of restaurants and places for breakfast each day and I don't think anyone would be disappointed. We will return if possible for us.