Raffles London, at The OWO

You have to see the Old War Office HQ, now Raffles. We visited to check it out for future stays in London and to have lunch while we were there. THE snootiest staff I’ve encountered in a hotel for a long time, all of whom are powerless to take responsibility or take remedial action. For some very strange reason, even to have a cup of tea & light lunch in the drawing room requires providing your name after waiting for service anyway for far too long. In a near empty room, we were taken to an awful table against a wall and when we asked to be seated somewhere else, the waiter objected and said no. Two other staff in the lobby who had greeted us on entry and explained our dining options asked why we were leaving and when we told them why, they said only the hotel manager on duty could take action and assist us. The place reeks of contrived snobbishness: a pity because the history of the hotel is so interesting. Not the sort of service you would expect in a hotel of such reputation. There are far better options in London. Spend your money elsewhere.

Spent last Christmas at Raffles Hotel London and it was truly a memorable experience! From the moment we arrived, we were warmly welcomed by the team and even granted early check-in, which was a lovely surprise. The location is excellent — just a short walk to iconic sights and the pier, making it super convenient for exploring the city. Our room was cozy, thoughtfully designed, and equipped with high-quality amenities that added a touch of luxury to our stay. The Christmas decorations were absolutely stunning — a festive dream! If you're ever in London during the holidays, it's a must-see. We also enjoyed high tea at the hotel — a tradition at Raffles, and one we were excited to keep. The tea selection was exquisite. While I'm not big on sweets, I can say the experience itself was elegant and well-curated.

A pre theatre afternoon tea of the highest level. From the moment of arrival the service team are exceptional with the level of welcome and genuine interest about our day - Matthew our waiter was excellent at explaining the order of service and the menu and giving a brief history of the building. We visited with our 2 children (7&9) and often afternoon tea can be either too stuffy or too gimicy for children to embrace but I have to say every aspect of the service made the kids feel very special - Matthew and the hostess(apologies I forgot her name ) made the effort to chat to the children directly and tell them some fun facts. Special mention to the elegance of the champagne and tea service . We loved the tea infused at the table and the infusion time is a great addition. The afternoon tea itself started with the savoury plate and often with so many hotels the savoury is an afterthought but here every element has been beautifully constructed. No pretentious flavours that don’t work just well executed sandwiches packed with flavour on soft fresh bread - the salmon sandwich was so spot on the whole table asked for refill even the children. The sandwiches selection of 5 is very generous especially considering it is accompanied with a fresh pea and asparagus tartlet. Next was the pastries and scones - warm soft scones with jam and clotted cream led to Matthew discussing with the children if to lather them the Cornish or Devonshire way which they took great pleasure in experimenting to find there own preference. The pastries are perfect works of art that are both beautiful to look at but also packed with well balanced flavours that are not overly sweet but also just the right size to try all and not be overloaded. Churchills chocolate pocket watch is a great touch and adds a nice sweet finish to the afternoon. Overall a tea of the highest level that is a credit to those that created it and a refreshing addition when so many places seem to have spoilt the offering by not paying attention to the full order of service and every product being offered

We booked 11 months before our trip for a suite. Planning to book at least 6 of their restaurants as they seemed so well reviewed. A few months before our arrival they advised that our booking was cancelled (a 10 night stay in a suite). Our travel agent managed after much back and forth to have them secure another hotel. We were looking forward to staying here and left with such disappointment after them suddenly cancelling our booking. It kind of felt like someone with much more money was able to clear out the hotel and cancel any existing reservations. Such a shame.

Have been to saison three times this time the staff where rushing us out, the food was horrendous, the ice cream was literally melted. On top of that we booked spy bar and the music was deafening. This is what happens when you give a brand to accor. Absolutely not worth the moneu