The Milestone Hotel

England
Europe

The Experience

Why is this one-of-a-kind property, housed in two adjoining red brick Victorian townhouses that overlook Kensington Gardens, consistently named Americans’ favorite hotel in London? It could be the over-the-top service that feels welcoming to Americans despite being formally British. Or maybe it's the eclectic rooms, which range from a glam silver-and-hot pink suite inspired by French chanteuse Mistinguett to a baronial chamber, complete with leaded glass windows and a townhouse’s original minstrel’s gallery. Or the quintessentially English public rooms like Stables Bar, a diminutive, clubby affair draped in jockeys’ racing silks; and the Park Lounge, a book-lined salon where guests pour Earl Grey before a roaring fire.

The Rooms

With decors and themes that vary almost too wildly from traditional to modern, it’s essential that you book the right room here. Some suites have enclosed private patio gardens and Jacuzzis. The six two-bedroom apartments, all done in English stripes and subtle prints, are ideal for families or business travelers who want to arrange ensuite meetings. Leave room in your luggage for the full-sized Penhaligon toiletries, which are yours for the taking.

The Service

The 24-hour butler service means your every need is anticipated—and then some. Expect knocks on the door throughout the day with mini gift deliveries of candy or fresh fruit. You’ll even be offered to select from a basket of different soaps.

The Highlights

If you come to London craving a warm and cozy English experience, you’ll find it here. But you’ll also find concierge services at the level of any top business hotel. The staff are crackerjack at checking in guests for flights and monitoring delays at Heathrow, and will arranging last-minute chauffeur-driven Range Rovers to the airport. Old-fashioned Sunday carvery lunches are served at Cheneston’s, the hotel’s fine dining restaurant, which also does varied wine flights with dinner. Stables’ Italian barman, Marco Ercolana, is a guest favorite. Be sure to sample one of his Negronis.

 

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