Four Seasons Park Lane: Is London’s Original Luxury Icon Still Relevant?

Four Seasons Park Lane: An Honest Review (2026)

Over the years, I’ve spent a lot of time traveling through Europe. You start to notice that an expensive hotel isn’t always a great hotel. I went to the Four Seasons Park Lane to see if it was the exception. This isn’t a press release—it’s a real account of the stay, from the impressive to the underwhelming.

Where History Meets Modern Luxury in Mayfair

Standing at the entrance of Four Seasons Park Lane, tucked discreetly on Hamilton Place, I found myself asking the question that matters most: Can a hotel that costs upwards of £800 per night truly justify its price tag in a city overflowing with five-star options?

This property carries significant weight in hospitality history. As the first Four Seasons hotel to open outside Canada back in 1970, originally named The Inn on the Park, it pioneered what we now consider standard luxury touches. Founder Isadore Sharp introduced revolutionary concepts here—bathrobes in every room, 24-hour room service, and what he called “intuitive service rooted in the Golden Rule.” What seemed groundbreaking then is expected today, so the real question is whether this historic property still delivers something exceptional.

The History in Context

Sharp’s vision wasn’t about creating another stuffy grand hotel—London already had plenty of those. He wanted a place where regular people could experience the treatment reserved for aristocracy, without the intimidating formality. That philosophy apparently resonated: despite competing with legends like the Savoy, the Inn on the Park was virtually always full and became Europe’s hotel of the year.

The property changed hands over the decades. Saudi Prince Alwaleed bin Talal’s Kingdom Hotel Investments owned it until 2007, when Bahrain’s royal family, Al Khalifa, purchased it for £100 million. They invested another £125 million in the extensive renovation that closed the hotel for two years, reopening it in 2010 as the refined property I experienced.

The Ambiance & Vibe

Walking through the entrance on a grey London afternoon, I was greeted by doormen whose warmth felt genuine rather than rehearsed. The lobby strikes a balance between glamour and restraint—black marble floors, splashes of red from velvet Louis XVI chairs, and white sculptural murals. It’s theatrical without being garish.

Rochon’s design leans heavily on red as an accent color throughout the public spaces, which initially felt bold but grew on me. The overall aesthetic channels 1930s golden age travel with contemporary sophistication. Art is scattered throughout, including a 23-foot ceramic wall by ceramicist Peter Lane in what was formerly the Amaranto restaurant space, now home to Pavyllon London.

Walking Through the Experience

The Arrival and Check-In

Check-in was seamless. The staff knew my name immediately, offered champagne, and acknowledged it was my first visit without making it feel like an interrogation. For early arrivals before 3pm check-in, the hotel provides access to the 10th-floor spa facilities where you can shower, relax, and enjoy refreshments—a thoughtful touch that other hotels charge for or simply don’t offer.

The Accommodations: A Closer Look

The hotel offers 196 rooms and suites across 11 floors. I stayed in a Deluxe Mayfair Room, which the hotel describes as offering “magnificent urban views.” At approximately 350 square feet, it felt comfortable rather than spacious. The design by Tara Bernerd features a light, contemporary aesthetic with pops of green nodding to the parkside location, soft creams, and brushed metal accents.

The room included a seating area with an armchair, a functional writing desk, and the signature Four Seasons bed—which lives up to its reputation. The mattress struck that difficult balance between supportive and plush. Premium bedding from Brintons, the same supplier for Buckingham Palace, added a subtle luxury. The marble bathroom featured Floris products, heated floors, and an elegant vanity, though storage felt limited.

What impressed me most were the small details: a proper coffee machine, blackout curtains that actually worked, and soundproofing that made Park Lane’s traffic virtually inaudible. What disappointed me was the closet space—barely adequate for a three-night stay, and potentially problematic for longer visits.

Many rooms feature balconies with park or city views. The suites, particularly the newly renovated ones launching in 2025, tell a different story entirely. The Presidential London Suite on the fifth floor offers sweeping Hyde Park views, a formal dining room, butler’s pantry, and private fireplace. Suite rates start from £5,000 per night.

Dining at Pavyllon London: A Michelin-Starred Arrival

Chef Yannick Alléno opened Pavyllon London in July 2023, earning a Michelin star just six months later—a remarkable achievement. With 15 Michelin stars across his 19 international restaurants, Alléno ranks as one of the world’s most decorated chefs. Head Chef Benjamin Ferra Y Castell executes Alléno’s vision with precision.

The restaurant, designed by Chahan Minassian, features counter seating facing an open kitchen—Alléno’s signature approach borrowed from his parents’ bistro. The interiors evoke Villa Necchi elegance with soft blues and greys, amorphic glass chandeliers, and pearl-like curtains creating an aquatic feel. It’s refined but relaxed, striking that difficult balance between fine dining and neighborhood restaurant.

The Food: I tried the lunch menu at £55 for multiple courses, served within an hour. The “Badaboum” organic egg with Osciètre caviar was spectacular—a perfectly poached egg sliced tableside to reveal golden yolk cascading with caviar. The citrus confit cod demonstrated technical mastery, and the chocolate soufflé with its cloud-like exterior and molten center was worth the calories.

The Service Mishap: However, service had occasional lapses. On one visit, the kitchen missed a course from the tasting menu entirely, serving dessert instead—shocking for a Michelin-starred establishment. When I pointed this out, they corrected it immediately, but such oversights shouldn’t happen at this level.

The Michelin-starred breakfast is reportedly London’s only, starting at reasonable prices compared to dinner.

Bar Antoine and Alternative Dining

Bar Antoine, Alléno’s first bar concept named after his late son, serves as the vibrant heart of Pavyllon. The moody space offers creative cocktails and small plates. I found it perfect for an evening drink, with knowledgeable bartenders and a sophisticated but unpretentious atmosphere.

The Pavyllon Lounge serves afternoon tea, pastries, and all-day dining. While pleasant, it didn’t distinguish itself from other hotel tea services. In-room dining operates 24/7 with an extensive menu, though I didn’t test it extensively.

The Rooftop Spa: London Above the Clouds

The spa deserves its own section. Located on the 10th floor with panoramic Hyde Park and Westminster views, this Forbes Five-Star facility justifies the hotel’s luxury positioning. Designed by Eric Parry, the glass-walled haven features nine treatment rooms, each with breathtaking vistas and private relaxation pods.

Facilities are gender-separated, which Middle Eastern guests particularly appreciate but couples should note. The women’s area includes a sizeable vitality pool with multiple hydro functions, a eucalyptus-scented steam room, and a sauna with a Himalayan pink salt wall and window overlooking Mayfair. Everything is skylit and immaculately maintained.

The Treatment Experience: I experienced the Deep Sleep Lavender Massage using Omorovicza products. The treatment room’s floor-to-ceiling windows framed Hyde Park like a painting. My therapist was technically skilled, and the heated treatment bed was a revelation. Post-treatment, the private relaxation pod with herbal tea, granola bar, and reviving juice felt like first-class air travel—dimly lit, cocooning, with warm blankets and chocolate orange nibbles.

The spa partners with luxury brands: Omorovicza from Budapest’s thermal baths, Swiss brand Cellcosmet, and Philosophia Botanica from Cape Town. Treatments range from £60 for a foot massage to £1,520 for the couples five-hour Sky Suite experience. The 24-hour gym offers Technogym equipment with park views.

The Location Advantage

Set back from Park Lane near Hyde Park Corner, the location is unbeatable for Mayfair, Knightsbridge, and the parks. Harrods is a 10-minute walk, Bond Street shopping is close, and attractions like Buckingham Palace are easily accessible on foot. Hyde Park Corner station is two minutes away, Green Park station ten minutes.

The hotel’s positioning feels quieter than being directly on Park Lane, reducing traffic noise while maintaining proximity to everything. For theater, Piccadilly, and Soho, you’re looking at a short taxi ride or longer walk.

Weighing the Experience: The Clear Highlights

What Truly Excelled

The Rooftop Spa: Genuinely exceptional. Unlike London spas buried underground, this 10th-floor sanctuary with Hyde Park views, top-tier facilities, and skilled therapists justifies the luxury positioning. This alone could justify staying here for spa-focused visitors.

Service Consistency: Delivers Four Seasons reliability. From doormen remembering my name to concierge arranging last-minute restaurant reservations, staff demonstrated genuine warmth and competence.

Pavyllon London: Offers legitimate Michelin-star quality. Despite one service mishap, the food demonstrated why Alléno earned that star so quickly. The £55 lunch menu offers remarkable value.

Location: Balances tranquility with accessibility. Being set back from Park Lane on quiet Hamilton Place eliminates traffic noise while keeping you steps from Hyde Park, Knightsbridge, and Mayfair.

Facing the Reality: The Notable Drawbacks

Questionable Value in Standard Rooms: At £800-£1,200+ per night for a Deluxe room of ~350 sq ft, the size-to-price ratio doesn’t impress compared to other London five-stars like Claridge’s or The Lanesborough.

Room Size & Storage: The closet storage barely accommodated three nights of clothing. For longer stays or families, this becomes problematic.

Limited Facilities: No full-length swimming pool—just spa vitality pools. The gender-separated spa facilities prevent couples from enjoying the wet areas together.

Missing Signature Touches: Lacks certain five-star flourishes like a dedicated arrival experience for suite guests or a distinctive signature scent.

The Final Verdict: Is It Right For You?

My Personal Recommendation

Four Seasons Park Lane succeeds brilliantly at certain things while falling short on others. The rooftop spa is London’s finest, the Michelin-star restaurant delivers genuine quality, and service maintains Four Seasons reliability.

Is it worth the price? That depends entirely on your priorities. If you’re a spa enthusiast or booking a suite, the premium feels justified. However, if you’re booking a standard room and won’t extensively use the spa, I’d suggest considering alternatives like The Connaught or Claridge’s, which offer more distinctive room experiences.

For repeat visits to London, I’d stay here specifically for spa-focused trips or special occasions when a suite becomes worth the splurge. For general London visits where I’m mostly out exploring, the standard room pricing doesn’t justify itself against the competition.

Ultimately, this is a hotel that shines brightest for spa devotees and suite guests, rather than a one-size-fits-all luxury champion.

Who This Is Perfect For (And Who Should Skip It)

Book this hotel if you:
• Prioritize spa facilities and wellness experiences above most other amenities.
• Value Four Seasons service consistency and want that reliable luxury standard.
• Can stretch to a suite where the space, views, and amenities justify the significant cost.
• Want proximity to Hyde Park, Knightsbridge, and Mayfair with a quieter setting.
• Appreciate Michelin-star dining on-site without leaving the hotel.
• Are Middle Eastern travelers who prefer gender-separated spa facilities.

Skip this hotel if you:
• Need a full-length swimming pool for laps and serious swimming.
• Want maximum space in standard rooms for your money—competitors offer larger accommodations.
• Prefer boutique character and design distinction over branded luxury consistency.
• Are couples specifically wanting to enjoy spa facilities together.
• Are budget-conscious and won’t utilize the spa extensively—the premium pricing requires you to take advantage of facilities.

The Practical Guide: How to Book Smart

Essential Booking Tips & Information

Address: Hamilton Place, Park Lane, London W1J 7DR
Getting There: Hyde Park Corner Underground station is 2 minutes walk. Heathrow Airport is ~45 minutes by car. Valet parking at £75 per day.
Room Rates: Expect £800-£1,200+ per night for standard rooms. Suites start around £5,000 per night. April and December typically offer cheaper rates.
Check-In/Out: 3pm / Noon. Early arrivals can access the spa facilities—a valuable perk.
Dining Reservations: Book Pavyllon London well in advance. The £55 lunch menu offers excellent value.
Spa Bookings: Reserve treatments when you book your room—the best times fill quickly.
Money-Saving Tips: Look for the “Experience More” package offering up to £300 credit. Consider staying during April or December for lower rates.
Room Selection: Request a Hyde Park-facing room for better views. Corner rooms on upper floors offer more space.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is breakfast included?
No, breakfast is charged separately at Pavyllon London. However, it’s a Michelin-starred breakfast and highly recommended.

Does the hotel have a swimming pool?
There are vitality pools in the spa, but no full-length lap pool. A limitation compared to hotels like the Peninsula London.

Can non-guests use the spa?
Yes, for treatments and day packages, though prices are premium. Hotel guests receive priority booking.

How far is it from major attractions?
Buckingham Palace (~10 min walk), Harrods (10 min), Bond Street (15 min). Hyde Park is immediately adjacent.

Is the location noisy?
No. The hotel sits on quiet Hamilton Place, set back from traffic. Soundproofing is excellent.

Are the newly renovated suites available?
The 18 newly renovated suites launch in summer 2025. Rates start at £5,000 per night with butler service included.

What makes this different from Four Seasons at Ten Trinity Square?
This location is better for West End, Parks, and Knightsbridge. Ten Trinity Square is newer and better for the City and Tower of London. Choose based on which part of London you want to explore.