The Ritz London Hotel: 2026 Review, Rooms, Dining & Booking Guide

The Ritz London Hotel Review 2026: Complete Guide, Rooms & Booking Tips

I’ve been lucky enough to stay at some good hotels over the years, mostly in London and across Europe. You start to realise that a famous name and high prices don’t always mean you’ll have a great experience. After more than 10 years of exploring hotels and restaurants across the globe, I decided to channel my passion for exceptional experiences into honest, detailed reviews. This blog represents what I genuinely discover—the spectacular, the ordinary, and occasionally, the disappointing.

Standing beneath the copper lions that crown The Ritz’s Piccadilly facade, I found myself asking the central question: can a hotel opened in 1906 still justify rates starting from £960 per night? The building’s neoclassical architecture—designed by Charles Mewès and Arthur Davis—has barely changed in 120 years. But is historic grandeur enough to compete with London’s modern luxury properties?

This review will walk you through exactly what I found during my stay, from the moment those revolving doors swept me into the Long Gallery to my final conversation with the concierge team. I’ll share what justifies the premium pricing, where the experience falls short, and who should book here versus the countless five-star alternatives across London.

Check live rates and availability at The Ritz London.

First Impressions & Welcome

The History That Shapes Every Moment

César Ritz opened this hotel on 24 May 1906, eight years after establishing his Parisian namesake. The Swiss hotelier famously collapsed from stress while planning the opening dinner—a detail that somehow makes the hotel’s perfection more understandable. This was Ritz’s attempt to correct every mistake he’d made in Paris.

The building broke ground as one of London’s first steel-frame structures. Yet the exterior is pure French neoclassicism, deliberately evoking the arcaded Rue de Rivoli. What makes this history relevant? The Ritz received the Royal Warrant from King Charles III—the first and only hotel ever granted this distinction for banqueting and catering services. This represents over a century of hosting royalty, prime ministers, and cultural icons.

The Arrival Experience & Ambiance

My taxi pulled up to 150 Piccadilly, and a liveried doorman had my door open before the engine stopped. Within seconds, my bags vanished and I was guided through the revolving doors. Check-in happens at an actual desk, not a standing counter. The receptionist knew my name, reviewed my booking, and explained everything without making me feel rushed.

The Long Gallery greets you with a vista that stops conversation. This vaulted corridor runs virtually the length of the building, lined with mirrors and Louis XVI details. Everything glitters—the chandeliers required ceiling reinforcement. The gold-leaf gilding dates to 1906 and somehow never feels gaudy, just impossibly rich.

The dress code enforces this atmosphere rigorously. Gentlemen require jackets and ties for Afternoon Tea and The Restaurant. No jeans, no trainers, no sportswear. Some guests find this restrictive; I found it essential to preserving the experience. When everyone dresses formally, you’re participating in a living tradition.

The Accommodations

I stayed in a Deluxe King Room—the hotel’s most popular category, starting from £960 per night. The door opened to reveal 18th-century England: ornate fireplace, crystal chandelier, high ceilings, and windows overlooking Piccadilly.

The room felt genuinely spacious compared to many London luxury hotels, though not cavernous. Antique furnishings mixed with modern necessities: a discreet flat-screen television, complimentary WiFi, and a well-concealed minibar. The colour scheme—warm golds and creams—exactly matched the public spaces.

Bathroom & Critical Room Notes

The marble bathroom was a highlight. Designer toiletries, heated towel rails, and excellent water pressure exceeded expectations for a 1906 building. A separate bathtub and walk-in shower provided options, and the lighting actually allowed proper grooming.

However, several guests note that entry-level rooms can feel compact by modern standards. The hotel has 111 bedrooms and 25 suites, and not every room commands the same presence as the public spaces. If room size matters significantly, confirm dimensions before booking or consider upgrading to a suite.

The Service Philosophy in Action

The Ritz maintains a two-to-one staff-to-guest ratio. Walking through the Long Gallery, staff acknowledged me by name. When I mentioned I planned to visit a museum, the concierge handed me a printed map with the optimal route highlighted. This isn’t hovering—staff remain discreet. But when you need something, they materialise instantly.

Does The Ritz London Have a Pool or Spa?

No, The Ritz London does not have a swimming pool or spa facilities. This is one of the most frequently asked questions about the hotel, and it’s an important consideration at this price point.

What The Ritz Does Offer

• Fitness Centre: Well-equipped with modern Technogym cardio and resistance machines
• In-Room Treatments: The concierge can arrange spa treatments in your room
• Nearby Facilities: Staff can recommend and book access to nearby spa and pool facilities

Why No Pool or Spa?

The building dates to 1906 and is Grade II listed, making major structural modifications extremely difficult. The Ritz has always prioritized preserving its original Belle Époque architecture over adding modern wellness facilities.

If pool and spa access is essential: Consider The Savoy (has both pool and spa) or The Corinthia London (extensive ESPA spa with vitality pool).

Hotel Amenities

The Fitness Centre

The fitness centre is well-equipped with modern Technogym cardio and resistance machines. It’s compact but adequate for maintaining a routine, featuring towels, water, and a TV. For a more extensive workout or spa treatments, the concierge can arrange access to nearby facilities.

Other Facilities

• The business centre offers private meeting spaces and full administrative support.
• The iconic Palm Court is the dedicated setting for Afternoon Tea.
• The Rivoli Bar provides an Art Deco setting for cocktails.
• Several elegant private dining and event salons are available.

Dining at The Ritz London

Dining is a cornerstone of The Ritz experience, with multiple distinct venues each offering a unique atmosphere. Here’s what you need to know about each option.

The Ritz Restaurant (2 Michelin Stars)

The Restaurant holds two Michelin stars under Executive Chef John Williams MBE. The space itself is spectacular—a frescoed room with Louis XVI decor and crystal chandeliers. The cuisine showcases classical French technique with exceptional British ingredients, served primarily through tasting menus.

Important notes: Jacket and tie are strictly required for gentlemen. The tasting menu starts at £215. This is a formal, celebratory dining experience that feels perfectly integrated with the hotel’s historic grandeur.

For a detailed critique of the food, service, and tasting menu experience, read my in-depth review: The Ritz Restaurant London: A 2-Michelin-Star Review.

Afternoon Tea in The Palm Court

This is London’s most famous Afternoon Tea (from £95), served in the iconic Palm Court under a stunning glass dome. It’s a ceremonial experience with live piano, finely cut sandwiches, warm scones, and exquisite pastries. Booking is essential and should be made months in advance. The dress code is formal (jacket and tie for gentlemen).

Breakfast at The Ritz

Breakfast is served in the spectacular Restaurant (cost: £56 per adult) and is a lavish, formal affair with an extensive à la carte menu. The quality is impeccable, setting a tone for the day.

The Rivoli Bar

The Rivoli Bar offers an Art Deco setting for cocktails and light refreshments. It’s a more relaxed option, though still with a smart casual dress code (no jeans or trainers). The cocktail menu is extensive and creative, making it a perfect spot for a pre-dinner drink.

The Problems You Should Know About

Three Significant Issues at Premium Prices

1. Aggressive Accumulation of Costs: With rooms from £960, a 5% service charge on accommodations, breakfast at £56, parking at £65, and fine dining priced accordingly, the bill escalates dramatically. This is not a hotel for the budget-conscious.

2. Entry-Level Rooms vs. Public Space Grandeur: While suites are magnificent, standard rooms can feel compact and don’t always match the grandeur of the lobby. Some have less attractive views. The historic style may also feel dated to guests preferring minimalist design.

3. Rigid Formality Can Feel Restrictive: The strict dress code (jacket and tie required in key areas) is part of the brand, but it eliminates spontaneity. Guests arriving from long flights must change before accessing certain hotel areas. Enforcement can sometimes feel inconsistent.

Should You Book The Ritz? My Verdict

My Personal Recommendation

The Ritz London justifies its premium pricing for guests who value historical authenticity, impeccable service, and genuine Belle Époque luxury. This isn’t a hotel that compromises tradition for contemporary convenience—it proudly maintains standards established in 1906.

Is it perfect? No. The lack of a spa, the potential for small rooms, and the relentless formality are real drawbacks. Yet, it offers something increasingly rare: authentic luxury preserved across 120 years. For guests who prioritise heritage and theatre over trend, the investment can feel worthwhile.

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

Book The Ritz if you’re:

• Celebrating a milestone that deserves genuine grandeur.
• Fascinated by hotel history and Belle Époque elegance.
• Comfortable with formal dress codes as part of the experience.
• Prioritising exceptional, anticipatory service.

Consider alternatives if you’re:

• Preferring contemporary design and cutting-edge tech.
• Travelling with young children who may chafe at the formality.
• Seeking casual luxury in jeans and trainers.
• Wanting a full-service spa and pool on-site.
• On a tight budget where extra charges would cause stress.

Pros vs Cons at a Glance

✓ Pros	✗ Cons
2 Michelin star restaurant Royal Warrant holder Authentic Belle Époque luxury Exceptional 2:1 staff ratio Prime Piccadilly location Historic 1906 architecture	No swimming pool or spa Strict dress code Entry rooms can be small Costs accumulate quickly Very formal atmosphere Not family-friendly

Location & Getting There

Address & Transport Links

Address: 150 Piccadilly, London W1J 9BR

Nearest Underground:

• Green Park: 3-minute walk (Jubilee, Piccadilly, Victoria lines)
• Piccadilly Circus: 8-minute walk

Walking Distance to Major Attractions

• Buckingham Palace: 10 minutes
• Royal Academy of Arts: 5 minutes
• Fortnum & Mason: 3 minutes
• Bond Street shopping: 12 minutes
• Hyde Park: 8 minutes

Airport Transfers

• Heathrow: 40-60 minutes by taxi or private car
• Gatwick: 60-90 minutes
• London City Airport: 35-45 minutes

The concierge can arrange airport transfers and provide detailed directions for any destination.

How to Book Smart and Save Money

Essential Booking Tips & Information

• Address: 150 Piccadilly, London W1J 9BR. Green Park Tube is 3 minutes away.
• 2026 Room Rates: Deluxe King from £960, Junior Suites from £1,645. Prices + 5% service charge.
• What’s Included: WiFi, 24hr room service, fitness centre, concierge.
• What Costs Extra: Breakfast (£56), parking (£65/24hrs), rollaway beds (£115), celebration cakes.
• Check-in/out: 3:00 PM / 12:00 PM. Early/Late subject to availability & fee.
• Booking Strategy: Book direct for best selection. Consider the “Evening Afternoon Tea” (Mon-Thu, Jan-Mar) for a £14 saving at £81pp. Join The Leading Hotels of the World for potential benefits.

Complete Price Breakdown 2026

Pricing last verified: January 8, 2026

Item	Price
Accommodations
Deluxe King Room (per night)	£960
Junior Suite (per night)	£1,645
Service Charge on Rooms	+5%
Dining
Breakfast (per adult)	£56
Breakfast (per child)	£46
Afternoon Tea	£95
Restaurant Tasting Menu	from £215
Additional Costs
Parking (24 hours)	£65
Rollaway Bed	£115

*All prices subject to change. Always confirm current rates when booking.

Frequently Asked Questions About The Ritz London

Who owns The Ritz London?

The Ritz London is owned by the billionaire Barclay brothers (Sir David and Sir Frederick Barclay) via their company, Ellerman Investments. The hotel has been under their ownership since 1995 when they purchased it for approximately £80 million.

Does The Ritz London have a swimming pool?

No, The Ritz London does not have a swimming pool. The hotel has a well-equipped fitness centre with Technogym equipment, but no pool facilities. The concierge can recommend nearby hotels or clubs with pool access if needed.

Does The Ritz London have a spa?

No, The Ritz London does not have a spa. However, the concierge can arrange in-room spa treatments or recommend excellent nearby spa facilities for guests.

Is breakfast included in the room rate?

No, breakfast is an additional cost of £56 per adult and £46 per child, served in The Restaurant or via room service.

How strict is the dress code?

Very strict for Afternoon Tea, The Restaurant, and The Terrace. Jacket and tie for gentlemen, no jeans or trainers. Smart casual applies at breakfast and the Rivoli Bar, but trainers and sportswear are still prohibited hotel-wide.

Are the rooms really small?

Entry-level rooms can feel compact by modern luxury standards, especially compared to the vast public spaces. Suites are much more spacious. Always check the square meterage of the specific room category before booking.

How does The Ritz compare to other London luxury hotels like The Savoy or Claridge’s?

The Ritz is more formal and historically “French” in its Louis XVI style. The Savoy has more Art Deco flair and a legendary theatre bar. Claridge’s is similarly prestigious but with a slightly more contemporary (though still classic) design sense. The Ritz’s dress code is the most stringent.

Is it family-friendly?

Children are welcome, with amenities like children’s menus and in-room gaming consoles. However, the formal atmosphere and dress code mean it’s best suited for well-behaved older children or very special family occasions.

Can non-guests use the spa or pool?

The hotel has no spa or pool. The fitness centre is for guests only.

What’s the cancellation policy?

This varies by rate type. Flexible rates often allow free cancellation 24-72 hours before arrival. Advanced Purchase rates are typically non-refundable. Always confirm the specific terms at the time of booking.