Review of Corinthia London

Since its debut in 2011, Corinthia London has steadily earned a reputation as one of the capital’s most prestigious luxury hotels, consistently ranking among the top ten in London. Perfectly positioned in Westminster, just steps from Downing Street, the property masterfully blends history and modernity by uniting the former Metropole Hotel and the stately 10 Whitehall Place, once a Ministry of Defence building.

The hotel presents 283 immaculately appointed rooms—including 58 suites—alongside three acclaimed restaurants, two sophisticated bars (including Velvet, helmed by legendary mixologist Salvatore Calabrese), a signature floral boutique, and the award-winning ESPA Life at Corinthia spa, home to an exquisite subterranean pool—frequently cited as one of London’s finest wellness destinations. 

Entering the Crystal Moon Lounge, guests are greeted by the breathtaking Full Moon Chandelier, a mesmerizing Chafik Gasmi design composed of 1,001 Baccarat crystal spheres—one in vibrant red—making it a striking centerpiece and a true work of art unique among the city’s luxury hotels.

Corinthia London has welcomed a constellation of A-list celebrities, including Tom Cruise and Beyoncé, and its opulent interiors have served as the backdrop for major film and television productions such as “Red Sparrow” and “Slow Horses.” With its extensive range of room types, the hotel caters effortlessly to couples, families, and high-profile guests alike.

Founded in Malta in 1962, Corinthia Hotels now operates nine properties across Europe and beyond, with new openings in Rome, Bucharest, New York (The Surrey), Qatar, and the Maldives. The London flagship epitomizes the group’s commitment to sophisticated hospitality and timeless elegance.

Corinthia London enjoys a commanding location on the corner of Northumberland Avenue and Whitehall Place, overlooking the River Thames and adjacent to the Hungerford and Golden Jubilee Bridges. As evening descends, the illuminated London Eye transforms the view from the hotel entrance into a truly spectacular urban tableau. 

Whitehall is the epicenter of British government, dotted with historic ministry buildings. The iconic 10 Downing Street, residence of the Prime Minister, is an easy four-minute stroll away, underscoring the hotel’s proximity to the heart of UK politics.

Guests are within walking distance of London’s most celebrated landmarks: Trafalgar Square with its majestic Nelson’s Column, the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey, Covent Garden’s vibrant markets and opera house, the West End’s renowned theatres, and the eclectic energy of Soho and Chinatown. 

Convenient transport links abound—Westminster and Charing Cross Underground stations are just minutes away, providing swift access across London and beyond.

Travelers arriving by Eurostar can reach St Pancras International in around 20 minutes by car or Tube. Paddington Station (for the Heathrow Express) and Victoria Station (for the Gatwick Express) are each approximately a 15-minute drive. London Heathrow Airport is about an hour’s journey by car, while London City Airport—ideal for European connections—is accessible in under 30 minutes by taxi.

Corinthia London features 225 guest rooms and 58 suites, providing an extensive selection of accommodations to suit every guest profile. The property’s signature penthouses—Royal, Hamilton, Musician’s, Writer’s, Whitehall, Explorer’s, and Actor’s—set the standard for luxury in London, each offering panoramic views, expansive living spaces, and personalized service. Whether you’re gazing out over the Thames or Whitehall, every penthouse boasts a unique character and an abundance of natural light.

The Royal Penthouse, spanning over 5,000 square feet (465 square meters), is among London’s most sought-after two-bedroom suites. The highlight is a private rooftop terrace with jaw-dropping vistas of the South Bank skyline, including The Shard and the London Eye. The suite encompasses two lavish bedrooms, a dedicated spa suite, powder room, private lift, well-equipped kitchen with wine cellar, and a full complement of butler and driver services. Marble bathrooms with underfloor heating, rainfall showers, and a curated selection of ESPA amenities deliver a truly indulgent experience. 

The other signature penthouses each offer distinctive features—such as a Steinway piano in the Musician’s Penthouse or an outdoor chessboard in the Whitehall Penthouse—making them ideal for bespoke luxury stays.

Suites—including River, London, Trafalgar, Whitehall, and Garden categories—offer a harmonious blend of comfort and sophistication, with deep soaking tubs (complete with built-in TVs), sumptuous bedding, and elegantly appointed living spaces. After a day exploring London’s cultural treasures, these suites are a sanctuary of calm.

Even entry-level Superior Rooms uphold the hotel’s high standards, featuring Nespresso machines, ultra-high-definition TVs, fully stocked minibars, and plush furnishings. The beds—outfitted with Hypnos or Hästens mattresses—promise restorative sleep, complemented by an array of soft pillows. For ultimate relaxation, schedule a wake-up call: the beds are so inviting, you’ll be tempted to linger well past sunrise.

Attention to detail is evident throughout every accommodation category, from the most exclusive penthouse to the classic guest rooms. This consistent commitment to quality is what sets Corinthia London apart as a true luxury destination.

Spanning seven floors, Corinthia London’s amenities are anchored by the exceptional ESPA Life at Corinthia, occupying four dedicated levels and recognized as the largest hotel spa in the city at 3,300 square meters.

Founded by wellness pioneer Susan Harmsworth, ESPA has become synonymous with holistic luxury. Here, guests can choose from 17 treatment rooms, receiving everything from advanced facials and deep-tissue massages to acupuncture and reflexology, all administered by expert therapists. The spa’s partnership with Dr. Barbara Sturm brings leading-edge anti-aging treatments to the heart of London.

From arrival to departure, the spa envelops you in tranquility. Highlights include sleep pods, serene relaxation spaces, a vitality pool with hydrotherapy jets, an invigorating ice fountain, rainforest showers, steam rooms, and a dramatic amphitheater sauna—an architectural marvel that redefines the spa experience. The main pool is kept at a perfectly balanced temperature, and children are welcome during designated hours.

Guests can also indulge in Afternoon Tea in the Spa Lounge, where Champagne adds a celebratory touch to the wellness journey.

The cutting-edge fitness center features the latest Technogym equipment, a Pilates studio, a yoga shala, and a private training area for bespoke workouts. 

The on-site Daniel Calvin salon provides expert hair styling and grooming.

FLOWERBX, the hotel’s resident florist, is a sensory delight. This boutique offers exquisite blooms—sourced from the best growers in Europe—and is a haven for floral enthusiasts. The experience is multisensory, from the intoxicating scents and vibrant colors to the tactile pleasure of fresh stems and, on occasion, complimentary Charbonnel et Walker Champagne truffles.

Business travelers are well catered for with a fully equipped Business Centre, six flexible meeting rooms with state-of-the-art technology, and a grand Ballroom that accommodates up to 350 guests for gala events, weddings, or corporate celebrations.

Staying at Corinthia London is like being welcomed into the home of a cultured, well-travelled relative—refined, inviting, and brimming with personality.

The building’s grand historic façade is quintessentially London, while the interiors showcase a seamless blend of classical architecture and modern luxury.

From the gracious doormen to the attentive housekeeping staff, every member of the team is committed to delivering personalized, intuitive service without pretension. 

Throughout the property, you’ll find a curated palette of premium materials: gleaming marble, polished woods, gleaming metals, plush carpets, and flowing drapery. 

Art, literature, and florals are central to the hotel’s aesthetic. The lobby’s ever-changing flower displays are vibrant and meticulously arranged, while bespoke artworks and thoughtfully chosen books adorn public spaces and guest rooms alike, creating an atmosphere of cultured sophistication. 

Every detail has been thoughtfully considered, ensuring a sense of harmony and understated opulence throughout the property.

For those staying in the penthouse suites, mornings begin with fresh coffee or tea delivered by your personal butler—a hallmark of Corinthia’s tailored service. All rooms and suites feature Nespresso machines, while in-room breakfast is available for a relaxed start to the day.

After a morning stroll along Whitehall, guests can indulge in breakfast at The Northall, which offers both à la carte and buffet options. The spread is impressive: artisanal breads and pastries, cheeses, charcuterie, smoked salmon, eggs cooked to order, fresh juices, specialty teas, and gourmet coffees. The breakfast experience here is so generous, it easily carries you through to lunch.

Service is attentive and efficient, striking the perfect balance between warmth and professionalism.

Alternatively, enjoy a coffee and pastry beneath the iconic chandelier in the Crystal Moon Lounge. 

Lunch is served at The Northall or The Garden. Open during spring and summer, The Garden offers alfresco dining from midday to midnight, featuring Italian-inspired dishes such as pizzette, prime steaks, fresh seafood, soups, and decadent tiramisu. The wine list is expertly curated, with highlights including top Super Tuscans. Off-peak hours, guests can enjoy a cigar and Champagne in the tranquil outdoor setting.

The Northall’s lunch and renowned Sunday roast are local favorites, with classic British dishes like Devon lamb, Caesar salad, and oysters taking center stage.

The Crystal Moon Lounge is the setting for Corinthia’s signature Afternoon Tea, a must for visitors. Sip on Billecart-Salmon Rosé or Cristal Champagne, accompanied by delicate sandwiches, patisserie, and even caviar. The bespoke tea menu includes innovative options like Copenhagen sparkling tea.

For dinner, The Garden remains open until midnight, while The Northall offers comforting, seasonal fare on select evenings. The culinary highlight is Kerridge’s Bar & Grill, led by Michelin-starred chef Tom Kerridge. His menu features British classics with a creative twist—think lamb cutlets with morels, Wagyu burgers, and North Sea cod bouillabaisse. Vegan and children’s menus are also available, reflecting a thoughtful approach to contemporary dining.

After dinner, guests can unwind at The Northall Bar or head to Velvet, the hotel’s celebrated Champagne and cocktail bar. Under the masterful direction of Salvatore Calabrese, Velvet serves a collection of signature cocktails inspired by icons from Lady Gaga to Coco Chanel. “Whistle While You Sip”—a blend of vodka, St Germain, apple, sencha tea, and Eve Mediterranean liqueur—is a personal favorite, showcasing creative mixology at its finest.

The hotel’s pastry team deserves special mention for their exquisite desserts and pastries, which linger in memory long after your stay.

KERRIDGE'S BAR & GRILL
RESTAURANT
Monday to Saturday, 12:00–14:30, 17:30–22:30
Sunday, 12:00–21:00
BAR
Monday to Saturday, 12:00–23:30
Sunday, 12:00–22:30

THE NORTHALL
BREAKFAST
Monday to Friday, 6:30–10:30
Saturday and Sunday, 7:00–11:00
LUNCH
Wednesday to Friday, 12:00–14:30
Saturday, 12:30–14:30
Sunday, 12:30–16:00
DINNER
Wednesday to Saturday, 17:30–21:30

THE NORTHALL BAR
Daily, 12:00–00:00

VELVET by Salvatore Calabrese
Tuesday to Saturday, 17:00–01:00
Live music: Tuesday to Saturday, 21:00–00:00

THE GARDEN
Lunch & dinner: 12:00–00:00
Last food order: 22:15
Last drink order: 23:30
Non-smoking: 12:00–15:00, 18:00–21:00

THE CRYSTAL MOON LOUNGE
Monday to Sunday, 8:00–00:00
AFTERNOON TEA
Monday to Friday, 14:00–18:00
Saturday to Sunday, 13:00–19:00

** Private dining spaces are available at The Northall and Kerridge’s Bar & Grill.

Corinthia Hotels upholds a robust sustainability program, with each property—including Corinthia London—adhering to comprehensive eco-friendly and socially responsible standards.

Corinthia London has made significant strides toward reducing its environmental impact, guided by a holistic sustainability policy. The hotel employs advanced energy-saving technologies such as LED lighting, state-of-the-art HVAC systems, and intelligent building controls. Waste reduction and recycling are prioritized throughout the property, and water conservation is supported by efficient fixtures and guest education programs. The commitment to sustainable sourcing extends to working with local, ethical suppliers and emphasizing responsible procurement.

The group continues to support global initiatives, notably maintaining its partnership with Just a Drop, an international charity focused on providing clean water and sanitation to underserved communities. In 2025, Corinthia contributed to projects in Cambodia and, in recent years, has supported similar efforts in Tanzania, Zambia, Uganda, and Kenya, collectively benefiting over 45,000 people.

The Corinthia London team also champions social causes closer to home, such as fundraising for the Sepsis Trust in honor of a colleague, demonstrating a culture of compassion and community engagement.

• ESPA Life Spa – The spa is so inviting, even the city’s finest shopping and sightseeing can’t compete. I found myself drawn back again and again to indulge in the luxurious facilities: plush robes, invigorating rain showers, a serene pool, a state-of-the-art sauna, steam room, and the energizing vitality pool. This is urban wellness at its pinnacle.
• Suites – The suites are a masterclass in comfort and style: light-filled, contemporary, and sumptuously appointed with plush bedding, marble-clad bathrooms, ESPA amenities, and sweeping views. Little touches—artwork, books, fresh flowers, and irresistible pastries—make each stay feel deeply personal and indulgent. 
• Service – The team’s genuine warmth and professionalism are evident from the moment you arrive. Every guest, whether celebrity or first-timer, receives the same thoughtful attention. The welcome is sincere, the gestures generous (don’t miss the sweet treats at reception), and the atmosphere effortlessly welcoming.Varun SharmaEditor in ChiefBusinessclass

• Memorable Experiences – Our goal is for every guest to leave Corinthia London uplifted, carrying cherished memories that linger long after departure.
• Versatile Facilities – Whether you seek privacy or wish to be at the center of the action, the hotel’s extensive restaurants, bars, spa, and breathtaking accommodations provide the perfect setting for any occasion. Our award-winning spa and selection of rooms, suites, and penthouses are designed to inspire.
• Creating Magic – A truly great hotel elevates your mood and provides spaces you genuinely want to inhabit. At Corinthia London, we’re dedicated to crafting meaningful moments and magical experiences that resonate with every guest.Thomas Kochs Managing Director Corinthia London