The Connaught

Drinks were just OK but radically overpriced. The service was atrocious, especially considering they add on an automatic gratuity. We sat there ready to leave for half an hour but no one would come over or even make eye contact so we could ask for a check. Plenty of parties showed up to be seated and were turned around during this time, they were told there was no space (despite there being people actively looking to leave) and the host wouldn't even put them on a waiting list. Will definitely never come here again. Not sure why it has any accolades.

Cannot say enough good things about our stay at the Connaught hotel last month! The room was not large (to be expected) but was very well appointed and even had a dyson blow dryer! Our room was lovely but it was the service throughout our stay that I felt most impressed by. There was literally not one person that we interacted with that was not a delight. Onto the food. The breakfast each morning at Jean-Georges was included in our stay and was dynamite. Not sure what they feed their chickens in the UK but I have never had a more vibrant orange scrambled egg. While the eggs were delicious, the standout to me was the yogurt with granola and berries. Simple, but just trust me and order it. Our last day we ate lunch at the Connaught Grill and it was probably my favorite meal from our entire trip. At our servers suggestion, we started with the beetroot carpaccio. It was light and divine and I could have eaten 3 plates. For our mains, my husband got the Japanese black beef sirloin and I got the vegetarian eggplant dish. Was a little hesitant to go vegetarian at a steak restaurant but my god this dish was amazing. Had a bite of the steak and was very impressed with that as well! Lots of great places to eat in London but I would put this at the top of my list if we were going back.

Probably the toughest review I've ever done. This hotel was really great, but there is one HUGE problem. It has the worst selection of TV channels in history. Now, I'm not one to sit in the hotel and watch TV, but maybe before bed, maybe a bit while the Mrs. is in the shower. Maybe I had a long day and I'm in for a 1 hour nap, regardless, it's really killed the vibe, as you can see from it taking up my entire review. The rest of the hotel was great. Guy who checked me in, awesome. Room service and cleaning, awesome. And truly, the thing that took The Connaught from the 4 stars that they earned with the TV to 5 stars, was the doormen. They are worth a few stars, truly the nicest most genuine people you'd ever meet. That's what really puts this place over the top, great people! But seriously get that TV shit fixed because I'd almost rather stay at a motel in Alabama. At least they have HBO. Tragic honestly, I'm writing this review while watching a garbage BBC documentary about monkeys, while sitting in this insanely expensive and nice hotel room (bathroom floors are heated) . I don't want to be writing this review right now, but you have some issues that need to be taken care of.

Mid review for their mid afternoon tea. Service and location are both 5 stars however food sandwiches and pastries were bland.

We went to a afternoon tea at Connaught. After we previously tried the fabulous afternoon tea at Claridges. A nice bright small well designed room with a big windows facing a busy Mayfair street. We decided go with assam breakfast tea and you can try different type of tea. Various sandwiches, scones and pastries came out. My favorite was turkey and egg sandwich. Pasties was all good. Wish scone is smaller. Carrot cake was bit dry. There was a crown shape cookie to celebrate platinum jubilee which was a sweet touch especially on the way to here while waiting for a taxi, we saw prince william and Kate in the car driving by. Overall I would give 4.5 because of service, it was bit slow appears to be not efficiently organized and when we came in, we had 10 min wait to get to seated not because of the sitting capacity but due to poor coordination. We also had to reminde mutuel times for our drink orders and bring the bills etc.

THIS REVIEW IS ABOUT AFTERNOON TEA (NOT THE HOTEL) This newly renovated tea room is beautiful, but the service and the food has become substantially worse. As this used to be one of my favorite spots, I was quite excited to experience this new tea. Much to my disappointment, there were only a few highlights to this tea. Sandwiches - the cucumber sandwich was fine, but nothing spectacular. The egg sandwich was nice. Avoid the ham sandwich. I don't eat salmon so I can't speak for it. The avocado sandwich (substitute for the salmon) was quite literally just mayonnaise, avocado, and white bread - it lacked any semblance of flavor. Their new version of the coronation chicken was perhaps the worst disappointment - it was less than mediocre and nothing like their wonderful, old recipe. Overall - the sandwiches lacked flavor and were a bad start to an expensive meal. There was also random bits of crust on many of the sandwiches. Tea selection - extremely limited tea selection. I recommend the jasmine pearl tea as I find it to be a classic floral, green tea. Unfortunately, all of their teas came in prepackaged bags - so they do not serve loose leaf tea, and you can definitely tell the difference. Scones - I found them to be gummy and a bit dense. However, they were served warm and the accompanying homemade strawberry jam was fantastic. Pastries - laughably cheap and disappointing. We received the vegan desserts as most of their other pastries contain gelatin made from fish which I do not eat. I must say the coconut sorbet was one of the most delicious desserts I've had at tea. Further, the shortbread cookies served with the fantastic, high quality chocolate were they only reasons I did not give this tea a one star review. But, other than that star, the pastries were bland, room temperature and unexciting. Aside from their flavor, they lacked any sort of visual beauty. Service - lacking. We routinely would wait 15 mins or more to ask our waiters for more water or tea. Additionally, when our tea was brought out, they only brought mine and one of my companion's tea, but they did not bring my other three companions teas. The tea was never refreshed without asking. The sandwiches and scones were never refreshed until we saw a busboy who said he would bring us some more. This used to be one of my favorite spots for tea. In the heart of Mayfair at a classic hotel, you expect perfection - unfortunately, their new version of afternoon tea does not deliver. I would never come back here in its current state. Until they change their chef, I will continue to visit my other favorite spots.

Simply amazing desserts in the patisserie at a high price. Take out is better as desserts seemed priced differently for eating in the cafe, plus you pay VAT and a service fee. We were okay with the cost, but we felt hit multiple times for the same thing without knowing it before ordering.

OMG just got in last night. Worst experience ever- I'm having major jet lag - lack of sleep is not helping- either is postage size room , having to have people come up kate last night to show me how to turn off lights that the housekeeper had turn on when they cane in to turn down the room - the A/C does not appear to work -shower is impossible to get into & THERE WAS NO HOT WATER in my shower just now - really ready to go back to LA - not a great start to celebration vacation VERY 5.22.19 Time for an update - they were unable to move my room until the night of 5.20- new room so much better- full shower which was the most important request that I had. I'm guessing this review won't make a difference due to the type of people who stay here don't make Social media an important part of their lives The did get me the better room. Service is amazing - every one is as helpful as they can be Thank you

This will be my go-to hotel when in London. We were updated to a junior suite and I'm spoiled now. As soon as I entered the hotel, hair messy and sleepy after driving from York, two people jumped to help me with a hug smile on their face. The check in process was quick. The valet service was kind. The room was fantastic and with a lot of ... panache? Personality? Hm. I can't find the word but I loved it. There was even a rose on my nightstand and cake because of my birthday :) The next day the butler breakfast was on time and exactly at the temperature that I requested. I'm in love. Oh! And the bar is a fun place to hang out! No dress code and fantastic ambiance and drinks. At the beginning of my trip I stayed at the Ritz and service was great, too. But I will be coming to The Connaught next time I'm in London.

Very nice service and setting. But not a great value overall. Can get more satisfying meals for much less

I went to visit my friend who was fortunate to be staying at The Connaught in Mayfair and this is certainly luxury at its best. On arriving in a black cab, the doorman immediately opened the door to help me inside. I felt like such a lady! I peeked into the restaurant which is beautiful - very decadent and comfortable. The interior of the hotel is traditionally English and the staff are fantastic. My friend was staying in one of the Superior King rooms which is actually smaller than I envisaged but beautiful. The bed is absolutely huge and there is even a TV practically inside the bathtub. We ordered room service of a glass of wine each and sushi which arrived in record time. If you are lucky enough to be able to stay here - make the most of the wonderful service. Reception will help out with any requests which you may not have time to take care of - booking restaurant reservations for example. The hotel doesn't have a spa but if you request a treatment will send you to Claridges just around the corner. Oh for the life!

Great tea service here, along with good company. I recommend it. Service was impeccable as well.

Yea! It was my first time having afternoon tea, so it's safe to say I was VERY excited. Although I wasn't dressed as nicely as I wanted to be, they made us feel comfortable and they were very very nice. I love the decor, and even the view outside was lovely (it had rained, so view was perfect!). You order tea first (and/or champagne if you want). I had the green tea and my friend ordered the earl grey. It comes in a cute teapot which you can pour refills yourself, or the waiter does it from time to time. He also replaced our teapots if the tea got cold. Then come the courses. We had tea cakes, sandwiches, mini desserts, and finally topped it off with scones and more dessert. You can ask for more sandwiches etc. if you want. But trust me, you will get full, so don't eat too much! The waiter was charming and explained all the teas they offered and the waitress who brought our courses was an expert in all the little delicacies brought out. I felt like I was at a sane Alice tea party. I finally got to try clotted cream, which is just like a dense, thick, super heavy butter. It is so dense, you just have to experience it firsthand. As for the food? I could spend all day talking about the delicate, thinly sliced cucumbers in the cucumber sandwich, or the light green tea cake or saffron topped chocolate bomb. But I'll just leave you with some pictures to see for yourself. Bottom line: The experience is very memorable; the food and desserts are amazing/interesting, and the service is top notch. I would highly recommend coming here for noon tea.

Where do I even start with The Connaught? I stay here every time I visit London and am always reminded of what a privilege to be a guest here is. The hotel itself is simply gorgeous, with its grand entrance drive, complete with always full flower boxes, a bevy of beautiful automobiles, one is greeted in style with every arrival. The lobby is warm with dark wood furnishings and pleasant staff who are equally as warm and welcoming. Both bars and restaurants are excellent, and don't miss the weekend brunch here! Rooms are on the smaller size but elegantly furnished and all the amenities and fixtures one would expect from a five star hotel. The bathrooms are especially luxurious and you will feel very pampered during your stay. The maid service is beyond excellent and people really go out of their way to make your stay one of a kind. The spa is amazing and I would highly recommend booking yourself a service, especially if you have a long flight prior to your arrival. The staff here are pros and the pool and steam room are top notch. My favourite thing about The Connaught is the location. In the middle of Mayfair, surrounded by luxurious shops and restaurants, you truly feel you are in a magical space in London (because you are). Being a runner, I love the proximity to Hyde Park and I always feel safe running solo in the area even in the early mornings. I really cannot say enough good things about The Connaught. I see it as my home away from home and look forward to each of my stays here.

Highlights- afternoon tea, top notch hotel personel (helped me get a afternoon tea reservation last minute at claridges which is next to impossible), adequate gym with nice equipment and free weights, waterfall pool...very relaxing and not crowded, and Connaught bar had nice drinks, atmosphere but expensive even for hotel bar standards. Drawbacks- none really. Will definitely come back.

The best martini in the free world! Ricardo mixed this group the finest of martinis. Trolley cart, great conversation and wonderful atmosphere. The bar, restaurant and hotel are world class.

Our stay at The Connaught exceeded our expectations. We were deciding between The Savoy, Claridge's and the Shangri-La at the Shard and could not have been happier with our choice. Our suite, room 26 on the mezzanine level in the contemporary section of the hotel, was very, very quiet. Check in was quick, friendly and informative with a quick tour of the main level of the hotel. After check-in, questions regarding the room safe and the tricky to close window/door were immediately addressed. The room came with Burberry raincoats and an umbrella to borrow in case we'd forgotten ours. Enjoyed a delicious breakfast of eggs Benedict with extra crispy thick cut bacon. The hotel's location can't be beat for strolling around Mayfair. Easy Tube access for getting to the V&A and other sites. We will definitely stay at The Connaught on future visits to London.

It is 50£ per person for high tea and worth it. Wonderful atmosphere, outstanding service - we even had a live harpist playing everything from Mozart to John Legend. They do tend to turn their tables, though, so after a couple hours they may move you to another table. Then you'll ask yourself, how did those 2 hours go by so quickly? :-)

So I'm in England for a week with family. Half of the family is female and wanted to go to High Tea. Sounds fine with me, I'll go to the pub but that didn't fly and all the guys ended up at tea too. Don't tell anyone. It was actually quite a feast. Sandwiches, desserts, scones with quite possibly the greatest condiment (?) ever created - clotted cream. We were so stuffed, delayed dinner about 2+ hours because of it. Beautiful hotel with the finest service. Not my thing usually but a one time thing with wife and family....worth it.

The afternoon tea at the Espelette was an experience to remember. The service was a little slow, especially since we arrived a bit early and had to kill time before our scheduled afternoon tea, but the staff helping us during the tea service more than made up for it. They were attentive, helpful, flexible, and humorous, and that really added to the experience. I had the Paris tea, which had a beautiful fruity aroma that paired really well with the desserts (the berry-flavored ones in particular). The courses came in the typical high-tea style: finger sandwiches, bite-sized desserts, followed by scones and tea cakes. Of the finger sandwiches, my least favorite was the cucumber sandwich because it was rather tasteless. The rest were all excellent -- the smoked salmon sandwich, egg salad sandwich, and the chicken aubergine sandwich. The chicken aubergine sandwich was probably my favorite because it was different from the regular finger sandwiches. It had a firmer bread (almost like a mini-ciabatta), and had a teriyaki-like sauce to go with the juicy chicken and aubergine. The desserts were all pretty good. There were quite a bit of strawberry creations, which helped bring out the fruitiness of my Paris tea. IMO the least successful was the matcha puff since the matcha flavor didn't really work with the rest of the filling. My personal favorite was the coffee chocolate hazelnut mousse. Those are super-classic flavor combinations that just go together. Then comes the scones. Oh the scones, the golden, buttery, crumbly, moist, delicious, scrumptious scones. I don't think I've ever had a scone so perfectly baked! Combine that with the clotted cream and Espelette's special jams (we picked the pineapple + vanilla and the rhubarb + strawberry + raspberry?), and it's ambrosia! I couldn't help myself but keep stuffing my face... Last came the cakes -- chocolate and rose raspberry cakes. They were not as impressive after the scones, and tasted a bit dry. Oh well, I was perfectly happy with the scones and couldn't really eat anymore after that.

The flight over about killed me, and then I arrived at the Connaught with the full on flu. When I checked in, the receptionist said they would take good care of me--and boy did they ever. Initially I was too sick at first to appreciate my lovely room and huge bed, but by day two I begin to realize I was in no Hilton. James--my private butler--yes they assign me a butler as I was in need of special assistance--brought me medicine and broth--and eventually a doctor when my fever wouldn't break. By the 3rd day I was back to normal--just in time to go to work, but I had 3 additional nights of pure bliss. The high tea was fantastic and the tube was right around the corner. Not for those watching every pound but what a treat it was.

For years, I have fantasized about what it would be like to have High Tea. I imagined a beautiful interior with large windows that would allow for tons of natural lighting, lush chairs to perch on, delicate china to eat upon, cute and delicious little things to nibble on, silver tongs for the adorable cubes of sugar... and a kick ass waiter with a posh 'tude. So when I came to London for the first time, I put High Tea on the top of my priorities list. I am so fortunate my friend knew about this place because it truly met my expectations and more. My friend and I were seated immediately after arriving and were greeted by our French waiter (+1 for 'tude)! He pulled out the chairs for us and placed the napkins on our laps in such a fluid manner that I didn't even realize someone else was doing this for me! Skills, I'd say. The tea room was also so beautiful and allowed for all the light from the outside to pour in! As a Seattlite, I'm acutely aware of how precious sunshine is... as I'm sure Londoners are. Anyway, he places our menus in front of us and proceeds to describe every single thing that we are about to enjoy. He discussed the savories, the pastries, the scones, the French imported jams and of course, the Tea! We chose the Paris blend which was so delicious that we couldn't stop drinking it! Here's the menu :(http://www.the-connaught.co.uk/uploadedFiles/Espelette_Tea_FairTrade.pdf) What's also fantastic was how efficient the whole staff was! Our food and tea was replenished constantly and the waiters were very attentive to our needs. There was no need to flag down someone for assistance because it seems they just *knew* when you needed something! Odd... but I like it. As for the price, it was quite steep (and shocking to see when it was converted to $$ on my credit card statement), but totally worth every penny (or pence). I will definitely come back whenever I find myself back in London.

I've been to many teas over the years and this is definitely not my top favorite, but here are some things I liked--the scones (unless you don't like "doughy" ones), the coconut sorbet that was with the desserts (very light and fresh), and the carrot cake, which tasted more like cinnamon bread (which I like). Parts of the sandwiches had crust on them, though, and the pastries were uneven in distribution, not having one for each person. I like the strawberry jam here a lot (it's smooth and very strawberry-ish in taste, which one should expect from strawberry jam). Also, we were never asked if we'd like to switch teas, and the tea given to us at the end was not the tea described to us as the seasonal tea. Leaves are in my sister's tea, as well, because the teabag broke...

One of the best afternoon tea experiences! The service, view, food, and tea were all exquisite! I have tried a few places for tea in London, but this hotel is one of the best!

We've just wrapped up our stay at the Connaught and I must say, it was lovely. Though they first put us in a itty-bitty room with barely a window, my mother raised a fuss and we eventually got placed in a large room overlooking Mount Street. Not a fan of the 8 am jackhammer wake-up calls from the construction outside, but what can you do. First-class service. Breakfast in bed, turn-down service, knowledgeable concierges. The restaurant downstairs was overrated but the hotel itself is wonderful. The spa in the basement was relaxing and accommodating. The staff was helpful and always had a smile on (regardless of how they may have felt about our constant neediness.) I would not necessarily recommend Espelette downstairs but the Connaught Bar is pretty spectacular for a drink before or after dinner.

I love the Connaught. And while we have never stayed at the hotel, we love to come for the Coburg Bar (see separate review for the bar). I also brought my mother here for afternoon tea at the Espelette when she visited us in London this summer. What can I say? This place is splendid. The atmosphere in the Espelette is very light and airy during the day, no matter how gloomy the weather outside (which is a definite plus in a land where there are three gloomy days for every sunny one!). Tea was an experience; although, I don't think it was anything out-of-the-ordinary in terms of high tea in London. The tea selection was fantastic, as was the champagne. The tea sandwiches were pretty standard, and so were the sweets. All in all, it was a very relaxing experience for a weekend afternoon. Albeit, an expensive one!

My friend and I went there for the afternoon tea on Monday. Overall the quality is great! 5 star for food, 3 star for service. Pros: Great testing sandwiches! Love the smoke salmon and crab ones. Definitely one of the best fingering sandwiches I've ever had! The french bakeries and scones were very very delicious. Cons: Last time I visited London I had afternoon tea at the Corinthia Hotel, they brought a full sret of the french bakeries after we finished ours, and asked if there is anything we wanted more (almst like an All-you-can-eat style there). This time I made sure to ask them before we started, if it's ok to bring more once we are done (because I went with a friend, we needed to figure out if we are going to share every bite), and he promised me that's ok. However when we were done with all 6 french bakeries and asked if we could get more, he said this was actually the portion of 2 people. I would have been ok with it as long as he told me beforehand. Instead I left regret with not trying 4 out of 6 of the bakeries. There were some road work outside the hotel and we could here it (although barely) when we were inside. Would come back again for how delicious food was, but we need to make sure to share everything as there is no refill on bakeries.

I had the most amazing high tea of my life here. The dining room is stunning and the afternoon tea service truly is perfection. One would never had known that right outside the hotel the entire street was being ripped up and repaved, because once you stepped inside this fabulous place the world just seemed to melt away. It is quite expensive, so come prepared to drop a bundle, but it worth every pound!

When you live in London, it's never necessary to stay in a hotel. But I came back here as a tourist this year and had the pleasure of staying at this beautiful hotel for a week. The location is great because it's a short walk from all the retail shops, restaurants and nightlife. The lobby of the hotel is very small though so when I walked into the hotel, I was a little concerned of how small the rooms were going to be. But for a London hotel. the room was a nice size and I loved that we had a HUGE bath tub in our room. The fitness centre was small and lacked a number of basic machines but they had two Pilate type workout equipments (assumed they were). I didn't get a chance to look at the pool but from the photos, it looked very nice. I wouldn't really recommend room service food though, judging from the food I ate there, I felt you could get a much better quality meal out. You are only a short walk/cab ride away from everything. Service was great too. DEFINITELY RECOMMEND!!!!

Simply stated, devine ! The only drawback I would have to say, too many yuppies at the bar trying to impress one another.

Bomb cocktails, world-class service and uber-posh setting. The rooms can be small, and justifiably ridiculously expensive, but the service, atmosphere and attention to detail make this hotel and bar a classic English establishment

I fell in love with this property on my first stay and have been in love ever since! There is nothing imperfect about this property. It is small, quiet, ideally located, modern/posh in style and decor but old-school in service. Every employee at this property was friendly, smiling and helpful. I especially appreciated my room's Butler, Jonathan. Jonathan is a gem! From the heated marble floors to the fantastic beds to the amazing closets...I LOVE this hotel. The restaurants and bar are also great! I'm posting this after a recent dreadful stay at their sister property, Claridges. If you stay at Claridges, you'll wonder how two "related" hotels can be so very different (and disappointing, in the case of Claridges). This is my favorite London hotel and it will be your favorite as well :-)

The rooms combine classic elegance with a contemporary sense of style and gives a unique feel among luxury hotels in London. The dining restaurant serves hake from the highest class and the wine list will satisfy even the most capricious connoisseur.

The best restaurant and service hands down in the whole of London. I loved the food and I felt like a king.

Beautiful hotel, very well-run. Terrific afternoon tea with great, unrushed service and quality food. This is a sister property of Claridge's and a great plan B if Claridge's is booked.

All I can say is that this is one lovely hotel. The staff is friendly and accommodating. Even if you are not a hotel guest, I highly recommend afternoon tea the at the Espelette. Be sure to make a reservation tea time gets busy.

This review is for the afternoon tea, which is absolutely graceful and tasteful. I love having tea with my nieces, we always have fun eating, sipping tea, acting like adults while wearing tiaras. Well, the high tea at the Connaught is playing tea time but with your bessie in a sophisticated tea salon.

One of the grande dames of London Hotels and is priced accordingly. Very old school. Good, attentive bar.

Nice hotel, very nice toilets especially, like the hand towels, I hate using hot air hand dryers. The bar is a bit dark, it has won lots of awards and the staff are beautiful and attentive, but the darkness did make it hard for me to pinpoint where my date was sitting post enjoyable toilet break and to be frank it did have a bit of an old farty vibe. I am sure the rooms are gorge but this is definitely a hotel for an older, more discerning crowd.

We usually love afternoon tea, but it was terrible experience at connaught hotel. Only one good thing was sandwitches. smoked salmon with cream cheese, small prown with chilli called esperrete,, they were sooooo yammy. Problem is sweets. choux with strawberry jelly, it got soggy and cream was like a plastic!! blueberry cakes was so dried and taste baking powder. The worst thing was that we found small insect into the raspberry!!!!!!!! horrible discusting!! chocolate cake and too much chemical inside rose raspberry cake were dried and nothing special.The Connaught was good before Helene Darroze taking over....so shame second class sweets in a first class hotel.

stayed at the connaught during the olympics. fabulous hotel in swanky mayfair neighborhood (expensive but worth it). room was lovely and service was superb. food was good also. would go back again.