London, England
Luxury hotel on the Strand, overlooking the River Thames, renowned for legendary dining, classic bars and timeless elegance. One of London’s best hotels
Our review
Everyone has heard of the Savoy, one of London’s top luxury hotels. Handily located a short cab ride from Waterloo, it is walking distance to so many London landmarks, including The National Gallery, the National Portrait Gallery, the Royal Academy; to Piccadilly and Regent Street with all their shops and Green Park; and to the theatre district and Covent Garden.
It’s a wonderful place for occasions – the Lancaster Ballroom with seating for over 300, the Thames Foyer for afternoon tea with views over The Thames, the lively American Bar, the home of the British cocktail and a choice of fine dining and casual restaurants in Kaspar’s, the Savoy Grill and Simpson’s.
Both Art Deco and Edwardian design, typifying the original style have been retained. This is especially noticeable in the entrance. The revolving wooden door and black and white floor tiles lead onto a convivial lounge area, where small groups of traditional sofas are arranged around antiques and paintings; some with living flame fireplaces. Gone is the old checking in desk idea; guests are met at their vehicle in the private driveway off the Strand and may be taken straight to their room. If guests prefer a check in desk, this is located in a small room off the entrance area.
The Thames Foyer, leading off the reception area now houses a replica of a Burlington arcade shop, selling Savoy tea, patisserie and chocolate. On the day of my visit, chocolates were being made, with the accompanying delicious smell. Stepping down to the gazebo, with a large glass dome above, afternoon tea may once again be enjoyed here, to the accompaniment of a pianist. Beyond this area is the River restaurant, now lighter, brighter and sexier, in Art Deco style, complete with leopard print carpet.
The Savoy was the first hotel to introduce cocktails to London, then a preserve of the USA, so named its bar the American bar. Hardly changed since the early days, it now houses a white baby grand piano, once played by Frank Sinatra and has pictures of famous guests on its walls. There is also the Art Deco Beaufort Bar, resplendent in sumptuous black with real gold leaf, crystal chandelier in the centre, offering champagne by the glass and cabaret at the weekend.
Guest rooms here are either Art Deco in style or Edwardian; the refurbishment included the addition of thirty-eight overlooking the River Thames. Taking the “red” lift, decorated in Chinese lacquer, a Superior room has, amongst other attributes, a hand painted waste paper bin and tissue holder. All rooms have the rainfall showers, another former first for the Savoy. A newcomer is the Royal Suite, built at a cost of £2.5m. The size of a small flat and taking over a whole floor, the accommodation comprises two bedrooms, two bathrooms, lounge, dining room, study and a dressing room. There is even a service kitchen “for those travelling with a personal chef”. Each of the eight windows has a magnificent view over London.
As part of the Fairmont Hotels Group, the Savoy is part of the Fairmont Green Partnership. One of the various eco practices is the introduction of an innovative system which will reclaim all heat produced by kitchen appliances and re-use it to preheat hot water. Cooking oil is recycled and turned into biodiesel fuel and up to 90% of the hotel’s waste will be recycled.
Sweetly old-fashioned, the Savoy hosts regular dinner dances and has a resident band. It is especially popular at New Year. If someone could teach me how to lose my two left feet and do the waltz, I’d be there like a shot.
One of the top hotels in London and in a fine location, this grand old lady of the Strand should be seriously considered for a city visit.
Rooms
The Savoy offers approximately 260 guest rooms and suites, designed in either Edwardian or Art Deco style. Many rooms enjoy views of the River Thames, while suites provide generous living space, refined furnishings and signature Savoy detailing.
Food and Drink
Dining includes Savoy Grill by Gordon Ramsay, holding a Michelin star and known for classic British and French cuisine. Kaspar’s Seafood Bar and Grill specialises in seafood dishes, while Gallery serves modern menus throughout the day. The hotel is home to the American Bar, celebrated for classic cocktails, and the theatrical Beaufort Bar, along with traditional afternoon tea served in the Thames Foyer.
Wellness
Wellness facilities include Beauty & Fitness at The Savoy, featuring a full-service spa, an indoor swimming pool, sauna and steam rooms, alongside fully equipped gym facilities offering personal training and tailored treatments.
Facilities
- Indoor swimming pool
- Full-service spa and fitness centre
- Multiple restaurants and bars
- Afternoon tea lounge
- Meeting and event spaces
- Butler service for suites
- 24-hour room service
- Valet parking
Location
Located on the Strand in central London, The Savoy overlooks the River Thames and is moments from Covent Garden, Trafalgar Square, the West End theatres and the Royal Opera House.
Getting there
Address: Strand, London, United Kingdom, WC2R 0EU
Arriving by car: Valet parking available. The Savoy Hotel is within the central London congestion charging zone.
Arriving by train: Neatest underground stations – Charing Cross – Embankment – Covent Garden – Temple
Arriving by air: London Heathrow Airport LHR (28.6 km – 17.8 miles), 36 minutes drive to the hotelLondon Gatwick Airport LGW (45.2 km – 28.1 miles), 51 minutes drive to the hotelLondon City Airport LCY (12.8 km – 8 miles), 22 minutes drive to the hotelLuton Airport LTN (55.2 km – 34.3 miles), 51 minutes drive to the hotelStansted Airport STN (64.8 km – 40.3 miles), 53 minutes drive to the hotel
More information
To see hotel pictures, for more information on facilities, to check availabilty or to book a stay then please click below
Disclaimer
Paul and Livvy will earn a small commission if you book using the links above. This never affects our review and helps us provide useful information. We endeavour to make our hotel information as accurate as possible but things change over time. For any specific requirements or questions, please always check directly with the hotel before booking. We cannot accept any liability for any loss or damage arising from the use of this website.
* Note: The hotel review was last updated in early 2026. Please let us know if you spot any factual errors.