There are hotel openings, and then there are moments when a city's landscape is forever changed. The Peninsula London, perched regally on Grosvenor Place, represents the culmination of a 35-year quest by the Kadoorie family to plant their flag in the British capital. This landmark achievement exceeded £1 billion in development costs when it finally opened its doors in September 2023.
The hotel's Grand Opening Celebration in June 2024 offered a glimpse into the brand's distinctive blend of Eastern grace and Western sophistication. Their Royal Highnesses the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh unveiled a commemorative plaque while 2,500 guests mingled amidst the splendour of what has quickly become one of London's most significant hospitality landmarks. The Hon. Sir Michael Kadoorie, Chairman of The Hongkong and Shanghai Hotels – the world's oldest continuously operating hotel group since its founding in 1866 – captured the significance perfectly when he declared: "Our dream of owning and operating a Peninsula Hotel in London has become a reality."
As I approached the stately façade on the sunny first day of Spring, I wondered how this twelfth outpost of the Peninsula collection would balance the brand's storied heritage with the specific character of its London setting. My day promised more than a standard property tour; it offered insight into how the Peninsula has translated its signature approach to the already extensive London luxury landscape.
A grand arrival: first impressions and architectural splendour
The Peninsula London's first impression delivers the theatrical arrival experience for which the brand is renowned. As one approaches Hyde Park Corner, the hotel's creamy Portland stone exterior – a masterful collaboration between Hopkins Architects and interior designer Peter Marino – presents a dignified contrast to the city's bustle while framing perfect views of Wellington Arch.
The grand entrance into the central courtyard provides an exclusive and private feel highly appreciated in central London. Here, the signature Peninsula fleet includes 13 custom vehicles highlighted by a magnificent 1935 Rolls-Royce Phantom II Sedanca de Ville: a showstopper for visitors. While two majestic stone lions stand guard, Peninsula Pages in their crisp uniforms are ready to welcome each arrival. Their bespoke attire is designed by British fashion designer Jenny Packham, who made a global name for herself by dressing the Princess of Wales in striking evening gowns.
Inside, the lobby offers a masterful understanding of spatial flow and light. Floor-to-ceiling windows illuminate marble floors, and bespoke furnishings create a grandiose and serene atmosphere. Fun fact: the real Concorde pointy nose leading to the lifts initially pointed to the lobby, a big no-no for serenity, according to the feng shui master who helped design the whole property. I feel at peace already.
The Peninsula's culinary realm: from Canton Blue to Brooklands
In the lobby, hand-painted silk panels by Chinese artist Chen Yanning depicting the Keying trading ship create a cultural touchpoint that connects to the property's Canton Blue restaurant.
Canton Blue, the signature Chinese restaurant, serves as both homage to the company's heritage and a sophisticated addition to London's high-end dining landscape. Indeed, the Peninsula London's culinary programming represents one of its most compelling offerings, with each venue telling a distinct story while maintaining a coherent narrative thread.
Inspired by the historic Keying Junk – the Chinese trading ship that sailed between China and Britain from 1846 to 1848 – Henry Leung of CAP Atelier has created dining spaces of remarkable depth and character. Celestial navigation maps glow overhead while museum-quality Cantonese porcelain and intricate woodwork adorn the walls. The space achieves that difficult balance between theatrical design and authentic atmosphere that eludes many hotel restaurants.
Executive Chef Dicky To's menu demonstrates technical precision while respecting Cantonese culinary traditions. The dim sum service exhibits particular finesse, each piece showcasing the kitchen's command of texture and temperature. More complex offerings such as wok-fried lobster with ginger and spring onion and tea-smoked duck with lapsang souchong highlight the seamless integration of British produce with Chinese techniques – another expression of the East-meets-West philosophy that defines the Peninsula experience.
The beverage programme deserves special recognition, particularly the extensive collection of Baijiu and the wine selection of over 200 references assembled with expertise.
As I lingered over dessert – a technically flawless mango sago pudding paired with rare fresh-leaf tea – I reflected on how Canton Blue epitomises the Peninsula approach: respectful of tradition while embracing innovation, and executed with excellence.
Down a set of stairs adorned by delicately painted porcelain walls paying homage to the commercial route between East and West, the Little Blue offers a sophisticated bar experience featuring elements crafted from traditional Chinese apothecary cabinets.
No visit to The Peninsula London would be complete without experiencing Brooklands, the property's crowning achievement. Named after the legendary British motor racing circuit and accessed via an immersive "hot air balloon" lift – with sounds included, this rooftop restaurant and bar offers some of London's most spectacular views – from the London Eye to The Shard. Under the creative direction of acclaimed chef Claude Bosi, Brooklands aims to deliver culinary experiences that match the drama of its setting.
The restaurant's centrepiece – a 2,700-pound sculpture inspired by Concorde suspended from the ceiling – creates an immediate sense of occasion. The aviation theme extends throughout the space with subtle references celebrating British engineering heritage without resorting to theming. The bar's bespoke cocktail programme balances innovation with respect for classic techniques – a fitting metaphor for the Peninsula approach.
Suites, salons, and community
With 190 rooms, including 25 suites, the Peninsula London positions itself within the boutique luxury segment while offering the amenities and services of a significantly more extensive operation. This appeals to today's sophisticated travellers seeking intimacy and comprehensive facilities.
During my tour, I was particularly struck by the thoughtful proportions of the 51-square-metre Deluxe Park Rooms, where floor-to-ceiling windows frame spectacular views of Hyde Park. The design achieves that elusive balance between contemporary elegance and timeless appeal, with bespoke furnishings and a palette of soft neutrals punctuated by subtle accents. Hand-stitched leather headboards and marble bathrooms stocked with Oscar de la Renta amenities demonstrate the brand's commitment to sensory luxury.
But this was nothing compared to The Grand Terrace Suite: a suite of over 440 square metres offering a generous reception space and a terrace overlooking the legendary Belgravia district. During the tour, I learned that the suite is regularly booked for private events or photo shoots. Between grandeur and purposeful features, I was impressed by the liveable luxury creating spaces in which one truly feels at home, albeit in a meticulously detailed environment.
I would not have the opportunity to visit the hotel's crown jewel, The Peninsula Suite, reputed to be London's largest hotel suite. This 470-square-metre suite has a private terrace offering panoramic views of the city, a dedicated fitness space, a screening room, and full butler service.
Throughout the accommodation spaces, art and design elements create a sense of place that is distinctively London while maintaining Peninsula brand signatures. The property's aviation references provide narrative coherence that enhances the guest experience without overwhelming it.
The subterranean wellness facilities provide a sanctuary of tranquillity, with a swimming pool designed for exercise and relaxation. The attention to detail in these spaces – from lighting to acoustics to material selection – demonstrates the Peninsula's understanding that true luxury creates environments that nourish body and spirit.
For those seeking active exploration, the hotel offers bespoke Peninsula bicycles for rides through nearby Hyde Park – a local way to experience London's green spaces. The property connects to the surrounding community through its in-house flower shop, Flowers by The Peninsula, accessible from the courtyard for guests, casual visitors, and locals alike, and its tea salon, The Peninsula, Boutique & Café, which opens onto the busy street, offering the public a peaceful haven for a break during a long walk.
Passion at the heart of London
However, it's the human element that embodies The Peninsula culture and passion. Staff members – from Peninsula Pages to florists to concierges – testify to the warm professionalism that has defined the brand for nearly a century. Never failing to smile at and greet passing guests or colleagues, they are evidently proud of their roles and genuinely committed to creating engaging experiences for everyone. The group even transferred many staff members from other Peninsula properties to ensure on-brand service continuity.
In a recent interview with the Journal, Rolf Buehlmann, General Manager, proudly declared, "The team's dedication to service is what truly distinguishes us. The Peninsula's approach to hospitality is deeply rooted in our heritage, our desire to deliver excellence, and our desire to make our guests feel welcome to "their" new home here in London." This cultural alignment – notoriously difficult to achieve in London's challenging labour market – speaks to effective leadership and training systems that translate Peninsula values into consistent service delivery.
The Peninsula London's strategic position at the intersection of Belgravia, Knightsbridge, and Mayfair places it in the heart of the capital's most prestigious districts. Hyde Park lies steps away, Buckingham Palace and the Royal Albert Hall are within easy reach, and the boutiques of Sloane Street offer world-class shopping. This location, combined with the depth of experience delivered throughout the property, positions The Peninsula London as a meaningful addition to the capital's luxury landscape.
"London is one of the world's greatest cities, and The Peninsula London is at the very heart of it," says Clement Kwok, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of The Hong Kong and Shanghai Hotels. Having spent a day exploring this remarkable property, I certainly feel it. The Peninsula London represents that rare achievement: a hotel that honours its brand heritage while creating something genuinely unique – a new landmark that already feels like it belongs precisely where it stands.
A lover of human interactions, Sonia started her journalism career in various media outlets before moving to London and shifting to the digital industry. Listening to her calling, she's picking up her pen to share the passion and ambitions of luxury hospitality.
