Nestled in Mayfair, with Green Park as its picturesque neighbour, The Athenaeum Hotel offers a unique blend of timeless elegance and contemporary comfort. We recently had the pleasure of staying here with our eight-month-old travel-loving son, Xavier, and were captivated by how seamlessly it catered to our family’s needs. The Athenaeum prides itself on refined luxury that feels both grand and intimate—a perfect match for those seeking a luxury escape that still feels like home.
My wife and I had previously stayed in the main hotel soon after we first met 7 years ago. We had many fond and exciting memories in this iconic London hotel, so we were thrilled to be able to stay here again along with our brand spanking new mini human.
This time our stay was in the Residences building, a distinct and enchanting feature of The Athenaeum. Here, guests can enjoy the privacy of a luxury apartment with all the conveniences of a five-star hotel. We were thrilled with our residence: an elegant and spacious retreat with a private entrance that made the experience feel exceptionally exclusive. High ceilings and large windows filled the space with natural light, offering views of the city’s bustling streets below. The residence was thoughtfully designed, providing not just opulence but a warm, homely ambiance, ideal for families or anyone wanting a bit more privacy during their stay. Our apartment-style residence was equipped with a fully fitted kitchen, which proved a blessing for our little one. Having the option to prepare snacks or meals for Xavier added a level of convenience and ease that’s often missing in traditional hotel stays.
Dining at The Athenaeum is a feast for the senses, thanks to 116 at The Athenaeum. Helmed by chefs who are passionate about showcasing the best of British cuisine, the menu celebrates locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. Our lunch was delightful; we sampled a range of flavourful dishes that were simultaneously comforting and innovative. The culinary team made the experience accessible for us as a family, accommodating Xavier’s needs with grace. Dishes ranged from beautifully prepared seafood to hearty meats and vegetable-forward options, each presented with a meticulous eye for detail. My sirloin steak was perfectly cooked as was the seabass which arrived at the table perched next to some gloriously roasted vegetables and a creamy mash – the perfect type of comfit food. The staff were incredibly accommodating, setting up a cosy high chair for Xavier which made him feel like a big man at the dinner table.
The location of The Athenaeum is simply unmatched for those wanting to explore London’s best. Positioned in the heart of Mayfair, the hotel is a stone’s throw from some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, luxury boutiques, and fine dining establishments. Just a stroll away from Green Park and Hyde Park, it offers many opportunities for scenic festive walks. For families, the hotel’s proximity to several museums, including the Science Museum and the Natural History Museum, is an added bonus—ideal for cultural outings without the hassle of lengthy travel. And for some retail therapy, the boutiques of Bond Street, Oxford Street and Regent Street are just around the corner.
One of the highlights of our stay was the personalised service. From the moment we arrived, the staff went above and beyond to ensure we were comfortable. The concierge team anticipated our needs with ease, arranging baby essentials and even suggesting family-friendly activities in the area. This level of attentiveness extended to every member of the staff we encountered, from the friendly doorman to the helpful team at the front desk. We felt genuinely welcome, not just as guests, but as part of a community within the hotel.
It’s easy to imagine The Athenaeum as the ideal location for a festive season stay. The hotel’s sophisticated décor lends itself perfectly to the warmth and elegance of Christmas. Just imagining the twinkling lights of Mayfair, the festive window displays along nearby streets, and the possibility of snowy scenes over Green Park is enough to spark the holiday spirit. The Athenaeum offers a number of tailored holiday experiences, from festive afternoon teas to exclusive Christmas and New Year’s Eve packages. For those celebrating with family, The Athenaeum makes it possible to enjoy the best of London’s Christmas atmosphere while still having a luxurious space to call your own. The residences really are like having your very own central London apartment – perfect for celebrating Christmas away from the monotony and humdrum of home, or away from annoying Uncle Tony who makes inappropriate jokes after too many festive sherries.
In the end, our stay at The Athenaeum Hotel was a seamless blend of elegance, comfort, and family-friendly amenities that left us all feeling pampered and rejuvenated. The combination of our private residence, the outstanding wellness facilities, and the stellar location made it the perfect city retreat. We would happily recommend The Athenaeum to anyone looking for an unforgettable experience in London, particularly for families seeking a hotel that genuinely accommodates younger children without compromising on luxury.
