Three years ago I was in London, working Grey Poupon (DowntonAbbeyKitchens.com). We stayed at The Ritz London, and visited Bampton and Highclere Castle!  With the 6th and final season of Downton Abbey on PBS, this was such an excitng trip!

Having tea with The Lady, we enjoyed these Downton Abbey Egg Salad Tea Sandwiches! (more…)

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The Ritz London is set in the bustling Mayfair and St. James district, a luxury, iconic 1906 hotel only a few minutes away from the Royal Academy of Arts and Piccadilly Circus, in the heart of downtown London.

Having been invited to London by Grey Poupon and The Downton Abbey Kitchen, my stay in London was exceptional, and we were fortunate enough to stay the last 2 nights at The Ritz. We also stayed at The Bull and the Hide, and The Halkin by Como, in London.

Inside the hotel, old world charm mixes with first class service. The surroundings are stunningly beautiful, the moment you step foot into the foyer. They change out the flowers with fresh new bouquets every other day; this time, stunning soft pink roses!

The concierge, butlers, porters, door men, reception staff, casion staff and chauffeur were so helpful, with the highest standard of customer service.

Afternoon tea in London at The Ritz is an institution in itself,  served in the spectacular Palm Court, with a choice of several varieties of tea and a delicious menu. We walked through this beautiful area to get to our elevator to take us up to our room, listening to pianists, a violinist, and soloists serenading the hotel guests. (more…)

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The Bull and The Hide is a classy gastro-pub, restaurant & boutique hotel located near Liverpool Street station (a 2-minute walk) & Devonshire Row in the heart of London.

When we arrived, we were greeted by Frasier, who immediately took our bags up several flights of stairs to our lovely suites. There is no elevator in this hotel, so be prepared for a pleasant workout.

Later we visited with James the manager, and Laura, who gave us fantastic service and care throughout our visit, and shared more about Hush Heath Hospitality, their winery and hotel and pubs.

The Bull and The Hide: A London Boutique Hotel

The Bull, a traditional pub, was bursting with people, and it was a fun, lively atmosphere!

Above The Bull is the dining room, The Hide. And then, tucked away above The Hide are seven luxuriously designed hotel rooms with en-suite bathrooms, 2 rooms with balconies. There’s a very cool city view, and quite honestly, we felt like we were in our own little world! (more…)

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The Halkin hotel is situated on a quaint, tree-lined street, with only walking distance to Knightsbridge shopping, Hyde Park Corner, and Buckingham Palace, in London.

When we arrived close to midnight, and the staff graciously greeted us, getting us settled into our room in no time! The rooms, both studios and suites, offer free WiFi and satellite TV, elegant marble bathrooms with soaking tubs, Nespresso machines, and in-room spa treatments. A fitness center and 24/7 dining is available, and a nice computer/business station (tastefully done) just beside the elevators. (more…)

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