The Berkeley

Though it is a British institution that dates from the 1890s (and has been in its current location since 1972), The Berkeley has had no difficulty keeping up with the times, adapting to draw a younger, more fashionable crowd. The Michelin-starred Marcus attracts a buzzy set. And after a renovation of the 137 rooms, some have stayed true to their original style with subdued neutral blues and grays but with some contemporary and Art Deco touches. A few of the new rooms are decorated with a Japanese-style minimalist aesthetic in mind. As the next generation of regulars returns with children in tow, rooms can be outfitted with everything from high chairs and bottle warmers to child-size terry robes and slippers. Couples as well as families who appreciate sleek, contemporary design, world-class service and a comfortable ambience will be happy here; as will anyone looking for a serene spa, gym and a great pool in the city.

The Standout: The open-air rooftop pool, a rarity in the city, that connects to a secret garden and can be enjoyed year-round (with a retractable roof) Don’t Miss: Prêt-à-Portea, a twist on tea featuring cakes designed after iconic fashion pieces

• The Blue Bar, where celebrities flock to sample color-categorized concoctions
• The range in style of the rooms—from Japanese Minimalist and Art Deco to child-friendly
• The Hyde Park location, and the Victoria & Albert Museum and Harrods on your doorstep

A warm welcome from the polished staff awaits as you exit the busy Park Lane into the Berkeley lobby. The check-in desks are discreet, blending in with the amber-colored wood surroundings and the sweet smells of decadent pastries waft in from the café as you gather your keys before being whisked off to your room.

As is typical of a British institution, The Berkeley has had no difficulty keeping up with the changing times, adapting to draw a younger, more fashionable crowd—in 1995, the hotel invited Jean-Georges Vongerichten to open a branch of the Vong here. The restaurant space is now home to the Michelin-starred Marcus, which draws a buzzy crowd at night. And the Prêt-à-Porte afternoon tea is one of the most unique in the city, featuring cakes designed after iconic pieces in fashion, which change every month. Those who check in, though, are less concerned with the dining options than with the old-fashioned comme il faut service, which guarantees that a stay there will be one with few surprises.

After a renovation of the 137 rooms, some have stayed true to their original style with subdued neutral blues and grays but with some contemporary and Art Deco touches. A few of the new rooms are decorated with a Japanese-style minimalist aesthetic in mind. Contact the Indagare bookings team to ensure you’re getting the room style you’d like.

As a third generation of regulars now stays at the property with children in tow, rooms can be outfitted by request with everything from high chairs, Game Boy Advances and bottle warmers to child-size terry robes and slippers. Another appeal for families, especially those visiting in the summer months, is the fantastic rooftop pool. There is also a serene Bamford Haybarn spa and gym.

Couples as well as families who appreciate sleek, contemporary design and value world-class service, location and a comfortable ambiance—without fuss; plus, anyone who wants a great pool in the city