Reviews of Dorchester Hotel, London, United Kingdom

Review of The Dorchester, by Caroline Major

If you've been to The Dorchester in the last decade and been a little unimpressed by her faintly frumpy feel, it's time for a re-evaluation. The grand old lady has just stepped out in a brand new frock, and she is now the chicest grand dame on the scene; definitely an old gal to take for a twirl.

Sit in the smart lobby while you wait for your dinner guests before you go through to China Tang the oh-so-Shanghai restaurant, which is in the basement. Full of knick-knacks and antiques with girls dressed in 1920's style Shanghai Ci Paos', it's a fine spot to enjoy some incredible Chinese food while checking out the celebs.

If you're after something a little more traditional, the Grill still serves up great English food albeit in a slightly Scottish themed room. It's a great spot for a Sunday roast, still served by knife-wielding waiters from a trolley, though there are lighter offerings on the menu. The modern English décor has something of the air of a glamorous grandma's, yet it's still homely enough so that you feel comfortable padding down to the spa in your dressing gown for one of the legendary Eve Lom facials.

The Dorchester is in an excellent location on Park Lane directly opposite Hyde Park and the thrills on offer there, from jogging to horse riding and the crazy procession in between. By London standards the 250 rooms are massive, and most have at least a glimpse of the park. If you're lucky enough to get a full park view, it's one of the best in London. Our room even had a view from the bathroom which was perfect because the fact that they have London's deepest bath tubs, and are stocked with fine Floris bath products, means they are a great place to pass an afternoon. Girls, it really is a great idea to bring your girlfriends or your sister here for a weekend.

Rooms are filled with big beds and big armchairs stuffed with a lot of feathers and stacked with even more cushions. Think English country house décor but tasteful, modern and sumptuous. The look is completed with thick carpets, heavy curtains and nicely atmospheric lighting. These rooms are perfect for family groups and guests who want to feel cocooned. And when you can tear yourself away from the big old comfortable rooms, there's plenty of places to go within a stone's throw.