London, United Kingdom

The Stafford London

1 / 10

The takeaway

A historic St James’s townhouse hotel with a storied cellar and clubby bar, best suited to travelers seeking character in central London.

About the hotel

Set in St James’s, The Stafford occupies a historic group of buildings arranged around a private cobbled courtyard, with accommodation in the Main House, Mews and former Carriage House. Its character comes from the contrast between inherited townhouse details and individually designed rooms, alongside an American Bar and a subterranean wine cellar that includes a small Second World War museum. The result is a distinctly central London stay with a historic, inward-facing feel.

Choose it if

You want a St James’s base within walking distance of Green Park, Buckingham Palace and the West End.
You’d make time for the American Bar, the cobbled courtyard or the historic wine cellar and its wartime museum.
You want an in-house restaurant led by Michael Caines, with menus featuring seasonal British ingredients.

Skip it if

You need parking directly on-site: the hotel says it has no on-site parking and uses a local car park for valet service.

The property

In photographs.

Guest discussion

What real people are saying.

Reddit excerpts · separate from Rex’s editorial judgment

One guest highlights attentive service, traditional British character, comfortable beds and a strong breakfast, with the American Bar’s cocktails and hidden museum adding distinctive touches. A separate diner praises the cooking at Michael Caines at The Stafford but found the bill substantial before drinks, service or extras.

Discussion is limited; these accounts offer a glimpse rather than a broad verdict.

“Not exactly what you asked, but I really loved staying in The Stafford. Great service. Traditional British charm but comfy beds and fancy toilets. Amazing British Breakfast and the "American Bar" had wonderful cocktails and a hidden museum.”

r/chubbytravel ↗ · Feb 6, 2024

“Fairly expensive for one star, at £185 without drinks, service or additions, but a lovely experience and great cooking”

r/finedining ↗ · May 26, 2026

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