The Athenaeum Hotel Mayfair Review: A Luxury London Staycation

Today I’m sharing my review of London’s The Athenaeum Hotel in Mayfair, where I stayed for a luxury London staycation in November 2016. Set on Piccadilly overlooking Green Park, the five-star hotel combines a distinctive home-away-from-home feel with elegant rooms, a stylish bar and fine dining at the newly refurbished Galvin at The Athenaeum.

This review reflects my stay in November 2016, so some details, including restaurant menus and prices, may have changed.

The Athenaeum

The Athenaeum is a one of a kind hotel in the heart of Mayfair. Located on Piccadilly Street, the hotel faces the tranquil Green Park and is just five minutes away from Hyde Park. Its central location also makes it a convenient base for exploring the capital, from Mayfair and St James’s to London’s museums, parks and historic sights. For more ideas, see my guide to the best things to do in and around London.

The Lobby

Unlike other hotels in the area which are part of large chains, The Athenaeum is an independent, family-run hotel. You can feel it as you step into the beautiful art deco building on 116 Piccadilly and are invited to sit in the lobby rather than stand in a queue at the reception desk.

The Athenaeum has been family-run since the 1990s and is very committed to its famous five-star service. It retains a distinctive homely feel, whilst being incredibly stylish and luxurious. I loved the decor of the lobby, a comfortable and sun-lit space that makes guests feel instantly at home.

Deluxe Rooms

I stayed for one night in one of the Deluxe Rooms on the 4th floor, overlooking the Victorian townhouses and hidden gems of Down Street. The room was spacious and uniquely decorated in soft tones of cream, blue and grey.

One of the reasons why I love staycations is because my own flat in Clapham is very noisy, even at night, so I appreciated the fact that my room at The Athenaeum was very quiet. A comfortable hotel, good food and a change of scenery can make even a short break feel like a proper escape — something I explore in my guide to curating your perfect luxury getaway.

The in-room features included (among other things) an LCD flat-screen TV, free Wi-Fi, complimentary water, Bose docking station, Nespresso machine and complimentary use of the hotel gym and REN spa. I loved the walk-in wardrobe and the large bathroom, which featured a bathtub and two sinks, and plenty of amenities.

The BAR at The Athenaeum

My husband and I were invited to visit THE BAR at The Athenaeum before dinner, and naturally I thought that was a great idea! The intimate bar can be accessed via the hotel lobby or via a discrete entrance on Down Street.

The BAR offers bespoke cocktails, a fine selection of wine and Champagne, and an extensive collection of whisky. I loved trying the signature cocktails created by renowned Italian bartender Giancarlo Mancino.

Galvin at The Athenaeum

The highlight of my staycation was a 3-course fine dining meal at Galvin at The Athenaeum, the latest restaurant from Michelin-starred London chefs Chris and Jeff Galvin.

Galvin at The Athenaeum opened last summer following a multi-million-pound refurbishment. The restaurant is connected to the hotel lobby and shares the same decorative style: a combination of stylish features, a modern look and a warm feel.

For the first time, the two brothers have stepped away from their trademark French menus in favour of championing Britain’s delicious homegrown produce and supporting independent farmers across the UK.

We asked our waiter for recommendations as I was keen to taste Galvin’s classic dishes, such as delicious Lasagne of Dorset crab, Nantais butter sauce and the Galvin cured smoked salmon, blini, sour cream & caviar, both really good.

As a main course I had a wonderful dish of Braised long horn Ox cheek, crushed swede & rosemary paired with an Italian red wine. My husband ordered the Yellowfin Tuna burger, white cabbage slaw & avocado, one of the most popular dishes at Galvin At The Athenaeum.

The desserts were equally stunning as the rest of the meal: a Galvin classic is the Caramelised apple tart & cider brandy cream, which I highly recommend. I also loved the Valrhona chocolate mousse, almond biscuits.

Galvin at The Athenaeum is open all day for breakfast, lunch, Afternoon Tea and dinner (private dining is also available). A set menu is available for lunch and dinner (17:30- 19:00) with a choice of three courses for just £23.50, which is incredibly good value.

The Athenaeum Hotel combines luxury, a boutique feel and fine dining. Whether you are visiting London for a few days and want to stay in a luxury hotel in the heart of the city, or are a Londoner looking a staycation to relax for a few nights, The Athenaeum is a great choice.

Looking for a longer stay in Mayfair? If you’re planning to spend a few nights exploring the neighbourhood, Mayfair Serviced Apartments can be an alternative to a traditional hotel, particularly for travellers who prefer more space, a kitchen and the flexibility of a home-away-from-home. With Mayfair’s restaurants, shops, galleries and parks all within easy reach, staying in the area makes it easy to experience central London at a slower pace.

Disclaimer: I was invited as a guest of the restaurant and hotel. All opinions are my own.