The Dorchester, Park Lane

The Dorchester Park Lane, often affectionately called “The Dorch” by those who know and love it, is one of the world’s most prestigious hotels and sure to impress any discerning young lady. Located on Park Lane overlooking Hyde Park, the sophisticated but hotel is almost a byword for luxury. Famous and royal figures have stayed here, and it’s not hard to see why. “The Dorch” is said to have been the favourite hotel of Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, who visited the hotel several times during the course of their marriage(s).

Long before the Burton/Taylor era, the Dorchester was always associated with the rich and famous. Situated in the heart of Mayfair, the location of this wonderful house is as impressive as the luxurious hotel itself. In the late 1700s, the Earl of Dorchester had his London home built on the site where the hotel now stands and named it Dorchester House. Over the years Dorchester House changed hands (and names), and in 1853 it was bought by the famous but long-forgotten Victorian magnate Robert Stayner Holford, who had the house remodelled in the style of an Italian palazzo. Since the early 1900s, Dorchester House has housed the American Embassy. During the First World War, it served as a military hospital before finally being sold in 1929. It then met the same fate as many of London’s great aristocratic houses, and the house was demolished to be rebuilt.

In 1931, the iconic building we know today as “the Dorch “opened its doors for the first time…

The Dorchester Park Lane is now part of the Dorchester Collection, whose impressive arsenal of venues includes 45 Park Lane, Coworth Park, The Beverly Hills Hotel and Le Meurice.

The hotel is currently being renovated but is still open for bookings. The last renovation took place in 2002, so the hotel is still considered a five-star hotel twenty years later. Do not be put off by the temporary concrete and scaffolding outside, because inside it’s still as beautiful as ever. Any lady would be happy to accompany a gentleman here for a romantic tryst.

If you are tempted by a stay at this magnificent residence, here’s what you and your companion can expect.

The Grill at The Dorchester

Enjoy modern British cuisine in this lively eatery. Tom Booth, the head chef, is known as an impressive young chef. He started his career at 15 and has breathed new life into The Grill. He is full of energy and passion for his craft, which is reflected in his menu. Highlights include: the lobster thermidor tart, a crab scotch egg and the most delicious rib eye steak this side of town.

Alain Ducasse

If you want to impress your date, book a place at the Dorchester’s Michelin-starred restaurant. Ok, I am being a bit coy because this restaurant has not one, not two, but three Michelin stars. Alain himself has 17 Michelin stars and a whole trophy cabinet full of other awards. Chef Jean-Philippe Blondet has created a seasonal, modern and fresh menu. There are tasting, garden and à la carte menus. Think beetroot and wasabi, French cheeses and scallops with caviar – a seductive and decadent setting for a wonderful romantic date. If you want to pull out all the stops, you can book a Table Lumière, a private table in the restaurant hidden behind a fibreglass curtain so you can enjoy the atmosphere of the restaurant while feeling like VIP’S.

The Orchid Room

Sometimes you just want a quiet drink with a stunningly beautiful girl. The Orchid Room is a beautiful area of the hotel offering champagne, cocktails, cakes and sandwiches in an opulent setting. Think high ceilings, gilded decorations, beautifully upholstered chairs and a pianist playing in the background. A place where you can get to know each other in style.

China Tang

Dim sum, cocktails and a good time await you at this upmarket Art Deco style restaurant. China Tang at The Dorchester is a London legend. For lunch, afternoon tea or dinner, you’ll be transported back to 1930s Shanghai. It is an exceptional restaurant where you will definitely feel at home. Fresh, traditional Chinese dishes such as Peking duck, won tonne soup, crab toasts and crispy sliced beef. The cocktails are simply fabulous and you’ll feel like you are in a bygone era as you sip your favourite drink in this delightfully decadent setting.

The Rooftop

Experience stunning views over Hyde Park rain or shine at this wonderfully opulent restaurant and bar. Above the treetops you can enjoy seasonal cocktails and light snacks. The atmosphere is lively and the service is excellent. It’s the kind of place that’s a hidden gem with a gigantic wow factor. You and your date will have a wonderful time here whatever the weather. When the sun is shining, the terrace is open and it really comes into its own. However, you can never rely on the British weather. So when it gets chilly, the Dorchester’s Rooftop has plenty of themed pop-ups and seasonal treats to keep you happy.

The Dorchester 
53 Park Lane
W1K 1QA
+44207629 8888