Since opening in 1906, The Ritz has embodied the pinnacle of English luxury. Its Louis XVI interior is among the most beautiful in Europe. The Ritz Restaurant overlooks Green Park, the Palm Court hosts perhaps London's most famous afternoon tea, and the casino is one of London's most prestigious. Smart dress is required throughout.
The Ritz London stands on Piccadilly at the south-eastern corner of Green Park, one of the most architecturally distinguished addresses in England. Designed by architects Charles Mewès and Arthur Davis and opened in 1906, the hotel's Louis XVI-inspired exterior — faced in Norwegian granite and modelled on the Parisian buildings Mewès had designed along the Rue de Rivoli — brought a Parisian grandeur to London that remains undiminished more than a century later. The property achieved a Royal Warrant in 2002 and was awarded five red stars by the AA in recognition of its exceptional quality. Across its 111 bedrooms and 22 suites, the interiors reflect English interpretations of the Louis XVI style, with gilded ceilings, hand-woven carpets, original antique furniture, and artworks maintained to museum standards. Green Park views are available from several suites on the upper floors, with the park's mature plane trees providing a vivid foreground. The Ritz Restaurant, with its long gallery of gilded columns and green park outlook, is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful dining rooms in the world and serves classical French-influenced cuisine using the finest British seasonal ingredients. The Palm Court hosts the world-famous Ritz afternoon tea, served five times daily, with a menu of finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones, and pastries accompanied by an extensive loose-leaf tea selection. The Ritz Casino, housed within the hotel but operated separately, is one of London's most prestigious private gaming establishments. The hotel's fitness centre provides cardiovascular and strength equipment, and in-room spa treatments are available through the concierge. Green Park station on the Jubilee, Victoria, and Piccadilly Lines is a two-minute walk, providing rapid connections across central London.
Location
51.5073, -0.1432 View on map
Highlights
- Palm Court afternoon tea
- Ritz Restaurant
- Green Park views
- Casino
- Louis XVI interiors
Tips for visiting
- Afternoon tea bookings open exactly twelve weeks in advance; popular time slots sell out within hours of becoming available, so set a calendar reminder.
- A strict dress code is enforced at The Ritz: a jacket and tie are required for gentlemen in the Palm Court and Ritz Restaurant at all times.
- Green Park views from the upper-floor suites are among London's finest hotel views; request a park-facing room when reserving.
- The Ritz Casino operates independently from the hotel; membership or guest registration is required before play.
- Early evening is the quietest time for the Rivoli Bar; arriving before 6 pm gives the best chance of a seat without a reservation.
Accessibility
The Ritz London provides lift access to all guest floors and offers a small number of accessible rooms with adapted bathrooms and wider doorways. The main Piccadilly entrance has step-free access from street level. The Grade I-listed building has some structural constraints in older sections, and guests with specific mobility requirements are strongly advised to contact the hotel directly before booking to confirm suitable accommodation.
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Frequently asked questions
What is the dress code at The Ritz?
The Ritz enforces a formal dress code throughout the hotel. Gentlemen are required to wear a jacket and tie in the Palm Court, Ritz Restaurant, and Rivoli Bar at all times. Jeans, trainers, and sportswear are not permitted in any public area of the hotel.
How far ahead should afternoon tea be booked?
Reservations for The Ritz afternoon tea open twelve weeks before the date. Peak slots — particularly Saturday and Sunday afternoon — are in extremely high demand and can sell out within minutes of becoming available online. Mid-week and early morning slots are generally easier to secure.
Is The Ritz suitable for children?
The Ritz welcomes families, though the formal dress code applies to all guests including children. Children's menus are available in the restaurant and afternoon tea, and families should note that smart dress including jacket and tie for boys applies.
What are the closest Underground stations to The Ritz?
Green Park station is approximately two minutes' walk and provides Jubilee, Victoria, and Piccadilly Line services. Piccadilly Circus station on the Bakerloo and Piccadilly Lines is roughly five minutes' walk, and Hyde Park Corner is accessible on the Piccadilly Line.