London Fashion Week is a highlight on the global fashion calendar, attracting designers, influencers and fashion enthusiasts from around the world.  

Amidst the hustle and bustle of the catwalks, it's important to find a retreat for yourself offering both exceptional comfort and high-end dining experiences.

DUKES London, nestled in the heart of Mayfair, is the perfect choice for those attending this year’s iconic event.

A Luxurious Stay in the Heart of London

At

DUKES London

London Fashion Week

Each of our guest rooms and suites comes with special touches to ensure you have a comfortable night’s sleep. Showcasing our timeless heritage and style, our guest rooms are classically and elegantly decorated in keeping with the history of the area, while providing all the amenities the modern traveller would need.

Located in the heart of the city, DUKES London offers unparalleled convenience. Just a short walk from the vibrant fashion districts of Mayfair and Covent Garden, you’ll have easy access to runway shows, exclusive parties and fashion exhibitions. 

Dining at DUKES: A Culinary Experience

GBR (Great British Restaurant): 

Indulge in the best of British cuisine at

GBR

Whether you're starting your day with a hearty breakfast, enjoying a leisurely lunch between shows, or unwinding with an evening dinner, GBR offers a dining experience that’s as sophisticated as it is satisfying.

DUKES Bar: 

No stay at DUKES would be complete without a visit to our world-renowned

DUKES Bar

Famous for its martinis, the bar exudes an air of timeless elegance. It’s the ideal spot to relax with a perfectly crafted cocktail. 

Afterwards, retire to the Cognac and Cigar Garden for the final nightcap of a perfect Mayfair evening.

Afternoon Tea: 

Served in our elegant

Drawing Room

Expect delicate finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam and an assortment of delicious pastries. 

Accompanied by a selection of fine beverages, our Afternoon Tea is the perfect way to relax and recharge during the frenzy of fashion week.

Why Choose DUKES London?

Our central location, luxurious accommodation and varied dining options make us the ideal choice for those seeking both style and substance during London Fashion Week. 

So, as you prepare for one of the most glamorous times of the year, make sure your stay is just as stylish by choosing DUKES London. 

Why not

book your room or suite

 During National Picnic Month, treat your faithful canine companion to a unique dining experience here at DUKES London this July.

With July being National Picnic Month and the sun finally putting in an appearance, there’s no better time to head outside for some al fresco food.

And who says picnics are just for people? This summer, treat your faithful canine companion to a unique dining experience here at DUKES London:

Let Fido Celebrate National Picnic Month in Style

The perfect excuse to embrace the great outdoors and these sporadic bursts of British summer sun, National Picnic Month is almost upon us.

Across the country, people are encouraged to lay down their blankets, unpack their baskets, and savour the simple pleasures of dining in the open air.

This year, we’re here to make sure the fun can be shared with your furry four-legged friends.

A Dog-Friendly Picnic Experience at DUKES

Given our beloved mascot DUKESY is a Dachshund, it’s a no-brainer for us to help families spend a lovely day out in London’s dog-friendly parks with their canine companions.

Nestled in the heart of Mayfair, our luxury hotel is just a stone’s throw away from two of London’s most famous Royal Parks: Green Park and St James’s Park.

Our offering is the DUKES Dog Picnic, which includes two fun toys and a duo of wet and dry food. Your dog will be kept busy whilst you relax and enjoy the scenic surroundings!

It’s National Picnic Month For Humans, Too

Here at DUKES London, we do of course have a selection of luxury picnic options for the humans of the family as well:

Classic Picnic

Smokey BBQ chicken brochette, BBQ sauce

Broccoli blue cheese and apple quiche

Roasted gammon and cheddar puff pastry pie - fig relish

Dips and seeded crackers

Beetroot and rosemary hummus

Smoked trout pate

Potato and green bean salad, English mustard dressing

Cheeses from the British Isles

Caramelised onion chutney, malt loaf

Salted caramel chocolate pot, ginger biscuits

Vegetarian Picnic

Courgette haloumi and pepper brochette, tzatziki

Broccoli blue cheese and apple quiche

Garlic and herb marinated mushrooms

Dips and seeded crackers

Beetroot and rosemary hummus

Smoked aubergine pomegranate feta

Potato and green bean salad, English mustard dressing

Cheeses from the British Isles

Caramelised onion chutney, malt loaf

Salted caramel chocolate pot, ginger biscuits

Vegan Picnic

Courgette muffins, garlic, and herb marinated mushrooms

Quinoa, carrot, roasted almond, and orange oil dressed salad

Thyme roasted vegetable brochette, tomato, and pepper salsa

Dips and seeded crackers

Beetroot and rosemary hummus

Smoked aubergine pomegranate vegan feta

Potato and green bean salad, English mustard dressing

Raspberry cheesecake

Dark chocolate and cherry cake

Little Dukes and Duchesses Picnic

Marmalade sandwich

Sausage roll, tomato ketchup

Chicken fillet nuggets, BBQ sauce

Vegetable sticks, hummus

Crisps

Chocolate mousse

Afternoon Tea Picnic

A selection of traditional sandwiches

Fruit scones and plain scones

A selection of handmade patisseries

Cake of the Day

Fine loose-leaf teas and infusions

The DUKES London Touch

Each picnic from DUKES London comes complete with a comfy rug, cutlery, and optional special touches such as flowers, truffles, or additional bottles of champagne. These little details make sure your picnic is not just enjoyable, but also memorable.

“Picnicking is a real British tradition,” our General Manager Michael Purtill shared, “ and being situated in such close proximity to two of London’s Royal Parks, we wanted to give people the opportunity to really enjoy the experience and make it a little bit special.

Our picnics have something for everyone. So, if you don’t have a dog, you can treat your children, partner, or just yourself to some rest and relaxation this summer.”

Whether you’re planning a family outing, a romantic date, or a solo escape, DUKES London has a picnic for you. Get in touch to book your basket and celebrate National Picnic Month in style with us this July!

Portobello Road Food Market is an open-air street market located in Notting Hill. Before visiting, it’s helpful to have all the necessary information at your fingertips.

Nestled in the heart of Notting Hill, the Portobello Road Food Market is a quintessential London experience. It combines the charm of a traditional British market with the vibrant energy of one of the city's most eclectic neighbourhoods.

Whether you're a seasoned local or a curious tourist staying with us here at DUKES London, our guide has all the necessary information you need to navigate the market successfully:

A Brief History of Portobello Road Food Market

Portobello Road Market has been a staple of London life since the 19th century.

Originally known for its antiques, the market has evolved over the years. Today it includes a wide variety of stalls selling everything from vintage clothing to handmade gifts.

The food market in particular has grown in popularity, attracting culinary connoisseurs from all over the world!

When to Visit Portobello Road Food Market

Portobello Road Food Market is open all week except for Sundays, typically starting around 9am and winding down by 7pm.

For those who love the hustle and bustle of the city, Saturday is without a doubt the best day to visit, when the market is in full swing. If you prefer a quieter experience, however, weekdays are significantly less crowded.

DUKES’ Top Tips for Navigating the Market

Navigating Portobello Road Food Market can be a bit overwhelming, especially for first-timers. To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve curated a collection of our top tips.

First and foremost, wearing comfortable shoes is essential. The market covers a long stretch of road, and you'll find yourself doing a lot of walking!

It's also a good idea to bring cash with you. While many stalls now accept card payments, some smaller vendors may not, so having cash to hand ensures you don't miss out.

Staying hydrated is important, especially as exploring the market can be thirsty work. Bring a bottle of water with you or take advantage of the many cafes and juice bars dotted along the way.

Lastly, be prepared for the British weather, which is notoriously unpredictable! It's wise to bring an umbrella or raincoat just in case. Keep in mind that many of the stalls are outdoors, so being prepared for rain will help you stay comfortable no matter what.

How to Get to the Market from DUKES London

By Tube: From Green Park station, which is just a short walk from DUKES London, take the Piccadilly Line to Earl's Court. Change here for the District Line towards Edgware Road and get off at Notting Hill Gate. Portobello Road is then a 10-minute walk from the station.

By Bus: Take the number 52 bus from Hyde Park Corner, which is also close to our hotel. The bus will take you directly to Notting Hill Gate.

By Taxi or Ride-Sharing Service: For a more direct route, hail a taxi or use a ride-sharing service. This option is convenient but can be more expensive and is definitely slower during peak hours due to traffic.

Walking: For those who would enjoy a leisurely stroll across the city first, walking from DUKES London to Portobello Road takes around 45 minutes.

DUKES London makes the perfect base from which to explore Portobello Road Food Market.  Make your reservation with us today and get ready to enjoy some of the best food in London during your stay!

Here at DUKES London, we've got 6 summer cocktail recipes to share, perfect for barbecues, picnics and lazy summer afternoons.

With spring in full swing and the sunshine starting to make more regular appearances, we’ve been starting to think about garden parties, barbecues, and, of course, cocktails!

Offering a collection of classics in our DUKES Bar — from margaritas and Manhattans to mojitos and Negronis — our talented bartenders whip up refreshing experiences like no other.

Keep reading to discover our favourite summer cocktail recipes that you can recreate at home:

Our Favourite Summer Cocktail Recipes

Our mouths are already watering at the prospect of a classic cocktail or two in the sunshine.

And while we’re best known for our meticulously crafted martinis, we do have a selection of other mixed marvels that’ll be sure to put a spring in your step…

Aperol Spritz

A refreshingly sweet, slightly floral flavour, the Aperol spritz is the perfect choice for a summer aperitif, helping to stimulate your appetite.

Made with 3 parts prosecco, 2 parts Aperol, and 1 part soda water, it’s usually served with an orange garnish and plenty of ice.

Make a large jug and serve it to friends in the garden before dinner, for the ultimate summer cocktail party starter!

Negroni

A strong flavour that packs a punch, the Negroni is made with equal parts gin, vermouth and Campari.

Simply strain the mixed ingredients into a tumbler over a sphere of ice, and add a slice of orange.

A refreshing bitter, this is a Friday night wind-down cocktail, perfect for post-dessert!

Mojito

A firm favourite when it comes to summer cocktail recipes, the classic mojito is a delightful drink to serve on a warm afternoon. Infused with lime, mint and sugar, it offers a refreshing taste that’s oh-so sippable!

Mix the lime, sugar and mint in a small jug, crushing the mint as you go. Pour into a tall glass over plenty of ice, before adding the rum. Stir, top with soda water, garnish with mint, et voilà!

Espresso Martini

Post-dinner coffee — but in a cocktail!

Full-bodied and flavourful, this rich digestif is elegant as it is delicious. Served in a classic martini glass, the espresso martini is designed to be sipped slowly and savoured.

Made with sugar syrup, ice, vodka, freshly brewed espresso coffee, and coffee liqueur, it’s easy enough to whip up, while earning you maximum host points!

Manhattan

Embrace city life with the perfect Manhattan cocktail!

Mix 75ml bourbon, 15ml sweet vermouth, 15ml extra dry vermouth, 2 dashes of bitters, and 5ml cherry eau de vie over cubed ice, pour into your glass, and add an orange garnish.

Full of multi-dimensional flavour, this popular drink has a slight bitterness — perfect for pairing with sweet summer strawberries.

Margarita

Next up on our list of summer cocktail recipes is the classic tequila-based margarita — idyllic for enjoying in the sunshine.

The trick with this one is to prep the glass first; sprinkle salt over the surface of a small plate, rub a wedge of lime over the rim of a tumbler, and then dip into the salt until the top of the glass is covered.

In a cocktail shaker, muddle together tequila, lime juice, and triple sec with ice, then strain into the prepared glass over fresh ice.

Serve with a wedge of lime and a healthy dose of vitamin-D; it’s strong, sophisticated, and superbly summery!

Classic Martini

Of course, we couldn’t let you leave without mentioning our most famous cocktail…

But, instead of giving you the recipe, we recommend you head to DUKES Bar and try our classic martini for yourself; no-one makes it quite like us!

To really enhance your experience, why not book a table in GBR first, or treat yourself to an overnight stay in one of our exquisite rooms?

To find out more about visiting our luxury London hotel, please contact a member of our team.

Alternatively, if you’ve enjoyed these summer cocktail recipes (and are counting down the days until you can sit in your garden and taste-test your creations!), why not read our previous blog to discover our ultimate guide to St James’s Park?

Experience indulgence, elegance and tradition in the heart of London. Discover the reasons why DUKES London is the best place to have afternoon tea in London.

DUKES Traditional Afternoon Tea

Starting with a selection of savoury sandwiches, our DUKES Traditional Afternoon Tea caters for every taste.

From poached free range chicken and tarragon mayonnaise to H Forman’s London cured smoked salmon, dill, and cottage cheese, we use only the finest ingredients to create the signature finger sandwiches that we all know and love.

For those with a sweet tooth, your cravings will be satisfied by our assortment of treats, such as a chestnut, cranberry, and white chocolate gateau with salted caramel, or our cinnamon and spiced plum tart with plum jelly.

Finally, no traditional British afternoon tea would be complete without the classic scone. Ours come in both plain and sultana options, to be slathered with Rodda’s clotted cream and a scrumptious strawberry preserve.

DUKES Vegan Afternoon Tea

Here at DUKES London, we have a delightful vegan alternative to the traditional afternoon to tickle your tastebuds.

Beginning with an array of savoury sandwiches, this selection includes flavour combinations such as beetroot hummus with dairy-free feta and carrots, or cream cheese and pickled cucumber.

Those cravings for something sweet will be met by our decadent dessert options, from chocolate cherry fudge cake, to apricot mousse, to raspberry cheesecake.

Finish your meal by indulging in our vegan plain or raisin scones, complete with that same scrumptious strawberry preserve and a pot of dairy-free clotted cream.

Little Dukes and Duchesses Afternoon Tea

We’ve also transformed the DUKES Traditional Afternoon Tea and adapted it to suit the palettes of your Little Dukes and Duchesses.

With a fun twist on convention, the feast commences with marmalade finger sandwiches, ham and cheese triangles, and avocado toast.

A variety of playful desserts follow: a raspberry trifle ‘gummy bear’, a chocolate lollipop with popping candy sprinkles, and a banana cupcake swirl with cream cheese frosting.

As well as the traditional scone and jam, the Little Dukes and Duchesses Afternoon Tea culminates with a luxurious Hot Chocolate Bomb and a cuddly DUKESY toy to take home.  

Our afternoon tea is served daily from noon to 6pm in the

Drawing Room

Great British Restaurant

gbrlondon@dukeshotel.com

If this sounds like a treat that you and your loved ones would enjoy,

book a table

Alternatively, why not extend your celebrations with an overnight stay? Read our previous blog to help you plan the perfect family break in London.

Get ready for the festive season with our Christmas-themed afternoon tea!

From dainty finger sandwiches to delicate cakes and pastries, each with a festive twist, you’ll discover a mouth-watering selection of exquisite light bites here at DUKES London.

Read our blog to find out more about our festive afternoon teas…

Discover Our Christmas-Themed Afternoon Tea

Step into Christmas with a festive afternoon tea at DUKES London, available Monday-Sunday, 12pm-6pm, until 7th January 2024.

Served in the Drawing Room, you’ll indulge in a selection of delicious savoury and sweet treats in a relaxed, festive atmosphere, overlooking a quaint courtyard garden.

Parties of more than six guests will enjoy tea in the Great British Restaurant, which offers the perfect backdrop for your Christmas celebrations.

Indulge in Our Savoury Bites

In the swing of festive activities, take a break from Christmas shopping at Covent Garden, and indulge in our Christmas-themed afternoon tea.

Discover the familiar treats of afternoon tea, but with a unique Christmas twist, that’ll be sure to tantalise your tastebuds.

To start, indulge in an assortment of delicate finger sandwiches, featuring a medley of distinctive and festive fillings.

Just one of the options is the classic Christmas turkey, nestled between two slices of decadent white bread and complemented by a delightful cranberry mayonnaise for that extra touch of festive cheer.

Christmas-Themed Afternoon Tea: Enjoy a Sweet Treat or Two

Seasonal activities, such as perusing Christmas markets or gliding over ice rinks, can help you build up quite an appetite; why not recharge your batteries with a few sweet treats?

Indulge in a cinnamon tart, or try our popular rich chocolate Bouche de Noel; our themed afternoon tea provides a variety of traditional delicacies to help get you in the festive spirit.

Settle into the comfort of DUKES London and, with the help of our dedicated team, relax and unwind in our luxurious hotel — perfect for resting those aching feet after a busy day of festivities.

Christmas-themed afternoon tea at DUKES London

For the ultimate delight, opt for our Champagne or ‘MarTEAnis’ package, offering an elegant upgrade to your celebrations.

Our Christmas-themed afternoon teas start at just £45 per person, making them an idyllic pre-Christmas treat. Browse our menu to discover what other goodies we’ve got on the menu!

Our attentive team will ensure your afternoon is a pleasant and rewarding break from the hustle and bustle of Christmas chaos, with an extra sprinkling of magic for the festive season.

Make the Most of Your Visit

On our doorstep, you’ll discover the beauty London has to offer, with a backdrop of famous landmarks and historical buildings.

Once you’ve finished your afternoon tea, we recommend taking a wander through the mesmerising streets and marvelling at St James’ awe-inspiring Christmas light displays.

The perfect way to round off your visit, why not book a night’s stay here at DUKES London, to really help capture the magic of Christmas?

Embrace the spirit of the season with a Christmas-themed afternoon tea at DUKES London. From delightful savouries to sweet indulgences, our festive offerings promise a memorable experience in the heart of holiday magic.

Contact our team

Alternatively, why not read our previous blog for inspiration on planning your perfect, family-friendly London break?

Are you looking to experience luxury, exclusive dining in London?

Here at DUKES London, we offer an array of culinary delights throughout our unique dining spaces.

Read on to discover your next great dining experience:

Exclusive Dining in London | GBR

The Great British Restaurant is an iconic location for exclusive dining in London.

Offering all day dining Monday to Sunday, you can enjoy our breakfast menu from 7am until 11am, and our all day menu from 12pm until 9:30pm.

Located in the heart of St. James’s, the Great British Restaurant’s extensive menu combines British favourites with seasonally inspired dishes to provide you with a memorable visit.

From seasonal set menus and royalty-inspired menus to delicious desserts, check out what’s on offer at GBR.

Dining Spaces at GBR

At GBR, we offer contemporary dishes in the comfort of an exquisite atmosphere, complemented with modern decor and a spacious, open-plan floor.

The restaurant can cater to groups of various sizes; we recommend you contact our events team to arrange your group bookings to ensure we can accommodate your requirements.

If you’re after a more personal setting, you can delight in our private dining room.

With a capacity of 20 guests, you can enjoy delectable dishes in the comfort of your own room, while maintaining the background buzz from the restaurant.

In the bar area, we have 7 comfortable chairs overlooking the restaurant where you can sit back, relax, and indulge in a selection of light nibbles — and a comprehensive cocktail selection.

Exclusive Dining in London This Christmas

Our Executive Head Chef, Nigel Mendham, has carefully crafted our festive menus to get you in the Christmas spirit.

Whether you’re looking to plan a Christmas party with friends, or an intimate family celebration, GBR is the perfect place.

Available from the 24th November until the 7th January, you can indulge in a choice of two or three courses between 12pm and 9:30pm.

Why not give the gift of DUKES this Christmas with a Christmas Pudding homemade by our talented Head Chef?

The Drawing Room

Experience exclusive dining in London from our elegant Drawing Room.

Overlooking our charming courtyard garden area, you can enjoy a traditional afternoon tea and a range of culinary choices from the all day dining menu.

Our afternoon tea selection includes delicate finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones, an assortment of sweet treats and a choice of artisanal tea infusions.

We also offer a vegan afternoon tea and we haven’t forgotten the little ones with our Little Dukes and Duchesses afternoon tea.

Exclusive Dining in London | Picnic in the Park

If you’re after an exclusive dining in London in an outside setting, treat yourself to a picnic in the park.

At DUKES, we offer a selection of picnic packages that you can enjoy in either The Green Park or St. James’s Park.

Your picnic will be specially prepared in GBR, which you can then enjoy with a DUKES rug and cutlery provided.

This unique experience allows you to divulge in British classics, while basking in the breathtaking scenery that the park has to offer.

DUKES Bar

Step into sophistication and class with DUKES Bar.

Whether you’re looking for a pre-meal tipple or after dinner drink, the bar area is the ideal location to relax and enjoy your evening.

Each Martini and personalised cocktail is carefully made by our world-class bartending team, to create an unforgettable moment.

End your evening in style with a nightcap in the heart of St. James’s.

Overnight Stay | Exclusive Dining in London

After your evening of luxury, reside in the relaxing haven of one of our rooms.

Elegantly decorated to showcase timeless heritage, each of our rooms and suites are equipped with all the amenities you could need.

All guest rooms have access to a beautiful marble en suite bathroom and Turkish cotton bathrooms so you can continue your luxurious experience.

Get in contact with a member of our team to plan your perfect stay.

Alternatively, why not check out our recent blog on 7 festive things to do in London?

Tucked away in the heart of St James’s,

DUKES Bar

Stepping into another era

From the moment you step into DUKES Bar, you are transported to a bygone era of refined British hospitality. The bar’s warm, wood-panelled interior exudes timeless charm, with soft lighting and elegant details that create an intimate and inviting ambience. Plush armchairs and polished brass accents further enhance the sense of luxury, making it the perfect spot to relax and unwind.

Every element of the bar tells a story. The antique martini trolleys, for instance, are a nod to the enduring traditions of exceptional cocktail craftsmanship. This dedication to detail, combined with its tranquil setting, gives DUKES Bar a sense of exclusivity that makes every visit feel like a special occasion.

Where James Bond was born

DUKES Bar is not just a haven for cocktail enthusiasts - it’s a destination of literary and cinematic significance. Fans of Ian Fleming, the creator of James Bond, will be delighted to know that this very bar inspired the famous phrase, “shaken, not stirred.” Fleming himself was a frequent visitor to DUKES Bar, and it’s widely believed that his iconic martini-drinking spy owes much of his style to these visits.

Today, DUKES Bar proudly upholds this legacy. The martinis, hailed as some of the best in the world, are prepared with precision and served with theatrical flair.

Alessandro Palazzi

A celebration of British hospitality

What sets DUKES Bar apart is not just its impeccable drinks but also its unwavering commitment to exceptional service. The staff, attentive yet unobtrusive, ensure that every guest feels welcome and valued. It’s this level of care and professionalism that has cemented DUKES Bar’s reputation as one of London’s finest establishments.

In addition to its legendary martinis, DUKES Bar offers an extensive menu of fine wines, premium spirits, and expertly crafted cocktails. Each drink is meticulously prepared to reflect the bar’s dedication to quality and tradition. Whether you’re sipping a classic G&T or sampling a seasonal creation, every moment at DUKES Bar feels indulgent and memorable.

An icon in the heart of St James’s

DUKES Bar is perfectly situated in

St James’s

Why you should visit

DUKES Bar is more than just a place to enjoy a drink - it’s a destination that encapsulates the best of London’s heritage and hospitality. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, indulging in a quiet evening retreat, or simply curious about its storied connection to James Bond, DUKES Bar offers something truly unique.

So, why not take a step into the world of martinis and British charm? Pull up a chair, soak in the atmosphere, and let DUKES Bar transport you to a world of elegance and sophistication.

For more information, visit DUKES London and follow

@dukeslondon