Chesterfield Mayfair Hotel, London, England

An elegant London hotel welcomes your family with unusually large accommodations, great service, cozy extra features and a great location.

The magical world of British literature from J.K. Rowling and J.R.R Tolkien to “Mary Poppins” and “Oliver Twist” springs to life in London’s hidden alleys and murky passageways that intertwine to form routes where monarchs, dukes and knights have walked. While the city hums with the vitality of a great capital, the River Thames meanders right through the middle, crisscrossed overhead by sprawling bridges. Time has not diminished the elegance of London’s grandeur, mystique, drama, and charm, all qualities found in this hotel that will make you feel right at home.

An Intimate Five-Star Hotel

Discreetly tucked away in the upscale Mayfair neighborhood, the Chesterfield Mayfair Hotel is both a perfect home base and an enchanting hideaway for the whole family. Once inside it is so easy to be drawn to its opulent warmth that has lured many generations in classic London style. The generous-sized guest rooms (which offer 2 queen beds and can accommodate two adults and two children) and deluxe suites have been lovingly and painstakingly refurbished and feature direct dial phones, internet, movies on demand, tea and coffee making facilities and the ultimate, heated bathroom floors. There’s a unique home away from home feeling for everyone.

Dining venues cater to everyone’s whims ranging from the Butler’s Restaurant that serves an English menu; the wood paneled Library, ideal for traditional afternoon tea; the light and airy Conservatory with a garden and fountain backdrop for more private dining; and The Terrace that serves snacks and beverages to the accompaniment of live piano music. The beautifully illustrated Kids Menu includes such favorites as Captain Nemo Fish and Chips, Speedy Gonzales Nachos and Harry Potter’s magical soup of the day.

Nestled right in the vibrant center of town, The Chesterfield is a perfect location from which to experience London. It’s just a short stroll from celebrated Berkeley Square, and conveniently close to the open spaces of Hyde and Green Parks, Piccadilly Circus, Buckingham Palace, the Royal Academy and West End Theatres. Family browsers and shoppers will be thrilled with the nearby exclusive shops along Bond and Regent Streets, and for those so inclined, London’s Financial District is in easy reach.

Details, Details

Getting to and from the airport is easy and quick. Journey to Heathrow Airport via British Air, offering four classes of travel. Families are well taken care of by the Skyflyers onboard, and the activity packs that are distributed are designed to smooth the journey and delight the children. Kids meals can be ordered up to 24 hours before departure. For reservations, phone 800/247-0207 or visit www.britishairways.com.

You don’t need a chauffeured Rolls  to feel comfortable at the Chesterfield. The “Tube” as the Underground or subway is called, is a wonderfully efficient way to get around. Buy a day-long Family Pass from a real person or from machines at each station. Trains run from 6am to midnight. Rental cars are available, but driving is on the left side and quite challenging. The Big Bus Company offers hop-on/ hop-off open top sightseeing.

Photos by Mel Greenberg