Claridge's vs The Connaught: Which Mayfair Icon Should You Book?
The choice of Claridge's vs The Connaught is a happy one: both are Mayfair grande dames, both belong to the Maybourne group, and both sit at the very top of London hotel-keeping. They are, though, quite different in character. This guide compares their location, design, rooms, dining and bars so you can pick the one that fits the stay you want.
Location and setting
Claridge's stands on the corner of Brook Street and Davies Street, in the heart of Mayfair near Bond Street and Grosvenor Square. The Connaught is a few minutes' walk away on Carlos Place, tucked beside Mount Street and its designer boutiques, facing a small square with a Tadao Ando fountain. Both are quiet and central; the Connaught's corner feels a touch more residential, Claridge's a touch more grand-entrance.
Design and character
Claridge's is the Art Deco icon, its 1920s and 30s interiors, sweeping foyer and monochrome marble instantly recognisable. The Connaught is Edwardian red brick outside and more classically English and understated inside, with a famous mahogany staircase. If you love glamour and occasion, Claridge's leans that way; if you prefer restrained, clubby elegance, the Connaught does.
Rooms and suites
Claridge's is the larger house with around 190 rooms and suites; The Connaught is more intimate at around 120. Both offer some of the finest rooms in London, but the Connaught's smaller scale gives it a more private, residential feel, while Claridge's has the buzz of a larger grand hotel.
Dining
Dining is where the Connaught pulls ahead for serious food: it is home to Hélène Darroze at The Connaught, which holds three Michelin stars, alongside Jean-Georges at The Connaught for lighter, all-day dining. Claridge's answers with its glamorous restaurant and its celebrated afternoon tea served in the foyer, a London institution in its own right. For a special dinner, the Connaught; for the quintessential Mayfair tea, Claridge's.
Bars
Both have destination bars. The Connaught Bar is regularly ranked among the best bars in the world and is a pilgrimage for its martini trolley. Claridge's Bar and the intimate Fumoir are stylish Deco spaces that draw a well-dressed crowd. Either is worth a visit even if you are not staying.
Which should you book?
Book Claridge's for Art Deco glamour, afternoon tea and a sense of occasion; book The Connaught for quieter luxury, a more residential feel and world-class dining on the doorstep. You cannot go wrong with either. For more on eating and staying in the area, see our guide to Michelin-starred restaurants in W1 and the The W1 London homepage.
Frequently asked questions
Are Claridge's and The Connaught owned by the same company?
Yes. Both are part of the Maybourne group, which also runs The Berkeley in London. They share a reputation for the highest standards but keep distinct identities, so the experience differs between the two.
Which is better for afternoon tea, Claridge's or The Connaught?
Claridge's is the classic choice for afternoon tea, served in its Art Deco foyer and considered a London institution. If afternoon tea is the centerpiece of your visit, Claridge's is the traditional pick.
Which hotel has the best restaurant?
For fine dining, The Connaught leads with Hélène Darroze at The Connaught, which holds three Michelin stars, plus Jean-Georges at The Connaught. Claridge's offers its own acclaimed restaurant and famous tea.
Which is quieter, Claridge's or The Connaught?
The Connaught is the more intimate and residential of the two, with fewer rooms and a quieter corner on Carlos Place. Claridge's is larger and has more of a grand-hotel buzz, especially around its foyer and bar.
Where exactly are they in Mayfair?
Claridge's is on Brook Street near Bond Street, and The Connaught is a few minutes away on Carlos Place, beside Mount Street. Both are in the W1 postcode, central and within easy walking distance of each other.