The Waldorf Hilton, London

The story of this landmark hotel begins in the late 1880s, when London’s Strand was redesigned to create the grand Aldwych boulevard. Two British entrepreneurs, Edward Sanders and Thomas Wild, recognized the potential of the newly formed corner site and set out to build a hotel that would rival the finest in the city. They commissioned architect Alexander Marshall Mackenzie, who drew inspiration from leading American hotels of the time.

When the Waldorf Hotel opened in 1908, it introduced Londoners to features that felt remarkably modern, like electric lighting and telephones, which were considered impressive luxuries. Its name paid tribute to William Waldorf Astor, lending it a sense of international prestige from the start. The hotel quickly became woven into London’s social scene. In the 1920s, it gained particular fame for its lively dance events and the popular Tango Teas. Music played a central role in its identity, especially under Howard Godfrey and his orchestra, The Waldorfians, who helped establish the property as one of the city’s leading entertainment venues.

By the 1970s, the building’s architectural and cultural importance was formally recognized with Grade II listed status. Over time, the hotel evolved with new ownership and branding. It operated as the Waldorf Meridien under Le Méridien before being acquired by Hilton Hotels in 2004, when it became known as The Waldorf Hilton, London.

At first glance, the Waldorf Hilton carries the confident presence of an early 20th-century landmark. The building follows an Edwardian architectural style, and you can see that clearly in its balanced proportions, curved façade, and strong sense of symmetry. The exterior combines smooth Portland stone with Scottish granite, all supported by a steel frame, which was quite forward-thinking at the time and inspired by large American hotels of that era.

The façade feels both grand and grounded. Ornamental metalwork and classical detailing add refinement. Over the years, careful restoration has helped preserve these original features. A major conservation project included cleaning the stonework and reinstating the decorative wrought iron balustrades along the front, bringing back details that might otherwise have been lost to time and city wear.

While the architecture reflects its heritage, the hotel also ensures practical access for today’s travelers. Wheelchair accessible areas, lower bathroom sinks, raised toilets, and toilets fitted with grab rails are available, helping make the stay more comfortable and inclusive. Lighting now subtly highlights the building after dark, allowing its curves and stone textures to stand out against the London skyline.

Homage Restaurant

Homage Restaurant at The Waldorf Hilton leans into classic British flavors and keeps things rooted in local food traditions. Breakfast is served here each morning, and it is an easy way to begin the day before heading out into central London.

Afternoon Tea is where the space really comes into its own. The experience feels relaxed but still a little special. You’ll be served freshly cut sandwiches and savory bites first, then warm scones with clotted cream and jam. It is simple, familiar, and satisfying, whether you are celebrating something or just in the mood to slow down for a couple of hours.
Booking ahead is strongly recommended, especially for Afternoon Tea, since it tends to fill up quickly.

Opening hours: 7 am – 10 am (Monday – Friday); 7 am – 11 am (Saturday – Sunday)

Good Godfrey’s Bar and Lounge

Just a few steps from the lobby at The Waldorf Hilton, London, Good Godfrey’s Bar and Lounge works as a natural extension of Homage Restaurant. The space leans into its heritage with dark oak paneling and a 1920s soundtrack humming in the background.

You will find classic martinis, sours, and fizzes alongside sharper aperitifs and a handful of house signatures. Light bites and canapés round things out if you feel like something small to go with your drink. The bar takes its name from Howard Godfrey and The Waldorfians, the hotel’s original house band, giving the space a quiet link back to its lively musical past.

Opening hours: 8 am – 12:30 am (Monday – Wednesday); 8 am – 2 am (Thursday – Friday); 9 am – 2 am (Saturday); 9 am – 12 pm (Sunday)

The Wild Monkey

The Wild Monkey at The Waldorf Hilton, London, brings a different kind of energy to the hotel’s bar scene. This immersive Monkey 47 gin bar leans into a tropical mood, with an intimate setting that feels tucked away from the rush outside.

Expect a wide range of Monkey 47 gin cocktails, from well-balanced classics to more creative mixes. The space blends traditional elegance with contemporary touches, giving it a slightly dramatic edge. It works especially well as a pre- or post-theatre stop, given the hotel’s location.

Opening hours: 4 pm – 12 am (Friday – Saturday)

T Room

The T Room at The Waldorf Hilton, London, is a relaxed spot for tea and cake, especially if you feel like slowing down for an hour. It works well for a quiet catch-up or just sitting back and watching the street outside.

A Resident Tea Sommelier hosts tasting sessions that guide guests through the journey from field to cup. You can sample premium Hope and Glory blends along with the hotel’s own Waldorf Signature Blend, selected in Sri Lanka. Cakes are prepared by the Pastry Chef, and all teas served here are also available to purchase.

The Pot Luck Club Pop Up

For something a little different, The Waldorf Hilton welcomes The Pot Luck Club Pop Up, bringing a well-known Cape Town dining concept to London. Often described as one of the coolest places to eat in Cape Town, The Pot Luck Club is known for its global small plate style and bold, flavor-driven dishes.

The concept was created by British-born chef Luke Dale-Roberts, a prominent name in South African cuisine. The menu focuses on eclectic combinations designed for sharing, giving the experience a lively, social feel.
To round things out, a dedicated cocktail list accompanies the pop-up and is served at The Wild Monkey Bar.

Opening hours: 5:30 pm – 10 pm (Monday – Sunday)

At The Waldorf Hilton, London, weddings take place across several elegant spaces, each with its own character. The Palm Court stands out with its glass ceiling, original marble flooring, tall pillars, and chandeliers, creating a bright and classic setting for ceremonies or receptions. It feels open and refined, especially in natural daylight. For larger celebrations, the Adelphi Suite offers ample space for dining and dancing, with room for a DJ and a proper dance floor.

The hotel can accommodate up to 350 guests, making it suitable for both intimate gatherings and grand receptions. An experienced in-house events team works closely with couples to coordinate the details, from room layout and timing to food and flow of the day, helping everything run smoothly from start to finish.

Cultural and Outdoor Experiences

A stay at The Waldorf Hilton is not just about the room. Guests can make use of the fitness centre and indoor pool, which are handy if you like to keep up your routine while traveling or simply want to unwind after a long day out in the city.

One of the more distinctive in-house experiences is the Afternoon Dancing Experience, held in the hotel’s iconic Palm Court.  It brings together traditional afternoon tea with live music from a classic dance band, creating a setting that feels gently nostalgic. It is relaxed, social, and something a little different from the usual London afternoon.

Step outside and you are right in the middle of central London, with plenty to explore on foot. Covent Garden is just around the corner, known for its lively piazza, street performers, cafés, and historic market that keeps the area busy from morning to evening. Nearby, the Royal Opera House draws visitors for world-class ballet and opera performances.

A short walk brings you to the National Gallery, where you can spend hours with European masterpieces, while the British Museum showcases collections spanning continents and centuries. Cross the river to Tate Modern for contemporary art, ride the London Eye for skyline views, pause by Big Ben, or make your way to Buckingham Palace to see one of the city’s most recognized royal landmarks.

The hotel can host both private and corporate events. Its meeting and event spaces include the Palm Court, while the main boardroom, originally the Gentleman’s smoking room, features a grand fireplace and oil paintings. There are seven meeting rooms, suitable for anything from small drinks gatherings to large banquets. Travelers can ask the staff for a tour of these distinctive spaces. External caterers are available to provide a variety of menu options, from Indian to African and Caribbean cuisines. Visitors can contact the team if they would like guidance on planning a personalized event.