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Revel among art deco treasures at 45 Park Lane

Photo credit: Courtesy
Photo credit: Courtesy

A handsome art deco wonder sits at 45 Park Lane. Filled with contemporary works by emerging artists and magnificent sculptures, the Dorchester’s sister hotel feels more like an elite member’s club than it does a hotel. Location-wise it is hard to beat, positioned opposite the grand expanse of leafy Hyde Park and just a short stroll away from the dazzling well-heeled boutiques of Mayfair.

Inside, the roaring thunder of the 1920s reigns supreme: thinks huge statement lamps, outlandish lacquer and a shining black staircase. Naturally, the rooms are over-the-top with a dash of old-school Hollywood glamour; and suites overlook the park, which curves around the building. Sleek touches include heated marble floors in the bathrooms, desk-ready charging stations, a yoga mat and skipping rope hidden away in the wardrobe, as well as a wealth of mood-boosting portraiture, including a photograph of Vivien Leigh above the bed.

Photo credit: Courtesy
Photo credit: Courtesy

Then there’s the excellent food from legendary chef Wolfgang Puck. A steak at Restaurant Cut will have you talking about the place to friends for months to come – they melt in the mouth. The expansive menu features the widest and finest selection of Wagyu beef available in London, alongside long-term favourite pan-roasted lobster and seasonal salads reminiscent of modern Cali Americana. Expect great wines, mean cocktails (the Negroni from the trolley is non-negotiable) and some rather impressive Damien Hirst artworks, too.

Photo credit: Courtesy
Photo credit: Courtesy

Perhaps the most exciting addition to the hotel is its lush new underground spa. The work of the architect Jouin Manku, the new wellness space has prime city spa day etched into its glistening walls. Highlights include the Venetian-style mosaic-flecked swimming pool, a Jacuzzi tub, Swedish sauna and the Resident’s Lounge that racks up dishes from the 45’s executive chef Jamie Shears. In keeping with the rest of the hotel, it’s all very arty. The curator Lily Ackerman has selected a series of works by photographer Jin-Woo Prensena and sculptor Jill Berelowitz to add an extra dose of style to the space.

Photo credit: Courtesy
Photo credit: Courtesy

When it comes to treatments, prepared to be spoilt. Valmont and Aromatherapy Associates are behind the menu of facials and full-body MOTs. Our tailored and targeted back massage was nothing short of exceptional. Designed to combat tight, stressed and tired muscles around all the key muscle points, cross-fibre massage techniques help iron out pesky bad-posture-induced knots. Calming oils (which you choose before the session) are packed with all sorts of soothing ingredients, including rosemary, ginger and lavender – to help reduce inflammation – leave the skin feeling supple as well as rejuvenated.

Once you’ve gulped down the herbal tea, head straight for the steam-room to loosen up before a lap or two in the azure blue pool – the perfect way to toast out your stay at 45 – or simply skip the down time and borrow one of the hotel’s bespoke purple Brompton bikes for a ride through Hyde Park.