The Goring Hotel, Belgravia, London, England – Review
Indeed, comfort is as much a part of the experience here as style is, and I wasn’t surprised to learn that the Goring is believed to have been the first hotel in the world with en suite bathrooms and central heating.
The marble bath area was quite spacious as well, with twin sinks, a separate soaking tub, and glass-enclosed walk-in shower.
While other hotels in London may have a traditional English butler, the Goring’s suites each have a dedicated footman. The footman’s livery here is eye-catching: scarlet tailcoats and immaculate gold-trimmed waistcoats. Having watched Downton Abbey, I understand the difference between a butler’s duties and a footman’s, and I’ll probably stay in a suite next time I’m at the Goring just to experience it.
ROAD WARRIOR SUPPORT
My Most Splendid Room had a generously sized secretary, not just a writing desk, paired with a decidedly non-ergonomic but nonetheless comfortable chair. Wi-Fi throughout the property was fast and free.
The Goring provides meeting rooms that can accommodate groups from eight to 250. The rooms that I visited included the elegant Boardroom, seating eight, and the Archive Room, which has its own conservatory area with a glass sliding wall leading out to the Goring Gardens.
DINING
The aptly-named Dining Room is the hotel’s elegant restaurant, under the direction of Executive Chef Shay Cooper. Cooper emphasizes fresh, high-quality ingredients from across the British Isles, which translates to Romney Marsh lamb (highly recommended) to the freshest of fish. The hotel’s own forager is adept at finding a wide selection of truffles and herbs, all put to good use in the kitchen.