The Sofitel St. James hotel in London offers a prestige suite for £1,812.48 per night. The hotel, located on Waterloo Place in Westminster, is a five-star establishment housed in a Grade II listed building that was formerly an army banking agency and later a Lloyds Bank before being converted into a hotel in 2002.
History and Location
The building retains original features such as the bomb-proof safe that held the King's stamp collection during World War II. The former bank vault now serves as a multi-award-winning spa. The hotel is within walking distance of St James's, Jermyn Street, Fortnum & Mason, the Royal Academy of Arts, Mayfair, Buckingham Palace, Green Park, Covent Garden, and the Thames.
Suites and Design
The hotel has two new flagship suites (opera themed and 1970s themed) and two prestige suites, one of which was reviewed. Designed by French interiors architect Pierre-Yves Rochon, the prestige suites are on the first floor due to the building's Grade II listing. The green-themed suite features emerald carpets, curtains, and furniture, a large mirror between the living area and bedroom, a king-sized bed with velvet cushioned wall and headboard, and a black and white tiled bathroom with a deep porcelain bathtub, walk-in rainfall shower, double vanity basins, and a TOTO Japanese smart toilet.
Dining
The hotel's Michelin-starred restaurant Wild Honey was named England's Best Restaurant at the 2024 Culinary Awards. The reviewer dined at Wild Honey Bistrot, which offers a terrace. Starters include salami croquettes and tuna tartare, followed by sirloin steak with peppercorn sauce or a house burger. Signature cocktails are available at the St James bar. Breakfast at the Bistrot includes croissants, maple and banana pancakes, and seasonal local produce.
Spa and Amenities
The spa includes a steam room and jacuzzi but no sauna or swimming pool. Treatments include a signature massage starting at £75 for 30 minutes, £195 for a 90-minute deep tissue massage, or £150 for a deluxe hydrafacial. Afternoon tea is available at the Rose Lounge.
Pricing
Standard rates for a one-night stay in mid-August (non-member) are: Classic room £441.88, Luxury room £634.81, Studio suite £539.84, Suite 70 £2,232.37, Opera suite £2,442.31. The prestige suite is £1,812.48, with breakfast included at £2,188.93, and free cancellation at £2,628.59. Dining at Wild Honey is £98 for a three-course à la carte menu; at Wild Honey Bistrot, starters are £11-£24 and mains around £30.
