Living it Up at Sofitel St. James

Editor’s Note: I was a guest of Sofitel St. James. For more, please read my disclosure policy.

We arrive into the grand entry at Sofitel St. James. It’s been a long day, and it has only just begun. Around us, business people and families are spread throughout the posh lobby, readying themselves to take in the rainy London afternoon.

The two of us standout, surrounded by hotel guests who are dressed far nicer than us, but it doesn’t matter to the staff.

Smiles greet us as we check-in and head up to our room. The past few days, we’ve experienced everything from a converted townhouse to a 70s disco room, to the mod Sex Pistol’s room we shared in Brighton, and now we have entered the heart of luxury.

And, I mean luxury.

In the room, a plate of tiny chocolate morsels awaits, and I dig in, savoring the little touch the hotel provides.

After inspecting the bed (soft and gorgeous!), I head into the bathroom. The huge area includes a shower and a tub worthy of sinking into. I sigh when I see the amenities at Sofitel include Hermes bath products.

Oh, the decadence.

Immediately, I change into the plush robe provided and slip between the sheets, ready to rest a little while my partner-in-crime catches up on work.

What’s there to love about Sofitel St. James?

Just about everything.

While, at first glance, it can appear a bit posh and stuffy, it is seriously gorgeous. But, there is so much more than that.

A neoclassical hotel, the site itself dates back to the early 1920s, and throughout the property, you can feel breaths of that.

The lobby itself echoes times gone-by, filled with little touches which move you from the crowded streets outside into a different world.

The rooms

We stay in the Classic Room during our time at Sofitel.

It’s a crisp room, accented with mahogany furniture, a large flat screen TV and gorgeous windows that stretch towards the ceiling. Bathrooms come equipped with rainfall showers, tubs and some of the softest towels I’ve ever had at a hotel. And, the bed? Heavenly.

The amenities

There are a few dining options at Sofitel. First, the magnificent Balcon. With winding staircases and an ambience that just oozes luxury, the restaurant serves up breakfast, lunch and dinner.

To experience the famed Afternoon Tea, head to Rose Lounge which includes exotic teas, champagne and French patisseries. For drinks, head to St. James Bar, inspired by 1920s Paris. Here, they serve up vintage and signature cocktails, along with food.

But, that’s not all the hotel offers.

The bright and exquisite So SPA delivers the ultimate in relaxation. With five treatment rooms, a private hammam and steam room, this is the spot to unwind and relish some down time. The hotel also offers So FIT, a 100-square-meter gym to get your fitness on (in case all of the walking around London isn’t enough).

Location

While most places in the heart of London deliver a fabulous location, Sofitel St. James is in the heart of the city. It is walking distance to Soho and China Town, as well as the West End. We take full advantage of the location, exploring all of the tiny streets nearby.

The Bottom Line

Located in Trafalgar Square, the five-star Sofitel St. James made me feel like royalty, despite having no affiliation to the Royal Family. It is a true upscale experience. With attention to detail, charm and friendly, attentive staff, it is a fantastic place to rest your head if you aren’t worried about your budget.