The Clermont Victoria has been welcoming guests for 160 years – and though its five star splendour is something to marvel at, it’s not just any luxury London hotel. This central stay has an incredible literary past – with it even being referenced in not one, but four Sherlock Holmes stories.
It’s not hard to see why author Arthur Conan Doyle was so enamored. Step inside, and you’ll find a show-stopping staircase, glittering chandeliers, and Victorian-era stained glass, all interlaced with all the modcons you’d expect from one of the city’s premier hotels.
Directly connected to Victoria Station, this historic gem puts you at the heart of the city, whether you’re here for theatre, sightseeing, or a luxury escape – or headed on another adventure from the adjoining station.
Checking in
This is a hotel that knows how to make a first impression. One foot inside The Clermont Victoria and you’re hit with its sheer grandeur. The sweeping staircase, intricate stained-glass windows, and gold-leaf detailing make for a breathtaking entrance – no wonder we witnessed a beautiful bridal photoshoot on the staircase during our time here. But it’s not just the aesthetics that set the tone. Staff are attentive and check in is a breeze. Whether you arrive straight from Victoria Station or after a day exploring London, this feels like a retreat from the city’s energy – so calm is the vibe here, in fact, that it’s almost unfathomable to think that the buzz of the busy station is just steps away.
The Signature Suite at the Clermont Victoria is one of the most inviting rooms in London
Rooms and suites
Though you might come for the history, you’ll stay for the bathtub: If there’s one reason to stay at The Clermont, it’s the Signature Suite. A true showstopper, this suite delivers a blend of classic luxury and modern indulgence, with stunning floor-to-ceiling windows framing sweeping views over Victoria. The highlight for us was its statement roll-top bathtub, perfectly positioned so you can soak in the city skyline from your own private retreat. It feels as indulgent as can be, and an unforgettable way to unwind – especially when paired with goodies from the in-room minibar (delightfully all included in your stay). The rest of the bathroom is just as impressive, featuring his-and-hers sinks and a beautifully designed rainfall shower – making the stay feel something of a private spa escape.
The rolltop bath in the Clermont Victoria’s Signature Suite is a showstopper
The rest of the suite is opulent and pure comfort – plush furnishings, soft lighting, and elegant period details make it feel grand and cosy at the same time. A stately fireplace only adds to the charm. The bed, easily one of the most luxe in London, makes for an incredible night’s sleep – which can be tailored especially to your liking thanks to the pillow menu at your disposal. Thoughtful touches, like a complimentary minibar and high end wellness amenities add to the relaxation. Whatever the reason for your London stay, this suite makes it hard to leave.
Luxe amenities add to the private spa vibe
Dining and drinks
Breakfast at The Clermont Victoria means rising to a buffet spread which covers everything from a classic Full English with all the trimmings to the fresh fruit, pastries, and the continental selection of cheeses and cold cuts you’d expect from such a grand hotel – it’s clearly top quality. Later on, the hotel’s tea lounge also offers a special Wicked afternoon tea – and if you happen to ve visiting the theatre production just steps away, we can’t think of a better way to kick off proceedings.
Design
Grade II listed, the Clermont Victoria is a feast for the eyes. Originally designed by James Thomas Knowles, the building is a showcases of intricate Victorian craftsmanship – from the stunning stained-glass windows to the grand staircase that demands your attention the moment you step inside. The use of real gold leaf in the lobby, soaring ceilings, and its preserved period details all add to the grandeur.
The hotel’s storied past plays a key part in the grand design, too. Once known as The Grosvenor Hotel, since opening in 1862, it has played host to countless notable guests, including Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, who mentioned the hotel in four of his Sherlock Holmes stories. Fans of the consulting detective, for example, should look out for mention of The Grosvenor Hotel in “The Final Problem,” where the landlord of the Englischer Hof in, Switzerland, is described as having served as a waiter at the Grosvenor Hotel in London. t’s easy to imagine Holmes himself stopping in for a night – perhaps even hanging up his deerstalker in the lobby after a case well solved.
The Clermont’s storied past can be seen in its design details
Also evident in its design – as well as its location – is The Clermont’s connection to the golden age of rail travel. Its stained glass windows, intricate cornices and dramatic fireplaces serve as reminders of an era when this was the premier stopover for luxury-seeking travellers arriving in London by train. As luxury-seeking travellers ourselves, we’re more than happy to join their ranks.
Location
You couldn’t ask for a more convenient London base. Directly connected to Victoria Station, The Clermont Victoria puts the city at your doorstep – whether you’re heading to the West End for a show, taking a stroll to Buckingham Palace, or catching a train to Gatwick Airport. Theatres, top restaurants, and iconic landmarks are all within walking distance.
The Clermont is just steps away from Victoria station and London’s prime attractions
A ten minute stroll takes you to Buckingham Palace, while Westminster Abbey and Big Ben are just 15 minutes away on foot. Theatre lovers will appreciate being minutes from the Apollo Victoria Theatre, home to Wicked, and the Victoria Palace Theatre, where Hamilton takes centre stage. Plus, with direct Underground access, you can be in Soho, Mayfair, or the South Bank in under 10 minutes – a perfect choice for those who want to be in the heart of it all.
Your very own pillow menu is callling…
The Luxe Review: Verdict
The Clermont Victoria is stunning. From the moment you step inside, you’re surrounded by grandeur, from the sweeping staircase to its intricate stained-glass windows. The Signature Suite, with its floor-to-ceiling views and luxurious roll-top bathtub, is a standout, making any stay here feel truly special.
With its unbeatable location, impeccable service, and a connection to literary legends, The Clermont Victoria captures the essence of classic London luxury. Steeped in history yet perfectly in tune with modern comfort, this is an ideal choice for a retreat in the city. As Sherlock might say, it’s elementary: The Clermont is one London stay you won’t want to deduce your way out of.
The details
Address: 101 Buckingham Palace Rd, London SW1W 0SJ, United Kingdom
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The Luxe Review 
The Clermont Victoria has been welcoming guests for 160 years – and though its five star splendour is something to marvel at, it’s not just any luxury London hotel. This central stay has an incredible literary past – with it even being referenced in not one, but four Sherlock Holmes stories.
It’s not hard to see why author Arthur Conan Doyle was so enamored. Step inside, and you’ll find a show-stopping staircase, glittering chandeliers, and Victorian-era stained glass, all interlaced with all the modcons you’d expect from one of the city’s premier hotels.
Directly connected to Victoria Station, this historic gem puts you at the heart of the city, whether you’re here for theatre, sightseeing, or a luxury escape – or headed on another adventure from the adjoining station.
Checking in
This is a hotel that knows how to make a first impression. One foot inside The Clermont Victoria and you’re hit with its sheer grandeur. The sweeping staircase, intricate stained-glass windows, and gold-leaf detailing make for a breathtaking entrance – no wonder we witnessed a beautiful bridal photoshoot on the staircase during our time here. But it’s not just the aesthetics that set the tone. Staff are attentive and check in is a breeze. Whether you arrive straight from Victoria Station or after a day exploring London, this feels like a retreat from the city’s energy – so calm is the vibe here, in fact, that it’s almost unfathomable to think that the buzz of the busy station is just steps away.
Rooms and suites
Though you might come for the history, you’ll stay for the bathtub: If there’s one reason to stay at The Clermont, it’s the Signature Suite. A true showstopper, this suite delivers a blend of classic luxury and modern indulgence, with stunning floor-to-ceiling windows framing sweeping views over Victoria. The highlight for us was its statement roll-top bathtub, perfectly positioned so you can soak in the city skyline from your own private retreat. It feels as indulgent as can be, and an unforgettable way to unwind – especially when paired with goodies from the in-room minibar (delightfully all included in your stay). The rest of the bathroom is just as impressive, featuring his-and-hers sinks and a beautifully designed rainfall shower – making the stay feel something of a private spa escape.
The rest of the suite is opulent and pure comfort – plush furnishings, soft lighting, and elegant period details make it feel grand and cosy at the same time. A stately fireplace only adds to the charm. The bed, easily one of the most luxe in London, makes for an incredible night’s sleep – which can be tailored especially to your liking thanks to the pillow menu at your disposal. Thoughtful touches, like a complimentary minibar and high end wellness amenities add to the relaxation. Whatever the reason for your London stay, this suite makes it hard to leave.
Dining and drinks
Breakfast at The Clermont Victoria means rising to a buffet spread which covers everything from a classic Full English with all the trimmings to the fresh fruit, pastries, and the continental selection of cheeses and cold cuts you’d expect from such a grand hotel – it’s clearly top quality. Later on, the hotel’s tea lounge also offers a special Wicked afternoon tea – and if you happen to ve visiting the theatre production just steps away, we can’t think of a better way to kick off proceedings.
Design
Grade II listed, the Clermont Victoria is a feast for the eyes. Originally designed by James Thomas Knowles, the building is a showcases of intricate Victorian craftsmanship – from the stunning stained-glass windows to the grand staircase that demands your attention the moment you step inside. The use of real gold leaf in the lobby, soaring ceilings, and its preserved period details all add to the grandeur.
The hotel’s storied past plays a key part in the grand design, too. Once known as The Grosvenor Hotel, since opening in 1862, it has played host to countless notable guests, including Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, who mentioned the hotel in four of his Sherlock Holmes stories. Fans of the consulting detective, for example, should look out for mention of The Grosvenor Hotel in “The Final Problem,” where the landlord of the Englischer Hof in, Switzerland, is described as having served as a waiter at the Grosvenor Hotel in London. t’s easy to imagine Holmes himself stopping in for a night – perhaps even hanging up his deerstalker in the lobby after a case well solved.
Also evident in its design – as well as its location – is The Clermont’s connection to the golden age of rail travel. Its stained glass windows, intricate cornices and dramatic fireplaces serve as reminders of an era when this was the premier stopover for luxury-seeking travellers arriving in London by train. As luxury-seeking travellers ourselves, we’re more than happy to join their ranks.
Location
You couldn’t ask for a more convenient London base. Directly connected to Victoria Station, The Clermont Victoria puts the city at your doorstep – whether you’re heading to the West End for a show, taking a stroll to Buckingham Palace, or catching a train to Gatwick Airport. Theatres, top restaurants, and iconic landmarks are all within walking distance.
A ten minute stroll takes you to Buckingham Palace, while Westminster Abbey and Big Ben are just 15 minutes away on foot. Theatre lovers will appreciate being minutes from the Apollo Victoria Theatre, home to Wicked, and the Victoria Palace Theatre, where Hamilton takes centre stage. Plus, with direct Underground access, you can be in Soho, Mayfair, or the South Bank in under 10 minutes – a perfect choice for those who want to be in the heart of it all.
The Luxe Review: Verdict
The Clermont Victoria is stunning. From the moment you step inside, you’re surrounded by grandeur, from the sweeping staircase to its intricate stained-glass windows. The Signature Suite, with its floor-to-ceiling views and luxurious roll-top bathtub, is a standout, making any stay here feel truly special.
With its unbeatable location, impeccable service, and a connection to literary legends, The Clermont Victoria captures the essence of classic London luxury. Steeped in history yet perfectly in tune with modern comfort, this is an ideal choice for a retreat in the city. As Sherlock might say, it’s elementary: The Clermont is one London stay you won’t want to deduce your way out of.
The details
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