A stay fit for Her Majesty

The Goring, just steps from Buckingham Palace, offers a world of refined luxury

The would-be Duchess of Cambridge, Kate Middleton, stayed here the night before her wedding to Prince William. The hospitality services are by appointment to Her Majesty, the Queen.

So, if you want to get a peek into what the royal lap of luxury looks like, book a night at the Goring in London in one of their suites.

Be prepared to be waited on by a diligent footman, flawlessly dressed to the nines in red coattails, on call to do anything — from shining shoes to wrapping gifts. He may even follow you all the way to Scotland with your forgotten luggage post-checkout. Price Room rates start from about $870 (Canadian) per night for a Delightful Room to upwards of $17,000 per night for the Royal Suite. Belgravia Suites start from around $2,715. Make sure to bring some extra pocket change, as breakfast isn’t included in the room rate. Location The Goring is suitably located in the heart of Belgravia, one of London’s most upscale (expensive) neighbourhoods. It’s steps away from Buckingham Palace for when you get invited to tea by the Queen, or if you don’t run in those circles, you can visit the State Rooms — where important guests are received and entertained — when she’s away. Nearby, Kensington Palace is also a must; make sure to stop in at the Orangery, a bright conservatory with soaring ceilings and a wonderfully sunny at- mosphere, for an obligatory (and reasonably priced) afternoon tea. Dining The Dining Room at The Goring is a bright, light-filled space that serves up an exceptional blend of traditional English fare and fresh, modern takes on the classics. And, it’s been awarded its first Michelin star. Comfort and design The Goring is unapologetically British: refined, elegant, luxurious but never over the top. It was designed to feel like a country respite in the heart of the city. A recent renovation for the hotel’s centenary saw handpainted wallpaper added to the front hall. Some of the characters in the rolling bucolic scenes are meant to represent members of the Goring family: look for founder Otto Goring. The hotel’s unexpected friendliness is shaped by these personal details, and the emphasis on tradition and family is clear: each room has a cuddly toy sheep for kids and kids at heart to take home. Service When the hospitality services have a royal warrant, you can expect nothing but the absolute best — and somehow the Goring manages to surpass it. Where other luxury hotels can often feel stiff and snobby, the Goring doesn’t take itself too seriously. It’s both perfectly proper and effortlessly comfortable. Downside It’s an old building, so be patient waiting for the hot water in your shower and don’t expect those floorboards not to creak. Its idiosyncrasies only add to the character and charm of this unforgettable hotel. Nicola Brown was a guest of the Goring, which didn’t review or approve this story.

THE GORING The Goring is the only five-star hotel in London still owned and operated by the family that founded it more than a century ago. Accordingly, the emphasis on family and tradition is the hotel’s foremost characteristic.

DAVID COTSWORTH The Dining Room at the Goring was awarded its first Michelin star. The menu features traditional English food and modern takes on beloved classics.

THE GORING The Goring footmen, dressed in flawless red coattails, carry a croquet set onto a perfectly manicured lawn.