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Summary of reviewsRubens At The Palace offers an exceptionally well-rounded experience, marked by its prime location, outstanding dining and welcoming staff. Situated in the heart of London, the hotel's proximity to Buckingham Palace, major parks and key transport links makes it an ideal choice for both leisure and business travelers. Guests appreciate the hotel's unbeatable central location, allowing easy access to iconic landmarks, shopping districts and a variety of dining options.
The hotel's breakfast has received high praise for its extensive selection, quality and attentive service, though it has a premium price tag. The dining experience, overall, is notable with the Curry Room and English Grill being particularly well-received. Afternoon tea is often highlighted as a standout experience, adding a unique charm to the stay.
Room reviews are mixed with many guests admiring the traditional décor and noting the high standards of cleanliness and comfort. However, several comments pointed out the small room sizes and dated amenities, suggesting that some areas could benefit from refurbishment. Despite these issues, the luxurious ambiance remains appreciated.
Cleanliness across the hotel is consistently praised with rooms and common areas frequently described as immaculate and well-maintained. The traditional yet stylish ambiance of the hotel's various spaces enhances the overall guest experience, despite the occasional lapse in cleaning standards.
The hotel staff stands out as one of Rubens At The Palace's greatest assets, consistently described as friendly, attentive and exceptionally professional. Personalized service is a common theme in guest reviews with specific mentions of outstanding staff members who go above and beyond to ensure a memorable stay.
Wi-Fi services at the hotel are a mixed bag with some guests reporting good connectivity and speed, while others experienced significant issues with reliability, particularly for business needs. This is an area noted for improvement.
The parking options, including valet services, are appreciated for their convenience, although some guests found the fees to be on the higher side. The hotel's accessibility and support with transportation contribute positively to the overall guest experience.
Families find Rubens At The Palace particularly accommodating with child-friendly amenities and attentive staff making stays enjoyable for both parents and children. The hotel's efforts in providing special touches for kids, such as welcoming treats and activities, are frequently mentioned as highlights.
Finally, the hotel's surrounding nightlife and onsite evening entertainment, including live music, are appreciated for creating a lively and enjoyable atmosphere. Despite some mixed reviews about the residents' bar, the overall consensus is positive regarding the nightlife options available.
Overall, Rubens At The Palace impresses with its excellent location, high standards of service and charming traditional atmosphere, making it a strong choice for visitors to London. Show more
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Categories
Historic Hotel
Located near Buckingham Palace, the Rubens offers royal views and a traditional British experience. Its proximity to the palace and classic decor provide a sense of history and heritage.
Dog Friendly Hotel
The Rubens At The Palace welcomes dogs with dedicated amenities and services, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay for both pets and their owners. They offer a convenient location near many attractions.
Luxury Hotel
Hotel Taking Steps Towards Sustainability
Hotel for Honeymoon
Family Friendly Hotel
Romantic Hotel
Hotel near Nightlife Spots
Business Hotel
Hotel with Parking
5-Star Hotel
Room Types
Superior King RoomThis room features a king-size bed that can also be configured as 2 single beds. Each room is individually designed. A bathroom with a bath and a shower over or a walk-in shower is available. Luxury toiletries are provided.
Classic Double RoomA queen-size bed is included in this individually designed room. A bathroom with a bath and a shower over or a walk-in shower is available. Luxury toiletries are provided.
Royal Double RoomEach room is individually themed on a British monarch. With a queen-size double bed, each room also has a bathroom with a bath and a shower over or a walk-in shower. Luxury toiletries are provided.
All rooms feature chandeliers and some rooms include canopies over the beds.
Junior SuiteThe junior suite features a king-size bed and a seating area with an entertainment unit. A daily turndown service is included. A bathroom with a walk-in shower is available. Luxury toiletries are provided.
Executive King RoomThis room features a king-size bed that can also be configured as twin beds. A seating area is included. The bathroom has a bath and a shower over or a walk-in shower. Luxury toiletries are provided.
Executive King SuiteWith a king-size bed and a separate seating area, the suite also includes a daily turndown service, a Nespresso coffee machine, a minibar and luxury toiletries.
Each suite is individually designed, including African Queen, Henry VII and Queen suites.
Master SuiteThis suite features a bedroom with a four-poster bed with an en suite bathroom. An interconnected lounge with views of the Royal Mews of Buckingham Palace is included. The living area features an optional pull-down bed and animal-print furnishings.
A daily turndown service, a Nespresso coffee machine and luxury toiletries are also provided.
Royal Mews View Classic Double This front-facing room features a queen-size bed. It offers views of the Royal Mews of Buckingham Palace.
A bathroom with either a bath and a shower over or a walk-in shower is available. Luxury toiletries are provided.
Royal Mews View King RoomThis front-facing room features a king-size bed that can also be configured as 2 single beds. It offers views of the Royal Mews of Buckingham Palace.
A bathroom with either a bath and a shower over or a walk-in shower is available. Luxury toiletries are provided.
Family SuiteThis air-conditioned suite features a tea and coffee maker.
Executive SingleThis single room has air conditioning, a TV with cable channels and a tea and coffee maker.
Superior Twin RoomThis twin room features a tea and coffee maker, air conditioning and a flat-screen TV.
Royal Themed King RoomThis double room has air conditioning and a tea and coffee maker.
Cosy DoubleA small double bed is included in this individually designed room. A bathroom with a bath and a shower over or a walk-in shower is available. Luxury toiletries are provided.
Guest Reviews
8.6
Very Good
Location
Rubens At The Palace boasts an unbeatable location in the heart of London, making it an ideal choice for visitors looking to explore the city’s iconic landmarks. Located just steps away from Buckingham Palace and the Royal Mews, guests find themselves immersed in British history and culture from the moment they step out the door. The proximity to Victoria Station, which includes both train and underground services, ensures easy access to all parts of London, adding to the hotel’s convenience for visitors.
The hotel’s central position allows guests to walk to major tourist attractions such as St. James Park, Green Park and various West End theatres. Many reviews highlight it as the perfect base for sightseeing with museums, restaurants and shopping areas all within a comfortable walking distance. For those planning a visit to Buckingham Palace, the hotel’s location is particularly advantageous, often described as “right across the street” or “a short 5-minute walk” to the palace gates.
Additionally, the surrounding area is filled with numerous dining options, shops and cafes, making it easy for guests to find everything they need without straying far. The hotel's traditional British charm and elegant ambience complement its prime location, creating a sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere.
Overall, the combination of a prime location, excellent transport links and close proximity to London’s major attractions makes Rubens At The Palace a standout choice for both leisure and business travelers.
Breakfast
Guests staying at Rubens At The Palace have expressed highly positive feedback regarding their breakfast experience, highlighting the exceptional quality and variety of the offerings. Many reviewers described the breakfast as delicious, fantastic and superb, noting the extensive selection of both hot and cold items, which consistently exceeded their expectations. The service was frequently praised for its attentiveness and efficiency, contributing to an overall pleasant dining atmosphere.
The breakfast buffet featured a wide array of options, from traditional English breakfast items to fresh continental choices, providing something for everyone. Guests particularly appreciated the perfectly cooked items, mentioning dishes like Eggs Benedict and yogurt with fresh fruit as standout offerings.
While the price of the breakfast was noted as being on the higher side, many guests felt that it was worth the cost given the quality and variety of food. However, some guests did express concerns about the cost and the lack of smaller, more affordable options. Occasionally, issues such as slow service or cold food were mentioned, but these instances seemed to be outliers rather than the norm.
The ambiance of the breakfast room, often described as beautiful and elegant, alongside the excellent service provided by the staff, enhanced the overall dining experience. Guests also enjoyed additional perks like complimentary coffee in the lobby and the very appealing afternoon tea.
In summary, Rubens At The Palace offers a highly regarded breakfast experience that is well-loved by guests for its variety, quality and exceptional service, making it a highlight of many visitors' stays despite its premium price.
Dinner
Rubens At The Palace offers a dining experience that merges elegance with exceptional food quality. Guests frequently commend the Bbar for its excellent service and delightful atmosphere with the evening ambiance enhanced by live entertainment. The restaurant choices, including the highly praised Curry Room and the English Grill, receive high marks for their outstanding meals with many noting the delicious and well-prepared dishes. The Curry Room, in particular, stands out for its incredible Indian cuisine prepared by Chef Kumar and the impeccable service by Mohan.
Afternoon tea at Rubens is another highlight, often described as a must-try experience with many considering it the best they've ever had. Breakfast and lunch options also live up to high standards, adding to the overall positive dining experience at the hotel. Though some reviews mention the high prices, the quality of food and the professional service generally justify the cost. Special touches such as birthday cakes and customized desserts add a personal and memorable edge to the dining experience.
However, a few criticisms emerged, particularly concerning the high prices and slow service at the bar. Some guests felt that the dinner portions were small and not always proportionate to the cost. Despite these minor drawbacks, the general consensus remains positive with the restaurants’ beautiful decor, friendly staff and quality food leaving a lasting impression on guests.
Rooms
Rubens At The Palace offers a mixed experience with its rooms, highlighting both charm and comfort juxtaposed with some notable drawbacks. Many guests appreciated the traditional English setting and found the rooms beautifully decorated, often describing them as luxurious, comfortable and clean. The comfortable beds, well-appointed furnishings and superb housekeeping received frequent praise. Some of the rooms even offered lovely views, especially those overlooking the Royal Mews and included nice touches like slippers and robes.
However, the size of the rooms was a recurring issue among guests. Many found the rooms, particularly the double rooms, to be quite small, sometimes feeling cramped and claustrophobic. The issue of limited space was often compounded by dated amenities and a need for refurbishment in some areas. Some guests reported issues with temperature control, lack of natural light and occasional musty smells. Additionally, the noise levels due to thin walls and poor soundproofing detracted from some guests' experiences.
Overall, while Rubens At The Palace excels in traditional charm and attentive housekeeping, potential guests should be prepared for smaller room sizes and some dated facilities that may not meet the expectations set by the hotel's luxurious reputation.
Beds
Rubens At The Palace has garnered widespread acclaim for the comfort of its beds. Guests have consistently praised the hotel's bedding setup, highlighting the plushness, softness and overall comfort. Words like "super comfortable," "extremely comfortable," and "very comfy" frequently appear in reviews, painting a picture of a restful night's sleep.
Many guests appreciated the luxurious feel of the beds, noting attributes like "plush," "luxury bed setup," and "silky soft." High-quality linens and pillows also received positive mentions with some guests describing these as "top-notch," "lovely," and "superb." The attention to detail in providing a comfortable sleeping experience seems to be a recurring theme with several visitors emphasizing how well relaxed they felt after sleeping.
However, there were some mixed opinions when it came to bed sizes. While there were numerous praises for "huge," "king-size," and "massive" beds, a noticeable portion of reviews mentioned issues with smaller than expected bed sizes, such as "bed far too small" and "bed was tiny." Some guests found smaller beds uncomfortable or inadequate for their needs.
Despite a few remarks about firmness with comments ranging from "rock hard" to "too firm," the majority of the feedback was overwhelmingly positive. The consistent theme is that Rubens At The Palace offers a high standard of comfort that leaves most guests praising their sleep quality and comfort.
Cleanliness
Rubens At The Palace presents an impressive blend of cleanliness and classic style, making it one of the more well-regarded hotels in its league. Guests mostly rave about the immaculate conditions of the rooms and common areas. Words like spotless, immaculate and exceptionally clean regularly appear in reviews, emphasizing the hotel's commitment to hygiene. The hotel maintains a high standard of cleaning with rooms serviced daily and some even getting extra attention.
Notably, the beautifully decorated rooms and the overall well-maintained property leave a lasting impression on guests. The traditional yet stylish ambiance of the reception, restaurant and bar areas further enhance the experience. Compliments on the clean and comfortable rooms, often described as quiet and well-appointed, are plentiful.
However, some guests did note occasional lapses in the standard of cleaning, such as rooms not being cleaned properly on some occasions or bathrooms appearing rundown. Despite these isolated complaints, the overwhelming consensus is that cleanliness at Rubens At The Palace is of a high standard with many guests highlighting the fresh presentation and crisp, tidy environments.
Overall, the hotel's cleanliness, along with its luxury and comfort, makes it a charming option for visitors looking for a premium stay near Buckingham Palace.
Staff
'Rubens At The Palace' boasts a team of staff that has consistently left an incredibly positive impression on guests. Review after review highlights the friendliness, attentiveness and helpfulness of the team. Guests frequently describe the staff as warm, welcoming and always eager to go the extra mile to ensure a pleasant stay.
The door and reception staff, in particular, have received numerous accolades for their exceptional professionalism and ability to make guests feel valued and respected. Many guests noted how the doormen and bellboys were courteous and often went above and beyond, contributing significantly to the overall guest experience.
Concierge and housekeeping services also received much praise for their efficiency and friendliness, making guests' stays comfortable and enjoyable. Specific mentions of individuals like Pascal and Rashad speak volumes about the personalized service provided at the hotel.
While the majority of feedback is overwhelmingly positive, there are mentions of some inconsistencies, particularly with the reception staff. Some guests noted slow service, occasional moodiness and lapses in professionalism. However, these instances appear to be more the exception rather than the rule.
Overall, the reviews make it clear that the staff at 'Rubens At The Palace' are one of the hotel's greatest assets, consistently ensuring a high level of service and making every guest's experience memorable.
Wi-Fi
Rubens At The Palace offers Wi-Fi services, but the reviews of its performance present a mixed picture. On a positive note, there have been mentions of good signal strength, fast speeds and excellent connectivity in certain areas, particularly in corridors and common spaces. Some guests reported smooth and adequate Wi-Fi experiences suitable for their needs, along with the added benefit of free access.
However, several guests expressed frustration with the Wi-Fi's reliability and consistency. Common issues included intermittent signals, frequent disconnections and complete unavailability on several occasions. Particularly concerning were reports about the Wi-Fi’s inadequacy for business needs with significant inconveniences stemming from slow speeds and connection drops, leading to repeated complaints and poor handling of these issues by the hotel staff.
Summarizing the reviews, while some guests found the Wi-Fi satisfactory, many others experienced significant challenges, highlighting an area needing improvement for consistency and reliability at Rubens At The Palace.
Parking
At Rubens At The Palace, guests appreciate the various parking options available, finding it easy and convenient. The hotel provides a valet service, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free experience for those who drive. They even park guests' cars overnight when needed. Visitors have noted the parking is safe, making it a suitable choice for their stay. While some mentioned the parking fees as being on the expensive side, the overall sentiment is positive regarding the hotel's support with transportation. The hotel also arranges taxis and offers other transportation options, enhancing the overall convenience for guests. Despite some mixed feedback about the availability of parking, most reviews did not report significant parking issues.
Family
Rubens At The Palace is an ideal destination for families seeking a comfortable and welcoming environment for their children. The hotel excels in being family-friendly, ensuring that kids feel like valued guests. Children are greeted warmly with delightful surprises such as welcoming cupcakes, child bathrobes and slippers, making their stay extra special. The hotel’s commitment to family comfort extends to practical amenities like proper baby cots and a special check-in service for kids that includes a playful child passport.
The staff are consistently praised for their kindness and attentiveness towards young guests. They go out of their way to make celebrations memorable, whether it's a birthday or an exam success party. Families traveling with disabled members also find the hotel particularly accommodating with a team that goes above and beyond to provide a delightful stay.
The hotel’s child-friendly atmosphere is complemented by fun activities that keep kids entertained, ensuring that they enjoy their time at the hotel as much as the adults do. The option of free breakfast for children under 12 is a thoughtful touch that adds to the overall convenience for families.
Spacious and clean family rooms, along with a friendly atmosphere, make it an excellent choice for a family holiday. The hotel's location is also beneficial, providing easy access to theater performances, making it even more suitable for families looking to explore the city together.
Overall, Rubens At The Palace stands out for its exceptional service to families, providing not just accommodation but a memorable experience that keeps both children and parents happy.
Nightlife
Rubens At The Palace benefits from an attractive position with an abundance of vibrant nightlife spots in close proximity. Guests have highlighted that the hotel is within walking distance to a variety of good local pubs and restaurants, providing ample options for a great night out. The onsite lounge and bar have also received positive feedback with several mentions of a good atmosphere and enjoyable entertainment in the evenings. Notably, the presence of live music adds a nice touch, creating a fantastic ambiance. While there were some remarks about the residents bar being disappointing, overall the nightlife options around the hotel and the evening entertainment within the bar are well-received, making it an appealing choice for those looking to enjoy the local scene.
5 Star
Rubens At The Palace impresses with its dedication to providing a five-star experience. Guests consistently praise the immaculate and polished service offered by the reception, concierge, doormen and bar staff, highlighting the hotel’s world-class standards and the five-star attitude across the board. The sensational, well-run establishment exudes a sense of iconic luxury, blessed with gracious interiors and fantastic staff who contribute significantly to its high-star reputation.
The hotel's commitment to a deluxe standard shines through in many aspects with numerous guests experiencing a wonderful and amazing stay. The establishment's attention to detail is evident, as it remains one of the few hotels where guests are greeted daily. Additionally, the charity donation system signifies its commendable social responsibility effort, aligning with what one would expect from a five-star hotel.
However, while many patrons found their stay to be of a five-star caliber, some expressed concerns over room quality and dining amenities, noting that certain aspects did not meet their expectations. The room size and need for updates were particular points of contention, as were occasional additional charges that guests felt should have been communicated in advance. Despite mixed feelings about specific features, the overall sentiment leaves a strong impression of a beautiful, high-caliber hotel experience.
Business
Rubens At The Palace is consistently praised for its suitability for business travelers. The hotel's central location makes it convenient for business trips, offering easy access to the business district. Frequent conferences and meetings conducted at the hotel highlight its success as a business-friendly environment. The presence of functional desks and dedicated meeting rooms cater well to business needs.
Exceptional service is a recurring theme among guest reviews with staff described as polite and professional. Housekeeping is noted to go above and beyond, contributing to an overall outstanding experience. The helpful concierge and notable service-focused approach also stand out, ensuring a smooth stay for business visitors.
While there are mentions of small bathrooms and occasional concerns about value for money, the professional atmosphere and conducive management are significant advantages. For those working remotely, the friendly staff and service make the hotel a comfortable choice. The availability of a business center and conference facilities further enhances its appeal for business travelers.
Historic
Nestled next to Buckingham Palace, Rubens At The Palace is a quintessentially British gem that radiates historic charm and sophistication. This beautiful old building, adorned with spacious book-themed rooms and traditional decor, offers a rich glimpse into London's regal past. Guests are immediately transported back in time, experiencing old world elegance both in style and service. The luxurious exterior and high-standard décor authentically reflect the property's royal heritage, complete with ornaments reminiscent of a castle and symbolic motifs.
The hotel's historic significance is palpable and this is meticulously maintained through its classic English design and sumptuous decoration, particularly in its restaurants. The knowledgeable staff further enhance the experience by sharing captivating stories about the building's storied past, making it not just a stay but a historical journey. With its vintage feel and perfect historical setting, complemented by an inviting old school charm, Rubens At The Palace is a perfect choice for anyone looking to immerse themselves in a historical landmark while enjoying modern comforts.
The beautifully decorated hotel brims with character, offering a fiercely traditional and centrally located lodging experience that feels like a royal treat. Whether appreciating the historically correct representation of British decor or simply walking by the Palace next door, guests are surrounded by history every day. A visit to Rubens At The Palace is not merely a stay but a luxurious dive into London's rich heritage.
Honeymoon
Rubens At The Palace offers an ideal setting for an unforgettable honeymoon experience. The hotel is noted for its luxurious honeymoon suites, making it a perfect destination for newlyweds. Guests frequently mention the warm welcome they receive, including handwritten cards and celebratory cakes in their rooms. Special touches like swan towel folding add to the charm and romantic ambiance. Many visitors highlight their enjoyable honeymoon stays, often complimenting the service as honeymoon-friendly. An upgrade to a king mews room was also a delightful surprise for some guests, enhancing their special occasion. Overall, Rubens At The Palace is highly recommended for those looking to celebrate their honeymoon in a lovely and memorable place.
Luxury
Rubens At The Palace offers a truly luxurious experience that stands out even among five-star hotels. Guests consistently rave about the hotel's immaculate condition and resplendent decor, which exude an opulent yet welcoming atmosphere. The property’s grandeur is enhanced by its stunning architecture and meticulously maintained interiors, featuring a profusion of red velvet and traditional, plush details.
Staying at Rubens At The Palace means enjoying luxurious hospitality marked by high-class service and superior amenities. Guests describe the hotel as both elegant and indulgent with a classic old-world charm that makes for a unique experience. The rooms are exceptionally comfortable and spacious, equipped with all modern conveniences while maintaining an aura of old-fashioned luxury.
The hotel's location near prominent landmarks adds to its appeal as a high-end destination. The on-site bar and breakfast room further enhance the experience, offering beautifully themed spaces that heighten the sense of opulence. Overall, Rubens At The Palace is praised for its high standards, exceptional service and the ability to provide a truly five-star luxury experience.
Romantic
Rubens At The Palace offers a remarkable atmosphere for romantic escapes, making it an ideal destination for couples. Guests praise the charming rooms with a romantic ambiance and classy decor, perfect for memorable celebrations like anniversaries and honeymoons. The location enhances the romantic experience with enchanting views and a setting perfect for proposals.
Couples often celebrate significant milestones here, creating unforgettable memories. The hotel's high price is justified by extraordinary experiences like romantic room turn downs and attention to special occasions such as golden wedding anniversaries. Guests highly recommend it for its luxurious feel and overall romantic vibe, ensuring a truly memorable time.
Whether it's a romantic weekend getaway or celebrating a long-term anniversary, Rubens At The Palace consistently delivers a perfect romantic atmosphere, complete with a nice romantic bar and thoughtful touches that make every stay special.
Dog Friendly
Rubens At The Palace offers a truly welcoming environment for guests traveling with their dogs. The hotel features dog-friendly rooms and amenities, making it a soothing place for pets. Dog-friendly spaces and a dedicated dog area are part of the hospitable environment the hotel provides. Staff members are described as exceptionally accommodating and attentive to both human and canine guests.
Amenities specifically for dogs include beds, bowls, toys and treats and there is even a dog menu available through room service. Pet sitting services are offered, providing an extra layer of convenience for guests. Reviews highlight that both pets and their owners felt well taken care of with dogs receiving a warm welcome upon arrival.
Overall, Rubens At The Palace excels in creating a pet-friendly atmosphere, ensuring that both dogs and their owners have a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
No, Rubens At The Palace doesn't have any pool.
No, a spa isn't available at Rubens At The Palace.
Yes, Rubens At The Palace welcomes dogs.
Yes, parking facilities are available at Rubens At The Palace.