Standing opposite the leafy tranquillity of Portman Square, the 5-star Hyatt Regency London – The Churchill combines the grandeur of a classic five-star hotel with a distinctly British sense of style.
Housed within a striking 1970s Brutalist building, the hotel pays tribute to Sir Winston Churchill through subtle design touches that evoke his enduring legacy of resilience and confidence.
The Churchill Hotel Exterior
When the hotel first opened on May 1, 1970. it was called “The Churchill” and operated by Loews Hotels. Hyatt Hotels took it over in May 2004.
Inside it’s all classical elegance where soaring ceilings, glittering chandeliers, polished marble floors and lavish floral arrangements create a grand first impression.
It’s impossible not to notice the painting of this former wartime British prime minister lording it over the reception desk as if to reassure you that you have made the right choice. And indeed it was — an efficient check-in, a convivial vibe, easy atmosphere, and great service with plenty of luxurious touches to boot.
The expansive thoroughfare leads towards The Montagu Kitchen and an inviting lounge, where a crackling fireplace is overlooked by a striking portrait of Sir Winston Churchill and his wife, Clementine.
En route, you’ll pass a small honesty shop for last-minute snacks, a bronze bust of Churchill and an elegant grand piano, details that lend the hotel a rather distinguished atmosphere.
Who for
Anyone who wants a superb location in an easy, good value stay in a five star hotel. That would include business travellers, those looking for a central location close to shopping and nightlife and families who could benefit from family rooms.
Accommodation
This is an expansive hotel with 440 rooms including 50 suites. My room 627 had a garden view which meant a view over Portman Square and its tennis court.
Bedroom with view over Portman Square
My spacious, light-filled room was decorated in a calming palette of soft greys and warm browns, with large windows that flooded the space with natural light. There was ample wardrobe storage, a walk-in shower and one unexpectedly memorable feature – a heated toilet seat. Better still, the controls at the side allowed me to adjust the temperature and activate the bidet function. It may sound a little juvenile, but it was one of those delightfully indulgent touches that tickled me.
The room was had all mod cons: a flat-screen television with Freeview channels, a coffee machine, complimentary bottled water and fresh milk, fluffy towels, a bathrobe, ironing facilities and Molton Brown toiletries.
The standout, however, was the enormous bed. Wonderfully supportive yet cloud-like in comfort, it made drifting off to sleep effortless after a day of exploring.
Food & Drink
There are two restaurants. The first is the casual The Montagu Kitchen, looking stylish with blue walls and blue chairs, with a menu of casual British/Meditteranean fare serving lunch, dinner and breakfast. Breakfast is a combo of three buffet stations and also eggs to order.
The second is the delightful, opulent bar – The Churchill Bar & Terrace, featuring an utterly gorgeous heated outdoor terrace secreted away at the side of the hotel. The bar is striking in greens and golds and serves a range of interesting cocktails and indeed whatever your tipple is.
The interior of the bar has beautiful, comfortable seating, and the walls display photographs and personal artworks and library books that Churchill enjoyed reading. I was particularly touched by the framed reproductions of love letters between Winston and his wife Clementine.
The terrace, currently themed as the Riviera Terrace till the end of October, offers a charming outdoor retreat, where lush flowers and abundant greenery create a peaceful setting for al fresco dining. Adding a touch of character is a life-size sculpture of Winston Churchill, casually seated on a bench and leaning sideways as though deep in conversation with an old friend. It’s a delightful feature that begs to have its photo taken.
The dinner menu is inspired French Riviera fare, where fresh seafood is prepared with Mediterranean flavours as well as elegant small plates and bar bites ideal for sharing.
Facilities
There’s a well-equipped gym with Technogym equipment and a huge spa offering massages and a variety of beauty treatments. The gardens opposite are only accessed by key holders, and those staying here have access.
How much
Doubles start from. £539 CHECK AVAILABILITY
What’s Nearby
Hyatt Regency London – The Churchill has an ideal position for exploring central London. The hotel is just moments from Hyde Park, Oxford Circus, the boutiques and galleries of Bond Street, and the charming cafés and independent shops of Marylebone Village. The world-famous stores of Oxford Street are only a few minutes away, while Marble Arch Underground station is a short walk from the hotel.
Hyatt Regency London – The Churchill
30 Portman Square
London, W1H 7BH