the goring

A footman quietly waits as the elevator doors open to the fifth floor, ready to assist guests arriving at The Goring’s renowned penthouse. This understated gesture captures the essence of The Goring—an institution where more than a century of family ownership has shaped a culture of attentive, thoughtful service. The Goring has received a 2025 Global Recognition Award, a distinction that highlights its ability to remain relevant and respected in a highly competitive hospitality market. As the only London hotel to hold a Royal Warrant from Queen Elizabeth II, The Goring demonstrates how tradition and modern service coexist, appealing to travelers who value heritage and comfort.

Family Stewardship and Lasting Values

The Goring’s strength comes from its continuity of family management, now in its fourth generation. This long-term stewardship has created a stable environment where service standards are consistently upheld. Unlike many hotels that change hands frequently, The Goring’s leadership has remained steady, reflecting a clear direction in daily operations. The hotel’s history includes notable milestones, such as being the first in London to offer central heating and en-suite bathrooms in every room when it opened in 1910. These early decisions set the tone for a property that values improvement and tradition.

Staff retention is another result of this family approach. Many employees have worked at The Goring for decades, resulting in a team that knows the preferences of returning guests and can offer a level of personalized service that is difficult to achieve elsewhere. The hotel’s relatively small size—just 69 rooms—also allows for a more tailored guest experience. This scale enables staff to notice and respond to individual needs, whether remembering a guest’s favorite tea or arranging a specific pillow type before arrival.

The Goring’s commitment to British tradition is evident in the continued use of footmen and the preservation of family recipes, such as Mrs. Goring’s Salad. These touches are not simply nostalgic; they are practical elements that enhance the guest experience and reinforce the hotel’s identity as a place where history is respected but not static.

Culinary Approach and Local Sourcing

The Dining Room at The Goring has held a Michelin star since 2016, a recognition of its focus on British cuisine and seasonal ingredients. Executive Chef Graham Squire works closely with suppliers across the UK, sourcing lamb from Rhug Estate and seafood from the Cornish coast. This approach supports local producers and ensures that dishes reflect the best of British agriculture and fishing. The menu includes classics such as roast rib of beef, carved tableside, and Eggs Drumkilbo, a dish with royal connections.

The recent kitchen renovation has provided Chef Squire and his team with updated facilities, supporting both efficiency and creativity. The restaurant’s design, by David Linley and Russell Sage Studio, maintains an atmosphere of understated elegance. Afternoon tea served on The Veranda is a longstanding tradition and has been recognized by The British Tea Guild Council for its quality and service. Ingredients for both food and drinks are often sourced from The Goring Garden, which supplies herbs and edible flowers for use in the kitchen and bar.

The wine list is extensive, featuring a mix of established and emerging producers, and is curated by knowledgeable sommeliers who assist guests with pairings. Integrating garden-grown ingredients into cocktails and dishes is a distinctive feature, connecting guests to the property’s outdoor spaces and reinforcing its commitment to sustainability.

Distinctive Spaces and Guest Experiences

The Goring Garden is one of London’s largest private hotel gardens, planted with more than 100 varieties of herbs. This space serves as a quiet retreat for guests and provides ingredients for the kitchen and bar. The garden also hosts seasonal events, such as afternoon teas and private gatherings, offering a functional and inviting setting.

The Goring Cocktail Bar, designed by Russell Sage, is a lively space that combines traditional British elements with contemporary touches. The bar’s menu features drinks made with herbs from the garden, and live piano music adds to the atmosphere. In winter, a fireplace creates a cozy environment, while guests can enjoy views of the garden in summer. The bar’s bicycle valet service is a practical amenity for guests exploring the city.

Seasonal programming, such as the walk-in snow globe installation and festive afternoon teas, shows The Goring’s ability to offer engaging experiences without relying on spectacle. These events are designed to appeal to guests of all ages and contribute to the hotel’s reputation as a welcoming and adaptable property.

Location, Service, and Looking Ahead

Located in Belgravia, The Goring provides easy access to landmarks such as Buckingham Palace, Knightsbridge, and Mayfair. Its position on a quiet street ensures a sense of privacy, while proximity to Victoria Station offers convenient transport links. The hotel’s concierge team is known for its local knowledge, arranging everything from running routes in Royal Parks to private croquet on the lawn.

The fitness room features modern Technogym equipment and is available to guests around the clock. While The Goring does not have a dedicated spa, it focuses on its strengths: attentive service, comfortable accommodations, and well-maintained public spaces. Housekeeping provides twice-daily service, and staff are trained to anticipate needs, such as offering umbrellas on rainy days or arranging transportation for early departures.

The Goring’s Royal Warrant and other industry recognitions are not simply accolades but indicators of consistent quality. As the hospitality industry changes, The Goring’s approach—rooted in family values and careful adaptation—positions it well for the future. Guests can expect the same thoughtful service and attention to detail that have defined the hotel for over a century.

The Goring’s 2025 Global Recognition Award reflects its ability to maintain high standards while evolving with the times. For travelers seeking a hotel where tradition informs, rather than limits, the guest experience, The Goring offers a compelling choice. Its ongoing commitment to quality and hospitality ensures it will remain a notable destination for years.