Hotel Cafe Royal

This review is specifically for the penthouse area. The view? Absolutely breathtaking — you get a stunning, panoramic glimpse of London in all its glory. Piccadilly Circus lights up beneath you, and you can even spot iconic landmarks like Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament in the distance. Truly a postcard moment! That said, the penthouse space itself is surprisingly small. Given the name and the prime location, I was expecting something a little more spacious and open. It felt a bit cramped, which slightly took away from the overall experience. On a much brighter note — the staff were absolutely lovely. The service was everything you’d hope for from an upscale venue: warm, attentive, and genuinely welcoming. They really elevate the experience, even if the physical space didn’t quite meet expectations. In short: jaw-dropping views and top-notch service, but just be prepared for a more compact setting than you might imagine from the word penthouse.

As a wedding photographer, Café Royal London is truly one of the most iconic and luxurious venues to work in. Located right in the heart of the city, it blends classic grandeur with contemporary elegance and it photographs beautifully in every corner. The interiors are absolutely breathtaking. From the golden tones and ornate detailing of the Pompadour Ballroom to the sleek, modern suites and moody corridors, there's an incredible variety of textures, light, and backdrops. It’s a dream location for creating editorial-style portraits, romantic couple shots, and timeless ceremony captures. The team at Café Royal are also a joy to work with, professional, discreet, and always attentive to the needs of both the couple and the suppliers. It makes the whole experience seamless, which is such a gift on a busy wedding day. It’s one of those venues that inspires you creatively every time and I always look forward to photographing there again. Lots of love Doville Gail Photography

Staying at Hotel Cafe Royal was like a dream. From the minute we arrived we were treated like royalty. Doorman Will was a standout as well as Emily from reception. The room was amazing and the champagne and fruit waiting for us was so fun. The spa is amazing and the pool was a perfect way to unwind after a long day of walking around the city. The location is perfection and the high tea is a must do. We will definitely return. Thank you Hotel Cafe Royal staff for making us feel so special. xxoo