
About
Occupying the former Pearl Assurance headquarters, Rosewood London is a masterclass in heritage reinvention. The original Edwardian architecture — soaring ceilings, marble columns, intricate plasterwork — has been meticulously restored and paired with contemporary interiors by Tony Chi.
The 262 rooms and 44 suites are among London's most spacious, with the Manor Wing offering the feel of a private residence. Scarfes Bar, consistently ranked among the world's best, is a destination in its own right.
Gallery
FV Score
Based on 21 signals
The Verdict
The original Rosewood London occupies an awkward middle ground—service that genuinely impresses but rooms that consistently disappoint. The Edwardian courtyard entrance creates genuine drama, and staff demonstrate the kind of intuitive care that builds loyalty, from concierges who rally colleagues for last-minute theater bookings to butlers who remember your preferences. But step into the accommodations and the magic fades: rooms are cramped by luxury standards and lack the aesthetic sophistication you'd expect from a brand that positions itself as design-obsessed. The Holborn location, while polarizing, actually works better than critics suggest—walkable to theaters and the British Museum, connected to two Underground lines. Scarfes Bar remains a legitimate destination, though Holborn Dining Room underwhelms. The spa offers respite, but this feels like a hotel coasting on past reputation rather than pushing boundaries.
Strengths
Considerations
What People Say
“Scarfes Bar alone is worth the trip to London.”
Hot List · Dec 2025
“The property was pretty close to flawless in my experience.”
u/CodiGoFar · Jan 2026
Found the property nearly flawless during their New Year's stay, acknowledging that opinions divide based on aesthetic preferences. Loves the mid-century modern meets Mad Men vibe versus traditional British warmth, noting the property is quickly finding its legs after opening.
“This suite was too amazing not to share.”
u/its_AH_Travel · Jan 2026
Incredibly impressed by the John Hay Adams suite at Chancery with its masculine aesthetic and natural light. Notes the property sits nicely between Connaught's masculine vibe and Claridge's airiness, though acknowledges it doesn't feel quintessentially British due to features like Carbone restaurant.
“Absolutely stunning hotel.”
u/OkGarage2158 · Nov 2025
Absolutely stunning hotel with beautiful renovation and top-notch rooms in an all-suite format. Loved the modern design and great location in Mayfair, though noted minor service issues during early weeks of operation including delayed room service.
“First time I am truly impressed with a Rosewood Hotel.”
u/[deleted] · Sep 2025
First time being truly impressed with a Rosewood property, praising how the architectural legacy is respected and celebrated. Notes gorgeous interiors that exude true luxury without feeling generic or chain-like.
“The Chancery Rosewood is finally open after almost 8 years.”
u/sarahwlee · Sep 2025
Provides detailed background on the new Chancery Rosewood property built in the former US Embassy, highlighting the unique brutalist architecture and ambitious F&B program with 8 outlets including Carbone. Emphasizes the historic significance and local integration goals.
“It lacked any sort of soul or vibe.”
u/WizardMageCaster · Feb 2025
Loved Scarfes Bar and found the breakfast very good, but overall was unimpressed compared to other five-star hotels in London. The property lacks soul or distinctive character that would set it apart from competitors.
“The entrance to the hotel is one of the best in the city.”
u/Brilliant-cabanas · Feb 2025
Highly recommends the Rosewood despite criticism of its location, finding it perfectly situated and convenient. Praises the phenomenal rooms, exceptional service, and particularly the entrance as one of London's best. Notes the concierge's ability to secure hard-to-get reservations.
“We were able to get checked in to our room at 10:30am and were surprised to find we were upgraded to a Grand Premier suite.”
u/Sunshineandfairskies · Feb 2025
Had a wonderful 3-night stay focused on theater, praising the perfect location for Covent Garden access and lovely staff. Got upgraded to Grand Premier suite and found the separate bedroom helpful for traveling with a teen daughter. Service was consistently warm and professional.
“I was so underwhelmed by this Rosewood property.”
u/Independent_Inside23 · Feb 2025
Completely agrees with the main review about being underwhelmed by this Rosewood property. Would not consider staying here even with significant discounts, indicating deep disappointment with the overall experience.
“I find the building beautiful and dramatic, especially the porte-cochère.”
u/Mean-Information-682 · Feb 2025
Has stayed multiple times and enjoys the experience overall, finding the building beautiful and dramatic with its unique porte-cochère entrance. Agrees that Holborn Dining Room is underwhelming but appreciates Scarfes cocktail bar as quite good.
“The rooms are straight up ugly and poorly designed.”
u/SardinesForHire · Feb 2025
Stayed 6 nights and found exceptional service quality with warm, professional staff who go above and beyond, particularly the concierge team. However, the rooms are poorly designed and unattractive, while the attached restaurant delivered one of the worst meals in London. Despite positive elements like good room service and convenient location, the hotel lacks anything truly dazzling.
“The service at this hotel was outstanding.”
u/Paceys_Ghost · Sep 2024
Outstanding service throughout 6-night stay with genuine, helpful staff at all levels. Upgraded from Superior to Premier suite, excellent housekeeping and turndown service. Staff remembered preferences and provided thoughtful touches like proactive communication about Do Not Disturb signals.
“We had a great time at Rosewood.”
György Csikós · Mar 2026
Had a great time with smooth check-in from Andrea and comfortable rooms. Breakfast at Holborn was tasty with attentive service from Eric, and they particularly enjoyed a delicious pie at lunch. Overall very positive experience with plans to return.
“An absolutely amazing stay.”
Mafer Chavez · Feb 2026
Amazing Valentine's stay with warm, professional service from arrival. Beautifully designed room with careful attention to detail creating luxurious yet welcoming atmosphere. Exceptional dinner and incredible Scarfes bar made the experience truly unforgettable.
“The rooms and service are top notch.”
Daniel Mooney · Jan 2026
Amazing weekend experience with top-notch rooms and service. Perfect location next to Holborn Underground with connections throughout the city. Major highlight is guest-only entrance to Scarfes bar, one of the world's top bars, allowing immediate seating while non-guests queue.
“Every visit somehow feels even more special than the last.”
378katrinak · Jan 2026
Absolutely loves staying at Rosewood with each visit feeling more special than the last. While the hotel is beautiful, the staff truly sets it apart with exceptional care, warmth and attention to detail. Specifically praises Filippo and Gabriela for going above and beyond with personal, thoughtful service.
“Lovely afternoon tea at the Rosewood hotel.”
waytokyoto · Dec 2025
Enjoyed lovely afternoon tea with attentive, welcoming staff and well-thought menu accurately presented. Good selection of savory and sweet treats in relaxed ambiance, with beautiful Christmas decorations adding to the atmosphere.
“Our stay was once again exceptional and deeply personal.”
hmll_tom · Dec 2025
Exceptional and deeply personal stay with care that felt intuitive rather than procedural. Highlights included Christmas stockings delivered by Santa, delicious lobby hot chocolate, and perfect location for exploring. Scarfes bar with live entertainment was memorable, and long-standing staff create genuine family-like connections.
“The Rosewood separates itself in a way that makes it a truly magical experience.”
paulcK1450UR · Dec 2025
Describes the Rosewood as truly magical, not just a stay but a destination experience. Particularly magical during holiday season with exceptional staff treating guests like family. Highlights multiple venues including Mirror room, Scarfes bar, and Pie shop as creating a unique experience.
“The blonde haired lady at the reception have not even bothered to accommodate our request.”
Trip.com Member · May 2025
Stayed 7 days but disappointed with service, particularly regarding late checkout requests that were repeatedly rejected. Reception staff appeared uninterested in accommodating reasonable requests. Feels overpriced for the service level compared to other high-end London hotels.
Key Details
Location
London, United Kingdom
FV Score
8.2 / 10
Tier
ultra luxury
Amenities
Tags