Richmond Hill Hotel

The birthday touches were so thoughtful: the team left a card and a small gift, and arranged a connecting room for me and my friend. Everyone was kind, friendly, and efficient, and we had a comfortable stay. We spent a lovely evening in the beautiful bar, then had a fabulous dinner. The menu was one of the reasons I chose the hotel, and it lived up to expectations. Breakfast also had plenty of vegan choices. It felt like good value, and we'd happily return.

Breakfast runs until 11, and the homemade vegan sausages are the best in London, if that's your thing. Afternoon tea is another treat. We were there when the hotel was busy with local families, visitors from abroad, and people stopping for a comfortable break before heading to Verbier or Australia. The Richmond Hill is one of three excellent hotels on Richmond Hill, each with its own character. This one feels warm and welcoming from the moment you walk in. Nishi at Reception, Tyler, Miles, and the lovely young woman serving coffee on Boxing Day all gave exemplary service. You can choose crisp, clean rooms in The Hill Collection or the traditional elegance of the Georgian Wing. The front rooms have amazing views. It's a great base for London or the English countryside.

The restaurant was very good at both dinner and breakfast, and the staff were excellent. We had our dog with us, and the hotel had thoughtfully provided a bed, bowls, and a chew. Our large room faced the front and had a nice view, but traffic noise didn't disturb us. Booking directly got us free parking, which I appreciated. It's also very handy for a good walk in Richmond Park, and there are six destination chargers for electric cars. This was only a one-night stay, but I really enjoyed it. My first visit was back in 1967.

The tea itself was a lovely experience, with real artistry, variety, and precision. The chef and team did a remarkable job, and Chef Lukasz came out to say hello and share a few personal tips. It was an honour to meet him as the hotel's culinary ambassador. The calm, inviting atmosphere made it all the nicer. The alternative menu offered a good range, including teas from Rwanda and the Himalayas. The whole experience showed inclusivity, diversity, and culture, and I'll certainly recommend it to friends and family. At the Press Launch for the “wicked afternoon tea,” James gave us a warm welcome. Tommy, the Nigerian waitress, kept us reassured and brought a great sense of humour. Manager Mario checked our dietary requirements and shared some knowledgeable facts about the collaboration and its elements. Hearing about the hotel's ethos and interior design history was very insightful. Warmest, Rossana Silva Richmond and Barnes magazine.