My daughter took me to the Goring for my 60th birthday celebrations. It did not disappoint, it was perfect in every way. Wonderfully hospitable staff, exquisite surroundings and the best afternoon tea ever. Served graciously by a very attentive and happy waiter, only the English can do afternoon tea with such ceremonious style .... This was followed by the finest champagne I have ever tasted. Top rating.

If you're used to high quality hotels and think you've stayed at the best in London then you may have to think again when you experience The Goring. This is a hotel where the owners - the same family for over 100 years - are aiming to provide the most impeccable service for it's well heeled guests. The staff are experts in their various crafts; from those in reception to the restaurant personnel. From the moment you arrive your name is remembered by all staff - they all seem to have good memories. Every request was met with grace and efficiency. My suite, after having paid for a discounted reserve upgrade was medium size, comfortable and well equipped. A bottle of Champagne was placed in the suite on arrival, but curiously this was removed by housekeeping, unopened and before there was a chance to drink it. I wonder why? But the box of good chocolates, two large strawberries and a meringue, did not disappear however, and were appreciated. On each day of my stay, during the last of the twice daily room services a complimentary tray of semi-prepared cocktail ingredients, complete with garnish, was delivered. The cocktail was different each evening. This was accompanied by an ice bucket, cocktail shaker, a cocktail glass and an instruction card on how to 'assemble' the cocktail. I recommend a Cosmopolitan!
In the restaurant, a super efficient and ultra attentive operation takes place. The hotel’s employees have to be congratulated on their abilities. The food is Michelin standard and well prepared and cooked. The same goes for breakfast. The Head Sommelier, Damien appears knowledgeable for someone quite young, with his wine recommendations matching well with the food. It is clear that The Goring hotel's desire for the guest to "feel like you are at home," is taken literally by some quests. As a relatively senior lady guest said to me after I asked if she had enjoyed her breakfast: "yes it's always good, this my home-from-home."
Room Tip: After booking the room, there followed an invitation to 'apply' for a ½ price (reserve) upgrade.

I have stayed this hotel many times over the years and it is incomparable. The family have perfected everything over a century and if the formula did not work, then it would not have survived. Great bedrooms, superb public areas which are lively yet relaxing.

What a delightful hotel! From the moment we stepped out of the taxi to the departure two days later the service at the Goring was top notch. We had a nice suite with a small, but adequate, sitting room. The bathroom was of modest size but well appointed. We had lunch in the bar, afternoon tea in the conservatory, dinner in the dining room, and a late night snack in the lounge by the fire and the 'Goring sheep'. Every meal was excellent and service beyond excellent. Room service was so fast that the absence of tea and coffee making facilities in the room does not matter. I actually prefer to have room service rather than having to make my own coffee in the morning, but efficient room service has become a disappearing service at most hotels. All of the public rooms are very comfortable and well staffed. This is probably the most well-managed hotel we have stayed at in London.