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London knows how to do hotels — as was proven last night when some of the capital’s landmark hotels and wellness meccas were celebrated in the World’s 50 Best Hotel Awards 2025. Though it was a 65-story Hong Kong favourite which took the top spot in the third edition of the awards ceremony at Old Billingsgate, London. Four London hotels made it on the list at the prestigious awards, with Claridge’s securing the 11th spot; The Connaught placing 29th; and Raffles London and The Emory ranking 31st and 32nd, respectively. The Connaught, which has jumped up from 46th place last year, has been considered an institution in the capital since its opening in 1815 —celebrated for its exceptional, old-school service and famous martinis. Estelle Manor in Witney was a new entry this year, taking 47th place. The hotel, created by the same brand behind London’s Maison Estelle, is a stunning members-only jaunt set within 3,000 acres of the Cotswolds. The country getaway is beloved by Londoners for its extensive facilities, including five restaurants, a clubhouse, yoga studio, padel courts, and Roman-inspired spa. As for the top spot: Rosewood Hotel in Hong Kong was named the World’s Best Hotel 2025. Situated over Victoria Harbour on the Kowloon waterfront, it climbed two places from third in the 2024 list, also clinching the title of The Best Hotel in Asia. The 413-room hotel was taken over in 2011 by the Hong Kong-based Cheng family. It is home to 11 restaurants and bars, a harbour-view infinity pool, and a renowned multi-level wellness facility. The property was designed by Taiwanese designer, Tony Chi. The Rosewood brand also boasts properties in London, New York, and Dallas. The awards were a truly global celebration with North America being home to six winning hotels, Africa with three hotels, and Oceania with two hotels. Seventeen of the World’s Best Hotels were in Europe with the highest ranking entry going to Passalacqua in Lake Como, Italy. Luxury destination Lake Como is home to plenty of luxury hotels, but Passalacqua is a cut above the rest with its stylish pool, garden terrace, and ancient climbing roses. Four Seasons Astir Palace (17th) in Athens, Hotel de Paris Monte-Carlo in Monaco (36th) and Grand Park Hotel Rovinj in Croatia (48th) also all secured places in the list. Desa Potato Head in Bali won the Eco Hotel Award for its commitment to sustainability, having been the first Asian hospitality brand to go carbon-neutral. Southern Ocean Lodge on Kangaroo Island, Australia was named the American Express Travel One to Watch Award winner. The winner of the SevenRooms Icon Award was Ian Schrager, founded of the legendary Studio 54 nightclub. He has been a the helm of the boutique hotel concept and has partnered with hotels such as The Royalton, Delano, and the Edition Hotels.
