Piccadilly Circus is one of the most photographed areas in London, so if you are looking for a hotel that encapsulates the buzz of Piccadilly without the noise and crowds, then the Dilly ticks all the boxes. Nestled at the vibrant heart of London’s iconic Piccadilly Circus, the hotel stands as a beacon of opulence and sophistication, inviting discerning travellers into a realm of unparalleled luxury, whether it be for a theatre break, shopping trip or sightseeing sojourn. This heritage building seamlessly combines grand Edwardian period features with contemporary elegance.
The moment you walk through the revolving doors, you are struck by the grandeur of the hotel’s Edwardian heritage but with a Dilly Twist – starting with the grand reception area which features an iconic London telephone box that’s a real photo opportunity in itself. Once you have checked-in, Dilly residents staying in suites can take a seat in the Lounge Balcony which serves complimentary drinks and grazing bites over board games and books whilst overlooking the buzz of Dilly residents checking in and out.
The Dilly team really make the hotel what it is, and the commitment to service excellence is not just a promise, it’s a way of life. The staff, from the attentive concierge to the dedicated housekeeping team (who are on call if you need extra pillows or an international plug adapter), exemplify a dedication to anticipation and exceeding guests’ expectations. Seamless check-ins, personalised recommendations, and a genuine warmth characterize the hospitality that sets Dilly Piccadilly apart.
The hotel’s interiors reflect a meticulous attention to detail, boasting 233 rooms and suites which are designed to provide comfort amid a traditional British colour theme (think dark blue walls with vibrant splashes of red). Elegantly appointed furnishings, sumptuous bedding and mood lighting come as standard and many rooms also boast panoramic views of Piccadilly Circus, which adds to the atmosphere of refined indulgence. Bedrooms are equipped with pod coffee machines, you’ll find British beauty brand Floris in the plush bathrooms and family rooms have Dilly-branded teddy bears for little ones to take home as a souvenir from their trip.
When it comes to dining options, there’s really no need to step out of the hotel. Embark on a culinary adventure at the hotel’s sophisticated restaurant, where expert chefs curate a menu that tantalizes the tastebuds. From locally-inspired dishes to international delicacies, each meal is a sensory delight. The dining experience at Dilly Piccadilly transcends the ordinary, providing guests with a feast that mirrors the hotel’s commitment to excellence in every aspect. Afternoon tea in The Terrace conservatory is truly memorable: imagine a very Instagrammable London-themed tea overlooking the bustle of Piccadilly outside, imbued with the feeling of being outdoors thanks to its selection of verdant plants and floor-to-ceiling glass windows. You can enjoy a range of meals here, from afternoon tea to a twinkling dinner service and an epic buffet breakfast. Downstairs, you will find the iconic Indian restaurant Madhu’s, which offers chandeliers galore, opulent interiors and period features which make for a very grand space. Serving Punjabi cuisine with Kenyan influences, it’s well worth a visit for a spice-infused meal.
Make a pit stop at the Piano Bar with its chic décor and experimental cocktails – we tried the signature Mezca Dilly that features Vida mezcal, passionfruit infused Vermouth, Amaro Averna and Green Chartreuse. If you are staying on a Friday or Saturday night, be sure to sit back and enjoy live pianists.
If you’re looking to indulge in some self-care, there’s a whole wellness floor offering a range of beauty treatments, as well as a picturesque swimming pool with Edwardian period features. If training is your thing then you’ll quickly find that the Dilly offers more than your average hotel gym, instead you’ll enjoy a huge training space set upon three floors (and it’s open 24 hours too – perfect for combating jet lag!) There’s also two squash courts and a dance studio – you can tell why the wellness floor is popular – there is just so much on offer and ample room to train without feeling that you’re on top of people.
Dilly Piccadilly’s prime location serves as a gateway to London’s most celebrated attractions. When you choose to step outdoors, you’ll find yourself surrounded by the electric energy of Piccadilly Circus, with its theatres, vast video screens (which you can spot from some of the bedrooms), Fortnum & Mason’s iconic department store, and the shopping havens of Regent Street and Bond Street all just a stone’s throw away, not to mention the Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain bu Alfred Gilbert mere steps away. This central location allows visitors to effortlessly soak in the vibrancy of London, making Dilly Piccadilly an ideal starting point for exploration.
Whether you are a discerning traveller, a business professional, or an enthusiast of refined living, Dilly Piccadilly promises an extraordinary journey that transcends expectations. If you want a hotel with opulent character, in a prime sightseeing and shopping location, with a buzzy atmosphere, look no further than the Dilly.
The Dilly, 21 Piccadilly, London W1J 0BH