Absolutely Mama Editor Carly Glendinning takes her three year old to say at the plush Jumeirah Carlton Tower in London’s Knightsbridge…

The Hotel

A stone’s throw from Sloane Street’s designer boutiques in the heart of Knightsbridge, the Jumeirah Carlton Tower overlooks a peaceful garden square. It makes the perfect base to explore London’s central attractions – from Hyde Park and Buckingham Palace, to The Natural History Museum. Over 60 years old, the hotel was given a glamorous update during the pandemic. Think timeless elegance meets sleek modernist appeal – with decor that feels plush but also cosy and inviting. It would definitely make for a luxurious couple’s getaway, but it’s also a lovely place to stay for young families. From the moment we walked into the spectacular reception, our every need was taken care of and we loved how welcoming they were with children.

The Room

We stayed in a plush Junior Suite, which was plenty big enough for our family of three. Running into the room, our three-year-old was delighted to see a play tent set up with Roald Dahl-themed goodies, including stories, games, and the cutest monogrammed slippers. The hotel’s ‘Family First with Roald Dahl’ package also includes breakfast, complementary access to The Peak Fitness Club and Spa, exclusive access to Cadogan private gardens, including a tennis court, and more.

The luxurious marble bathroom had a huge bathtub that my daughter loved splashing in, and the double sinks were laden with beauty products from Grown Alchemist. Our very friendly and helpful concierge offered to set up a cot, or make up the sofa bed for our daughter. She was delighted with all of the space in her comfy sofa bed, and we had a restful night’s sleep at the other end of the room! We loved all of the luxurious little extras – from monogrammed slippers for the whole family, to champagne and macrons on arrival, and even a Whatsapp concierge service. It’s these touches that makes a stay at the Jumeirah Carlton Tower so special.

The Spa

I could write a 100 page love letter to The Peak Fitness Club and Spa. I escaped up to the gym on the seventh floor when it opened at 7am on Saturday. Probably the most luxurious gym I’ve ever been in, I tested out the seriously state-of-the-art equipment with a run that had panoramic views of London’s skyline. Whether you’re into boxing, Pilates, or lifting weights, there’s a zone to meet your training needs. And sweating it out is definitely more appealing when there’s fridges full of chilled water, and cool, deliciously scented towels on-hand. The space feels peaceful, and I only wished I could’ve stayed longer.

After breakfast, we took our daughter to the second floor for a swim (children are allowed to use the pool from 8-10am and 3-5pm). A heavenly space, it’s home to London’s largest naturally lit swimming pool thanks to a magnificent double height glass ceiling. My daughter splashed about in the water (sunlight streaming in) whilst my husband and I took it in turns to nip in and out of the sauna, steam room, and whirlpool. We could’ve happily stayed and relaxed there all day.

The Food

We had dinner with our three-year-old at The Chinoiserie. The all-day dining area is relaxed enough for children, although I would recommend dining earlier as the vibe gets more grown up later on. We were seated on a comfy table with a sofa, which was ideal when you have little ones. The kid’s menu has lots of choice, and my daughter was delighted with her pizza shaped like a cute teddy bear! I had a plant-based burger, and we also ordered a delicious cold mezze, with hummus, moutabel, tabouleh with Arabic pickles, olives and warm pitta bread. The service was really excellent and we were made to feel very at home dining with a little one.

We had a leisurely breakfast at the chic La Maison Ani. There was a huge selection of pastries and bread to choose from as well as a la carte options. The pancakes were a hit with my daughter, and it was no trouble to make vegan porridge for me. With chic Mediterranean-inspired decor, the restaurant is very beautiful – making for a lovely start to the day if you’re off to explore the city.

But the pièce de résistance was the award-winning afternoon tea inspired by Highgrove House & Gardens. Paying homage to King Charles III’s love of gardening, this was a memorable thing to do with my daughter. A tribute to nature, the menu incorporates seasonal, and locally-sourced ingredients, experimenting with unexpected taste pairings.

The chefs had made a huge effort to adapt the menu for me, and I definitely didn’t feel like I missed out at all being vegan. We began with a delicate asparagus tartlet, followed sandwich course – with mouthwatering flavours including scrambled tofu, pickled beetroot, and curried chickpea. The tea menu was extensive, and my husband and I also indulged in a glass of Ruinart Rose. Next up was the scones ‘experience’, with cute little mouthfuls and dollops of clotted cream, homemade strawberry jam, fresh thyme and sour cream, and chocolate lemon cream on the side.

The stow-stopping patisseries were to follow, presented beautifully in a delicate layered birdcage. These were (almost!) too beautiful to eat. I was so happy to be able to try these, as so often restaurants won’t make an effort with vegan cakes. My favourite was an insta-perfect black forest chocolate sponge with jasmine whipped cream, light chocolate cream, and a cherry glaze. My husband and daughter finished with a slice of the popular chocolate biscuit cake, which was a huge hit if the clean plates were anything to go by. Afternoon tea at Jumeirah Carlton Tower is a must for a special celebration, but it’s also a lovely thing to do as a family if you have little ones who will stay engaged at the table. The service was second to none, making it a truly special experience.

 jumeirah.com