The Mitre, Hampton Court in Kingston upon Thames (Greater London), England

The Mitre, Hampton Court sits on the River Thames directly opposite Hampton Court Palace, a property with a documented history as a place to stay dating back to Charles II in 1665. Central London is reachable via a 40-minute train journey, while Heathrow Airport is a 30-minute drive away. The hotel offers complimentary tickets to Hampton Court Palace for guests who book directly through the website.

The hotel has 36 individually designed bedrooms and suites, created by interior designers Harding Read. Some rooms, like the Catherine Parr suite and the Henry VIII suite, feature private courtyards or river views, though rooms on the road side may have traffic noise. All rooms include a fridge with still and sparkling water, a zinging ginger liqueur, and tea/coffee making facilities with Oatly milk pods.

The hotel has two restaurants and bars, plus a riverside terrace featuring the world's first Whispering Angel Wine Concession. A vintage food truck and a private boat launch are located on the terrace, and the hotel offers on-site cocktail and mixology classes with expert bartenders. Breakfast includes eggs cooked to order and continental options, though a full English breakfast costs an additional £12; dinner menus include dishes such as prawn cocktail, octopus, and lamb rump.

The property provides an on-site spa with a lounge/relaxation area, plus a library for guest use. Pet-friendly accommodations are available for dogs at £30 per night, with dog beds, bowls, and treats provided; pets are welcome in most areas but not all rooms. Parking is limited to about 10-12 spaces on a first-come, first-served basis, with a cost of £7 per night; guests may be asked to hand over car keys for double-parking.

Guests can enjoy live music or performances at the hotel, and the riverside location offers hiking and access to Bushy Park and the Magic Garden at Hampton Court. Self-hire boats are available from the hotel's private boat launch on the Thames. The hotel's unique events space, vintage food truck, and the exclusive Six Wives ale (the hotel's own beer) provide entertainment on-site.

Location: Opposite Hampton Court Palace on the River Thames

Rooms: 36 individually designed rooms by Harding Read

Dining: Whispering Angel Wine Concession & cocktail classes

Wellness: On-site spa with relaxation lounge

Activities: Private boat launch, vintage food truck, library

Pet-Friendly: Dog beds, bowls, treats at £30/night