The Dorchester Unveils New Butler Programme

A national treasure, The Dorchester first opened its doors to society’s elite in 1931 and has been a British icon for almost a century. It recently underwent an elegant head-to-toe makeover which has been unveiled in phases. In the stratospheric renovation, there has been the introduction of the beautiful new forecourt, entrance, lobby, The Promenade and Artists’ Bar as well as additional rooms and suites along with a new butler programme.

Reflecting the dynamic spirit of London, The Dorchester guests are global citizens with a passion for their interests, value connecting with others and immersing themselves in the energy of the cities they visit. Central to the hotel’s ethos, through meticulous white-gloved service, charm and warmth, the butler programme ensures every guest enjoys a truly magical stay.

Committed to reinventing timeless traditions, The Dorchester’s interiors, redesigned by the acclaimed Pierre-Yves Rochon, blend the hotel’s signature 1930s glamour with modern elegance. The design draws inspiration from the hotel’s prime Mayfair location, with Hyde Park at its doorstep, and infuses the property’s rich heritage with a fresh, playful palette of colours that celebrates its unique character.

The revamped accommodation now offers 241 elegant rooms and suites, down from 250 to provide guests with more spacious, luxurious options. Guests can choose from a range of 19 room types, including Superior, Deluxe, Executive Park View Rooms, as well as Junior and Signature Suites, among others.

Under the leadership of Sean Davoren, who was appointed director of butlers in 2023, the new butler programme elevates and modernises the guest experience. Available to guests staying in the Hyde Park Suite category and above, a team of expertly trained butlers ensures every need is meticulously met.

From private airport check-ins to personalised itineraries and seamless service throughout the stay, the butlers create a true home-away-from-home experience. Their attention to detail extends to packing and unpacking luggage, wardrobe organisation, and more. Each butler undergoes a rigorous three-month training programme followed by a month of shadowing before managing a suite independently.

Sean explains, “It’s about building confidence and allowing our butlers’ personalities to shine while maintaining the high level of service. We’re the first to greet the guest and the last to check their rooms before arrival, ensuring a flawless stay.”

The guest experience department also ensures every stay is customised and personalised. Recent additions include Welnamis relaxation beds in the spa, offering a vibro-acoustic therapy designed to promote deep relaxation, stress reduction, and improved sleep—a perfect remedy for travelers. The Concierge team, distinguished by their ‘golden keys’ from The Society of The Golden Keys of Great Britain, effortlessly curates full itineraries and fulfills complex requests, ensuring guests enjoy a seamless experience.

The enhanced guest offerings also cater to families and young travelers with creative experiences, personalised celebrations for special occasions, bespoke housekeeping amenities, and thoughtful parting gifts. These enhancements reinforce The Dorchester’s reputation as a leader in guest service and experience, a hallmark across all Dorchester Collection properties.

A wonderful way of experiencing the magic of The Dorchester’s beloved butlers is with an intimate supper club in the comfort and privacy of your glorious suite. Allow the butlers to set the most opulent table, crowned with a beautiful centerpiece of Dorchester’s signature roses. Bespoke cocktails can be served from a bar in your suite and then you can sit for a decadent feast prepared by Chef Martyn Nail and his team. There is no better way to spend an evening.

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53 Park Ln, London W1K 1QA