There are not many London hotel spots that put you this close to royalty. Heading past immaculate topiary and red coated doormen in top hats, Junior felt incredibly regal, approaching The Rubens at the Palace – Buckingham Palace really is your neighbour here! The Royal Mews is just across the road and the steady clip-clop of horses reminds you this is still a working royal backdrop. If you can grab a window seat in the lounge for afternoon tea, you might be lucky enough to drink it all in as the King and co. go about their day.
For families, The Rubens sets the tone straight away: this is London at its most iconic, but also surprisingly warm and easy to settle into. A historic residence hotel and part of the Red Carnation Hotels collection, The Rubens (which won Gold in our Junior Travel Awards 2026) proudly display its heritage with its classic red coated doorman, ‘golden’ touches, and classic English decor, without feeling stuck in the past – there is no stuffiness or airs and graces here. There’s ceremony on arrival, yes, but it all adds to the excitement and is done in such a relaxed, and welcoming way – that it makes travelling with children feel really thought through and special.
Location, Location, Coronation…
When travelling with children and older members of the family, the location isn’t just a detail, it shapes your whole stay. Can you get around easily, is there entertainment to suit everyone, are you near public transport? The Rubens ticks many if not all of these boxes, making sightseeing a breeze. Beautiful St James’s Park is just around the corner, Green Park is close enough for easy walks and picnics, and Victoria Station is literally a stone’s throw away, and the West End is within easy reach by bus, taxi or tube. Buckingham Palace stops being a “day out” and becomes part of your everyday view. And of course, there are plenty of theatres nearby too, which makes any last-minute plans very doable.
Mornings here have a special feel. The city is still quiet, the parks are just waking up, and children often spot the palace guards as if they’ve walked into a real-life storybook. Even checking in has a bit of theatre to it, with a dedicated children’s desk where younger guests are properly welcomed. They’re given a small welcome pack and a few treats, which always go down well. And, after a full day exploring London, coming back feels easy in the best way. With the city lights and noises behind you, the interiors feel warm and comfortable, the welcome is familiar and personable, and there’s usually a refreshment waiting for you if you so wish.
The Rubens at the Palace, London
A grand reception and welcome at The Rubens
Kids will love the royal ‘golden’ touches throughout.
The dedicated kids check-in is a instant hit – and makes children feel truly welcome.
Grab a window seat and you may just spy a Royal over afternoon tea!
Bedrooms Designed for Mini VIPs
The Rubens definitely understands that travelling with children isn’t really about ticking off facilities, but about the small, reassuring details that make everything feel easier and more relaxed. Instead of children having to fit into the space, the space quietly adjusts around them.
Rooms are designed with that in mind. Interconnecting options mean families can stay close without feeling on top of each other (and no one has to spend the evening whispering “shh” at 7pm!). There are also family wings and room layouts that give everyone a bit of breathing space – something that matters more than you realise after a full day in London.
It’s the thoughtful little touches that stand out, like:
- Cots, toddler beds, and baby essentials ready on request
- Child-sized robes and slippers – that always get an excited reaction
- Step stools that make little moments of independence possible
- Teepees that turn evenings into something softer and a little more playful
- Small welcome treats that quietly say, you were expected here
Nothing feels overdone or staged. It’s more that everything has been thought through, so families can settle in and get on with being together.
Dining with Ease & a Sense of Occasion
There are a few main dining spaces, each with its own feel:
The English Grill – An elegant dining room focused on seasonal British food. It’s formal yes, but in a way that feels accessible. Do try the Beef Wellington and Crêpes Suzette, both prepared with real attention to detail and a sense of occasion. The crepes are made right in front of you – the children will love it!
The Curry Room – Dishes inspired by Indian and African cuisine.
The Palace Lounge – Overlooking the Royal Mews, this is where afternoon tea is served and breakfast is taken in a calm, light-filled space. Various timings from 6.30am-11.30am across the week.
For drinks, there are a couple of easy options: the more cosmopolitan New York Bar, and the nearby sister venue bbar, which is slightly more casual and good for relaxed cocktails and food. Rubens also offer 24hr in-room dining.
Seasonal Events
To make your stay even more special for every member of the family, The Rubens offers many seasonal events and specials available to pre-book (check online for the most up-to-date offerings). The concierge can also arrange outings, experiences, and day trips to many London attractions. Some of our favourites include:
The Royal Afternoon Tea – A real sense of occasion, ideal for multigenerational stays. Afternoon tea always feels special. Adults can enjoy Champagne and finger sandwiches, while children are offered their own version — the Little Prince & Princess Afternoon Tea — which includes pastries, carefully decorated cupcakes, and, of course, hot chocolate and milkshakes. Or go the extra mile and book the Little Pastry Chef Experience.
Summer Picnic Hampers – Curated picnic baskets brimming with culinary delights, artisanal sandwiches, and sweet treats. Available April–September.
Christmas at The Rubens – The atmosphere transforms: lights soften the interiors, and Santa appears in a setting that feels intimate rather than hurried. Children receive gifts, but more importantly, there is time — time to meet, to settle, to enjoy the moment.
The Little Pastry Chef Experience at The Rubens at the Palace
Junior's Verdict
“There’s something quietly magical about staying somewhere that feels wonderfully grown-up and glamorous, yet still completely welcoming to children. The Rubens at the Palace manages that rare balance - elegant but easy, grand yet full of heart. For families looking for a London stay that feels truly special - the kind of experience children talk about for years — this is it. A little bit royal, entirely relaxed, and beautifully family-friendly. We couldn’t help but give it our ‘royal’ Junior seal of approval.”
Junior Fact Files
Nightly rates at The Rubens at the Palace start at £320 (approximately $430 USD) for a Classic Double Room on a B&B basis.
Address: The Rubens at the Palace, 39 Buckingham Palace Road, London, SW1W 0PS
Telephone: +44 (0) 20 7834 6600
