Winner:GOLD Best City Hotel for Families
Who:The Rubens at the Palace - London, UK
What:A historic residence hotel, part of Red Carnation Hotels
Why:
The Rubens immerses families in British tradition and London’s historic finery. Overlooking the Royal Mews of Buckingham Palace, this beautiful hotel blends regal heritage with contemporary luxury, offering a thoughtfully curated experience set against the hotel’s grand interiors.
The Junior judges were impressed by this hotel’s warm and friendly approach to their mini guests. Families are welcomed with interconnecting rooms, family wings, teepees, baby amenities, and expert babysitting services. Children enjoy dedicated menus and bespoke magical experiences, while adults can enjoy elegant dining in their three impressive restaurants accompanied by live music. The hotel’s prime location places families steps from London’s top attractions, supported by tailored guides for stress-free exploring.
What sets The Rubens apart is its personalised approach. From solo parents to multi-generational groups, every detail is anticipated so families can relax, reconnect, and create lasting memories in the heart of London — where genuine care and timeless luxury come together.
"Based on my own afternoon tea experience the staff were so welcoming and nice to my children."
"The Rubens at the Palace delivers a classic, distinctly British luxury experience with genuinely warm, attentive service and an unbeatable location overlooking the Royal Mews. The hotel feels elegant and traditional without being stuffy, and the staff always go the extra mile. A very polished, memorable experience that comfortably deserves Gold. I especially love how special they make kids feel by meeting them with little gifts and activities."
"Children truly come first at The Rubens at the Palace: Aside from enjoying the location next to Buckingham palace, my daughters would love the personalised gifts and touches. The added bonus of a milk and cookies turndown and in-room tepee make this a place I know they would love to experience."
"A gem if you love classic London elegance with warm service. The location is incredible for anyone visiting: right by Buckingham Palace. The whole place has that traditional, slightly glamorous British feel without being stuffy. Think rich fabrics, afternoon tea, doormen, and staff who really look after you. It’s not ultra-modern luxury, it’s more timeless and charming — the kind of hotel that makes a London trip feel special and a bit royal in the best way."
“This historic London hotel enjoys an exceptional location a stone's throw from Victoria station and is just moments from Buckingham Palace. Children are welcomed like little kings and queens, with thoughtful touches and staff who go above and beyond to create a truly memorable stay for the whole family. And the food? Classic English dining at its very best.”
What makes it special...
At The Rubens, children are treated like VIPs from the moment they arrive. Every detail is designed to delight little ones and make families feel truly welcomed. Signature touches include a Guardsman teddy bear and activity book at check-in, while the Guest Experience team spends one-on-one time learning each child’s favourite foods, colours, and cartoons — surprising them with milkshakes, hot chocolates, and personalised gifts.
Activities are magical and immersive, from scavenger hunts and pastry-decorating sessions (complete with a “Master Chef in the Art of Pastry” certificate) to themed experiences like Hogwarts activities before visiting Harry Potter World or theatre-inspired treats. The hotel’s Prince and Princess Children’s Afternoon Tea features bite-size menus and real crowns for mini royals and if there’s still room in their tummies, evenings are made extra special with a cookie-and-milk turndown service.
Every stay is enriched with thoughtful, bespoke touches — in-room games, printed photos from activities, tailored snack baskets, and gifts reflecting each child’s interests. The team works with travel agents before arrival to personalise welcome baskets for the whole family, ensuring each visit is memorable, magical, and full of joy.
Ideal for...
The Rubens is especially popular with multi-generational families — we could also see it being a great destination for grandparents to take their grandchildren for a special treat. All families are made to feel completely at ease here, and we can see why the hotel receives many repeat visitors year after year.
Junior Fact File
Nightly rates for a Cosy Double Room at The Rubens at the Palace start from £245 in low season, including breakfast. Families enjoy a luxurious stay with interconnecting rooms, personalised touches for children, and a prime central location opposite Buckingham Palace — the perfect base for exploring London and creating unforgettable memories.
