Arrival/Check-In: Los Angeles was the final stop on a week-long business trip that included meetings in Miami and Dallas. I arrived at Los Angeles International Airport late at night and, after an easy cab ride, was relieved to reach The London West Hollywood. Tucked into the busy West Hollywood neighborhood, pulling up to this five-star property felt more like arriving at a private residence than a hotel.
The lobby is elegant and calm; only one person was checking in ahead of me given the late hour, so although the desk was lightly staffed the process moved quickly. I was on my way to the room within minutes. I was ready to sleep almost immediately, but on entering my suite I noticed a small leak. The staff responded promptly, and the issue was fixed with minimal disruption so I could get a good night’s rest and look forward to exploring the property the next day.
Guest Quarters: The London Suite surprised me with an interesting and spacious layout the moment I opened the door. Instead of the conventional entry hall with the bathroom immediately to one side, the suite opened directly behind the bed—an unexpected configuration that nonetheless made excellent use of the space with an open-plan feel.
The headboard also functioned as extra storage and a luggage ledge, complementing a closet that shared the wall with the entrance. Between the closet and the entry was a generous bathroom with both a shower and a tub, double sinks and a separate water closet; it felt larger than many full hotel rooms I’ve seen.
Beyond the sleeping area, two nightstands with built-in storage and convenient outlets flanked the comfortable king bed. An L-shaped couch created a distinct sitting area facing the flat-screen TV, which was visible from multiple angles. A dining table and chairs provided additional workspace or a place to spread out, useful for both business and leisure stays.
In one corner a wet bar included a sink, a Keurig coffeemaker, a mini-refrigerator and minibar provisions. Large doors opened to a private patio with views of the Hollywood Hills, adding an outdoor element to the suite experience.
Services/Amenities: The hotel features abundant meeting and event space and offers Signature Breakfast Table dining complimentary for guests at Boxwood Café, which also serves lunch and dinner. The restaurant hosts themed evenings—London Nights at Boxwood, #RoseAllDay and Duo at Boxwood on Saturdays—while The London Bar presents a curated selection of international wines. During my stay I visited the seasonal Boxwood on the Roof for pre-dinner cocktails and a memorable meal, enjoying panoramic views of Los Angeles.
The rooftop also includes a pool, a sundeck and private cabanas with all-day dining and beverage service. Additional amenities include complimentary WiFi, complimentary calls to London, a modern fitness center, and on-site salon and boutique services by Alex Roldan, with in-suite options available.
TOP TAKEAWAYS:
◆ Following a recent $27 million renovation, the hotel unveiled an impressive, 11,000-square-foot Penthouse inspired by Vivienne Westwood.
◆ A fully equipped Screening Room on-site seats 110 and features Dolby surround sound and 3D capabilities.
◆ Fans of the 1990s television series Beverly Hills, 90210 will recognize the building’s history: the property was formerly the Wyndham Bel Age Hotel, a prominent location in the show’s era. After a major renovation in 2007 it reopened as The London.
The London West Hollywood
1020 N. San Vicente Blvd.
West Hollywood, CA 90069
tel 310 854 1111
thelondonwesthollywood.com