Ernie's Adventures

What’s Egerton House Hotel like?

This luxurious five-star hotel in Knightsbridge, West London, feels more like a homely private residence than anything else. The hotel, which is part of the Red Carnation group, is set in a grand townhouse on a quiet street, just moments from Harrods and The V&A Museum. It’s wonderfully posh, but not pretentious – always good when you’re travelling with a dog in tow.

How dog-friendly is Egerton House Hotel?

Very. After booking our stay, we were sent a Pet Preference Form to fill out. The hotel was keen to know more about Ernie, what he liked to eat and whether he would require towels, toys, bowls or chews. We were also asked if we needed a dog walker or groomer. But most impressively, Ernie could choose from seven – yes, seven! – different types of bed, from a luxury leather version to a mini zebra print four-poster.

The hotel also offers an extensive in-room pet menu. Dishes include Bowl-Licking Fruit Yoghurt and Bow-Wow Tenderloin of Beef, served with eggs and brown rice. There’s also the famous Doggy Afternoon tea, but more on that later…

Four-legged guests are given a cute doggy sign to hang on the door that says “Shhh… I am sleeping”. And when it was time for our turndown service, we got chocolates while Ernie was given treats and a cute red bandana with the hotel’s details embroidered on it. There is no additional charge for the VIP (Very Important Pet) package.

Tell me more about Egerton House Hotel

A good night’s sleep is practically guaranteed at Egerton House. We were lucky enough to stay in the master suite – the decadent Victoria and Albert – and, well, wow! Located on the ground floor, it had an enclosed garden balcony with a table and chairs. It was also handy when it came to letting Ernie get some air.

We loved the enormous bed and Rococo-style furniture and it was lovely to have a separate living area too, complete with drinks trolley. The opulent bathroom came with Penhaligon’s toiletries, as well as robes and slippers. There was even a separate shower room. The suite was also kitted out with several enormous flatscreen TVs, complete with Sky, and a selection of complimentary magazines. We couldn’t have asked for anything more.

What’s the food like at Egerton House Hotel?

Guests can order from a 24-hour room service menu but the hotel is renowned for its lavish afternoon tea. For £40, you can enjoy a selection of finger sandwiches, scones and homemade cakes, as well as teas from around the world. It is served in the lounge, which is a lovely, relaxed room, complete with open fire.

Dogs can also chow down on their own version of the tea. Ernie enjoyed homemade meatloaf, peanut butter biscuits and a Billy & Margot iced treat, as well as a squeaky toy – much to the amusement of other guests. The food was wolfed down within seconds so I guess he approved! The lounge is also a great place to enjoy a cocktail. The frozen martinis served at Egerton House are legendary and make for a great bit of food theatre.

Are there resident dogs at Egerton House Hotel?

No, but if you induldge in the afternoon tea, chances are you will bump into other pets. You may even get to meet the manager’s dog, Milly (pictured above). The pampered pooch has personally approved all the dog-friendly offerings at Egerton House and is something of a local celebrity. She is also the dog used in all publicity photographs.

Where are the best dog walks near Egerton House Hotel?

Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park are a short walk from Egerton House and both are a dog’s dream. There are miles of pathways to follow as well as fountains, pavilions, open spaces and wooded areas. Both are Royal Parks so you may come across areas where dogs must be kept on lead. For more inspiration when it comes to finding dog-friendly things to do in the area, check out my Ruff Guide to West London.

What Ernie loved about Egerton House Hotel

The homemade dog food, the squeaky toys, being spoilt rotten!

What I loved about Egerton House Hotel

The laid-back atmosphere, the friendly staff, the location

How to book Egerton House Hotel

Classic double rooms start from £270 per night, including breakfast. For more information or to book, visit the Egerton House Hotel website or call 020 7589 2412.