The Queen Mother had one favorite spot in London where she could disappear from the world.
For decades, she slipped away to this exclusive hideaway without anyone knowing.
And one London hotel hides a 380-year-old secret that will leave you stunned.
The Stafford London’s incredible royal connection
The Stafford London sits right across from Buckingham Palace, but that’s not what makes it special.
This luxury hotel has been welcoming VIPs since 1912, and 70 percent of its guests fly in from America.
The guest list reads like Hollywood royalty: David Beckham, Evander Holyfield, Bing Crosby, and even Clint Eastwood have all stayed here.¹
But here’s the jaw-dropping part – the hotel features a secret tunnel that leads directly to St. James’s Palace.
The late Queen Mother was known to regularly visit the Stafford London for lunch, arriving discreetly through the underground tunnel.
She could slip in and out without detection thanks to this secret passage.²
A wine cellar with incredible history
The secret tunnel isn’t just a passage anymore – it’s been transformed into something extraordinary.
The hotel now boasts a 380-year-old wine cellar that dates back to the 17th century.
This underground treasure holds over 8,000 bottles of top-notch wine, including rare vintages that regular guests leave behind for their next visit.³
During World War II, this same tunnel served as an air raid shelter when the hotel operated as a club for American and Canadian officers.
You can still see authentic artifacts from that era displayed in the cellar today.
Ronald Reagan stayed at the Stafford before he became President, adding to its impressive American connection.⁴
Celebrity guests and royal visits
The stories from this hotel would fill a book.
Prince William, Zara Tindall, and Prince Harry have all stayed at the five-star establishment over the years.
The hotel also boasts the American Bar – which has earned its stripes as one of only two original American Bars left in London to retain the name.
The dimly-lit bar is adorned with souvenirs brought by visitors and celebrities from all over the world.
Evander Holyfield gifted signed boxing gloves during the 2012 Olympic Games.
Clint Eastwood left a signed photograph asking to "save a pint" for him.
Bing Crosby regularly stayed at the Stafford whenever he was visiting London and would often challenge the then-general manager to a round of golf, with ashtrays used as holes.⁶
Underground dining fit for royalty
The old tunnel now serves as a hidden gem for private tastings, intimate events and unforgettable dining experiences.
Some say this spot has played host to a royal or two over the years.
The 380-year-old cellar creates an atmosphere you simply can’t find anywhere else in London.
Located in the heart of London within the prestigious St. James’s neighborhood, the Stafford boasts 105 rooms and suites.
The hotel also offers accommodations in the Carriage House, which are former stables that have been converted into luxury suites.
A piece of living history
The Stafford London represents more than just luxury – it’s a piece of living history.
Built as private residences over 300 years ago, it has witnessed centuries of fascinating stories.
The hotel caters specifically to American travelers, with every room equipped with U.S. power adapters and a concierge known to hold the key to the city when it comes to dining, nightlife and the West End.
Michelin-starred chef Michael Caines MBE has launched his London residency at the property, bringing his signature modern European cuisine to the capital with a menu that showcases the finest British seasonal produce.⁷
For guests lucky enough to experience the wine cellar, they’re not just dining underground – they’re sitting in a piece of royal history.
The Queen Mother’s secret lunch spot has become one of London’s most exclusive dining experiences.
From Hollywood stars to royalty, the Stafford continues to offer the kind of discretion and luxury that makes it unforgettable.
¹ Nika Shakhnazarova, "Inside the ultra-discreet Stafford London hotel," New York Post, October 7, 2025.
² Ibid.
³ Ibid.
⁴ Ibid.
⁵ Ibid.
⁶ Ibid.
