There’s something rather special about finding a hotel that feels less like a temporary stopover and more like discovering a home you didn’t know you had. The Clarendon Hotel in Blackheath is precisely that sort of place – a Georgian gem nestled between the wild beauty of Blackheath Common and the historic splendour of Greenwich Park.
Unlike central London’s hectic pace, staying with us offers a gentler rhythm. You’ll wake to birdsong rather than traffic, enjoy morning strolls across ancient heathland, and still be just a short journey from all of London’s attractions. It’s this perfect balance that keeps our guests returning year after year.
Whether you’re joining us for a romantic weekend, a family adventure, a business trip with character, or simply because you fancy a change of scene, we’ve gathered 15 ways to make your Clarendon experience truly memorable.
Comfort With Character
1. Unwind in Rooms That Tell a Story
Our rooms aren’t just places to sleep – they’re spaces with soul. Each combines the elegant proportions of our Georgian building with thoughtfully chosen modern comforts. Some offer views across Blackheath Common that haven’t changed in centuries, while others overlook our peaceful garden.
From cosy classic rooms perfect for solo travellers to spacious suites ideal for special occasions, you’ll find crisp linens, comfortable beds, and those little touches that make all the difference. But perhaps the best feature is the peace and quiet – something increasingly rare in London hotels.
2. Bring the Whole Family Along
Family holidays should be adventures for everyone, not compromises. Our family rooms offer proper space for parents and children alike, with options for families of different sizes. We understand that travelling with little ones means needing a bit more room to breathe!
What truly makes The Clarendon ideal for families, however, is our location. Within minutes, you can be exploring Greenwich Park’s wide-open spaces, discovering the interactive exhibits at the National Maritime Museum, or watching the deer in Greenwich Park – all without the stress of navigating central London with children in tow.
3. Four-Legged Friends Welcome
That heart-wrenching moment when you have to leave your dog behind while packing for a trip? Completely unnecessary when staying with us. The Clarendon is proudly dog-friendly, with specially designated rooms for guests travelling with their canine companions.
And what a treat for your pup! Step outside our door and you’re immediately on Blackheath Common – 200+ acres of open space perfect for morning walks, afternoon runs, or evening strolls. Greenwich Park is equally welcoming, with miles of pathways through ancient woodland and open meadows. We’ve seen many a happy dog face during breakfast after their morning ramble across the heath!
4. Linger Longer, Save More
The joy of a proper break comes from having time to truly unwind. One night never quite feels enough to shake off the daily routine – which is why our Stay Longer & Save More offer makes perfect sense. When you book three nights or more, you’ll enjoy special rates that make extending your stay both tempting and sensible.
With the money you save, perhaps treat yourself to that afternoon tea you’ve been eyeing, or an extra special dinner in our restaurant. After all, holidays are for little indulgences.
Delicious Discoveries
5. Seasonal Dining at The Meridian Restaurant
There’s something deeply satisfying about food that reflects both the season and the locality. At our Meridian Restaurant, our chefs create menus that celebrate the best of British produce, with dishes that comfort, delight and occasionally surprise.
From hearty breakfasts that set you up for a day of exploration, to elegant dinners that provide the perfect end to your adventures, dining at The Clarendon is about honest food done well. Our Sunday lunches are particularly popular – the perfect reward after a morning walk across the heath!
Find out more about dining with us here.
6. The Timeless Pleasure of Afternoon Tea
In a world of rushed lunches and meals on the go, the tradition of afternoon tea offers a welcome pause. At The Clarendon, we honour this classic British ritual with freshly baked scones, delicate finger sandwiches, and sweet treats that change with the seasons.
Take a seat in our elegant surroundings, pour a perfectly brewed cup of tea (or perhaps upgrade to champagne for that special occasion), and savour both the food and the conversation. It’s these unhurried moments that often become the most cherished memories of a stay.
To book your Afternoon Tea with us click here.
7. Evening Unwinding at The Chart Bar
As day turns to evening, The Chart Bar becomes the social heart of The Clarendon. With its nautical-themed décor nodding to our Greenwich maritime connections, it’s the perfect spot to relax with a drink after your day’s adventures.
Our bartenders take pride in their craft, whether you’re ordering a classic cocktail, sampling a local ale, or selecting from our carefully curated wine list. It’s a space where conversations flow easily, whether you’re chatting with fellow guests or planning tomorrow’s explorations with your travelling companions.
Local Treasures To Explore
8. Sunday Morning at Blackheath Farmers Market
London’s food scene goes far beyond its famous restaurants, and nowhere is this more evident than at Blackheath Farmers Market. Each Sunday, local producers gather just a short stroll from The Clarendon, offering everything from freshly baked sourdough to organic vegetables, artisanal cheeses to homemade preserves.
It’s a wonderful way to spend a Sunday morning – browsing the stalls, chatting with producers, and perhaps picking up a picnic to enjoy on the heath. The market runs from 10am to 2pm, making it the perfect activity before a deliciously lazy Sunday lunch.
9. Greenwich Park: London’s Most Beautiful Royal Park
Just beyond Blackheath lies Greenwich Park, arguably London’s most spectacular green space. This royal park offers everything from formal gardens to ancient woodland, sweeping London views to hidden corners perfect for a quiet read.
The climb to the Royal Observatory rewards you with a panorama across London that has inspired artists for centuries. Stand on the Prime Meridian line with one foot in the eastern hemisphere and one in the west, or simply find a bench beneath a centuries-old tree and watch the world go by. With The Clarendon as your base, you can enjoy the park at different times of day – perhaps an early morning jog before the crowds arrive, or an evening stroll as the sun sets over the capital.
10. Maritime Greenwich: A World Heritage Treasure
Maritime Greenwich isn’t just another London attraction – it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site of extraordinary significance. From the architectural masterpiece of the Old Royal Naval College to the historic Cutty Sark clipper ship, every turn reveals another chapter in Britain’s maritime story.
The National Maritime Museum combines interactive exhibits for children with fascinating collections for history enthusiasts. Whether you’re marvelling at the painted ceiling of the Painted Hall (often called ‘Britain’s Sistine Chapel’), or learning about time and space at the Royal Observatory, Greenwich offers cultural experiences without the crowds of central London attractions.
11. Blackheath’s Rich and Rebellious History
The peaceful Blackheath you see today has a surprisingly colourful past. This expanse of common land has witnessed everything from peasant revolts to royal processions, tribal battles to Victorian fairs. Henry VIII met Anne of Cleves here for the first time, while centuries later, suffragettes would gather for rallies.
Staying at The Clarendon places you in the midst of this rich history. The village’s architecture tells its own story, with Georgian and Victorian buildings creating the distinctive character that makes Blackheath so special. For history enthusiasts, it’s like staying in a living museum – but one with excellent modern comforts!
Making Memories
12. The Gift of Experience
Some of the best gifts can’t be wrapped – which is why our gift vouchers make such thoughtful presents. Whether you’re treating loved ones to a relaxing stay, an indulgent afternoon tea, or a special dinner, you’re giving them something precious: time to enjoy together.
Our beautifully presented vouchers can be personalised for birthdays, anniversaries, thank-yous or simply because. And of course, they’re rather handy as hints for what you might like to receive yourself!
13. Sunday: The New Saturday
Sundays often feel bittersweet – the weekend winding down, Monday looming. Our Sunday Stay & Dine package transforms this often-overlooked day into something special. Arrive for a delicious three-course Sunday lunch (our roasts are somewhat legendary), enjoy a peaceful afternoon and overnight stay, then start Monday with a proper breakfast.
It’s amazing how much more prepared you feel for the week ahead after a night of proper rest and relaxation. For Londoners seeking a mini-break without travelling far, or visitors wanting to extend their weekend in the capital, it’s the perfect solution.
14. Business with a Difference
Business travel doesn’t have to mean anonymous chain hotels. Our meeting and conference facilities offer a refreshing alternative for companies looking for surroundings that inspire rather than merely accommodate.
With natural light, characterful spaces, and all the technology essentials, The Clarendon provides the perfect setting for productive meetings, team away days, or corporate events. And of course, the peaceful Blackheath location means participants return to work genuinely refreshed rather than exhausted by city noise and congestion.
15. Year-Round Special Offers
Everyone enjoys a little extra value, which is why we’ve created a range of special offers throughout the year. From our Prosecco Fridays (because sometimes the week deserves a sparkling finish) to seasonal packages that celebrate the changing beauty of Blackheath, there’s always a way to enhance your stay.
Keep an eye on our offers page or sign up for our newsletter to be first to hear about new opportunities to enjoy The Clarendon for a little less.
Your Blackheath Adventure Begins Here
What makes a truly memorable hotel stay? Is it the comfort of the room, the quality of the food, the warmth of the welcome? At The Clarendon, we believe it’s the feeling you get when all these elements come together perfectly, creating not just accommodation but an experience.
Our guests often arrive as visitors but leave feeling like locals, having discovered the special rhythm of Blackheath life. From morning coffee in the village to evening strolls across the heath, from cultural excursions to Greenwich to peaceful moments in our garden, a stay at The Clarendon offers a different way to experience London.
We look forward to welcoming you soon and helping you create your own Clarendon memories.