the ultra-discreet hotel with secret tunnel to the Palace where US elites, royals mingle

Few hotels can boast a neighbor as iconic as Buckingham Palace, but The Stafford London goes one step further — not only is it situated just across from the royal residence, it also features a discreet private tunnel that leads directly to the doors of St. James’s Palace.

A cornerstone of ultra-luxury in London since 1912, this iconic hotel welcomes around 70 percent of its guests from the US. It has hosted everyone from royalty and world leaders to celebrities and elite athletes.

Thanks to its proximity to the palace, the Stafford has welcomed numerous visits from members of the British monarchy — both past and present — over the years.

Members of the Firm, including the late Queen Elizabeth II, Prince William, Zara Tindall, and Prince Harry, have previously stayed at the five-star establishment, with athletes such as David Beckham and Evander Holyfield following suit.

The late monarch’s mother, The Queen Mother, was also a frequent visitor. Elizabeth, who died in 2002, was known to regularly visit the Stafford London for lunch, arriving discreetly through the underground tunnel that connected the hotel to St. James’s Palace.

While the tunnel doorways are blocked up these days, the hotel now boasts an impressive 380-year-old wine cellar that dates back to the 17th century.

These days, the cellar holds over 8,000 bottles of top-notch wine, including plenty of rare and special vintages that regular guests leave behind for their next visit.

It also moonlights as a hidden gem for private tastings, intimate events and unforgettable dining experiences — a spot some say has played host to a royal or two.

Before its transformation into a fully functioning wine cellar, the tunnel was used as an air raid shelter during World War II. At the time, the hotel operated as a club for American and Canadian officers stationed in London, with authentic artifacts from that era still proudly displayed in the cellar today.

The hotel has also welcomed prominent figures, including Bing Crosby, Bill Nighy and former US President Ronald Reagan, who had famously stayed at the spot before his election.

The luxe 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.

In addition to a signed pair of boxing gloves gifted by Holyfield during the 2012 Olympic Games, the bar also features a signed photograph from Clint Eastwood asking to “save a pint” for him.

Crosby, for his part, regularly stayed at the Stafford whenever he was visiting London. During his visits, he would often challenge the then-general manager to a round of golf, with ashtrays used as holes.

As for the hotel itself, the luxe establishment — which was originally built as private residences more than 300 years ago — is mostly catered to American travelers.

Not only is each room equipped with US power adapters, but the hotel’s concierge is known to hold the key to the city when it comes to dining, nightlife and the dazzling West End.

Located in the heart of London within the prestigious St. James’s neighborhood, the hotel boasts 105 rooms and suites, including the all-suite Stafford Mews building and the Carriage House, which are converted former stables.

The hotel, part of the Stafford Collection, has recently marked a major culinary milestone with the opening of its new Michelin-starred restaurant.

Renowned chef Michael Caines MBE has launched his London residency at the property, bringing his signature modern European cuisine to the capital. The menu showcases the finest British seasonal produce, reflecting Caines’ celebrated culinary style and commitment to excellence.