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London's hotels have welcomed the rich and famous over the years, played a major part in historic events and are a great place to get pampered, whether you want afternoon tea or the luxury of a few nights' accommodation. And they occupy some of the finest property in London. Here's our guide to London's top ten Grand Hotels:
The Ritz
A hotel that requires little introduction, the world famous Ritz offers the ultimate in luxury London living. Opened in 1906 it takes pride of place in Piccadilly, home of gentlemen's clubs and splendid shops. Lovingly restored in the style of Louis XVI, it retains the atmosphere of a French country house. The staff's attention to detail will ensure that you feel like a valued house guest as you take up residence in one of the individually designed rooms. Complete with business facilities, a fitness studio and hair salon to meet your every need. Don't forget to indulge in one of The Ritz's legendary afternoon teas. Address: 150 Piccadilly, London W1J 9BR Telephone: +44 (0) 20 7300 2308 Email: enquire@theritzlondon.com The Savoy
Monet painted here, Pavlova danced here and Churchill ate here. To stay at the Savoy is to uncover and experience London's illustrious past. Opened in 1889, The Savoy enjoys a splendid Riverside location, with many attractions within walking distance, including the theatrical West End. A number of the 230 rooms still possess original Art Deco features and the American Bar exudes the sophistication of the '20s when The Savoy was at the forefront of the cocktail scene. In addition to the modern amenities, The Savoy offers the charm of traditional afternoon tea and the Savoy Grill - known to some as the "second House of Lords". Address: Strand, London WC2R 0EU Telephone: +44 (0) 20 7836 4343 Email: info@the-savoy.co.uk Claridge's
The '30s marked the arrival of Jazz, the glamour of Hollywood and Claridge's hitting the London scene. Today, it continues to deliver a standard of luxury and service that has become its signature. Its 203 rooms, either Art Deco or traditional in style, boast some of the largest bedrooms of any 5 star in London. In addition to state of the art spa facilities and a health club, the Foyer and Reading Room provide the perfect venue for cocktails or afternoon tea. Claridge's Bar offers rare champagnes and the hotel's signature cocktail, The Flapper, or you may prefer the culinary delights of Gordon Ramsay's restaurant. Address: Brook Street, London W1A 2JQ Telephone: +44 (0) 20 7629 8860 Email: info@claridges.co.uk The Lanesborough
Taking pride of place on London's Hyde Park Corner is The Lanesborough. A magnificent and impressive building which retains its nineteenth-century charm and composure. Painstakingly restored throughout by a team of world-class interior designers and expert advisors, it happily flaunts its Regency heritage. The hotel's 95 rooms (including 43 suites) are sumptuously decorated with the most indulgent fabrics and furnishings, many offering traditional four-poster beds. The Royal Suite is often used by Heads of State and celebrities and comes with its own personal butler and a chauffeur-driven Bentley. The Conservatory, ideal for breakfast, is reminiscent of the Brighton Pavilion with its glass-roof, fountains and tall palms. Address: Hyde Park Corner, London SW1X 7TA Telephone: +44 (0) 20 7259 5599 Email: reservations@lanesborough.co.uk The Berkeley Hotel
Dominating palatial Knightsbridge, The Berkeley offers a touch of glamour on the doorstep of some of London's finest shopping emporiums. Designed by acclaimed British architect Brian O'Rourke, this luxury hotel features 160 individually furnished bedrooms and suites, The Berkeley Spa (boasting the only Christian Dior salon in the world), state of the art fitness facilities and a rooftop swimming pool with fabulous views. The Blue Bar is one of the capital's finest cocktail bars, complete with black crocodile print leather floor and white onyx bar. Top London restaurants La Tante Claire and Vong take prime residency in the hotel. Address: Wilton Place, Knightsbridge SW1X 7RL Telephone: +44 (0) 20 7235 6000 Email: info@the-berkeley.co.uk Brown's Hotel
Opened in 1837 by Lord Byron's valet, as a 'genteel inn' for aristocrats in town, Brown's has an intriguing story to tell. The first successful telephone call in Britain was made from Brown's by Alexander Graham Bell. Surrounded by the finest art and auctioneers (Royal Academy, Christie's and Sotheby's), Bond Street boutiques and specialist stores of St James's, it is the ideal spot for the discerning traveller. Rich wood panelling and an open fire welcome guests into a classically English interior. The 118 rooms and suites boast goose down duvets and Italian Frette bed linen. There are over 1,000 wines to choose from at Restaurant 1837 and afternoon tea can be taken in the stately Drawing Room. Address: Albemarle Street, Mayfair W1S 4BP Telephone: +44 (0) 20 7493 6020 Email: reservations@brownshotel.com The Connaught
One of London's best kept secrets, The Connaught resides in one of London's most sought-after locations, Mayfair. The perfect retreat after a busy day of shopping in the nearby galleries and designer boutiques, The Connaught has been compared to a grand English country home. Built in 1897, its 90 rooms exude Edwardian elegance plus all the modern amenities demanded by the seasoned traveller. Nina Campbell recently refurbished The Drawing Room with sumptuous reds and gold to complement the mahogany bar. After the invigoration of the Fitness Studio, retire to the intimate Georgian Grill Room for fine dining. Address: Carlos Place, Mayfair W1K 2AL Telephone: +44 (0) 20 7499 7070 Email: info@the-connaught.co.uk Grosvenor House Hotel
One of Park Lane's most illustrious residents, the Grosvenor House Hotel occupies land which was once home to the 1st Earl of Grosvenor (1732) and his collections. The present building opened in 1927 and was designed by acclaimed architect Sir Edwin Lutyens, when Park Lane was just a small country lane. It offers breathtaking views of Hyde Park and Mayfair. A grand and imposing landmark, it houses 448 bedrooms and suites, as well as a Health Club and several bars and restaurants. Chez Nico at Ninety has been awarded 3 Michelin stars. Bollinger opened their first bar here where you can tuck into champagne, Italian food and cocktails. Address: 86-90 Park Lane, London WIK 7TN Telephone: +44 (0) 20 7499 6363 The Dorchester
If walls could talk then the Dorchester's would provide the ultimate gossip, for its guest list reads like a who's who of the 20th and 21st centuries. Aspiring to be the 'perfect hotel' when it opened in 1931, it has been honoured with guests from Alfred Hitchcock, Vivien Leigh and Brigitte Bardot to Tom Cruise and Nicole Kidman. Over the decades, the colossal Ball Room has played host to the parties of the season - HM The Queen announced her engagement here. Decorated with the charm of a Georgian country house, the rooms offer Italian marble baths and 21st century comforts. Relax in the Spa, find romance in a four-poster suite or feast in the Grill Room. Address: The Dorchester Park Lane, London W1A 2HJ Telephone: +44 (0) 20 7629 8888 Email: info@dorchesterhotel.com The Waldorf
Once the richest man in the world, William Astor's name has lent itself to a salad and one of London's finest hotels. But he was never involved in this venture; rather his name was used to suggest his involvement to entice other financiers! The grandeur of the Waldorf is no illusion however, and ever since its opening in 1908, it has attracted a theatrical and literary guest list. Once described as a 'new palace for the people' its 292 bedrooms and suites boast every modern luxury and Edwardian elegance throughout. Palm Court, where the Tango was first introduced, is an ornate and spacious venue for a hearty early morning breakfast. Address: Le Meridien Waldorf, Aldwych, WC2B 4DD Telephone: +44 (0) 20 7836 2400 Email: enquiry.waldorflondon@hilton.com
The ultimate destination for those looking for a relaxing break. Le Meridien’s Piccadilly...
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