Claridge’s

Famed for looking after royalty and their guests, Claridge’s on Brook Street is one of London’s most deluxe five-star hotels. Dating back to the 19^th century, it has continually expanded from its beginnings as a single house, to encompass the neighbouring premises, and now encases 197 rooms and 11 suites in a single Grade II-listed building. Its stunning Art Deco lobby, designed by Oswald Milne in 1929, remains an iconic feature.

The hotel officially opened as it is known as today in 1856 and just four years later, a royal visit was made by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, prompting visits from other heads of state in the years to follow. The Queen Mother was a regular diner at the restaurant during the 1970s and to this day her favourite table is always dressed with sweet peas. Claridge’s’ longstanding relationship with royal families from all around the world has given it the nickname the “annex to Buckingham Palace”.

Good enough for royalty, it’s certainly plush enough for even the most high-profile celebrities, of which it has hosted many. Guests have included Hollywood legends such as Cary Grant, Audrey Hepburn, and Bing Crosby, through to modern day superstars including Brad Pitt and Mariah Carey.

Claridge’s has also held a longstanding relationship with the fashion industry through visiting guests, including hosting Kate Moss’ 30^th birthday, to design projects, like commissioning Diane von Furstenberg’s first foray into interiors, for which she decorated four rooms and suites. Every year a different fashion designer has been charged with designing the Claridge’s Christmas Tree, for which a grand unveiling takes place that’s as much a part of the West End’s festive celebrations as the turning on of the Oxford Street lights. Past designers have included John Galliano, Dolce & Gabbana, and Christopher Bailey of Burberry.

The hotel also has a spa and several sophisticated drinking and dining spots, including Michelin-star restaurant Fera and their award-winning afternoon tea served in the foyer and reading room.

Location

Brook Street, Mayfair, London W1K 4HR United Kingdom.

General

Air-Condition/Central Heating, Bar/Lounge, Restaurant, Tea-Room, Luxury En-Suite Marble Bathrooms, Bath, Shower, Luxury Bath-Robes/Slippers, Towels, Cowshed Toiletries, Bridal Suite, Private Dining, Refrigerated Mini-Bar, Flat-Screen TV, Fresh Flowers, Alarm Clock, Hairdryer, Gift Certificates, Family Friendly, Wheelchair Accessible, Small Pets Welcome  (up to 15lbs), For Suites  – Champagne, Fresh Fruit and Chocolates For Guests On Arrival.

Activities

Fitness Centre, Gym, Work-Out Room, Health Club and Spa, Personal Trainer, Beauty Treatments, Children’s Activities and Events, Nintendo Wii/Gameboy Advance,  (choice of games) Family DVDs and CDs, iPod Docking Stations (available in suites)

Services

Business Services, Meeting Rooms, Conference Facilities, Banquet Room, Room Service, Multi-lingual Staff, Concierge, Laundry/Dry Cleaning Services, Babysitting, Child-Minding Service, Chauffer Services, Waiter, Maid and Valet Services, Evening Turn-Down, Wake-Up Call, Weather, Complimentary Shoe-Shine/Newspaper, In-Hotel McQueens Florist, Airport Transfers, Theatre Desk, Luxury Picnics Made to Order, Fully Trained First Aider, Doctor On Call.

Check-in

From 3:00 PM.

Check-out

Prior to 12:00 PM.