Whether you're looking to take a break from shopping with a midday martini, enjoy historic hospitality on a weekend getaway in the lap of luxury, or savour a world-class supper at one of London's top restaurants, Claridge's is the place to go. A timeless icon of British hospitality, and for good reason, this luxury London hotel, celebrated for its Art Deco elegance, first gained prominence over 160 years ago when it was visited by Queen Victoria and her husband, Prince Albert. Since then, it has withstood two world wars, and undergone multiple renovations, and yet its unshakable reputation endures.
A Hotel Steeped in History
The iconic British establishment’s rich history is one of the reasons for its endless allure. It all started in a single townhouse at 51 Brook Street by William and Marianne Claridge, who bought the five adjoining buildings in 1854 and opened as a hotel in its own right a couple of years later. It was then acquired in 1893 by Richard D'Oyly Carte, owner of the Savoy, and was closed to allow a significant redesign led by C W Stephens, the man responsible for Harrods.
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Iconic Clientele
Throughout the last two centuries, the hotel has played host to movie stars and statesmen, fashion designers and global dignitaries. In the 1920s, it experienced an influx of bobs, sequins and dropped hems when it became the place to do the Charleston for the flappers, and during WWII, it put a roof over the heads of states escaping war-torn territories. In the 1950s, it was the home away from home for Hollywood stars, including Audrey Hepburn, Carey Grant and Spencer Tracey, who famously said he would rather go to Claridges than heaven when he died, while in the 90s and early aughts, it was the hot spot for the catwalk queens like Naomi Campell and Kate Moss.
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Deco Decadence
The hotel's Art Deco influence has also played a significant role in its iconic status. The magnificent foyer, designed by the renowned Oswald Milne in the second decade of the twentieth century, is defined by its black-and-white marble floors, shimmering chandeliers, and stylish, angular furnishings. The Deco design culminates at the Claridge's Bar, where guests can enjoy classic cocktails and soak up the ambience of the era, which still stands today.
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A Foodie’s Dream
Described as ‘London’s most food-centric hotel’, Clardiges’ in-house restaurant has unwavering prestige, with Gordon Ramsay, taking residence in the 90s. Since then, the top spot has enjoyed a plethora of brilliant chefs; most recently the Michelin-starred Fera at Claridge's has been set up under the expert guidance of chef Simon Rogan.
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The Suite Life
But what truly makes a hotel a hotel? Well, the rooms of course. Here, once again, Clardiges shines. The essence of its charm is encapsulated in its luxurious bedrooms and suites. Each one is meticulously designed with exceptional attention to detail, offering an oasis of serenity and sophistication. The artistry in combining contemporary and classic design means the hotel remains as captivating today as it was in centuries past. Guests revel in the generous spaces, beautiful fabrics and finishes, and modern amenities, creating an air of modern glamour that is unique to the Mayfair establishment.
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A Legacy Built to Last
Claridge's is more than just a hotel; it's a cultural institution. The hotel has been featured in literature, film, and television, becoming synonymous with a certain kind of luxury and prestige. From the pages of F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby to the silver screen in films like Notting Hill, it has left an indelible mark on British culture which will no doubt continue for many centuries to come.
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