 |
| Claridge's |
5 star luxury in Mayfair’s historic Art Deco hotel
In the heart of Mayfair, Claridge’s hotel is perfectly placed for the city, London’s shopping districts and leafy Hyde Park.
With award-winning service and business facilities, Claridge’s luxury london hotel is a sumptuous retreat for the business traveller – or a luxurious indulgence if you want to spoil yourself or a loved one.
Claridge’s is a key part of London’s history. Stars, socialites and the crowned heads of Europe have enjoyed this 5 star hotel for over 100 years.
Some of the world’s greatest designers have left their mark on Claridge’s. Original features mingle with distinctly modern twists, refining the effortless Art Deco elegance that makes London’s finest hotel so special.
A stay at Claridge’s is an unforgettable experience. Our dedicated staff will ensure your every whim is catered for.
Playing host to stars, statesmen and the royalty of Europe, Claridge’s continues to be graced by a discerning clientele who appreciate its service and discretion, its beauty and its rich heritage…
19th century: Claridge’s and the Mivart
During the first half of the 19th century, William and Marianne Claridge ran a hotel at 51 Brook Street. The five next-door houses were the famous Mivart hotel. In 1854 the Claridges bought the Mivart buildings and its excellent reputation. The hotel became known as Claridge’s, late Mivart’s until Mivart’s death in 1856.
1860s: Building a reputation
Claridge’s soon built up a reputation in its own right. The ultimate seal of approval came in 1860 when Queen Victoria and Prince Albert arrived at the hotel. They were visiting the Empress Eugènie of France, who had made Claridge’s her winter quarters.
1893: D’Oyly Carte and the designer of Harrods
In 1893 Claridge’s was bought by Richard D’Oyly Carte, owner of the Savoy. He commissioned CW Stephens, designer of Harrods, to rebuild the hotel from the ground up. The new Claridge’s opened in November 1898.
1940s: European royalty escape to Claridge’s
As war raged across Europe, many exiled royal families made their way to the familiar haven of Claridge’s. Guests included the Kings of Greece, Norway and Yugoslavia, and the Queen of the Netherlands.
In 1947 a diplomat telephoned Claridge’s and asked to speak to the King. “Certainly sir,” came the polite response, “but which one?”
1945: Britain lends out Suite 212
On 17 July 1945, our Suite 212 briefly became part of Yugoslavia. Sir Winston Churchill made the concession so that Crown Prince Alexander, the heir to the throne, could be born on Yugoslav soil. According to legend, Claridge’s staff placed a clod of Yugoslav earth under the Queen’s bed during her labour.
Post-war: The Queen is charmed by Claridge’s
After the war, state delegations from all over the world stayed at Claridge’s. The Queen received them at Buckingham Palace, and the hospitality was traditionally returned by hosting a banquet at Claridge’s.
The Royal Family soon grew to love Claridge’s standards of hospitality and service, and chose to host many of their own private family parties at the hotel.
1950s: The golden age of Hollywood
Stars Yul Brynner, Audrey Hepburn, Cary Grant and Bing Crosby have all strolled through the Claridge’s lobby – but Katherine Hepburn used the staff entrance. She was barred from the lobby because she insisted on wearing trousers, which contravened the strict dress code of the time.
1990s: A modern take on Art Deco
In 1996 Claridge’s updated its Art Deco heritage with a modern twist.
David Collins created the new Claridge’s Bar, and New York-based designer Thierry Despont revitalised the Foyer area with a modern Art Deco feel and a stunning Dale Chihuly chandelier.
Entering the 21st century with its customary glamour, Claridge’s retains its title as London’s Art Deco jewel.