Claridge's: A Legendary Hotel with Royal Warrants

Claridge's, often referred to as the "Official Residence of Buckingham Palace," boasts a history stretching back 200 years to 1812. It all began when James Mivart built "Mivart's Hotel" in a prime Mayfair location. The hotel was renamed Claridge's in 1854, after being sold to the Claridge couple, who served a prominent London family. Its style gradually evolved. The elegant facade and charming Art Deco interiors, which are still preserved today, were redesigned in 1930.

Step inside, and the lobby greets you with a striking black and white tiled floor featuring geometric patterns, while a beautifully adorned staircase leads to the upper floors. Its magnificent interior is often described as an "Art Deco jewel box." Today, it is widely cherished by Londoners and is recognized as a building of significant English Heritage.






The relationship between the Royal Family and Claridge's dates back to 1860 when Queen Victoria chose it as a meeting place with Empress Eugénie of France. Deeply impressed, Queen Victoria subsequently designated it as a venue for state banquets and accommodation for visiting dignitaries, eventually earning it the moniker "Official Residence of Buckingham Palace." The hotel also has ties to the Japanese Imperial Family; Their Majesties the Emperor and Empress stayed at Claridge's last year when attending a luncheon celebrating Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee.

A Place Where Anyone Can Feel Like a Princess

Recently, Claridge's has embraced the modern London spirit within its esteemed traditions, notably with the opening of "Gordon Ramsay at Claridge's," helmed by the legendary London chef and three-Michelin-starred Gordon Ramsay. This exquisite blend of classic and contemporary might be the very reason it continues to captivate so many across eras. A moment of princess-like indulgence in a special setting; a stay at this hotel is sure to be an unforgettable experience.

On the next page, we will introduce The Connaught, also owned and operated by the "Maybourne Hotel Group" which manages Claridge's.



Claridge's
Address: Brook Street, Mayfair, London, W1K 4HR
Tel: +44-(0)-20-7629-8860
http://www.claridges.co.uk

The Connaught: Modern British Elegance

Located in Mayfair, one of London's most exclusive residential areas, and just a few minutes' walk from Bond Street, The Connaught stands in a prime location. This is another prestigious hotel with a rich history, founded in 1897. Originally named the "Coburg Hotel," it was renamed in 1917 in honor of Prince Arthur of Connaught, the third son of Queen Victoria.

Compared to Claridge's, The Connaught presents a more stylish and modern aesthetic. The building, designed around a beautiful mahogany staircase, retains British tradition while exuding an air of relaxed sophistication. It strikes a perfect balance, avoiding excessive formality without being overly casual. For those seeking a more classic ambiance, Claridge's is ideal; for those desiring a taste of contemporary British luxury, The Connaught is the choice.

Shopping, Dining, and Spa at Your Leisure

For those who appreciate contemporary Britain, we highly recommend the "AMAN SPA at The Connaught." This is the first spa opened by Aman, the renowned luxury resort brand with a presence primarily in Asia, outside of its own resorts, and it has quickly gained popularity. Here, you can immerse yourself in a world of luxurious and elegant tranquility, with all treatments performed entirely by hand, without any machines, melting away the fatigue of travel in an instant.

After indulging in relaxation, you might choose to go shopping or enjoy afternoon tea. Situated in the heart of Mayfair, The Connaught offers easy access to Mount Street, South Audley Street, Bruton Street, and Bond Street. This hotel inspires spontaneous adventures like no other.




For dining, consider the two-Michelin-starred "Hélène Darroze at The Connaught," led by the acclaimed French chef Hélène Darroze, or enjoy lunch and afternoon tea at the bistro-style restaurant "Espelette."

Claridge's and The Connaught, two hotels where tradition and modernity intertwine in the heart of London. Immerse yourself in British royal culture and indulge in an extraordinary journey.




This series, "A Journey Through Britain's Royal Culture of Tradition and Innovation," began with Chapter 1,“A Tour of the British Countryside Aboard the Luxurious British Pullman Train”, followed by Chapter 2,“A British Holiday at a Secluded Resort”, and Chapter 3,“A Lunchtime Trip in a Rolls-Royce”, concluding with this final chapter, "Staying at Prestigious Hotels with Royal Warrants." We have presented the beauty of Britain across four installments. How did you find this series?

We hope this has been of some inspiration if you are planning a trip to the UK. A slightly more ambitious journey often leads to the most memorable experiences.

The Connaught
Address: Carlos Place, Mayfair, London, W1K 2AL
Tel: +44-(0)-20-7499-7070
http://www.the-connaught.co.uk