Quintessentially British, a historical monument and a famous icon favoured by the likes of Frank Sinatra and Katherine Hepburn, it’s no wonder five-star hotel, The Savoy, is still one of London’s finest hotels after 125 years.
THE LOW DOWN
Located in the heart of the cosmopolitan capital, this historical monument was built in 1246 by the side of the river Thames by Count Peter of Savoy, who was given the land by Henry III. Sadly, it was burnt to the ground during the Peasant’s Revolt in 1381. It was rebuilt and reopened in 1886, with the Savoy Theatre attached to its side.
Serving royalty and the Hollywood A-list – past guests include Marilyn Monroe, Charlie Chaplin, Winston Churchill and Frank Sinatra – the service is impeccable with staff fitted with earpieces to alert other staff of your attendance, ensuring all your needs are catered to immediately.
Situated within walking distance to landmarks including Big Ben and the London Eye, Covent Garden markets and the theatre district, entertainment, shopping and history are literally all on the doorstep. For more information, visit fairmont.com/savoy-london
DÉCOR
Walking through its revolving doors is like stepping back in time with most of the fittings and interiors staying true to its original incarnation. Think 1930s Art Deco with gold fixtures, haunting portraits and decadent rugs, although there is a modern edge with all the fancy gadgets associated with five-star luxury having pride and place next to the artefacts.
SUITES
There are 195 rooms and 73 suites, all of which are designed in either the renowned Edwardian or Art Deco style. Extreme VIPs, and those with the cash, can book the two-bedroom Royal Suite and all the rooms spread across the front of the entire fifth floor, overlooking the river. Guests staying in a suite will be offered a complementary glass of bubbly upon arrival to their room as well as their very own butler. Mod cons also include flat screen satellite TVs and iPod docks.
Many of the suites afford breath-taking views of the Thames and the fabulous city with its blend of old-meets-new architecture. It’s easy to see how artist Monet was inspired here – he painted his iconic London skyline works from the Savoy.
STYLISH EATS
Kaspar’s Seafood Bar and Grill is the latest addition and rapidly the most renowned thanks to its exquisite fish dishes (try the cured beetroot salon) and panoramic views of the Thames.
In keeping with the quintessentially British vibe, afternoon tea is served at the Thames Foyer while fine dining can be experienced in the old-world-style Simpson’s-In-The Strand.
Savoy Grill is one of London’s most legendary restaurants, frequented by celebrated diners such as Winston Churchill, Oscar Wilde, Frank Sinatra and HM Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother.
For posh sips it doesn’t get better than the American Bar with its evocative 1920s feel and iconic cocktail menu – the Savoy Cocktail book was created here over 80 years go. The Beaufort Bar is all about theatrics with a cabaret show. Vintage wines and bubbly also make this a hot spot.
POSH TEA
It may be a stereotype but the Brits do love their tea, which is why Savoy Tea, a bijou tea store, offers a wide variety of beautifully packaged Savoy teas, bespoke accessories, plus handmade jams and biscuits.
