Hotels With Stories To Tell
London’s cosmopolitan appearance belies its role as one of the most historic sites in all of Europe; as the seat of England’s government, it has borne witness to momentous events since its founding over 2,000 years ago. While numerous exhibits, museums, and landmarks are available to tourists seeking a closer connection to the city’s rich history, one overlooked aspect of London’s history is found in its hotels. London hotels have been the setting for scandal, seduction, secret assignations, and even scientific endeavors. Here are some of the most notable hotels in London, along with hints on how to book the perfect room for your stay.
Brown’s of Mayfair
Brown’s is reputed to be the oldest London hotel still in business. Established in 1837, the hotel is known for being the site of the first successful telephone call in England in 1876. Besides Alexander Graham Bell, Brown’s has hosted such well-known guests as Agatha Christie, Rudyard Kipling, and Teddy Roosevelt, and today is one of the most established luxury hotels in London. For best rates, www.HotelsCombined.com offers travelers up to huge savings over the regular cost of a stay.
Edward, Prince of Wales - later Edward VII
Langham
A truly historic London hotel, the Langham served as the setting for the secret trysts of King Edward VIII with the twice-divorced socialite Wallis Simpson; Edward later abdicated in favor of his younger brother in order to marry the scandalous divorcee. The Langham also hosted BBC broadcasts by Winston Churchill during World War II, and was a favored retreat for Noel Coward, Somerset Maugham, and Oscar Wilde. Today, the historic rooms of this London hotel can be reserved through www.hotelscombined.com or by contacting the hotel directly.
Savoy Hotel
The name Savoy is synonymous throughout the world with fine dining and deluxe accommodations, and the Savoy London Hotel is where this famous reputation first took root. Created in 1889 as an adjunct to the adjacent Savoy Theatre, the hotel was financed with the profits from the masterworks of Gilbert and Sullivan, the joint proprietors. One of the most glamorous hotels in London, the Savoy has always been ahead of its time; it was the first London hotel to feature elevators and electric lighting. The ubiquitous Oscar Wilde spent a portion of his time at the Savoy, and it has long been the favored hotel of the British Royal family. The Savoy is one of the most popular hotels in London.
As of this writing (January 2010), The Savoy continues its massive restoration and is expected to reopen some time in 2010. According to its website:
“The Savoy’s restoration programme is one of the most ambitious undertaken in Britain. Costing over £100 million, it involved the complete building, including the courtyard, all the public areas and guest rooms.”
Cadogan
The Cadogan makes a virtue of its reputation for scandal as the site of illicit liaisons between Lillie Langtry and the future Edward VII; the married actress was the unofficial mistress to the prince for almost three years. This historic London hotel was also the scene of Oscar Wilde’s famous arrest for gross indecency in room 118, now a shrine of sorts to his memory. The Cadogan commemorates these notable guests with rooms and suites devoted to the celebrities; the Lillie Langtry, Oscar Wilde, and Edward VII suites are designed to reflect the tastes and time periods of their namesakes. One of the most exclusive London hotels, the Cadogan offers occasional discounts or special guest packages; for more discounts, www.hotelscombined.com offers comprehensive information on special offers, room rates and availability. By choosing one of these unique London hotels, travelers can enjoy a history-making vacation of their own.
