London has been a hub of civilisation for over two millennia, and by golly does it have the tales to tell. London has witnessed everything from royal triumphs to devastating fires, political intrigue and artistic revolutions.
When it comes to exploring the rich tapestry of British history, London’s grand old hotels are like hidden treasures just waiting to be discovered. If you’ve got a penchant for British history, then these establishments are worthy of a flight overseas. If you’re planning a trip to England’s capital and want to know more about these iconic landmarks, read on.
Getting There
Before we embark on a tale of London’s most iconic hotels, first, we’ll quickly run over the technicalities of getting from A to B.
In the digital era, it’s easier than ever to not only search for flights that are tailored to your budgetary needs but also conveniently select all-encompassing packages. Many providers utilise sophisticated search engines and provide filters, which enable you to incorporate a number of factors into your search. For example, you can book your flight and hotel with Opodo due to an advantageous tab that requires input in the form of your departure airport, arrival airport, number of guests and the number of rooms you’ll be needing.
With the click of a button, you’re presented with pages filled to the brim with appropriate options. By using such methods, you obviously save time, but you could also potentially save up to 40% on your trip to the Big Smoke, leaving you with more cash to spend on your desired Medieval activities in London town!
Depending on your departure point, the flight duration can range from around six to eight hours on average. That’s just enough time to devour a delicious in-flight meal, catch some Z’s, and perhaps chat to a fellow passenger before you touch down in London town.
London, as a capital city, is also a major global hub, with multiple airports serving the city, including Heathrow, Gatwick, and London City Airport. Once you arrive, you’ll find a well-connected transportation system that can whisk you away to your desired Medieval Hotel in a breeze.
London’s Most Iconic And Historic Hotels
So, which are the hotels that history enthusiasts flock to each year? Well, the options in London are plenty, but we’ve listed some of the most notable spots below:
The Savoy
Located in the heart of London, the Savoy provides an experience like no other! This place is the epitome of iconic and historic, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a taste of luxury and British history all rolled into one.
The Savoy has been a beacon of elegance and sophistication since its opening in 1889. It’s like stepping into a time capsule where the past seamlessly blends with the present. From the moment you set foot in the grand lobby, you’ll be greeted by its stunning Edwardian and Art Deco architecture.
What’s more, the Savoy has the oldest surviving cocktail bar in Britain, seeing some of the world’s most famous mixologists work their magic over the years. The Savoy’s bartenders have been pioneers in the cocktail world, inventing classic drinks that have stood the test of time. Sip on a legendary cocktail like the White Lady or the Hanky Panky, and you’ll feel a part of history coursing through your lips to your veins.
But here’s the best part: the Savoy is not just a witness to history; it has also helped shape it. During World War II, it became a sanctuary for refugees and a hub for government officials. Winston Churchill himself was known to frequent the hotel, and decisions that shaped the course of history were made within its walls.
So if you’re looking for a place in London that provides both class and history, the Savoy is definitely worthy of a stay.
The Ritz
As covered by Culture Trip, not only is the Ritz an absolute landmark in London for British history, but it is also a true icon of luxury and refinement. Since its opening in 1906, it has been synonymous with grandeur and sophistication. But, of course, its historical significance sets the Ritz apart from many of London’s other hotels. This place has hosted the crème de la crème of society for over a century. Even King Edward VII himself was known to enjoy staying at the Ritz, which really sets the tone for its illustrious guest list.
What’s more, the Ritz is also known for its impeccable Edwardian architecture. Every corner exudes an air of old-world charm, from the stunning exterior adorned with intricate details to the opulent interiors. It’s like living in a bygone era where elegance and sophistication were the order of the day. Indeed, if you want a stay in a hotel in London that boasts a riveting history with a generous side-serving of class, then the Ritz should definitely be top of your list.
Brown’s Hotel
Established in 1837, Brown’s Hotel is London’s oldest operating hotel – making it the absolute cream-of-iconic-hostel-stay-crop for history buffs. Need we say more? This place is steeped in history, and staying here means immersing yourself in the stories of famous guests like Rudyard Kipling and Agatha Christie. It’s a living testament to London’s past and a haven for those who crave a taste of timeless elegance.
The Langham
Last, but by no historical means least, we have the British treasure that is the Langham. As we’ve covered before on Londontopia, the Langham is a historical gem that will transport you back in time while offering a luxurious and unforgettable experience.
Dating all the way back to 1865, the Langham holds the title of the first grand hotel in Europe. Just imagine the stories that have unfolded within its walls over the decades! From royalty to renowned authors, this hotel has welcomed a prestigious list of guests throughout history.
Did you know that during World War II, the hotel became a home for exiled European royals and diplomats? It even housed the BBC’s Overseas Service during the war, making it a hub of information and resilience during these challenging times in Britain. Indeed, for history enthusiasts, the Langham really is a dream come true.
The Langham is also known for its iconic Palm Court. This magnificent space has been a focal point of the Langham since its inception, and it’s famous for its traditional afternoon tea. You can indulge in delicate finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and an array of delectable pastries. As you’ll likely already know, tea rituals have been and always will be an essential part of British culture, so it’s an experience you should never pass down when given the chance when in London town. If you want to take a little piece of this home, it’s important to remember that there’s plenty of memorabilia available, as we’ve certainly highlighted before here at Londontopia.
Be A Part Of Britain’s Captivating History
These four hotels, the Langham, Browns Hotel, the Ritz, and the Savoy, offer unparalleled opportunities to experience London’s rich history and indulge in luxurious surroundings. Whether you find yourself sipping tea in the Palm Court, gazing at Edwardian and Art Deco architecture, or simply basking in the ambience of these iconic establishments, a stay at any of these historic hotels is a journey through time and an invitation to be a part of London’s captivating history.