The Savoy Hotel, nestled on the historic Strand in London, is an iconic luxury hotel renowned for its rich history and opulent accommodations. Opened in 1889, it was the first luxury hotel in Britain to have electric lights, electric lifts, and hot and cold running water in most bedrooms, marking it as a pioneer in the hospitality industry.
One of the fascinating features of the Savoy Hotel is its unique positioning; it is the only road in the United Kingdom where vehicles are required to drive on the right-hand side. This unique tradition is linked to its European-style architecture, and it is strictly adhered to by all who drive through.
The Savoy has a storied connection to the arts and has been a favorite haunt for many famous figures. Celebrities like Marilyn Monroe, Frank Sinatra, and The Beatles have all stayed here, contributing to its glamorous reputation. The hotel also famously hosted the first ever cocktail party, helping popularize cocktails in London.
Another quirky feature of the Savoy is the Savoy Court, which originally housed the Savoy Theatre and continues to influence the hotel's design and operations. The theatre was the first public building in the world to be lit entirely by electricity, ensuring that the Savoy has always been at the forefront of innovation.
The Savoy's River Restaurant offers stunning views of the River Thames, providing guests with not only gourmet dining options but also a glimpse of London's most iconic waterways. The restaurant is a testament to the hotel's commitment to offering experiences that combine luxury with a sense of place.
The Savoy boasts an intriguing historical link to a cat named Kaspar. The hotel uses a 3-foot-tall sculpture of a cat to avoid having an unlucky 13-dinner guest seating by counting Kaspar as the 14th guest, adding a touch of whimsy to formal dining arrangements.
Making the Most of Your Visit:
When you're at the Savoy, make sure you check out the American Bar. It's one of the oldest surviving cocktail bars in the world and has been serving up exquisite libations since 1893. It's a must-visit for anyone who appreciates a good cocktail.
Take a walk down the famous Savoy Court driveway. Not only is it quirky because vehicles drive on the right, but it also gives you a great view of the hotel's architectural details. It's a great spot for a photo op, capturing a little slice of history with modern London as a backdrop.
Don't skip the Thames Foyer for afternoon tea. This isn't your typical hotel tea experience—it's an award-winning event. The glass cupola floods the room with natural light, making your afternoon tea not just delicious but beautifully serene.
Keep an eye out for the statue of the black cat Kaspar if you're dining at the Savoy Grill. He's more than just a whimsical figure; he's part of the hotel's charm and a quirky solution to an old superstition about the unlucky number 13.
If you're a fan of classical music or history, remember that The Savoy Theatre, right by the hotel, has a strong legacy linked with Gilbert and Sullivan. Time your visit to coincide with a performance for a dose of world-class entertainment with a side of historical immersion.
Visiting Times & Costs:
The Savoy Hotel is open to the public as it operates as a luxury hotel. Guests can book accommodations throughout the year, with no specific seasonal closures. Hotel facilities such as restaurants and bars are accessible to both guests and non-guests, though reservations are recommended due to popularity.
Accessibility:
- The Savoy Hotel offers excellent accessibility for guests with mobility issues, including wheelchair access and adapted rooms. It is advisable to contact the hotel directly for specific accessibility arrangements or requirements.
Costs:
- Accommodation: The cost of staying at The Savoy varies depending on the room type and season, with rates available upon inquiry or booking.
- Dining: Dining at the hotel's restaurants, including the River Restaurant and the Savoy Grill, involves separate charges based on menu selections. Afternoon Tea at the Thames Foyer is a paid experience, often with a set price per person.
The public areas within the hotel, such as the lobby and bars, may be visited freely. However, specific experiences, such as dining or enjoying a cocktail at the American Bar, incur their respective costs.