A London landmark situated in the heart of the city’s West End district at the corner of Green Park, The Ritz has been home to thousands of guests since 1906. After a recent multi-million dollar renovation, The Ritz is now more elegant than ever. The French-inspired décor evokes an era of old-world opulence. They even relaxed their formal dress code to be more amenable to today’s traveler. Traditional afternoon tea is an institution in itself and is served daily in The Palm Court. Reservations are a must!
From the Ritz, we boarded a small van for a city tour by NoteWorthy, a Virtuoso on-site. Their guide was fabulous and our two-hour whirlwind tour, we learned many interesting stories and anecdotes about London history. Their guides can set up special custom tours tailored to our clients interests, time schedule and age range.
Rochelle and Betta pictured with our amazing guide, Kirsty Hoskins. Lorraine Engledow (Planning Director) pictured in the red jacket awaiting our arrival!
We were dropped off at The Stafford for our next inspection and another fabulous lunch hosted by Sinai Pedreschi (Director of Sales & Marketing) and Francesca Mendola (Senior Sales Manager).
Located in the heart of London in quaint St. James’s, The Stafford is a remarkable setting, surprisingly discreet and peaceful. After a 2007 renovation, the hotel is now comprised of three separate properties situated around a cobbled courtyard, with three contrasting styles of rooms and suites; the elegant Main House, the contemporary Mews Suites, and the charming Carriage House. A compelling history lies within the hotel’s 380-year-old vaulted wine cellars. A unique setting for private functions and complimentary wine tastings and tutorials, this working cellar holds over 10,000 bottles of wine.
Main Building (above)
Mews Suites (above)
Carriage House (above)
Busy day... After lunch, we were off to ANOTHER site inspection. Our group split up to view the hotels that are part of the Maybourne Group- The Berkeley, Claridge's, and the Connaught. On day 3, these hotels hosted us to Afternoon Tea.
Berkeley-
With understated elegance, this Knightsbridge hotel is stylishly furnished and offers spacious rooms and suites. A rarity in London, the Berkeley boasts a rooftop pool with breathtaking panoramic views. Designed with a sliding roof, it can be used year round. With a strong commitment to caring for the mind, body and spirit, the health club and spa offers a holistic approach to well-being. Their unique fashionista's afternoon tea is inspired by the themes and colors of the fashion world.
Our gracious hosts at the Berkeley were Joanne Bursford (Director of Private Visits & Guest Relations) and Kasia Krawczyk (Guest Relations Associate).
Our day ended with cocktails on top of the Four Seasons hotel overlooking the London skyline from floor to ceiling glass. We had a site inspection, and then, were treated to an elegant meal.
Four Seasons at Park Lane-
After a two-year head-to-toe renovation, the Four Seasons reopened in 2011. Surrounded by greenery in the heart of Mayfair, the hotel has incredible views of Westminster and Hyde Park from their 10th floor glass-walled spa and fitness center. The redesigned, expanded rooms are modern and sleek in décor. Of the 193 guest rooms, an entire floor is dedicated to suites with one-, two-, and three-bedroom options featuring fireplaces and private terraces. Their dining facility, Amaranto, is a single destination with three different areas– restaurant, bar and lounge–serving an Italian-inspired menu. In addition, they have extensive children’s amenities from games to books to babysitting. The Four Seasons also has properties at Canary Wharf and Hampshire.
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