London’s oldest hotel, opened in 1837, Brown’s Hotel, a Rocco Forte Hotel has had its fair share of distinguished guests over the years. But the past patronage of the likes of Queen Victoria and President Theodore Roosevelt is only half the story — it’s how this Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star hotel looks after its visitors today that really makes it stand out from the crowd.
From the well-stocked bookshelves in every bedroom to the healthy snacks and beverages available to hungry gym goers in the 24-hour fitness studio, Brown’s leaves nothing to chance when it comes to ensuring you have a happy, comfortable stay.
From the well-stocked bookshelves in every bedroom to the healthy snacks and beverages available to hungry gym goers in the 24-hour fitness studio, Brown’s leaves nothing to chance when it comes to ensuring you have a happy, comfortable stay.
Our Inspector's Highlights
- A glorious amalgamation of 11 historic townhouses, Brown’s has the feel of a small boutique hotel, while offering all the luxury amenities and service touches that you’d expect from a member of the Rocco Forte group.
- Décor is a subtle blend of old and new, the original wood paneling of the Dover Street entrance and English Tea Room complemented by changing displays of contemporary artworks curated by leading local galleries.
- No two of the 115 rooms and suites are exactly alike, thanks to the London hotel’s layout, but all have spacious marble bathrooms with double sinks, bathtubs and separate walk-in showers, with luxurious Ren toiletries
- The intimate hotel spa only has three treatment rooms, including one set up for couples, all with their own showers and heated beds. Among the signature treatments, the Made for Life Head in Heaven Ritual is 80 minutes of pure bliss during which a skilled therapist performs a soothing, rhythmic massage on your upper back, head, scalp and face.
- Guests on a health kick will love the 24-hour fitness center, fully equipped with Technogym equipment and free weights.
Things to Know
- Rooms with view of the courtyard are the quietest accommodations.
- Along with face and body treatments, The Spa at Brown's offers organic and natural airbrush tan from Beau Bronz and nails by OPI, which includes Lacquer as well as longer lasting gel polish.
- In keeping with the hotel’s family-friendly vibe, the spa also has a special kid's menu with treats like the Twinkle Toes Mini-Pedicure and a gentle Made for Life Softening Facial.
- If you don’t feel like leaving your accommodations, room service is available 24 hours a day.
The Rooms
- The bedrooms and suites, designed by Olga Polizzi, make the most of period features such as fireplaces and cornicing, yet don’t seek to pastiche the past.
- Furnishings are characterized by clean lines and neutral palettes, plus homely touches like fresh flowers and soft throws.
- Technology in the rooms themselves isn’t too shabby either, as you’d expect from the hotel where Alexander Graham Bell placed the first-ever UK telephone call in 1877. High-speed Wi-Fi and interactive flat-screen TVs keep you up to speed with the modern world.
- Choose between courtyard-view rooms and those looking out over the bustling streets of Mayfair, with its galleries, townhouse fashion boutiques and high-end eateries.
- Rooms on the second story — what Brits call the first floor — have the highest ceilings, dating back to the days when these rooms were the main entertaining spaces for the occupants of these homes.
The Restaurants
- Brown's Hotel is famous for its Drawing Room, where residents and visitors alike flock to enjoy traditional afternoon tea, with finger sandwiches, pastries, scones and cakes, all expertly produced in house. Pick from 17 different tea varieties.
- The newest culinary gem in Brown's crown is Charlie's. Directed by acclaimed chef Adam Byatt and helmed by head chef Matt Starling, the September-debuted restaurant features seasonal British cuisine served with theatrical flair.
- At Charlie's, dine on elegant British plates like whole poached salmon served from a traditional silver trolley or a la carte selections like fried courgette flowers with truffle honey or roasted Yorkshire grouse with blackberries and bread sauce.
- The Donovan Bar is a chic spot to enjoy an innovative cocktail — the hotel’s mixologists have created a bespoke menu inspired by the bar's namesake (and Forte family friend), iconic 1960's photographer Sir Terence Donovan.
- We love the Donovan Martini, a twist on a gin and tonic involving Tanquerey N10 Gin, Kummel bitters, fresh pineapple, nettle cordial, lemon juice and tonic water.
Getting There
Albemarle Street, London, W1S 4BP, UK
TEL44-0-207-493-6020
NEARBY AIRPORT(S)
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