The Waldorf Hilton
Hotel Information: There´s always been something theatrical about The Waldorf Hotel London. Bold, showy and located on the edge of London’s West End, since 1908 it has earned a reputation for elegant dining and extravagant dancing, and attracted a list of celebrity guests almost as long as its striking 190-foot stone facade. Sir Lawrence Olivier, Vivien Leigh, Julie Andrews, Lily Langtry, Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, to name just a few, have all been guests, many in the historic Palm Court – the legendary dance hall upon which the ballroom of the Titanic was modelled. All those illustrious names: and in more recent times, the Spice Girls too. Now this grand old lady of the Strand has had a dramatic facelift. Thirty million pounds have been spent on a complete redesign and refurbishment, begun in 2002 and rolled out in January when the Hilton group took over. And thankfully, it’s been done well.
Its design pays tribute to the ‘grand cafes’ of Europe, and it’s a great place to relax before setting off for a West End show. Classical columns are decorated with modern art on their base, while Edwardian chandeliers loom over the stylish central bar.
Rates: 150 – 250 Euro
Room Information: 299 rooms. Plasma-screen televisions and highspeed internet connections in the bedrooms, and a fully equipped fitness gym in the basement. But the historic charm still pervades its majestic old walls, complemented by contemporary touches. In the lobby, black-and-white photos of London in the Thirties and Forties are juxtaposed with pale marble flooring andtrendily styled lounge chairs. In the bedrooms, minimalist interiors in satsuma, indigo or neutral tones balance classic features like freestanding Edwardian washstands and elegant plaster reliefs.
Hotel Facilties:
General Restaurant – Bar – 24-Hour Front Desk – Newspapers – Non-Smoking Rooms – Rooms/Facilities for Disabled Guests – Elevator – Design Hotel – Luggage Storage
Activities Sauna – Fitness Centre – Indoor Swimming Pool
Services Room Service – Meeting/Banquet Facilities – Business Centre – Laundry VIP Room Facilities – Breakfast in the Room – Currency Exchange – Car Rental