The fun of staying at Brown’s, the unashamedly British hotel sitting plum in swanky Mayfair, begins even before the door is ceremoniously opened for you – especially if you’re a child.
Archetypally British, with a hint of the unexpected, Brown’s was founded in 1837 by Lord Byron’s butler as London’s first hotel. Today, this five-star delight is part of the Rocco Forte Hotels umbrella, with rooms and suites curated by Olga Polizzi for her brother, the brand’s founder and namesake. Each pays tribute to the hotel’s heritage: the Kipling Suite honours Rudyard Kipling, who penned The Jungle Book while staying here. Find afternoon tea in The Drawing Room, where original wood panelling complements wallpaper of a Hogwarthian 19th-century London. This space transforms into The Supper Club at sundown, serving British comfort food, with cocktails, live music and game nights. The Donovan Bar, in honour of celebrated photographer Terence Donovan, has a ‘Once Upon a Time’ cocktail menu by ‘Maestro’ Salvatore Calabrese inspired by past guests, from AA Milne to Winston Churchill. Meanwhile, Charlie’s at Brown’s, helmed by head chef Adam Byatt of Michelin starred Trinity and overseen by Director of Hospitality Jesus Adorno, offers a seasonal menu. There’s a luxurious subterranean spa with indulgent Irene Forte products.
Doubles from £650
+44 (0)20 7493 6020; roccofortehotels.com
