The Savoy
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About
The first luxury hotel in London opened in 1889 by Richard D'Oyly Carte with the fortune earned from producing Gilbert and Sullivan operas, the Savoy introduced electric lifts, electric lighting, and private bathrooms that revolutionized hotel hospitality, then appointed César Ritz as manager and Auguste Escoffier as chef—a combination that defined luxury hospitality globally. The hotel's 267 rooms and suites are divided between the original Edwardian and the Art Deco wings, with the Thames Foyer serving afternoon tea beneath a spectacular glass dome and the Savoy Grill restaurant perpetuating the British culinary institution of grills and roasts that Churchill, Noel Coward, and Laurence Olivier made their regular table. The Savoy's private forecourt—the only road in Britain where traffic drives on the right—allows guests to arrive in theatrical splendor directly from the Strand.
Highlights
- American Bar cocktails
- Edwardian and Art Deco
- Strand riverside landmark
- Historic celebrity favorite
Amenities
Nearby Attractions
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London Transport Museum
Located in the heart of Covent Garden, this museum explores the powerful link between transport and the growth of modern London. It houses an extensive collection of historic vehicles, including the world’s first underground steam train and iconic red double-decker buses. The interactive displays make it a multi-sensory journey through the city's design and social history. Expert recommendations: Try the 'Tube' simulator to see what it's like to drive an underground train. Pro tip: While the entry fee seems high, the ticket is actually an annual pass, allowing you to return as many times as you like for a year. It’s exceptionally family-friendly, so visit early in the morning to enjoy the exhibits before the school groups and families arrive in large numbers.
Jamie Oliver Catherine St
Located in a beautiful historic building in Covent Garden, this restaurant marks Jamie Oliver's return to the London dining scene with a focus on 'modern British comfort food.' The decor is warm and inviting, celebrating British craftsmanship with bespoke furniture and curated art. The sensory experience is family-friendly yet sophisticated. Expert recommendations: The 'Scallops with Black Pudding' and the 'Sunday Roast' are highly praised for their quality and sourcing. Pro tip: It’s an excellent choice for a pre-theater dinner due to its proximity to the Theatre Royal Drury Lane. Unlike his previous chains, this is a more focused, high-quality singular venue. Reservations are recommended, but they usually have space for early-evening walk-ins at the bar.
Rules Restaurant
Established in 1798, Rules is the oldest restaurant in London and a bastion of traditional British cuisine. The walls are covered in hundreds of historical drawings, oil paintings, and mounted game trophies, creating a rich, clubby atmosphere that feels like a time capsule. It has hosted literary greats from Charles Dickens to Graham Greene. Expert recommendations: This is the best place in the city for game; try the roast grouse or pheasant during the shooting season. Their 'Steak and Kidney Pudding' is also legendary. Pro tip: Don't miss the upstairs 'Winter Garden' bar for a classic cocktail in a quiet, plush setting. It is popular with both tourists and traditionalists, so book early and be prepared for a formal, old-world service style.
Covent Garden Market
Once a world-famous fruit and vegetable market, Covent Garden is now a vibrant cultural and shopping hub. The elegant 19th-century piazza architecture houses the Apple Market, where you can find handmade crafts and antiques. The atmosphere is perpetually festive, thanks to the world-class street performers and opera singers who entertain crowds in the lower courtyard. Expert recommendations: Visit Petersham Nurseries for a beautiful floral-themed lunch or explore the surrounding 'Seven Dials' for independent boutiques. Pro tip: While the main market is open daily, the antiques market specifically takes place on Mondays. During the Christmas season, the market features some of the best decorations in London, including a giant reindeer and a massive tree, making it a prime spot for festive photography.
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