The Savoy

One simply must allow oneself a touch of indulgence now and then, and so we found ourselves surrendering quite happily to afternoon tea at The Savoy, though in surroundings so grand, one feels “high tea” sounds far more fitting, even if the historians may raise a gloved eyebrow at the distinction. Quite serendipitously, our visit coincided with the glorious week of the Chelsea Flower Show, when London acquires that unmistakable extra buzz about it. The city seems to bloom alongside the flowers themselves; ladies in impossibly elegant hats spill from taxis, gentlemen suddenly rediscover linen blazers, and even the ordinarily hurried pace of London softens ever so slightly into something more theatrical (despite a promise of a transport strike). Around the Strand in particular, there was an air of occasion, a sense that the season had properly arrived. The Savoy itself, already one of society’s great stages, appeared positively radiant; every corner felt as though Noel Coward himself might saunter through at any moment, martini in hand and a cutting remark at the ready. From the moment we arrived, the service was faultless in that distinctly old-world manner, attentive without intrusion, polished without stiffness. There remains at The Savoy a rare understanding that true luxury is not extravagance, but ease. One is not merely served tea; one is quietly persuaded that the world can, in fact, still be civilised. Afternoon tea, of course, has always been one of Britain’s finest inventions. Introduced in the 1840s by Anna, the Duchess of Bedford, it began as a practical remedy for the intolerable stretch between luncheon and dinner. Yet, as with all truly British customs, it soon evolved into an occasion of ceremony, gossip, silk gloves, and strategic social manoeuvring. By the 1930s, tea at The Savoy had become something of a ritual amongst aristocrats, theatre stars, and those determined to be mistaken for either. The tea menu was exquisite throughout, but the Devon prawn with king’s caviar was particularly memorable, a wonderfully clever balance of delicate sweetness and briny indulgence. Every flavour felt considered, elegant, and entirely unapologetic in its decadence. Then there were the scones. Ah yes, the famous Savoy scones, deserving entirely of their signature status. Served warm, impossibly light, and accompanied by lavish helpings of jam and cream, they were nothing short of divine. One could quite easily forgive the British Empire several administrative errors after a scone of that calibre. The surroundings themselves deserve their own applause: glittering chandeliers, soft music drifting through the room, silver teapots catching the afternoon light, and the gentle murmur of conversation that only exists in places where nobody is in any particular hurry. In an age so determined to rush, The Savoy offers something wonderfully rebellious: elegance at leisure. We departed feeling rather as though we had stepped briefly into another era, one where trains departed on time, people dressed for dinner, and correspondence was answered with fountain pens rather than emojis. A thoroughly splendid afternoon, and one we shall remember most fondly.

There simply isn't a thorough way to explain the charm, elegance, hospitality and personable experience that comes with a stay at The Savoy. The hotel itself is remarkable. Located in a centralized area in London with walking distance to a large variety of landmarks and points of interest. The rooms are wonderful and the cleanliness is magnificent. What turns this hotel into a perfect place, however, is its people. The service is outstanding. Form the uniformed doormen to the desk to the people who serviced our room - everything was exquisite. You are addressed respectfully and as a welcome friend. They remember your name, welcome you back after a day out and wish you well as you leave for your next adventure. Small touches like setting out slippers, kind notes and a friendly hand opening the door for you just prove that The Savoy has thought through everything they can do to make your stay remarkable. Honestly, they have set the bar so high that we compare all of the hotels we stay at throughout the world to The Savoy... there's just no comparison. If you think you've stayed at the best, give this place a shot - The Savoy is a whole other level of awesome. If you want to treat yourself, your spouse or your family to something special, you can book a room here and guarantee success!

On Saturday, the 12th of May, I celebrated recently turning seventy with my wife and two of our daughters in the famous American Bar at the Savoy Hotel in London. I wanted to wait for a special occasion before booking a table at this iconic bar. That is my only regret. I wish I had visited this Oasis of style, calm and beauty much sooner, from the superb professionalism of the staff who gave us a wonderful welcome and were charming and attentive, without being intrusive throughout our time there. With the superb singer covering many classic favourites, our evening will be a special memory we won't easily forget. Minutes from the theatres and the hustle and bustle of Covent Garden. I urge anyone visiting London, or living in London as I do. Do not make my mistake and put off that special evening. I can`t wait to return.

Booked two rooms for 3 nights for a 70th birthday celebration. We were delighted to be upgraded on arrival to 2 Luxury King rooms overlooking the River Thames. We booked a rate including breakfast and the service was exceptional each morning. We were very warmly welcomed each day which was a nice start to the day. We enjoyed cocktails in the American Bar and this was as special as always. My friend who was celebrating her 70th birthday was blown away by the hotel. Special thanks to Labrini for making our stay special.

Had a great afternoon tea experience here celebrating our friend Bens birthday, Rachel who looked after us was amazing, she made sure we had everything we needed to make our afternoon memorable. The selection of sandwiches and food were also great and our dietary requirements taken care of, combined with the ambiance of The Gallery an amazing afternoon.