Brown's Hotel, London

If you’re looking for a hotel with the grandeur of a classic establishment but with a more intimate feel, Brown’s Hotel is the perfect choice. Hidden in the heart of Mayfair on Albemarle Street, this historic, family-owned hotel first opened its doors in 1832, marking its place as London’s very first hotel. It'ls also where the very first phone call was made with the first phone created by Alexander Graham Bell still in place at the hotel. Since then, it has played host to a roster of illustrious guests, including royalty (including Queen Elizabeth II) and presidents. Today, Brown’s epitomises sophisticated British luxury, seamlessly blending tradition with the contemporary touches that discerning travellers have come to expect from a Rocco Forte hotel.

Upon entering, you might feel as though you’ve stepped into a refined country house hotel, with its wood-panelled walls and a reception area adorned with comfortable chairs and flower-filled interiors. The rooms and suites, designed by Olga Polizzi, are understated in their elegance, offering a perfect blend of comfort and style. Antique furnishings sit alongside modern art, with muted colour palettes brought to life by bold accents, book-filled shelves, comfy sofas and traditional desks. The huge, deep beds are the very definition of comfort, draped in smooth high thread count bedlinen which is changed daily. Marble bathrooms are equally indulgent, each featuring both a bath and a shower (with spacious walk-in showers and tub-side TVs in the more luxurious room types), Frette bathrobes, and Irene Forte skincare and body products. Turn-down service is at a time to suit you; bring your own charging cable and you'll find it neatly wrapped in Brown's very own cable tidy when you return to your room.

The delights of Brown’s extend beyond the rooms. The beautiful wood-panelled Drawing Room is the perfect spot for a sumptuous Afternoon Tea, one of the best in London, while The Donovan Bar, with its atmospheric setting, offers expertly crafted cocktails. For those dining in, Charlie’s Restaurant is a must-visit. Its interior is a visual feast, with fresh flowers, bespoke wallpaper and art, and the menu showcases classic British food with a Mediterranean twist, prepared with seasonal ingredients to an exceptional standard. Breakfast is served in the Drawing Room or Charlie's and is one of the best breakfasts in the city including eggs anyway you like, bagels, French toast, pastries, smoothies, pancakes and waffles.

Over-indulged? Not to worry, the gym, filled with top of the range Technogym equipment is open 24 hours a day. Next door is the spa which has an extensive treamtment menu using Irene Forte skincare.

Service at Brown’s is discreet, friendly, and personal—exactly what one would expect from a hotel of this calibre. Brown’s is not just a hotel; it’s a London icon and institution, and long may it continue to be so. The best hotel in Mayfair.

 

Written by Lulu Townsend

• Restaurant
• Charlie's Restaurant serves classic British cuisine done very well!
• Bar
• Donovan's Bar is perfect for pre or post dinner cocktails
• Gym
• 24 hour gym with Technogym equipment
• Parking
• Valet parking
• Walking distance restaurants
• Wifi
• Family Suites

• Meeting Room
• In room music system
• Concierge
• Air conditioning
• 24 Hour room service
• Child friendly
• Spa

• Designer Shopping
• Minutes from Bond Street and the best designer stores in London

• Sights nearby
• The Royal Academy, Green park and Picadilly are all within walking distance

Why do people love staying in your hotel?

Brown’s Hotel is quintessentially British with a hint of the unexpected. Guests stay at Brown’s to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life — to experience not only London’s first hotel but also one of the most illustrious in the British capital. Esteemed in history, from royals and presidents to world-famous authors, guests too can add their name to the guest book. Time and time again, guests always comment on Brown’s superb service which is most discreet and personalised, as if they were staying at their home away from home. Guests come to unwind in our serene spa, dine on award winning cuisine, experience traditional afternoon tea and enjoy a nightcap or two at the sophisticated drinking den, the Donovan Bar.

What is there to do in the area or on site?

Located in London’s most exclusive borough, in the very heart of Mayfair. Brown’s is situated nearby five Royal Parks, perfectly suited for families and couples alike. Hundreds of art galleries are within walking distance including the Royal Academy. It's moments from the fashion houses of Bond Street and the long-standing tailors of Savile Row. Brown’s is in the centre of London’s finest experience, and is the only address one needs to know.

What kind of breakfast do you offer?

Choose from set Continental Breakfast, English Breakfast, Vegetarian English Breakfast and European Breakfast. The A La Carte Breakfast features a selection of different dishes such as Eggs Benedict, Eggs Royale and Eggs Florentine, Moxon’s smoked salmon, crushed avocado on sourdough with poached eggs, omelette, scrambled Clarence Court eggs with smoked salmon. International dishes include pancakes of choice and French toast. All breakfasts are served with coffee, tea or herbal infusion and fresh juices.

Do you offer other meals? And can you recommend good places to eat out locally?

Charlie’s is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner and is a cheerful blend of much loved tradition and modern excellence with a menu that celebrates contemporary British cooking complemented by European influences. A romantic, stylish, warmly-lit, memory-making place headed up by Michelin-starred Chef Director, Adam Byatt with Matthew Starling at the helm of the kitchen. Scottish smoked salmon and irresistible, daily roasts are carved on the trolley.

Enjoy a neighbourhood pizza at Mayfair family favourite, Delfino's, or visit the Mayfair Chippy for traditional fish and chips. We also recommend the Punchbowl to dine at one of Mayfair’s first pubs.

Which are your most popular room types, and why?

Each of the 115 rooms and suites at Brown’s strike a perfect balance between style and sophistication, with elegant fabrics and furnishings offset by flashes of colour designed by Olga Polizzi. The Kipling Suite, the jewel in Brown’s crown of suites honours Rudyard Kipling who famously wrote ‘The Jungle Book’ at the hotel. A suite featuring floor-to-ceiling windows, vibrant wallpaper, a walk-in dressing room and lavishly marbled bathroom, celebrating all that is indulgent and luxurious. Our Classic and Deluxe suites are our most popular rooms, they are spacious, featuring a large sitting room and dining area and a welcoming bedroom with a king-sized bed.

What facilities do you have for children and can you fit extra beds in your rooms?

Rocco Forte Kids is the current children’s programme in place at Brown’s. This special programme ensures younger guests will be just as pampered as the grown-ups. The hotel welcomes children of all ages – and is tailored for babies, kids and teens. Bespoke entertainment and amenities, including the much loved ‘Alby’ monkey toy is gifted to each child during their stay. Baby cots, extra beds and interconnecting rooms can all be arranged.

What message would you like to give Hotel Guru readers?

Stay at Brown’s Hotel to experience one of London’s most iconic hotels. Experience the ultimate staycation in London’s sought after location, a retreat of choice for royalty, presidents and literary greats over the centuries and now you can experience it too. Warm and personal hospitality will make you feel right at home.