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EmbankmentSavoy HotelStrand London WC2 NB The Savoy Hotel is in process of a million pound renovation and will be closed until further notice. Dec. 2007 The Savoy Hotel was opened in 1889. It was built on the site of the ancient Royal Palace of the Savoy which was originally constructed by John of Gaunt, the uncle of Richard II. This beautiful building was one of the very first in England to have glass windows fitted. They were made in Venice and carried overland to be incorporated into the new Palace. The palace was destroyed by fire during the Peasants' Revolt in 1381. The Hotel is generally considered to be London's grandest one. It was the first hotel to be fitted with electric lighting and en-suite bathrooms to every bedroom. In the forecourt of the hotel taxis are allowed to entry from the right and drive on the right so that the passenger doors open directly on to the grand entrance, which is an art deco masterpiece in stainless steel.
Simpson's in the Strand is a famous restaurant just a few doors away from the Savoy. It serves traditional English food, like roast beef and steak and kidney pies, and is a favourite with the American visitors. The Savoy Hotel is worth it even if you only have a formal English Tea, or perhaps cocktails in the River Bar, just so that you can enjoy the unique atmosphere of this famous London institution. J BriggsNearest Tube station: Embankment |
The Savoy Theatre is part of the building: it was constructed for the D'Oyly Carte Opera Company which specialised in the comic operas of Gilbert and Sullivan.