Recently, in June 2018, the hotel completed its most extensive restoration in its 115-year history. Unfortunately, a fire broke out on June 6, 2018, mainly affecting the exterior courtyard area of the hotel. However, the interiors were minimally impacted, and the hotel was temporarily closed for repairs.
History of Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London
The history of the building itself is quite fascinating. It was constructed in 1882 by architects Archer and Green as an apartment block. Interestingly, Queen Victoria did not allow the north entrance of the building to be signed, even though it faced Hyde Park. Instead, the southern entrance onto Knightsbridge became the main entrance for the public, while the northern entrance was reserved exclusively for the royal family. In 1904, the apartments suffered a fire, leading to their refurbishment and conversion into a hotel in 1908.
Over the years, the hotel has seen many notable events and guests. Between 1911 and 1912, the Ballroom underwent a redecoration in the elegant style of Louis XVI. In 1925, architects Charles Frédéric Mewès and Arthur Joseph Davis added a Palm Court to the hotel, along with remodeling some of the principal rooms in a traditional Louis XV style. The hotel has also had the honor of hosting various members of the royal family, including Queen Mary and Edward VIII. Additionally, it has been a popular destination for silent film stars, with the likes of Rudolph Valentino being frequent guests.
Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London, was acquired by the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group in 1996. They invested £57 million in a complete renovation of the hotel, including the restaurants and bar. The hotel reopened in May 2000 after the transformation. In June 2018, an extensive restoration overseen by renowned designer Joyce Wang was completed, enhancing the rooms, suites, and public areas.
Unfortunately, on 6 June 2018, a fire broke out at the hotel, believed to be caused by welding work. Thankfully, no staff or guests were harmed, but the hotel had to temporarily close for six months.
Bar and Restaurant
However, in December 2018, the public areas of the hotel, along with all the bars and restaurants, reopened just in time for Christmas. Then, on 15 April 2019, the hotel fully reopened with all rooms and suites ready for guests to enjoy.
Interestingly, the hotel's entrance has a royal history. Originally, as a private 'Gentleman's Club,' the entrance was through the Loggia. But when it reopened as Hyde Park Hotel in 1902, the postal address changed to 66 Knightsbridge. This was because the Queen did not allow any advertising within the Park and insisted on moving the main entrance to Knightsbridge. The original entrance, however, was preserved for Royal use, unless otherwise permitted by the Royal Household. The doors were opened during the coronation of King George VI and Queen Elizabeth in 1937, with special permission granted for guests to use the park entrance.
Other notable events held at the hotel include the 1992 production of "Pavarotti in the Park," a grand open-air concert that is considered one of the largest in the country. Additionally, the hotel played host to the 1995 Anniversary of VE Day, where seven Heads of State and their delegations stayed. Another significant event was the "Party in the Park," which is recognized as one of Europe's biggest music events.
The hotel had the privilege of hosting the Celebrities
Furthermore, the hotel had the privilege of hosting the 80th birthday celebration of Margaret Thatcher. This event was attended by esteemed guests such as Elizabeth II, Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, former Prime Ministers John Major and Tony Blair, former deputy chairman of the Conservative Party Jeffrey Archer, and renowned entertainers Shirley Bassey and Joan Collins, among others.
Moving on to the dining options, the restaurants and bar within the hotel were meticulously designed by Adam Tihany, a renowned designer. The hotel boasts three exceptional restaurants: Dinner by Heston Blumenthal, The Aubrey, and The Rosebery Lounge. Additionally, guests can enjoy a delightful experience at the Mandarin Bar.
For those seeking a traditional afternoon tea experience, The Rosebery Lounge is the perfect choice. They offer a delectable selection of sandwiches, scones, and various sweet treats. Their bespoke tea list features approximately 30 different tea varieties, ensuring a memorable tea experience.
In addition to its own unique offerings, the hotel is part of the prestigious Mandarin Oriental group, which includes other renowned properties such as Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong; Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok; Mandarin Oriental, New York; and Mandarin Oriental, Miami.
