An Insight into London's Royal Shopping Destinations

Rocco Forte Hotels

You would think, and rightly so, that being one of the first hotels to open in London would allow you a privileged view of the extraordinary evolution of the capital to the present day. Brown's Hotel first opened its doors in 1837 and became an instant focal point for the aristocracy due to its favourable location, nestled in the heart of Mayfair’s rich tapestry of revered ateliers and designers. Clientele would travel across the country to have their favourite suits, handbags and jewellery fitted and tailored, after which our magnificent drawing room provided the perfect retreat for a spot of tea. As a gesture of our longstanding relationships with these renowned craftsmen, a handpicked selection of designers have agreed to take part in our exclusive behind the scenes tour, 'In Search of Royal Warrant Holders', taking you on a magic carpet ride through the heritage of British style and design.   

You would think, and rightly so, that being one of the first hotels to open in London would allow you a privileged view of the extraordinary evolution of the capital to the present day. Brown's Hotel first opened its doors in 1837 and became an instant focal point for the aristocracy due to its favourable location, nestled in the heart of Mayfair’s rich tapestry of revered ateliers and designers. Clientele would travel across the country to have their favourite suits, handbags and jewellery fitted and tailored, after which our magnificent drawing room provided the perfect retreat for a spot of tea. As a gesture of our longstanding relationships with these renowned craftsmen, a handpicked selection of designers have agreed to take part in our exclusive behind the scenes tour, 'In Search of Royal Warrant Holders', taking you on a magic carpet ride through the heritage of British style and design.   

 

Led by a knowledgeable guide, leave behind the hectic rush of modern life and enter a slower, more elegant era exploring the refined world of royal patronage. This unique tour will take in the historical streets of Mayfair and St James' visiting exclusive boutiques and restaurants that have been granted a Royal Warrant crest, marking them as valued destinations to HM The Queen and HRH The Prince of Wales. From the capital's first established perfumery to the official bookseller to the Royal Household, this fascinating insider glimpse into noble pastimes creates a memorable experience from start to finish. 

Savile Row is the beating heart of English style and nestled among its suited windows is Gieves & Hawkes, one of the longest Royal Warrant holders in the country. Celebrating its 250th anniversary this year, they boast King George III as their first royal patron and continue today to dress some of the most influential and stylish men in the world. From Savile Row, walk through Burlington Arcade (absolutely no running by historic law) and cross bustling Piccadilly to Hatchards, with its distinctive dark green facade. This is the oldest bookseller in the United Kingdom and its warren of rooms evoke classic English libraries with an astonishing range of titles. 

 

 

Moving up the high fashion boulevard of Bond Street, delve into the delicious world of HM The Queen’s own chocolatier, Charbonnel et Walker. Housed in the ornate Royal Arcade, this emporium of chocolate delights began life under the patronage of King Edward VII at the turn of the twentieth century. The bon vivant, then Prince of Wales encouraged Parisian confectioner Mme Charbonnel to bring her art to London in 1873 where she joined forces with Londoner Minnie Walker. Still using the same recipes of the French founder and a highlight of Bond Street since the 19th century, Charbonnel et Walker has been beloved by the likes of the late Princess Diana, Lauren Bacall and Sir Noel Coward, who had a box delivered to his home every fortnight, and, of course, the present Royal Family. 

Whether enjoying a romantic break or a family holiday at Brown’s Hotel, take the chance to be educated, inspired and delighted by enjoying one of the cultured insights we take such pleasure in offering you. 

 

London’s cultural highlights are all on your doorstep at Brown’s Hotel. Get in touch with us at reservations.browns@roccofortehotels.com or call +44 20 7493 6020.


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