Taken from one of the most iconic rallying speeches of all time, the words “We shall never surrender” evoke the memory of a formidable gentleman in a homburg hat and a cigar in hand. Undoubtedly Britain’s greatest wartime leader, Sir Winston Churchill was a man of action, of strong words and strong opinions. Today, he is synonymous with not only Britain’s inspiring show of solidarity during World War II and the defining Allied victory, but with London, where he spent most of his career. When not at the House of Parliament, he was frequenting the capital’s finest establishments, indulging his sophisticated gastronomic tastes – after all, in his own words, he was “easily satisfied only with the very best”.
Residing near Brown's in Mayfair; the genteel, club-like ambience of the hotel's oak-panelled bar, deep armchairs and roaring open fire was a likely venue for Churchill to savour his favourite whisky, brandy and Champagne, accompanied by his trademark cigar, of course. By spending time with us, he was walking in the footsteps of his grandmother, who stayed with us in 1871; by visiting us today, guests are walking in his.
This year sees many landmark dates commemorated, amongst them the 80th anniversary of Churchill’s appointment as Prime Minister and the 75th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day. To honour these significant dates and the part we played in this defiant and determined leader’s London life, we have curated a series of experiences inspired by his favourite indulgences here at Brown’s. Stay in one of our beautifully appointed rooms or suites and discover images and biographies of the man himself. Sink into one of The Donovan Bar’s armchairs or be seated at the bar, stylishly decorated by Olga Polizzi to preserve its defining period features. Here, raise a toast to Churchill’s achievements with a Johnnie Walker (his favourite whisky), a Hine (his favourite brandy) or even a wine dating back to the late 1930s from Maestro Salvatore Calabrese’s priceless vintage collection.
With his cheesemonger of choice, Paxton & Whitfield, and his preferred cologne boutique, Floris, also on our doorstep here in Mayfair, guests may continue tracing his steps from our peerless position here on Albemarle Street.
Visit us at Churchill’s favourite haunt, or stay over by emailing reservations.browns@roccofortehotels.com or calling +44 20 7493 6020.
Agrigento’s roots run as deep as the gnarled olive trees that dot its landscape, stretching back over 2,500 years to its founding as Akragas, one of the greatest cities of the ancient Greek world. Set against a breathtaking coastline, this once thriving cultural and political hub was praised by the Greek poet Pindar as “the most beautiful city of mortals”. Today, this splendour is immortalised in the Valley of the Temples.
Along Italy’s dazzling southern coastline, two Rocco Forte Hotel retreats prepare to welcome spring’s arrival. Each destination, from Puglia’s rolling hills to the sugary shores of Sciacca, exudes charm and space to unwind while offering personalised onsite activities and local experiences.
To visit Scotland without sampling its whisky is to miss out on a defining feature of its heritage. From historic distilleries to the contemporary innovators bringing fresh perspectives to the craft, for guests of The Balmoral, the city’s whisky scene is waiting to be explored. Here’s where to start…
