‘The Jungle Book’, by Rudyard Kipling
Brown’s Hotel, London
Book lovers will find plenty to write home about in London, including the Sherlock Holmes Museum, the bookshops of Charing Cross Road and of course Poets’ Corner in Westminster Abbey, where numerous writers have been laid to rest over the centuries.
Brown’s Hotel has hosted many authors over the years, and perhaps the most frequent visitor was the journalist, poet and novelist Rudyard Kipling. He wrote ‘The Jungle Book’ at Brown’s, and as a result, the hotel’s most distinguished residence has been named after him. The stunningly appointed Kipling Suite displays a framed handwritten letter from the author himself. For more details on London’s literary legends, speak to our dedicated concierge team, who will arrange a bespoke walking tour of the city’s literary landmarks at a time that suits you.
‘Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows’
The Balmoral, Edinburgh
The gothic spires of Edinburgh’s Scott Monument commemorate the famous author Sir Walter Scott, and are testament to Edinburgh’s proud literary heritage, which runs from Robert Louis Stevenson to Irvine Welsh and is maintained by its annual International Book Festival, which will take place 14th-30th August at a new location; the Edinburgh College of Art at the University of Edinburgh. The city’s cobbled streets and imposing architecture were also an inspiration for J.K.Rowling, who wrote much of her work in the city.
The Balmoral is just a short walk from the Scott Monument, and it was here, in Room 552, that J.K.Rowling spent many nights completing the final book of the Harry Potter series. Having written her final full stop, she celebrated by commemorating her achievement on a marble bust in the room – which can be found displayed in a glass case in what has now been renamed the J.K.Rowling Suite. Guests can immerse themselves in the space where Rowling wrote those final chapters, and a walking tour of local literary sites can also be arranged.
Reap rewards with Rocco Forte Friends
Sign up to Rocco Forte Friends and benefit from lazy day late check-outs, exclusive discounts on all dining experiences and spa treatments, as well as a number of surprise perks to be revealed throughout your visit.
Enjoy a stylish escape in the heart of London’s Mayfair by emailing reservations.browns@roccofortehotels.com or calling +44 20 7493 6020.
Book a magical escape to Edinburgh’s only Forbes 5-star rated hotel, The Balmoral, by emailing reservations.balmoral@roccofortehotels.com or calling +44 131 556 2414.
Paris is always a good idea. Except, perhaps, when it’s hosting the Olympic Summer Games, and the usual tourist throng looks set to multiply almost prohibitively. Of course, the Games are exciting, but if wading through crowds feels like a marathon effort, try a cultural relay around one of these stunning European cities instead.
As the gentle glow of each ornate chandelier begins to dim, a hush descends upon the audience before an all-consuming world of tragedy and triumph unfolds. Both exhilarating and deeply moving, a night at the opera has the distinct power to evoke emotion, while offering a unique insight into a perhaps unfamiliar city.
Journey through Europe’s symphony of unmissable opera houses, each steeped in history and grandeur.
They say the lobby is the beating heart of any hotel; where first impressions linger, inspiring journeys begin and end, and friends and lovers reunite. Upon entering Hotel de Rome, an immediate sense of calm is restored, as light pours in from the glass atrium and plants and palms breathe new life into the space. Olga Polizzi, Director of Design at Rocco Forte Hotels, shares her inspiration behind the hotel lobby’s new look.
