More than a century ago, an author drew inspiration from his childhood in India to write a series of colourful tales about a man-cub named Mowgli, who grows up in the jungle among bears and panthers. Some of these stories he penned during a stay at London’s first hotel, unaware that they – and the hotel – would become legendary.
This Christmas, a visit to Brown’s Hotel is a visit to a tropical festive fantasia, designed by Sir Paul Smith to honour the 125th anniversary of Rudyard Kipling’s tales, better known as The Jungle Book. The adventures begin the moment you step through the hotel’s entrance, dominated by an immense Christmas tree adorned with unique jungle-themed baubles; venture further and discover exotic festive decorations throughout the hotel. Upon arrival, little guests will receive a furry monkey mascot, Alby, as a gift, and those checking in to the Kipling Suite, named for the author, will find witty references to the book incorporated in the décor of these lavish rooms.
After a day of gift-shopping in London’s renowned boutiques, enjoying Christmas traditions at the city’s markets and marveling at Bond Street’s iconic lights, return to Brown’s for more festive highlights. In the English Tea Room, renowned for its elegant Afternoon Tea, the jungle theme delivers tropical treats. Those seeking a zesty nightcap can enjoy the Jungle Julep, a limited-edition cocktail served in the inviting atmosphere of Donovan Bar.
On the big day, after an exciting visit from Father Christmas himself, sit down for a convivial Christmas meal at Charlie’s. Brown’s Hotel’s new restaurant, decorated throughout with fitting botanical shades, is serving up a decadent six-course menu by Chef Adam Byatt, presented on jungle-themed plates.
For those still undecided about what to place under the tree, our thoughtful gift suggestions can be found nowhere else. Delight loved ones with a limited-edition copy of The Jungle Book, specially printed for Brown’s Hotel to mark this literary anniversary, alongside a copy of a letter Kipling wrote during a stay here. For a one-of-a-kind stocking filler that exemplifies an iconic British institution, author and designer, a unique Kipling-inspired bauble by Sir Paul Smith makes a singularly precious keepsake.
Book your festive stay or our special Starry Suite Nights package at Brown’s Hotel by emailing reservations.browns@roccofortehotels.com or call +44 207 493 6020.
Vivacious, glamorous, powerful. Few figures encapsulate the effortless grandeur of the Belle Époque quite like Donna Franca, our Sicilian muse. Famed for her petite frame, thick dark hair and an exquisite fashion sense that has endured for over a century, Franca was the epitome of an era that placed beauty and high fashion at its forefront.
The festive season brings its own kind of sparkle - a flurry of celebrations, feasts, and time with those who matter most. To make gifting simple, we’ve curated a selection of bespoke experiences to delight everyone on your list. From candlelit dinners and Italian wine tastings to tranquil spa escapes and moments devoted to yourself, each experience thoughtfully crafted to offer moments of joy.
In a time when beauty shaped every facet of life — from the curve of a staircase to the vivid bloom of a painted iris — Italy’s Stile Liberty captured the optimism of a new century. Across Europe in the late 19th century, the Belle Époque blurred the line between art and the everyday, celebrating craftsmanship, elegance, and expressive freedom. Now, a new cultural itinerary, From Mucha to Florio, traces that movement between Hotel de la Ville in Rome and Villa Igiea in Palermo, two different cities, two glorious expressions of the same artistic impulse.
