Brown's Hotel

The Scene

Mayfair oozes Old World exclusivity and posh ambience. Sometimes it feels as though history still lives---not just in the architecture but in the social calendar driven by Afternoon Teas and high society events---while London proper zooms around nearby. Brown’s Hotel may be a fixture on the social scene but we assure you it isn’t stuck in time. You’re ideally placed in the heart of Central London just a few blocks from Piccadilly Circus and Green Park---for either sightseeing or shopping or simply enjoying London. Brown’s takes unique advantage of its location and reputation with Tea-torials with the pastry chef in the The English Tea Room and Hix carving masterclasses with Mark Hix himself, not to mention the Saturday Mayfair Art Tours that go behind the doors of exclusive galleries in Mayfair.

The Concept

Brown’s Hotel evolved from a historic haunt for authors and inventors to an updated hideaway for the discerning away from the over-the-top grandeur of Claridge’s and the like. It still maintains the overall elegance and gravitas of Victorian yesteryear established by Lord Byron’s butler (and wife) in attitude---without being solemn or uptight---paired with Rocco Forte and sister Olga Polizzi’s timeless-yet-modern design sensibilities. Downstairs you’ll find an ambience ripe for entertaining . The English Tea Room upholds the time-honored tradition of tea in grand style (and to great acclaim). HIX Mayfair, run by celebrity chef Mark Hix, serves stylish British favorites surrounded by art by Tracey Ermine and Bridget Riley. The Donovan Bar pays homage to the great British photographer Terence Donovan---over 50 of his black-and-white prints grace the walls---and the Sixties under Giovanni Cassino (do try the trademark Donovan Martini---it’s well worth it.)

The Look

Unlike other five-star counterparts (and to its credit), Brown’s Hotel isn’t flashy. The 11 linked Georgian townhouses have a pleasing façade that somewhat mirrors the interiors: tasteful, elegant style. There’s little trace of the former life of Brown’s in the rooms, but it’s been replaced with Olga Polizzi’s clean, British-sourced design. What you get is a comforting home-like feel with a warm palette and just the right amount of drama in details like headboards, fabrics, and artwork. Suites are particularly roomy and pile on thoughtful amenities like one-way transportation to the airport and more. Our particular favorite is the Kipling Suite which has plenty of details in honor of its namesake’s most famous work.

In Short

Brown’s Hotel shuns luxury for luxury’s sake; rather, it’s thoughtful luxury in the details that its guest list throughout the years have appreciated and always come back for.