The Savoy was the first purpose-built deluxe hotel in London, setting new standards for luxury, comfort and service unheard of in the hotel world of the day. As the first hotel of its type in London, it was a magnet for the wealthy, the famous, the glamorous, and even the notorious; their stories have accrued over the decades to become part of the legend of this truly unique hotel.
THE SAVOY
The Savoy is perfectly located on the River Thames, in the heart of all that London has to offer. At the forefront of the luxury hotel scene for 130 years, The Savoy welcomes guests for an experience that continuously evolves to meet the desires of the modern traveller.
ROOMS & SUITES
Located in the cultural heart of the city, The Savoy offers 267 luxury guest rooms and suites that are decorated in either an elegant Edwardian or Art Deco style. Many of these stunning rooms and suites boast unparalleled views across the River Thames and of London’s most significant landmarks. Relax in beautiful surroundings, while enjoying world-renowned Savoy service.
THE ROYAL SUITE BY GUCCI
In 2021 the 100th anniversary of the celebrated fashion house, Gucci, is being marked in a unique way; the transformation of The Savoy’s Royal Suite by Gucci. Our histories are intertwined; Guccio Gucci, the house’s founder, worked at The Savoy as a luggage porter and lift boy when a young man.
Today the two renowned heritage brands have partnered to create a beautiful and innovative experience for Royal Suite guests that pushes the boundaries of luxury into a new arena.
AFTERNOON TEA AT THE SAVOY
The Savoy’s world-famous Afternoon Tea can be enjoyed in the Thames Foyer, the heart of The Savoy, where a stunning glass-domed atrium, radiates natural light and sociable warmth. An impressive gazebo takes centre stage where a pianist plays during the day, creating an enchanting atmosphere.
Created by The Savoy’s Executive Pastry Chef, Daniel Pearse, and his team, The Savoy’s Afternoon Tea offers the traditional Afternoon and High Tea favourites. An extensive range of over 30 teas are accompanied by twists on classic sandwiches, homemade scones with clotted cream, jam, and lemon curd, and the talented pastry team’s selection of pastries, each one a tempting work of art. A glass of Laurent-Perrier Champagne or Nyetimber sparkling wine can be added to make your experience extra special.
Today, in addition to our renowned traditional Afternoon Tea and High Tea we also offer a Vegan Afternoon Tea and a Vegetarian Afternoon Tea.
HISTORY
Guests have been coming to the Thames Foyer to enjoy our famous Savoy Afternoon Tea for over a century, a feature of the hotel since it opened in 1889. To this day, we honour the traditional service style of Afternoon Tea, a custom that dates back to 1840.
Previously an outdoor terrace, the restaurant was a popular venue as it combined The Savoy’s usual impeccable service with a panoramic view of the Thames. English weather being what it was, the terrace was soon glazed in and incorporated into the body of the main restaurant, where fashionable couples enjoyed mid-afternoon refreshments.
By the 1920s, Afternoon Tea was a firm tradition at The Savoy. Surviving menus show that today’s sandwiches, followed by patisserie were then established parts of Afternoon Tea; other offerings included toast, English muffins, ice cream, fruit salad, and boxes of chocolates. Hot gaufres (a thin sweet waffle) were made to order if requested. Tea itself might have even been substituted by coffee or hot chocolate. Such sweet indulgence was offset by a little gentle exercise: The Savoy offered thés dansant, where the house dance bands provided a background of popular tunes, and professional dancers demonstrated the latest steps and danced with the guests.
Today, the concept and the surroundings have been updated, giving the classic elegance of The Savoy’s iconic Afternoon Tea a modern twist.
CONTACT
Tel. + 44 (0)20 7836 4343
Room Reservations
Tel. + 44 (0)20 7836 4343
Tel. 888 265 0533 (toll free)
