The Savoy Celebrates 135 Years of Iconic History

This October marks the 135th anniversary of The Savoy, a cornerstone of luxury, heritage, and excellence in hospitality. To celebrate this monumental milestone, The Savoy is unveiling a series of exclusive initiatives and masterclasses, including a limited-edition cocktail book and personal stories from key figures who have shaped the hotel’s iconic status.


Home to The Savoy Cocktail Book, created by legendary Head Bartender Henry Craddock in 1930, and signature serves such as the White Lady and vintage Hanky Panky, the American Bar and Beaufort Bar have become beloved staples in the global cocktail scene. For bartenders, guests and colleagues alike, The Savoy remains a cherished reference point and a global symbol of celebration and originality.


A Legacy of Luxury at The Savoy


As London’s first purpose-built luxury hotel, The Savoy set new standards of comfort and elegance which attracted high society and famous guests. Its history includes ties with the British Royal Family, from Princess Elizabeth and Prince Philip's romantic debut in 1946 to Princess Diana’s appearance at the 1989 Centenary Ball.

Frequented by notable guests from conception, The Savoy has hosted the likes of American millionaire, George Kessler’s iconic Gondola Party of 1905, Socialite and author Lady Oxford during World War 2, alongside cultural legends including Frank Sinatra, Marilyn Monroe and more recently – Rihanna and Taylor Swift.


Leading Luminaries behind The Savoy


The Savoy has homed some of the most distinguished professionals in hospitality. As part of the anniversary celebrations, guests are invited to discover the key figures who have helped The Savoy’s legacy to this day.


Franck Arnold, managing director and regional vice president of The Savoy reflects on his four years at The Savoy and states;


“With a legacy spanning 135 years, we take pride in our reputation as London’s original luxury hotel, and I am incredibly proud of the strides we’ve made in enhancing our guest experience and fostering a culture of excellence.


When it opened its doors in 1889, The Savoy had some incredible firsts, from being the place where the first radio transmission was broadcast across the Atlantic to being the first hotel in London to be entirely lit by electricity and to feature an electric lift. We continue to invest, innovate and elevate our storied hotel’s offering to meet the expectations of our discerning guests and have recently been recognised for this with the achievement of three Michelin keys.

   

Right now, we’re preparing to launch a new dining destination in November this year – an energetic space that will not only continue to serve memorable Afternoon Tea & breakfast, but will offer a sophisticated informal all day dining experience - as we will too, unveil the first of our refurbished rooms and suites in 2025. We’ll also reopen the legendary Simpson’s in the Strand with Jeremy King in 2025, which will join our already incredibly strong culinary offering with our three Gordon Ramsay restaurants, including the Michelin-star 1890.

   

We constantly look to evolve in our position as one of the leading pioneers of luxury hospitality and I’m excited for guests to experience all these exciting things that we have in the pipeline.”

Celebrate & Raise a Glass


The new limited-edition cocktail book tells its story through 100 signature cocktails, each inspired by key figures and moments from The Savoy's past. This collector’s item promises to capture the essence of The Savoy’s bar culture over the years.


Guests are invited to the American Bar to join legendary cocktail makers on Friday 18th October, including one of the best-travelled and most experienced purveyors of cocktail craft, Erik Lorincz, who will showcase his signature Savoy drinks. As well as, Shingo Gokan and Steve Schneider, who have received accolades for their innovative approaches to mixology. Together, they will curate a cocktail menu honouring the timeless legacy of this iconic institution.


For more information, please visit www.thesavoylondon.com

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