Nestled on the edge of Green Park in the illustrious Mayfair district, The Athenaeum Hotel is a fusion of history, luxury, and charming eccentricity. This exquisite yet understated hotel has been a jewel in the crown of London’s hospitality scene, weaving a rich tapestry of stories and memories since its inception.
The Athenaeum began its life as Hope House back in 1850, MP Henry Hope’s private residence, before evolving into the Junior Athenaeum Club, a meeting place for gentlemen of literature, art and science. Today, it honours its storied past with photographs of British film stars and notable creatives adorning its walls. Since becoming a hotel in the 1970s, it has attracted Hollywood icons like Elizabeth Taylor and Steven Spielberg, who once installed an editing suite in one of the residences for films like E.T., Close Encounters, and Raiders of the Lost Ark.
The hotel’s celebrity allure continues today, with the likes of Kim Kardashian and Kanye West staying in The Penthouse in 2012 and more recently, visitors such as Christian Bale, Samuel L. Jackson, Natalie Portman, and Harry Styles, cementing its status as a modern-day star-studded haven.
Entering The Athenaeum, guests are greeted with a “welcome home!” by dashing doormen in dapper uniforms. It is like stepping into a world where traditional British charm meets modern whimsy: the hotel’s decor seamlessly blends classic elegance with quirky touches throughout. The staff, known for their personable and playful approach, add to the hotel’s unique character.
Each room and suite at The Athenaeum is a testament to British elegance, merging bespoke craftsmanship with Art Deco influences. Guests can enjoy stunning views of Green Park or the charming streets of Mayfair, perfect for enjoying a cocktail whilst watching the world go by. The adjacent Victorian townhouses, housing serviced apartments known as Residences, offer a private and homely retreat without ever sacrificing luxury.
The rooms and suites are stunningly elegant. Imagine King beds topped with Hypnos mattresses, cloud-like bathrobes, slippers, energy-efficient heating and cooling, and even a pillow menu. Spacious marble bathrooms feature walk-in showers, heated towel rails, non-steam mirrors and sustainable Molton Brown toiletries.
In fact, sustainability is at the heart of The Athenaeum’s operations. The hotel boasts a magnificent 329-square-metre Living Wall, significantly contributing to cleaner air by removing 757 kilograms of CO² and producing 559 kilograms of O² annually. Even the bar menu emphasises sustainable products and carbon-offset initiatives, reflecting the hotel’s commitment to the environment. Furthermore, refillable dispensers have greatly eliminated single-use plastic bottles and triple-glazed windows in all rooms reduce noise pollution while improving energy efficiency.
Dining at The Athenaeum is an experience in itself. The hotel’s restaurant, 116 at The Athenaeum, helmed by Executive Chef Ian Howard, offers a seasonally inspired menu showcasing the best of British cuisine. Dishes range from a delicious Taglioni with burrata and fresh-from-the-ocean Sea Bream to a hearty Dry-Aged Ribeye Steak. The plush bar, with its expertly crafted drinks and cocktail masterclasses, is a favourite spot for both guests and locals.
The Athenaeum’s commitment to wellness extends to its urban spa and state-of-the-art gym – complete with Technogym and Peloton equipment – ensuring guests can unwind and stay active during their stay. Complimentary bike hire and a dedicated children’s concierge service add to the hotel’s family-friendly appeal.
The Athenaeum Hotel & Residences offers a blend of classic elegance, modern luxury, and sustainable practices, making it an exemplary home away from home in one of London’s most coveted locations. Whether visiting for business or pleasure, guests are assured an experience of unparalleled comfort, style, and discretion.
116 Piccadilly, London W1J 7BJ
