The Athenaeum Hotel

The Athenaeum is a five-star hotel in the City of Westminster, overlooking Green Park in Piccadilly. It sits on the site of Hope House, built in 1849–50 for the 6th Duke of Newcastle. The name Athenaeum first appeared around 1864 when the Junior Athenaeum Club took over. In 1937 the house was replaced by an art deco apartment block called Athenaeum Court. The Rank Organisation bought the building in 1971 and turned it into a hotel, opening in 1973 after major rebuilding work. The hotel has long been a magnet for Hollywood stars. Guests have included Steven Spielberg, Marlon Brando, Harrison Ford, Lauren Bacall, Liza Minnelli and Warren Beatty. Rank Organisation encouraged its film stars, including Elizabeth Taylor, to stay while working in England. The Hollywood Reporter once noted that London’s Athenaeum had more movie stars than the Polo Lounge of the Beverly Hills Hotel. In 1992 the hotel was bought by Ralph Trustees Limited, a family-run group that also owns The Grove in Hertfordshire and the Runnymede Hotel & Spa near Windsor. Visitors find a family-owned hotel with a dedicated children’s service. The Kid’s Concierge plans family itineraries and provides age-appropriate toys on arrival. Afternoon tea here has won an Award of Excellence from the UK Tea Guild. The hotel has five red stars and two red rosettes from the AA. It sits next to Green Park tube station, making it easy to reach.