Historic luxury hotel on the Thames offering timeless elegance, world-class dining, and exceptional service. Home to the famous American Bar and lavish Art Deco interiors with river or courtyard views.
The Savoy is London's most historically significant luxury hotel, standing on the Strand since 1889 and functioning as a cultural institution as much as a place to stay. Opened by impresario Richard D'Oyly Carte and built with profits from his Gilbert and Sullivan opera productions, the hotel pioneered the concept of the modern luxury hotel in Britain — introducing electric lights, private bathrooms, and lifts as standard features at a time when these were remarkable innovations. The building spans a unique combination of Art Deco and Edwardian design, with the famous forecourt — the only road in Britain where traffic drives on the right — serving as the hotel's celebrated first impression. Situated on the Strand between the West End theatres and the City of London, the hotel sits within minutes of Covent Garden, Somerset House, and the Embankment, with Thames River views available from the property's riverside suites. Charing Cross Underground station is a three-minute walk. Guest accommodation spans 267 rooms and suites, many offering direct Thames views. Rooms are furnished in either Art Deco or Edwardian style, with river-facing suites in consistent demand and commanding significant premiums. A comprehensive £220 million restoration completed in 2010 restored and upgraded every room while preserving historic character throughout. The American Bar at The Savoy is one of the world's most celebrated cocktail bars, credited with contributing to the early Dry Martini's popularisation and hosting figures from Winston Churchill to Claude Monet across its long history. Simpson's in the Strand, the long-established British restaurant adjoining the hotel, serves traditional roasts and classic British dishes in a Victorian setting. A full-service spa, swimming pool, and fitness centre are available exclusively to hotel guests.
Amenities
- multiple restaurants
- spa
- pool
- fitness center
- afternoon tea
- Thames views
- butler service
Location
Strand, London WC2R 0EZ
51.5105, -0.1206 View on map
Highlights
- Iconic Thames-facing suites at one of London's most historically significant and storied properties
- The American Bar — one of the world's most celebrated cocktail destinations with over a century of legendary patrons
- Comprehensive £220 million restoration preserving Art Deco and Edwardian interiors to exceptional standards
- Prime Strand location between Covent Garden theatres and the Embankment riverside walk
- Full spa with swimming pool and comprehensive fitness centre exclusively for hotel guests
Tips for visiting
- Thames-view rooms command a premium; widely considered worthwhile for a special occasion or anniversary stay
- The American Bar is open to non-residents — one of London's most desirable solo or cocktail-hour experiences
- Afternoon tea is served in the Thames Foyer — reserve well ahead, particularly for weekend and celebration visits
- Charing Cross station (Northern and Bakerloo lines) is a three-minute walk for connections across the Tube network
- The famous forecourt approach from the Strand has traffic driving on the right — the United Kingdom's only exception to the rule
Accessibility
The Savoy has step-free access via the main Strand forecourt entrance and lift access to all guest floors. A selection of fully accessible rooms with roll-in showers and appropriate bathroom modifications are available. Guests with specific mobility requirements should contact the hotel directly when making reservations to confirm suitable room allocation and on-arrival assistance.
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Frequently asked questions
Who are some of the famous guests who have stayed at The Savoy?
The Savoy has hosted Claude Monet (who painted the Thames from his suite), Winston Churchill, Frank Sinatra, Marilyn Monroe, Oscar Wilde, and countless other cultural, political, and royal figures across its 130-year history.
When did The Savoy most recently undergo major renovation?
A £220 million restoration was completed in 2010, restoring every guest room and public space while preserving the hotel's historic Art Deco and Edwardian character throughout the building.
Does The Savoy have a pool?
Yes, the hotel has a swimming pool as part of its spa and fitness facilities, available exclusively to hotel guests during their stay.
What is the famous forecourt of The Savoy?
The Savoy's approach from the Strand is the only road in the United Kingdom where traffic drives on the right rather than the left, an arrangement dating from the hotel's early years to assist carriage access.
Is The American Bar open to non-residents?
Yes, The American Bar is open to non-residents subject to availability. Booking is recommended for evenings and weekends given its enduring popularity with London visitors and residents alike.