The Dorchester opened in 1931 on Park Lane, facing Hyde Park in Mayfair. It quickly took its place among the great luxury hotels in London and now serves as the flagship of Dorchester Collection.
History
The hotel was one of the first buildings in London made of reinforced concrete, which gave it a reputation for solidity. During the Second World War it was considered one of the safest buildings in the city, and politicians, writers and military leaders took rooms there. Since then it has received film stars and heads of state, and its ballroom has hosted many of London’s charity galas.
Architecture and design
The engineer Owen Williams began the project, and the architect William Curtis Green completed it, with Art Deco details on the façade and in the public rooms. The Promenade, a long gallery with marble columns, runs through the ground floor. The building is Grade II listed.
Rooms and dining
The hotel has 250 rooms and suites, many with views over Hyde Park. Its restaurants include Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester and The Grill, and afternoon tea is served in The Promenade. The hotel also has a spa.
Weddings and events
The Ballroom, one of the largest hotel ballrooms in London, and smaller salons host weddings, galas and corporate events.
At a glance
What sets it apart
- 01Opened in 1931 on Park Lane, facing Hyde Park
- 02Reinforced concrete structure, a wartime refuge
- 03The Promenade, its marble-columned gallery
- 04Flagship of Dorchester Collection
Chronology
Dates that matter
1929
Dorchester House, the mansion on the site, is demolished.
1931
The Dorchester opens on 18 April.
1944
General Eisenhower sets up his headquarters in a suite at the hotel before D-Day.
1985
The Brunei Investment Agency buys the hotel.
1990
The hotel reopens after two years of refurbishment.
1996
Dorchester Collection is formed with the Dorchester as its flagship.
2007
Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester opens.
2010
Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester is awarded three Michelin stars.
