Brown’s Hotel Discovers Its True Age and Fascinating Past with the Release of ‘Brown’s Hotel: A Family Affair’

We explore the story of Brown's Hotel.

Nestled in the heart of Mayfair, London, lies Brown’s Hotel, an iconic symbol of luxury and history. As London’s premier establishment, it boasts 115 exquisitely designed rooms and suites, meticulously crafted by Olga Polizzi. Each space pays homage to the hotel’s storied past and renowned allure.

A revelatory new book chronicled by historian Andy Williamson entitled “Brown’s Hotel: A Family Affair” unveils the hidden depths of this iconic establishment, tracing its lineage back to 1832, five years earlier than previously believed. Published on the occasion of the hotel’s newfound age, Williamson’s meticulous research illuminates Brown’s rich tapestry of history. From its inception to its modern-day incarnation under the stewardship of Rocco Forte Hotels, every chapter resonates with the essence of familial ownership and unwavering dedication to hospitality.

Historian Andy Williamson
Historian Andy Williamson

What distinguishes “Brown’s Hotel: A Family Affair” is not merely its chronological account but the vibrant anecdotes and characters that populate its pages. Throughout the book, Williamson walks us through the world of Brown’s and a cast of characters more intriguing than in a novel by frequent guest Agatha Christie. Literary luminaries
such as Rudyard Kipling, Stephen King, Mark Twain, and others found solace and inspiration within Brown’s walls. It was a place of birth for some, including Sarah Brown’s children and the site of Britain’s first telephone call by Alexander Graham Bell in 1876. The hotel also witnessed notable weddings, including Theodore Roosevelt’s and Eleanor Roosevelt’s, both of whom honeymooned there.

Exerior of the Brown's Hotel
Exterior of the Brown’s Hotel

Beyond its historical significance, “Brown’s Hotel: A Family Affair” transcends the confines of a typical chronicle. It is a testament to the enduring spirit of hospitality and the countless tales woven into the fabric of the hotel. Williamson’s narrative unfolds like a love letter to British heritage, inviting readers to immerse themselves in the captivating saga of Brown’s Hotel.

For aficionados of history and luxury alike, “Brown’s Hotel: A Family Affair” is an essential addition to their libraries. Available for purchase both at the hotel and online, this beautifully crafted volume offers a glimpse into the soul of one of London’s most cherished landmarks.

Brown’s Hotel: A Family Affair by Andy Williamson (Published by Rocco Forte Hotels)
Available in hardback for £42 at the hotel or online: www.roccoforteshop.com
Brown’s Hotel, a Rocco Forte Hotel: www.roccofortehotels.com

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