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The Dorchester

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The Dorchester
Company typePrivate
IndustryHospitality
FoundedApril 18, 1931; 95 years ago (1931-04-18) in London, England
FounderSir Robert McAlpine & Sons (developer)
Headquarters
Westminster, Greater London
,
United Kingdom
Area served
International
ProductsLuxury hotel services, dining venues
OwnerSultan of Brunei (Brunei Investment Agency)
ParentDorchester Collection
Websitewww.dorchestercollection.com/en/london/the-dorchester/

The Dorchester is a prestigious five-star hotel situated at the intersection of Park Lane and Deanery Street in Westminster, Greater London, in close proximity to Hyde Park. Since its inauguration on 18 April 1931, the establishment has preserved much of its original 1930s architectural character despite undergoing subsequent refurbishments.

Throughout its history, the hotel has been a favored destination for notable personalities, including authors such as Cecil Day-Lewis and Somerset Maugham, as well as painters like Alfred Munnings. It hosts the esteemed "Foyles Literary Luncheons" and was regarded as one of London's most secure buildings during the Second World War, serving as accommodation for key political and military figures. A significant moment includes Princess Elizabeth residing at the Dorchester the evening before her engagement announcement in 1947. The hotel has also been popular among celebrities from the film and music industries, with frequent visits from stars like Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton during the 1960s and 1970s. In 1981, it received Grade II Listed Building status and was purchased in 1985 by the Sultan of Brunei. Today, it operates under the Dorchester Collection, owned by the Brunei Investment Agency.

Interior refurbishments have included contributions by stage designer Oliver Messel during the 1950s, alongside an extensive $100 million overhaul between 1988 and 1990 overseen by Bob Lush from Richmond Design Group.

The Dorchester houses five dining venues: The Grill, Alain Ducasse, The Spatisserie, The Promenade, and China Tang. Alain Ducasse’s restaurant is distinguished with one of only five 3-Michelin stars in the United Kingdom. Upholding a tradition since its opening, the hotel serves afternoon tea daily at five p.m. within The Promenade and The Spatisserie. The Dorchester Bar is renowned for its signature "Dorchester of London" cocktail, originally crafted by the celebrated 1930s bartender Harry Craddock. Additionally, a plane tree located in the front garden was honored as one of the Great Trees of London in 1997.

Background

Originally part of the Manor of Hyde, this land was granted by William the Conqueror to Geoffrey de Mandeville. In the eighteenth century, ownership passed to Joseph Damer, who erected a substantial residence in 1751. This was named Dorchester House in 1792 following Damer’s elevation to the title of Earl of Dorchester. During the early nineteenth century, after acquisition by Francis Seymour-Conway, it was renamed Hertford House and underwent modifications. Following his death, Captain Robert Stayner Holford rebuilt it into a new Dorchester House.

Upon Sir George Holford’s death in 1926, his successor, Edmund Parker, 4th Earl of Morley, burdened by familial financial obligations, placed Dorchester House along with Westonbirt House on the market.

Sir Francis Towle, managing director of Gordon Hotels, identified Dorchester House as an excellent site for a luxury hotel; however, Gordon Hotels declined to finance the venture. Prudential Insurance then offered £625,000, prompting Towle to negotiate with Malcolm McAlpine of Sir Robert McAlpine & Sons for a construction contract contingent upon McAlpine matching Gordon Hotels’ £315,000 investment. The trio intended to establish a company to develop and own the hotel. Prudential stipulated that funding would depend on completing £200,000 worth of construction beforehand; McAlpine declined this condition leading Prudential to withdraw. Subsequently, McAlpine agreed to fully finance the project himself, investing close to £1 million against an estimated £900,000 contract.

In August 1929, The Dorchester House Syndicate Ltd was formed with Sir Robert McAlpine & Sons holding half of the shares, Gordon Hotels owning 40%, and Towle possessing 10%. McAlpine acquired the property on behalf of this new company,[1][2] after which Dorchester House was swiftly demolished.

Although the BBC had nearly secured this location for their use, they ultimately selected Foley House instead. The acquisition and demolition of Dorchester House were part of broader redevelopment efforts along Park Lane during this period, coinciding with renovations at Grosvenor House and completion of the adjacent Grosvenor House Hotel in 1929.

Construction

The initial design of the hotel was entrusted to Sir Owen Williams, who planned to utilize reinforced concrete to create expansive interior spaces free from supporting columns. However, he departed from the project in February 1930 and was succeeded by William Curtis Green.[3] Architectural assistant James Maude Richards, originally brought on by Williams, contributed to the design process. Consulting architect Percy Morley Horder resigned after reviewing the plans, expressing concerns about the building's appropriateness and disputing its insulation assumptions. The construction involved excavating nearly 40,000 tonnes of earth to accommodate extensive basement levels, which occupy about one-third of the hotel's footprint.[3] The upper eight floors were erected within a remarkably short period of 10 weeks, resting on a reinforced concrete deck three feet thick that serves as the roof of the first floor.[3] This development sparked apprehension that Park Lane might become as densely built as New York City's Fifth Avenue.


1931–1945

On 28 March 1931, Queen Mary toured the newly completed Dorchester Hotel accompanied by managing director Sir Francis Towle.[4] The hotel was formally inaugurated at a lavish luncheon on 18 April by Lady Astor, featuring an address from J. H. Thomas, Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs.[5] It officially opened its doors on 20 April,[6] followed by a "Lace Ball" held in its ballroom.[7]

Throughout the 1930s, the Dorchester quickly gained a reputation as an opulent hotel and cultural center, attracting renowned literary and artistic figures such as poet Cecil Day-Lewis, novelist Somerset Maugham, and painter Sir Alfred Munnings. It became a venue for prestigious literary gatherings like the ongoing "Foyles Literary Luncheons."[8] The collector Sir Percival David housed his Chinese porcelain collection within suites at the hotel for many years.[9] Performers including Danny Kaye began their cabaret careers there in the 1930s, initially earning £50 per week.[8] Regular appearances by blues and jazz musicians such as Alberta Hunter and the Jack Jackson Orchestra enriched the entertainment offerings; Hunter recorded songs by Noël Coward and Cole Porter at the hotel in 1934.[10] Additionally, the Dorchester functioned as a business venue; notably, BP established a joint Collaborate Committee with ICI at the hotel in 1943.[11]

During Second World War, its sturdy construction earned it recognition as one of London's most secure buildings.[12] At its opening, Sir Malcolm McAlpine declared it "bomb-proof, earthquake-proof and fireproof," and it only sustained broken windows during Luftwaffe air raids.[13] Some visitors sought refuge in converted underground facilities such as gymnasiums and Turkish baths.[14] The wartime clientele included high-ranking officials like Foreign Minister Lord Halifax, War Minister Oliver Stanley, Chief of Air Staff Charles Portal, Board of Trade President Oliver Lyttelton, and Financial Secretary Duncan Sandys.[15] Lord Halifax occupied eight rooms plus a private chapel and maintained discreet relationships within the premises.[16]

In 1942, General Dwight D. Eisenhower took residence in a suite on the first floor (now known as the Eisenhower Suite) and used it as his headquarters in 1944; his driver Kay Summersby and Roosevelt’s envoy Averell Harriman also stayed there owing to its reputation for safety.[17][18] During periods of heavy bombing, guests sought shelter with Harriman in safer rooms located on lower floors.[19] American journalists such as Sherry Mangan from Time magazine were also accommodated at the Dorchester throughout wartime.[20] The hotel simultaneously hosted diverse political factions—from Zionist leaders like Chaim Weizmann to upper-class British anti-Semites including Margaret Greville.[21] Cecil Beaton characterized its guests as a "mixed brew," highlighting its role as a social nexus during the war years.[22] In March 1945, Ernest Hemingway and correspondent Mary Welsh stayed at the Dorchester, entertained by Emerald, Lady Cunard, who maintained a suite on the seventh floor.[23]

Post-war

In 1949, the Dorchester served as the venue for the 150th commemoration of Alexander Pushkin's birth, an event organized by the Society of Cultural Relations with the USSR. This gathering, which included diplomats and prominent personalities, drew the scrutiny of MI5 due to concerns over potential communist affiliations. The hotel established itself as a favored destination for celebrities, performers, and members of royalty, frequently hosting prestigious occasions and philanthropic events in its ballroom and banquet halls. Distinguished visitors encompassed Cyril Connolly, T. S. Eliot, Harold Nicolson, Edith Sitwell, Ralph Richardson, Elizabeth Taylor, Alfred Hitchcock, and Barbra Streisand. Prior to her accession, Queen Elizabeth II attended as a princess and announced her engagement to Philip Mountbatten at the hotel in 1947; Philip also celebrated his bachelor party there.

After the 1970 overthrow in Oman, the deposed Sultan Said bin Taimur resided at the Dorchester until his passing in 1972. Ownership remained with the McAlpine family until 1977 when control transferred to a Middle Eastern group led by the Sultan of Brunei. In 1982, an attack on Israeli ambassador Shlomo Argov took place outside the hotel, an incident that precipitated the 1982 Lebanon War.

By 1985, full ownership was acquired by the Sultan of Brunei. The Dorchester now forms part of the Dorchester Collection, under the management of the Brunei Investment Agency (BIA), which operates luxury hotels across Europe and North America. The establishment underwent extensive renovations between 1988 and 1990.

In June 1998, Prince Jefri Bolkiah, sibling to the Sultan of Brunei, became involved in legal disputes with former associates involving matters linked to the Dorchester; these issues were resolved through an out-of-court agreement. The hotel was also the site for the first-ever Pride of Britain Awards held in 1999. In March 2002, a notable robbery occurred in its lobby when armed thieves wearing masks stole valuable jewelry.

Celebrating its eightieth year in 2011, the Dorchester launched a charitable project planting eighty trees throughout London.

From roughly 1985 until 2018, the hotel was the venue for the annual Presidents Club charity dinner, a significant fixture in London's social scene. This charity ceased operations in 2018 following allegations of sexual misconduct and harassment directed at hostesses by male attendees.

Exterior

The hotel's design was crafted by William Curtis Green, inspired by Owen William's original concept. Its architectural style diverges from conventional Neoclassical forms, utilizing reinforced concrete clad with slabs of terrazzo. British proponents of Modernism criticized it as "a genteel period piece." Compared to other London hotels such as the Lanesborough, its facade is modest—rising eight stories with a central section featuring three windows per floor. Christopher Matthew described it as "a rather American hotel," reflecting its 1930s exterior and associations with American stars like Elizabeth Taylor, yet it remains "very much an English hotel." The structure received Grade II Listed Building status in January 1981.

Interior

The interior design presents a subtle blend of influences from notable designers such as William Curtis Green, Oliver Frederick Ford, Alberto Pinto, and Oliver Messel. Kim Einhorn commended this refined combination, describing the Dorchester as "a prime example where enhancing the decor is preferable to a full redesign." According to DK Eyewitness, it stands as "the pinnacle of glamorous luxury hotels," boasting an extravagant lobby alongside a history filled with celebrity guests.

Public areas showcase extensive use of gold leaf and marble, creating an ambiance more reminiscent of an English country estate than a traditional hotel.[24] From the outset, sound insulation was a key consideration, incorporating cork-faced exterior walls and floors and ceilings lined with seaweed; subsequent refurbishments introduced double and triple glazing to further minimize noise intrusion.[8]

During the 1950s, stage designer Oliver Messel reimagined the interiors by applying theatrical design concepts to the opulent apartments on the 7th and 8th floors.[8] One suite still carries his name today, styled in the manner of a Georgian country house.[8] Beginning in 1962, consultant designer Oliver Frederick Ford played a significant role in redecorating prominent areas such as the Stanhope Suite and Orchid Room with English rococo elements, as well as redesigning the entrance hall. The hotel's distinctive dark green staff uniforms, introduced in 1980, are also credited to Ford.

Between 1988 and 1990, a comprehensive $100 million refurbishment overseen by Bob Lush modernized the property extensively. A notable feature retained in the lobby is Liberace’s piano.[25]

As of 2012, the Dorchester comprises 250 guest rooms and 49 suites furnished with cherry wood and dressed with Irish linen bedding. The Italian marble bathtubs in Art Deco style rank among the deepest available in London. Every room offers views overlooking Hyde Park or meticulously maintained terraces.[26] A significant upgrade in 2002 enhanced telecommunications infrastructure throughout all accommodations. The hotel also employs an on-site floristry team responsible for floral arrangements and event decoration services.[27]

In 2023, the Dorchester revealed extensive updates including redesigned guestrooms and suites by Pierre-Yves Rochon alongside a refreshed Vesper Bar crafted by Martin Brudnizki.[28][29]

Restaurants

The Dorchester boasts five distinguished dining venues: The Grill, Alain Ducasse, The Spatisserie, The Promenade, and China Tang. Additionally, it houses three bars, two of which are situated within the latter two restaurants. The hotel employs a team of 90 full-time chefs and has cultivated a long-standing reputation for culinary distinction. Esteemed chefs such as Jean Baptiste Virlogeux, Eugene Kaufeler, Willi Elsener, and Anton Mosimann have previously overseen its kitchens. Mosimann notably served as Maitre Chef des Cuisines for thirteen years, while during World War II, Virlogeux skillfully managed kitchen operations amidst rationing and pricing constraints.

Alain Ducasse at the Dorchester is a three-Michelin-starred establishment that underwent renovation in 2007 to preserve its 1940s ambiance. The restaurant specializes in modern French cuisine, utilizing seasonal ingredients sourced from both France and Britain. A signature feature is the "Table Lumière," an intimate dining space for six guests, illuminated by 4,500 fibre optic lights and enclosed by a delicate white curtain that ensures privacy while maintaining views into the main dining area.

The Grill presents British dishes within a Moorish-inspired interior, drawing design influence from King Alfonso XIII’s exile in London during the 1930s. Its décor includes cream-colored walls adorned with gilded grilles, mirrored arches, Flemish tapestries, ornate gold-leaf ceilings, brass chandeliers, deep red leather seating, and elegant curtains. Food critic Jay Rayner characterized the menu as reminiscent of "high tea" offerings but at premium pricing.

Renovated twice—first in 1990 and again in 2005 by Thierry Despont—The Promenade features a gilded ceiling, brass lanterns, an oval-shaped leather bar, and a length comparable to Nelson's Column. Since the hotel's inception in 1931, it has hosted daily afternoon tea accompanied by live jazz performances starting at 19:30. Guests enjoy tea service amidst sophisticated surroundings highlighted by marble Corinthian columns, chandeliers, French tapestries, and lush potted plants. The waitstaff don traditional English-style long coats. Notably, Hollywood actor Charlton Heston, a regular patron, commended the hotel's comprehensive staff service.

The tea service includes the hotel's exclusive Dorchester Blend and offers an assortment of finger sandwiches such as cucumber, cream cheese, and smoked salmon; freshly baked scones served with clotted cream and jam; followed by a selection of delicate pastries.

Opened in 2005 and owned by entrepreneur David Tang, China Tang features an Art Deco lounge evoking the style of 1930s Shanghai. Meanwhile, The Spatisserie provides casual dining options focused on light refreshments and afternoon tea selections including cakes, biscuits, and pastries.

The Dorchester Bar was reconstructed in 1938 under the management of renowned bartender Harry Craddock, celebrated for classic cocktails like the Martini, Manhattan, and White Lady. Craddock also created the "Dorchester of London" cocktail during the 1930s. The bar experienced refurbishment in 1979 to maintain its distinguished character.

Grounds

Positioned at the forefront of the hotel's garden is a plane tree distinguished by its impressive root system. Its limbs are adorned with numerous light bulbs, producing a captivating ambiance after dark. Recognized in 1997 by the London Tree Forum and Countryside Commission as one of the "Great Trees of London", this tree was also showcased in the 2000 BBC documentary Meetings with Remarkable Trees.

Entertainment

The Dorchester has maintained a longstanding relationship with figures from the acting, music, and entertainment sectors. Since the 1940s, it has been a prominent location for film producers, actors, and casting directors. In 1940, Gabriel Pascal and David Lean utilized a suite there for casting Major Barbara; actress Deborah Kerr later reflected on the distinctive atmosphere during that audition.

An incident involving producer Earl St. John, who was found intoxicated at the hotel, led to a memorable encounter with writer Eric Ambler. Author Ray Bradbury lodged at the Dorchester while Moby Dick was being filmed in 1956. In 1964, John Lennon participated in a Foyle Literary Luncheon hosted at the hotel; however, his lack of preparation left attendees somewhat disappointed. During the 1960s and 1970s, actors Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor were frequent visitors, celebrating their honeymoon in March 1964 within the Oliver Messel suite.

The hotel has accommodated many football players attending F.A. Cup Final matches; notably, in 1961, members of Leicester City stayed prior to their game against Tottenham Hotspur, coinciding with Taylor and Burton’s presence. In 1972, actress Raquel Welch hosted a cocktail event at the Dorchester for the Chelsea Football Club team, with guests including the Rolling Stones. A brief meeting at the hotel in 2003 saw club owner Ken Bates agree to sell Chelsea FC to Roman Abramovich. Furthermore, actor Christian Bale was detained following an alleged assault incident in a Dorchester suite shortly before the premiere of The Dark Knight in July 2008.

Boycotts

In 2014, a number of celebrities initiated boycotts against the hotel due to its ownership ties to Brunei's sultanate after Sharia law was implemented there, introducing capital punishment for various offenses.

George Clooney reiterated calls for a boycott in March 2019 following Brunei’s adoption of death by stoning as a penalty for homosexual acts. Support for this boycott was expressed by Ellen DeGeneres and Elton John in April 2019. During that month, Deutsche Bank barred employees from staying at hotels owned by Brunei; both the Financial Times and TV Choice awards canceled events planned at the Dorchester; and organizations such as the English National Ballet and Make-A-Wish Foundation reconsidered their affiliations with the establishment. Demonstrations were held outside the Dorchester, and the Police Federation of England and Wales withdrew its awards ceremony from the venue.

See also

References

Bibliography

External links

  1. ↑ Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; no text was provided for refs named Glasgow
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  3. ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; no text was provided for refs named Project
  4. ↑ "COURT & PERSONAL: The Queen on Saturday inspected the Dorchester Hotel, London", Yorkshire Post, Monday 30 March 1931, p. 8
  5. ↑ "GOING ON FOR EVER?", Western Daily Press, Monday 20 April 1931, p. 5
  6. ↑ "THE DORCHESTER HOTEL OPENS TO-DAY", Daily Express (London), Monday 20 April 1931, p. 19
  7. ↑ "A Social Diary", Yorkshire Post, Monday 20 April 1931 , p. 6
  8. ↑ 8.0 8.1 8.2 8.3 8.4 Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; no text was provided for refs named history
  9. ↑ [1]
  10. ↑ [2]
  11. ↑ [3]
  12. ↑ [4]
  13. ↑ [5]
  14. ↑ [6]
  15. ↑ [7]
  16. ↑ [8]
  17. ↑ [9]
  18. ↑ [10][11]
  19. ↑ [11]
  20. ↑ [12]
  21. ↑ [13]
  22. ↑ [14]
  23. ↑ [15]
  24. ↑ Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; no text was provided for refs named Fodor's2013
  25. ↑ Lua error in Module:Citation/CS1/Configuration at line 2123: attempt to index field '?' (a nil value).
  26. ↑ Lua error in Module:Citation/CS1/Configuration at line 2123: attempt to index field '?' (a nil value).
  27. ↑ Lua error in Module:Citation/CS1/Configuration at line 2123: attempt to index field '?' (a nil value).
  28. ↑ Lua error in Module:Citation/CS1/Configuration at line 2123: attempt to index field '?' (a nil value).
  29. ↑ Lua error in Module:Citation/CS1/Configuration at line 2123: attempt to index field '?' (a nil value).
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