What Was the Mandarin Oriental London Before?

By Robert Palmer

The Mandarin Oriental London is a luxurious hotel situated in the heart of Knightsbridge, London. The hotel is well-known for its impeccable service, stylish rooms, and top-notch facilities. However, before it became the iconic Mandarin Oriental London, it had a rich history that dates back to the early 1900s.

The Beginning

The building that now houses the Mandarin Oriental London was originally built in 1889 as an exclusive gentleman’s club known as The Hyde Park Club. It was designed by architect H. Percy Monckton in the Queen Anne style and boasted all the luxuries of a private members’ club.

World War II

During World War II, the building was requisitioned by the British government and used as an annex of the nearby St. George’s Hospital. It provided extra beds for wounded soldiers and was also used as accommodation for nurses.

Post-War Years

After World War II, The Hyde Park Club regained ownership of the building and continued to operate until 1963 when it was sold to Jardine Matheson Holdings Limited, a Hong Kong-based conglomerate.

The Mandarin Oriental Era Begins

In 1973, Jardine Matheson converted the building into a luxury hotel and named it The Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park. The hotel quickly became popular with wealthy tourists and celebrities who appreciated its prime location and exceptional service.

Renovations and Upgrades

Over the years, The Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park underwent several renovations to keep up with changing tastes and modern amenities. In 1996, the hotel underwent a major renovation that saw many of its rooms refurbished and updated.

The Fire

In June 2018, tragedy struck when a fire broke out at The Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park. The fire caused significant damage to parts of the hotel, including its roof and upper floors. However, thanks to the quick response of the London Fire Brigade and the hotel’s staff, no one was injured.

The Revival

After extensive renovations and repairs, The Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park reopened to guests in April 2019. The hotel underwent a complete redesign that saw its rooms and public spaces updated with a fresh new look while still retaining its classic charm.

Conclusion

The Mandarin Oriental London has come a long way since its days as The Hyde Park Club. Today, it is one of the most luxurious hotels in London and continues to attract discerning travelers from all over the world. Its rich history and elegant design make it a true icon of Knightsbridge.