If, on your next trip to London, you would jolly well like to feel like the Queen of England, then have I got a place for you: The Ritz!
As much as the name itself conjures up images of luxury and glamor, there’s also that well-known song, “Puttin’ on the Ritz.” You start feeling a little thrill as soon as you see the sign, with its name in lights.
But that’s nothing compared to the inside.
Should you prefer the elevator to the stairs, in this one you can ride with Eliza Doolittle (but they’re all different).
The Ritz has welcomed royalty, celebrities and fortunate travelers for over 110 years. Here is just a small sampling of interesting historical tidbits:
Winston Churchill, Dwight Eisenhower and Charles de Gaulle met in the Marie Antoinette Suite to discuss operations during World War II.
Charlie Chaplin required 40 officers to escort him through his fans into the hotel in the early 20s.
In 2003, Roger Moore checked into The Ritz as a Mr., and checked out as a Sir, having been knighted at Buckingham Palace during his stay.
The Ritz has repeatedly served the British royalty over the years, as evidenced by this clock with the Prince of Wales heraldic badge. Prince Charles awarded the British Royal Warrant to The Ritz for their banqueting services provided to the royal family, including his mother's 80th birthday celebration.
My daughter Ashley and I got to sample a bit of the royal service for afternoon tea when we were there last fall.
Ashley and me in front of the Palm Court of The Ritz London
In case you missed the ceiling while you were focused on the champagne…
Some might think The Ritz would be stuffy, but it definitely wasn't. Our waiter had a really cute personality. The top tray had one goodie of each kind, but he told us, “If you'd like more of anything, just ask. I don’t want to see you fighting with your sister.” (I hope I tipped him sufficiently for that!)
It was amazing. I think Ashley summed it up perfectly when she said, “This is not just luxury. This is an experience!”
When the pianist started playing “Puttin’ on the Ritz,” a video seemed in order.
It is not only the public areas of The Ritz that are regal: the guest rooms are every bit their equal. Note that the following photos are of an entry-level room.
Look at this fireplace!
The Ritz London is a luxury hotel where an opulent setting is combined with warm and gracious service. We can highly recommend it!
As a sidebar, if you are a Downton Abbey fan, as I am, you may recall that in the last episode of the series, Lady Edith was invited to dinner at The Ritz with her aunt; but when they got there, there was a very special surprise waiting for her. Even though it was not the final scene of the final episode, the final filming of the entire series took place at that dinner in this room.
Fans might enjoy this article about this filming (the final "It's a wrap!" of the series), along with behind-the-scenes photos of extras in 20s costumes and a vintage Rolls-Royce waiting outside.
If you feel that The Ritz would be just your cup of tea for your next trip to London, ScheckTrek Travel can currently offer the following Virtuoso amenities:
Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
Daily Continental breakfast for up to two in-room guests, served in restaurant
Complimentary one-way private transfer, either on arrival or on departure to/from Heathrow, Gatwick or City airport for two guests with luggage.
Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
Complimentary Wi-Fi
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