The Vibe: The glossiness of Knightsbridge with the artistic vibe of Chelsea.
The Area: Standing midway between Knightsbridge and Chelsea, at the junction of Sloane and Pont Streets, the hotel’s highlight is the adjacent Cadogan Place Gardens, which guests, as if they were Chelsea residents, can access for a stroll, have a picnic or play tennis on its two courts.
The DNA: When it opened in 1887, The Cadogan Hotel fast became a favourite of the Kensington and Chelsea set, entertaining a kaleidoscope of VIPs from Oscar Wilde to socialite Lillie Langtry. Now, 132 years later, the storied property has re-opened under the Belmond banner, who rebuilt the entire property, stitching together five buildings to include a former bank on the corner and, of course, the home of Langry, which she sold to the hotel in 1895, and now serves as the private entrance to guests of the hotel. Over 400 pieces of art dot the hotel, including a dramatic painting by Simon Casson of Sir Hans Sloane and his daughter Elizabeth, founders of the Cadogan Estates, that takes centre-stage in the lobby; a Swarovski crystal-adorned peacock sculpture by artist Clarita Brinkerhoff; and a library installation, which wraps around the lobby lift and comprises 600 bronze books, modelled from one of the bookcases in the original hotel.
Suite-Me-Up: Local firm, GA Design International has filled out the 54 rooms and suites in a fresh palette of calm neutrals with royal blue and mustard yellow accents in rich materials – like velvet, silk, wood and marble – and plush finishes from padded headboards to textured, paneled walls. Above each bed is a statement painting that takes its cues from the nearby Cadogan Place Gardens and the room in which Oscar Wilde was arrested, in 1895, now serves as part of the Royal Suite.
Seen: Wallpaper*
Accolades: Wallpaper* Best Urban Hotels 2019
✅ free Wi-Fi • size matters: 54 rooms & suites (26-115m2) (280-1,238 sq ft) • hotel opened: 1887, renovated 2019 • interior design: G.A Design, Russell Sage Studio • parking possible nearby (charged) • pets allowed • 24-hour front desk • wheelchair accessible
