Home to some of the world’s most important museums and galleries, London is on every culture vulture’s itinerary. Take advantage now, whilst there are fewer visitors, and discover the highlights of the capital with a stay at Brown’s Hotel. Here are some of the most exciting cultural experiences to enjoy without the crowds, all easily reached from Mayfair on foot, by bicycle or via a chauffeured transfer which we are happy to arrange.
Admire incredible art
Step into the capital’s internationally renowned galleries with a pre-booked slot and devote as much time as you wish to impressive works by defining artists. Be immersed in the drama of Classical myths at The National Gallery’s Titian: Love, Desire, Death — a collection of paintings commissioned by Prince Phillip of Spain in 1551 to illustrate Ovid’s Metamorphoses. Reunited for the first time in four centuries, this series showcases the style Titian himself called ‘poesie’ – the visual equivalent of poetry – and when you’re finished, why not admire Trafalgar Square?
Alternatively, fast-forward a few centuries and discover Andy Warhol at the Tate Modern. The first exhibition of his work for almost 20 years, as you walk through vast, minimalist rooms you’ll see not only his most famous pop art – such as the Marilyn Monroe silkscreen diptych – but works never before shown in the UK. Pair a visit with a walk down the usually bustling Bankside and across the iconic Millenium Bridge.
Discover immersive exhibitions
Visit the V&A museum and delve into a diverse world of art spanning centuries and movements. Usually a top stop on the tourist trail, thanks to advance booking you can now enjoy exhibitions in peace, ranging from Alice in Wonderland (a surreal look at the novel that became a phenomenon) to Filthy Lucre, a glamorous installation depicting Whistler’s famed Peacock Room.
See human history through a very different lens with a visit to The British Museum. This anthropological treasure chest is usually crammed with organised tours and trips from around the world, drawn by its unrivalled permanent collections and exciting temporary installations. Currently, these include Tantra: enlightenment to revolution, examining the changing effect of this force on India, and Arctic: culture and climate, illuminating those who live off the land we call inhospitable.
At Brown’s Hotel, we are delighted to arrange tickets to all the aforementioned attractions and more. Email us on reservations.brown@roccofortehotels.com to book your stay and let us create a bespoke itinerary to take advantage of the unusual quiet.
Agrigento’s roots run as deep as the gnarled olive trees that dot its landscape, stretching back over 2,500 years to its founding as Akragas, one of the greatest cities of the ancient Greek world. Set against a breathtaking coastline, this once thriving cultural and political hub was praised by the Greek poet Pindar as “the most beautiful city of mortals”. Today, this splendour is immortalised in the Valley of the Temples.
In 1925, a world still shell-shocked from the ravages of World War I found renewal in a burgeoning artistic movement: Art Deco. It reflected motion, progress, the future. Immediately embraced by famed Belgian architect Victor Horta, he laid the foundations for Art Deco in Brussels with his plans for the Centre of Fine Arts (Bozar). This marked the inception of a radically modern approach to architecture and art in the city. Now, as Brussels marks a century of Art Deco style, it’s the perfect time to explore this distinctly walkable city with your own budding artists.
Along Italy’s dazzling southern coastline, two Rocco Forte Hotel retreats prepare to welcome spring’s arrival. Each destination, from Puglia’s rolling hills to the sugary shores of Sciacca, exudes charm and space to unwind while offering personalised onsite activities and local experiences.
