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.
The blooms of Munich’s Old Botanical Garden fill the city air with a sweet aroma. At the edge of this green lung sits The Charles Hotel, whose recently refreshed rooms capture the garden’s essence. Olga Polizzi, Director of Design at Rocco Forte Hotels, takes us through the finer details.
Paris is always a good idea. Except, perhaps, when it’s hosting the Olympic Summer Games, and the usual tourist throng looks set to multiply almost prohibitively. Of course, the Games are exciting, but if wading through crowds feels like a marathon effort, try a cultural relay around one of these stunning European cities instead.
As the gentle glow of each ornate chandelier begins to dim, a hush descends upon the audience before an all-consuming world of tragedy and triumph unfolds. Both exhilarating and deeply moving, a night at the opera has the distinct power to evoke emotion, while offering a unique insight into a perhaps unfamiliar city.
Journey through Europe’s symphony of unmissable opera houses, each steeped in history and grandeur.
