Taken from one of the most iconic rallying speeches of all time, the words “We shall never surrender” evoke the memory of a formidable gentleman in a homburg hat and a cigar in hand. Undoubtedly Britain’s greatest wartime leader, Sir Winston Churchill was a man of action, of strong words and strong opinions. Today, he is synonymous with not only Britain’s inspiring show of solidarity during World War II and the defining Allied victory, but with London, where he spent most of his career. When not at the House of Parliament, he was frequenting the capital’s finest establishments, indulging his sophisticated gastronomic tastes – after all, in his own words, he was “easily satisfied only with the very best”.
Residing near Brown's in Mayfair; the genteel, club-like ambience of the hotel's oak-panelled bar, deep armchairs and roaring open fire was a likely venue for Churchill to savour his favourite whisky, brandy and Champagne, accompanied by his trademark cigar, of course. By spending time with us, he was walking in the footsteps of his grandmother, who stayed with us in 1871; by visiting us today, guests are walking in his.
This year sees many landmark dates commemorated, amongst them the 80th anniversary of Churchill’s appointment as Prime Minister and the 75th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day. To honour these significant dates and the part we played in this defiant and determined leader’s London life, we have curated a series of experiences inspired by his favourite indulgences here at Brown’s. Stay in one of our beautifully appointed rooms or suites and discover images and biographies of the man himself. Sink into one of The Donovan Bar’s armchairs or be seated at the bar, stylishly decorated by Olga Polizzi to preserve its defining period features. Here, raise a toast to Churchill’s achievements with a Johnnie Walker (his favourite whisky), a Hine (his favourite brandy) or even a wine dating back to the late 1930s from Maestro Salvatore Calabrese’s priceless vintage collection.
With his cheesemonger of choice, Paxton & Whitfield, and his preferred cologne boutique, Floris, also on our doorstep here in Mayfair, guests may continue tracing his steps from our peerless position here on Albemarle Street.
Visit us at Churchill’s favourite haunt, or stay over by emailing reservations.browns@roccofortehotels.com or calling +44 20 7493 6020.
The Grand Tour has had its day, in the most fortunate way. What was once a rite of years is now within reach of anyone with the curiosity to make it. The prescribed list of sights has loosened too, leaving the traveller free to follow Goethe's original instinct, to stand where the present is being made as well as where the past is preserved. Today, our journey through Milan, Florence and Rome begins, as it always did, in the north…
Much like the island, the resort’s Rocco Forte Private Villas encourage a slower, more considered way of living. Designed by Olga Polizzi, each villa is thoughtfully arranged to bring loved ones together, while still allowing space for solitude
A summer day in Brussels begins, ideally, on foot, exploring the rhythm of a city changed by the season. Early morning flower markets fill the Place du Grand-Sablon, open-air concerts take over the parks, friendly boules competitions gather under the trees. At the heart of it all, a near neighbour to the Grand-Place, sits Hotel Amigo – the perfect starting point for an adventure in any direction.
