Overview
The Savoy stands as one of London’s most storied and celebrated hotels, with a legacy stretching back to its opening in 1889. Located on the banks of the River Thames, it offers 263 rooms and suites, many with sweeping river or city skyline views. The property is renowned for its blend of Edwardian and Art Deco design, its deep-rooted connection to London’s theatrical world, and its enduring traditions such as Afternoon Tea. The Savoy is home to a collection of acclaimed restaurants and bars, including the MICHELIN-starred Restaurant 1890 by Gordon Ramsay, the iconic American Bar, and the historic Savoy Grill. Guests enjoy a full suite of wellness facilities, including a naturally lit atrium pool, spa, and 24-hour gym. The Savoy’s reputation is reflected in its consistent accolades, including Forbes Five-Star and MICHELIN Three Keys awards, and its high guest ratings across major platforms.
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Why this grade
The Savoy is 5-star — one of 49 five-star houses on Earth, among just 777 starred hotels; seat 2 of 49. It combines formal recognitions with strong guest endorsement: Forbes Travel Guide — Five-Star, the MICHELIN Guide’s Three Keys (3 Keys) and a MICHELIN-starred dining room in Restaurant 1890 mark its institutional standing. Separately, it appears as N° 560 of 777 in the Guests' 777, underlining the hotel’s broad public recognition.
History
The Savoy opened its doors on 6 August 1889, founded by impresario Richard D'Oyly Carte to accommodate audiences attending performances at the adjacent Savoy Theatre. It was London’s first luxury hotel, introducing innovations that transformed city dining and socialising. The hotel quickly became a centre of London’s social scene, credited as the birthplace of the dinner and dance tradition. Its first manager, César Ritz, and first chef, Auguste Escoffier, set new standards in hospitality and cuisine. The Savoy expanded in 1903–04, introducing Britain’s first serviced apartments with full hotel amenities. Over its more than 130 years of operation, The Savoy has maintained its status as an integral part of London’s theatrical and cultural world, with a small museum on site and monthly guided tours led by the hotel’s archivist.
Architecture & interiors
The Savoy was designed by architect Thomas Edward Collcutt and is recognised as a Grade II listed building, reflecting its architectural and historical significance. The hotel’s interiors are a harmonious blend of Edwardian and Art Deco styles. Edwardian rooms feature warm silvers, ivory silk, antique brass, ochre accents, bespoke carpets, and contemporary artwork, while Art Deco rooms are characterised by geometric shapes, bespoke furniture, mirrors, polished finishes, and the hotel’s signature green colour. The property underwent a major renovation costing £220 million, which included the addition of the Thames Foyer with a winter garden gazebo under a stained-glass cupola, and a glass-enclosed fitness gallery with a rooftop swimming pool, gym, and spa. The hotel’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its 98% recycling rate and a reduction in electricity usage by approximately 50%.
Rooms & suites
The Savoy offers 263 rooms and suites, each designed to reflect either Edwardian or Art Deco influences. The 162 Edwardian rooms are decorated in a grey and tangerine palette, with warm silvers, ivory silk, antique brass, ochre accents, bespoke carpets, and contemporary artwork. Many of these rooms offer views of the Thames. Art Deco rooms, located on the Strand side, feature golds and caramels, marble bathrooms as standard, geometric shapes, bespoke furniture, mirrors, polished finishes, and the hotel’s signature green. Signature suites include the Savoy Suite, measuring 130 sq m (1,399 sq ft), and the Terrace Suite, at 122 sq m (1,313 sq ft) with two king beds and the only suite with a terrace. Many rooms and suites provide sweeping views of the Thames or the city skyline. River View suite guests benefit from dedicated butler service, and all guests have access to a knowledgeable concierge team.
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Dining
Restaurant 1890 by Gordon Ramsay
This MICHELIN-starred restaurant offers one of London’s most exclusive dining experiences, with only 24 seats. Chef Gordon Ramsay presents modern tasting menus that pair British produce with French technique, inspired by Auguste Escoffier, who joined The Savoy in 1890. The wine programme is rooted in volcanic soils and features rare Madeira vintages. The restaurant is celebrated for its meticulous service and elegant bar space.
Savoy Grill by Gordon Ramsay
A historic dining room with an Art Deco setting, the Savoy Grill serves a British and French-inspired menu under the direction of chef Gordon Ramsay. The iconic Beef Wellington is a signature dish. Guests can choose from the traditional dining room, Chef’s Table, or Wine Room Experience.
The River Restaurant by Gordon Ramsay
This stylish, relaxed venue offers a vibrant, produce-led menu shaped by the seasons and tides, focusing on refined seafood. The restaurant includes a private dining room for intimate occasions.
Gallery
An elegant all-day dining space, the Gallery serves British heritage and modern style dishes from breakfast to late-night cocktails. Afternoon Tea, a celebrated London ritual since 1889, is served here, featuring warm scones, pastries, sandwiches, and over 30 teas plus Champagne.
American Bar
Opened in 1893, the American Bar is the original cocktail bar in London and remains one of the most renowned in the world. It serves classic cocktails with a twist, as well as new and vintage creations.
Beaufort Bar
With its jet-black and gold design, the Beaufort Bar is made for late nights, champagne moments, and crafted cocktails. It is temporarily closed.
Scoff Shop
Led by Executive Pastry Chef Nicolas Houchet, the Scoff shop offers a selection of pastries and sweet treats.
Afternoon Tea
Afternoon Tea at The Savoy is a celebrated tradition, served daily in the Gallery, with a selection of over 30 teas, Champagne, and classic accompaniments. Twilight Tea is also available in the evenings.
Spa & wellness
The Savoy’s wellness facilities include a naturally lit architectural atrium pool, equipped with a jet-stream for resistance swimming and heated for comfort. The pool is open from 7:00am to 9:00pm on weekdays and 8:00am to 8:00pm on weekends and bank holidays, with dedicated children’s swimming hours from 9:00am to 5:00pm daily. The spa offers treatments using Natura Bissé skincare, La-Eva organic formulations, and HydraFacial technology in three dedicated rooms. Sauna and steam rooms support recovery and are open during pool hours. The 24-hour gym features Peloton bikes, free weights, cable systems, and modern cardio machinery. Personal training is available, led by expert coach Charlie, with options for one-to-one sessions, in-room yoga or Pilates, and structured fitness plans. The hotel’s wellness offering is complemented by a 98% recycling rate and a strong commitment to sustainability.
Location & setting
The Savoy is set beside the River Thames, offering true riverside views—one of the few hotels in London to do so. Its location on the private Savoy Court places it near Trafalgar Square, Covent Garden, and the West End theatre district. Guests are a short stroll from Nelson’s Column and other major London landmarks. The hotel’s riverside setting and proximity to the city’s cultural and entertainment hubs make it a prime choice for visitors seeking both convenience and a sense of place.
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The EMPTYJET verdict
The Savoy is a landmark for those seeking a blend of historic grandeur, contemporary luxury, and a central London location. Its riverside setting, storied past, and enduring traditions make it particularly appealing to travellers with an appreciation for heritage and theatre, as well as those who value culinary excellence. The hotel’s high service standards, comprehensive wellness facilities, and consistently strong guest reputation ensure a memorable stay for both leisure and business guests. The Savoy is especially suited to those who wish to experience London’s cultural life, fine dining, and classic hospitality in a setting that remains relevant and refined after more than a century.
Good to know
The Savoy’s typical nightly rate is about US$1,633. The Beaufort Bar is temporarily closed. Afternoon Tea is served daily in the Gallery from 12:00pm to 6:45pm, with Twilight Tea available from 6:00pm to 9:30pm. Children’s swimming hours are from 9:00am to 5:00pm daily. The hotel maintains a 98% recycling rate and has significantly reduced its electricity usage, reflecting a strong commitment to sustainability.






