The Savoy

The Savoy is a five-star Fairmont hotel on the Strand in central London, set back on its own forecourt, Savoy Court, between the River Thames and Covent Garden. It suits visitors who want the West End theatres, the South Bank and Trafalgar Square on foot, and who care about classic bars and afternoon tea.

The hotel D'Oyly Carte built

Richard D'Oyly Carte opened The Savoy on 6 August 1889, paying for it with profits from Gilbert and Sullivan operas. It was the first hotel in Britain lit by electricity throughout and fitted with electric lifts. César Ritz was its first manager and Auguste Escoffier its chef. Cars on Savoy Court drive on the right, a custom said to date from the hackney carriage era. Kaspar, a black Art Deco cat carved in 1926, still joins any dinner party of 13 as the 14th guest.

Covent Garden, Charing Cross and the Embankment

Covent Garden is about 400 m away and Trafalgar Square about 700 m. Charing Cross Underground station (Bakerloo and Northern lines) is about a four-minute walk, and Embankment and Covent Garden stations about six minutes. London City Airport is about 13 km away, Heathrow about 29 km and Gatwick about 56 km. The Concierge arranges airport transfers, taxis and private cars. Doormen run valet parking with no booking needed, from GBP 22.50 for two hours.

City, courtyard and river-view rooms

Fairmont manages 263 rooms and suites. Superior Queen and Deluxe King rooms face the city or the inner courtyard. Luxury King River View rooms look over the Thames, and there is a two-bedroom family room for up to five guests, junior suites and a set of named suites up to the Royal Suite. If a river view matters to you, book a river view category, since the standard rooms do not face the water.

The Savoy Grill, the American Bar and other restaurants

The Savoy Grill, Gordon Ramsay's River Restaurant, Gallery and Scoff cover the meals, and in-room dining is available. The American Bar admits guests aged 16 and over with an adult, and the Beaufort Wine Bar is for those 18 and over. Afternoon tea is served in the Thames Foyer. Breakfast choices include a full English, continental, à la carte, gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian dishes, and children up to 12 eat breakfast free in Gallery.

Pool and gym

On the third floor, an indoor pool sits in a naturally lit atrium with a jet stream, a sauna and a steam room. The gym, with weights, cardio machines and a Peloton bike, is open 24 hours.

Sources: Wikipedia: Savoy Hotel Facts checked November 2026.