By Annette Kellow
Once you step into The Ritz, you will remember it forever. From the gilded 24 carat gold ceilings to the impeccable plush floral carpet there is something seductively enticing about this iconic hotel, which opened in 1906. I am here to view a selection of the private rooms as well as indulge in one of the hotels famous afternoon teas, of which they serve around 400 per day! In 2002, The Ritz was awarded the ‘Royal Warrant for Banqueting and Catering Services’ by His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales and walking through the hotel I certainly did get an essence of regal living whilst the salmon pink, crème and gold interior gave it the comfort of being luxuriously cosy.
The hotel is inspired by antique style architecture and entering the private dining salon I felt like indeed, I was having a feast for my eyes! In the impressive William Kent House, the Grade II listed mansion adjoining the hotel, there is original Italian Renaissance style décor with an intricately painted gold, blue and red coved ceiling of which I could just imagine the dinners and events it has witnessed. I was glad I had brought my mum along as she loves décor and interiors and was more than happy to view the beautiful rooms!
We also visited the Trafalgar Suite (you may remember it as featured in the film in Notting Hill) which has a pink marble bathroom (my absolute dream!) whilst the large suites and bedroom areas were decorated in the most exquisite furnishings overlooking Green Park. The best part was that you could hear a pin drop with absolutely no outside noise whilst I secretly fell in love with the classic ‘R’ which was embellished on many of the furnishings.
