Building of the Week: The Lanesborough Hotel, London

St. George's Hospital, 1852

Originally built in 1719 by James Lane, Second Viscount Lanesborough as a private residence, the building sat proudly on what was then countryside. As London continued to grow, this area became what is now Hyde Park Corner in Knightsbridge, Central London. 1732 saw the conversion of Lanesborough House into St. George’s Hospital. As the need for more space in the public infirmary grew, the house was expanded. In 1827, the hospital had fallen into disrepair and was demolished to make way for a new facility. The new building was completed in 1844. The hospital remained open—despite many physical and political changes—until 1980.

The Lanesborough today.

After a ten year renovation of the historic building, Rosewood Hotels and Resorts once again opened the doors of Lanesborough House in 1991, calling the building The Lanesborough Hotel. Now owned by Starwood’s St. Regis operation, the Lanesborough is a luxurious five-star hotel and considered the finest in London. With its sumptuous rooms and a private butler for each guest, the Lanesborough is the height of luxury. As grand as it is historically interesting, if you’re in London, make a note to take a peek at this beautiful hotel. With rooms as much as 8000 pounds a night, you may not be able to stay there, however, it’s definitely worth a look.