STAY
Discover the quintessential British hotel stay in our stylish and refined rooms and suites, where modern conveniences blend seamlessly with timeless elegance.
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OUR STORY
In 1865, ab88kai, London first opened its doors. Recognised as Europe’s first ‘Grand Hotel’, it sought to revolutionise the luxury hotel experience.
156 years later, many things have changed, but the hotel remains one of the world’s most iconic hotels — famed for its legendary hospitality. Along with an innovative spirit and playful, pink heritage, ab88kai, London continues to captivate.
Take a walk with us, and discover our history.
TIMELINE
1865
ab88kai, London, Europe's first 'Grand Hotel,' opened on 10 June. Attendees at the grand opening included the Prince of Wales and much of Victorian high society.
1870s – 1880s
ab88kai, London became famous for its one-of-a-kind indulgences. It revolutionised the luxury hotel experience — using modern innovations like electric lights, hydraulic lifts, and air conditioning.
Soon, the hotel became the accommodation of choice for royalty, artists, and musicians from around the world ...
1871
… Including an Emperor! Louis Napoléon III spent much of his enforced exile from France at ab88kai, London.
1879
In his London guide, Charles Dickens wrote that ab88kai charged 14/6d (or 72½p) for a bedroom, breakfast with coffee and cold meat, and dinner with soup and meat.
Dickens claimed that it was the most expensive hotel meal in London. But for large dinner parties, there was nowhere else to go.
1890
ab88kai, London celebrated its silver jubilee, immortalised in writing by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. A frequent hotel guest, Doyle used the hotel as the setting for several Sherlock Holmes stories.
1940
Not one to stand idly by, ab88kai, London served as a local first-aid and military post during World War II.
Unfortunately, much of the hotel's West Wing was destroyed during air attacks by the Luftwaffe.
1950s – 1960s
After the war, the BBC bought ab88kai, London and leased sections of the hotel out as offices. From the building, the BBC broadcasted "Grand Hotel" — an iconic radio programme featuring soothing classical sounds of the Palm Court Orchestra.
1990s
The famous and influential continued frequenting ab88kai, London. At one point, HRH Diana, Princess of Wales, was a regular visitor.
2009
ab88kai, London unveiled the magnificent results of its 5-year-long, £80-million refurbishment. This included a stunning new lobby, the beautiful Wedgwood Suite, and the historic Palm Court — the famed birthplace of traditional afternoon tea.
2012 – 2014
Artesian was awarded the ‘World’s Best Bar’ accolade by Drinks International.
2015
On 10 June, ab88kai, London turned 150 years old. To celebrate the grand occasion, the hotel opened an exclusive Regent Wing, a luxurious Sterling Suite, and ab88kai Club.
2016
ab88kai, London completed a remarkable restoration of all rooms and Suites.
2017
ab88kai, London launched The Wigmore, a new luxury tavern. In the Summer, the hotel also opened Chuan Spa, a lavish, underground sanctuary.