Ritz celebrates 100th year in style
The lavish 100th anniversary of the opening of the Ritz Hotel last night conjured up particularly fond memories for many.With accolades for its service, food and design from Conde Nast Traveller, Michelin and Zagat, and a recently completed £25 million makeover, the hotel went into the event on a high.
Since the year 2006 marks the centenary of the opening The Ritz London.
Conceived and founded by the renowned hotelier César Ritz, this legendary hotel opened its doors on May 24th 1906 to great acclaim from the world’s press and the visiting public. It was announced an immediate success.
Stephen Boxall, General Manager of The Ritz, comments “We are all delighted to be part of The Ritz’ 100th birthday and will continue to celebrate the traditions of this legendary hotel for the past one hundred years as well as for the next hundred to come. We very much look forward to sharing these festivities with our guests and to many more years of Putting on The Ritz!”
The first steel framed building of any significance in London, with its French Chateau style architecture and Louis XVI interiors, the hotel was, according to César Ritz, “a small house to which I am proud to see my name attached.”
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Since returning to private ownership in 1995, in excess of £25 million has been invested in the Grade II star listed building and a complete refurbishment has been completed. Today, at 99 years old, the hotel has been fully restored to its original glory and looks even more stunning than it did in 1906.
Throughout its distinguished history, The Ritz has continued to attract the great and the good, the famous and the fashionable, and has deservedly taken its rightful place amongst the great hotels of the world.
As they celebrate the landmark occasion of The Ritz’ Centennial Year, the hotel’s extensive archives are being catalogued for easy access, research and editorial purposes.
More than just an architectural and social history, the Archive Library provides a fascinating insight into the last ten decades of The Ritz. From the life and times of César Ritz, the construction of the building, the glamour of the 20’s and 30’s, the pre and post war years and up to current times including the restoration and the introduction of state of the art technology, and the famous guests and events that make The Ritz iconic. The milestone birthday of The Ritz provides the perfect occasion to celebrate the hotel’s unique place in history and its importance as a London landmark.
During the centenary year The Ritz is inviting guests to share in festivities with a Centennial Celebration rooms package. Launching in January with prices starting from £1500, the two night package will include airport transfers in The Ritz’s new 2006 Rolls Royce Phantom motor car; complimentary membership to The Ritz Club; a night at the theatre to a London production of your choice; dinner in the classic opulence of The Ritz Restaurant - often described as one of the most beautiful dining rooms in Europe - and a centenary gift to commemorate this special occasion.
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