Closed Since 2013 for Renovations to Re-Open in Spring 2015
LONDON, Nov. 13, 2014 — Oetker Collection, which owns and manages some of the best-known hotels in the world, is pleased to bring its expertise to the United Kingdom for the first time to manage one of London’s most celebrated addresses, The Lanesborough.
“The Lanesborough is a landmark within the European hospitality landscape, with an exceptional heritage and a strong, unique identity,” said Oetker Collection CEO Frank Marrenbach. “The hotel will fit perfectly in our Collection of Masterpiece Hotels and our partnership with The Lanesborough provides an opportunity for us to bring signature service to guests who have a passion for living. I am very pleased that Managing Director Geoffrey Gelardi, a seasoned hotelier who began his role in 1990, will continue to run the hotel on a daily basis. We are proud to have him on board.”
With its exceptional central location, The Lanesborough overlooks Hyde Park Corner near Buckingham Palace and has been closed since the end of 2013 for complete renovation. It has 93 rooms and suites as well as a spa and extensive dining options.
Under Oetker Collection management, The Lanesborough will re-open as a masterpiece hotel in spring 2015. The renovation will embody the signature style that has become synonymous with The Lanesborough over its long history, created by late interior designer Alberto Pinto.
Guests will enjoy an exquisite and refined dining experience at Apsleys from breakfast to dinner, without forgetting the legendary Lanesborough Afternoon Tea. Next to Apsleys, the Withdrawing Room and the Library bar house the “Liquid History”, a collection of vintage cognacs, some of which are over 200 years old. Tucked away at the rear of the hotel, guests will discover the Garden Room, the first and most luxurious cigar terrace in Knightsbridge and the best cigar lounge in London. The Lanesborough offers seven individually designed private dining rooms, the largest accommodating 180 guests for a reception.
“We are delighted to join the Oetker Collection which embodies the finest of traditional European hospitality,” said Gelardi. “We think our guests will love the new design and style of service when The Lanesborough re-opens this spring, maintaining its continued success since 1991. After 18 months of complete renovation, our aim is to resume our premier position in the London market.”
“London is one of the most exciting cities in the world and certainly a strategic destination for Oetker Collection,” said Marrenbach. “The Lanesborough will be the perfect sister hotel to Le Bristol Paris, offering two major luxury establishments on each side of the Channel and creating exciting synergies between both hotels and the entire Collection. It is our intent to anchor The Lanesborough as part of London life, a true symbol of a cosmopolitan and vibrant capital.”
