Building on long-standing rituals, the London hotel completes its latest evolution with the opening of Claridge’s Bakery
Words by LESLEY McKENZIE
In a city that rarely stands still, Claridge’s in London has built its reputation on knowing what not to change. Behind its stately Edwardian facade, the property’s art deco design and time-honored traditions have been carefully preserved, setting the scene for generations of royalty, statesmen, and cultural figures. Yet the opulent Mayfair mainstay, which opened in its current form in 1912, consistently feels of the moment, evolving in ways that enhance rather than redefine its identity.
Art deco doves by Jacques Adnet and original glasswork by René Lalique speak to its enduring design legacy.
Claridge’s signature aesthetic took shape in the late 1920s and ’30s, when a sweeping redesign ushered in the predominantly art deco interiors that continue to distinguish the property today. Step into the lobby and the hallmarks of the era reveal themselves in black-and-white geometric marble floors, mirrored panels, and polished metal accents, alongside details such as the deco doves by Jacques Adnet and original glasswork by René Lalique that speak to its enduring design legacy.
The sense of continuity extends to the guest experience. Held in the Foyer, afternoon tea is a celebrated 120-year-old ritual, centered around finger sandwiches, warm scones served with jam and Cornish clotted cream, and a rotating selection of pastries from the hotel’s pastry kitchen. Claridge’s Bar follows suit. Introduced as part of the art deco transformation in the late ’20s, it is defined by polished wood, mirrored surfaces, and a curated selection of vintage Champagnes and rare whiskies, alongside a can’t-miss dry martini.
As deftly as Claridge’s fetes its heritage, the Maybourne hotel has also refined the art of looking ahead to what comes next. In 2022, the property unveiled a seven-year renovation and expansion, including the addition of a five-story basement that houses a spa, swimming pool and wine cellar. Four new upper floors were also added to the hotel, creating 75 additional rooms and suites, including The Residence at Claridge’s, a 3,014-square-foot glass duplex designed by André Fu, complete with two emperor beds, an expansive terrace, and a crescent-shaped hydrotherapy pool.
Rounding out its recent evolution is the introduction of Claridge’s Bakery, which debuted in January on Brook’s Mews and spotlights the art of British baking. Helmed by internationally acclaimed baker Richard Hart, the all-day offering turns out everything from Bloomers and granary loaves to Jammy Dodger tarts and Hart’s famous sourdough breads. Savory staples such as Scotch eggs, sausage rolls, and Marmite cheese straws sit alongside a rotation of sweet classics, creating a setting designed as much for the neighborhood as for guests — and signaling a new chapter in Claridge’s storied traditions. claridges.com.
April 1, 2026
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