Step into the grand lobby of the Hilton London Paddington, and you’ll be stepping into history. This iconic hotel, once known as the Great Western Royal Hotel, is a timeless landmark nestled within the bustling Paddington Station complex in London. The hotel’s story is as fascinating as the city it calls home.
A Visionary’s Dream: The Birth of a Grand Hotel
The brainchild of the renowned engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel, the Great Western Royal Hotel was a bold endeavor that aimed to rival the luxurious hotels of Europe. Brunel, serving as the hotel’s first managing director, convinced the Great Western Railway Company to invest in his vision.
The construction began in the early 1850s on Praed Street, and after a mere 14 months, the hotel opened its doors on June 9th, 1854. The opening ceremony was graced by the presence of none other than H.R.H. The Prince Albert, Prince Consort.
The architect Philip Charles Hardwick designed the hotel, a testament to the architectural grandeur of the era, with a cost of £60,000, a hefty sum for its time, including all the furnishings and fittings. The hotel was built to impress, with a design that echoed the grand hotels of continental Europe.
Its strategic location at the head of the terminal platforms, effectively forming the main facade of the station, solidified its importance as a gateway to London. The construction was undertaken by the renowned building firm, Messrs Holland Hannen & Cubitts, founded by the esteemed architect Thomas Cubitt.
A Touch of European Grandeur: The Architectural Legacy
Hardwick’s design for the Great Western Royal Hotel marked a turning point in English architecture, pioneering the Second Empire style for buildings of this type. The hotel’s interior and exterior boasted intricate ornamentation, with a surviving allegorical sculpture in the pediment by the talented John Thomas.
The hotel’s design was inspired by the grandeur of the reign of Louis XIV. A figurative sculpture over the front entrance further enhanced its beauty, representing Peace, Plenty, Science, and Industry. Thomas’s artistic contributions were also evident in the Palace of Westminster, where he crafted numerous statues and decorations.
A Vision Unfulfilled: Brunel’s Grand Plan
The Great Western Railway, under the leadership of their engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel, leased the hotel to a subsidiary, the Great Western Royal Hotel Company. Brunel’s visionary plan was to offer a seamless travel experience, allowing passengers arriving from New York to enter the hotel and be accommodated and transported by various undertakings controlled by the Great Western Company.
However, this ambitious plan never came to fruition. The Great Western ship, intended to facilitate this seamless journey, was scrapped before the hotel was completed. The company’s bid for the coveted Atlantic mail contract was unsuccessful, ultimately lost to the Cunard Company.
A Historical Legacy: The Great Western Royal Hotel and its Guests
The Great Western Royal Hotel, though grand and ambitious, saw its share of historical events and notable guests. The 2nd Duke of Buckingham and Chandos, a former Conservative Lord Privy Seal, met his demise in the hotel in July 1861, a tragic end for a man who had once held a prominent political position.
In the late 19th century, the railway company took over the hotel’s operations. During the 1930s, the hotel underwent a significant expansion and remodelling under the direction of their architect Percy Emerson Culverhouse.
The hotel’s historical significance was further cemented by the passing of the notorious socialite and spendthrift, Norah, Lady Docker, in December 1983.
A New Chapter: The Hilton London Paddington
The hotel’s fate, like the city itself, continued to evolve. In line with the privatization of British Rail, the hotel was sold to the private sector in 1983.
After undergoing extensive refurbishment, the hotel reopened in 2001 under its new name, the Hilton London Paddington, as part of the renowned Hilton Hotels chain. Today, the hotel stands as a testament to its rich history, welcoming guests with its modern amenities and iconic charm.
The Hilton London Paddington is much more than just a hotel; it’s a living piece of history. As you explore its corridors and admire its architectural splendor, you’ll be transported to an era of grandeur and ambition, a reminder of the city’s enduring spirit.
If you are looking for a luxurious hotel in London with a captivating past, the Hilton London Paddington is the perfect choice. Be sure to keep an eye out for the hotel’s historical details and enjoy the unique blend of tradition and modernity.
