Imagine stepping into a grand hotel, steeped in history, right in the heart of bustling London. This isn’t just any hotel; it’s the Hilton London Paddington, formerly known as the Great Western Royal Hotel, a building with a fascinating story to tell.
A Visionary Dream
The hotel’s origins are tied to the visionary Isambard Kingdom Brunel, a prominent engineer of the 19th century. Brunel envisioned a seamless travel experience, starting right at the hotel, which was to be an extension of the Paddington Station complex. The Great Western Railway Company Directors, convinced by Brunel’s vision, contributed significantly to the project.
The Great Western Royal Hotel, designed by Philip Charles Hardwick, opened its doors in 1854, after a year and a month of construction. The lavish hotel, costing £60,000, aimed to rival the finest hotels on the Continent. It was a testament to the era’s passion for grand architecture, with its striking façade forming the main entrance to the station.
A Touch of Royalty and Artistic Flair
Hardwick embraced the Second Empire style in the hotel’s design, a first of its kind in England. The hotel boasted elaborate ornamentation, inside and out, with John Thomas contributing allegorical sculptures. The hotel’s Louis XIV-inspired design was further enhanced by a magnificent sculpture over the entrance, symbolizing peace, abundance, science, and industry.
Brunel’s Grand Vision: Unfulfilled
Brunel had a grand plan for the hotel. He dreamt of a seamless journey for travelers, from London to New York, facilitated by the Great Western Company. But fate had other plans. The Great Western Company lost the lucrative Atlantic mail contract to the Cunard Company, and the ship intended for this transatlantic voyage was scrapped. Brunel’s dream of an integrated travel experience remained unfulfilled.
A Legacy of Notable Guests
The hotel has played host to many notable figures throughout its history. In 1861, the 2nd Duke of Buckingham and Chandos breathed his last within its walls. He was a prominent figure in British politics, serving as a Conservative Lord Privy Seal in the 1840s. In a later era, Norah Lady Docker, a socialite known for her lavish lifestyle, passed away at the hotel in 1983.
A New Era: Modernization and Change
In the 1930s, the Great Western Railway Company, now in full control of the hotel, undertook a major renovation project under the direction of their architect Percy Emerson Culverhouse. This marked a significant change in the hotel’s appearance, both inside and out.
The 1980s saw the hotel change hands once more. In line with the government’s privatization policies, British Rail sold the hotel to the private sector. It was then refurbished and rebranded as the Hilton London Paddington, reopening its doors in 2001.
A Legacy of Luxury and History
Today, the Hilton London Paddington stands as a testament to its rich history. It continues to offer a luxurious stay for visitors, while preserving its historical grandeur. From its visionary beginnings to its modern transformation, the hotel has witnessed significant changes in London’s landscape, while maintaining its reputation as a symbol of luxury and sophistication.
