Have you heard the story of a building with connections to a luminary poet? It is Alexander House Hotel. Dating back to the 17th century, Alexander House has a fascinating story. A Roman road once ran past its western boundary. One stone from the boundary dates back to 1608. This stone stands proudly in the luxurious 1608 Champagne Bar.
The original house was famed for its grandeur. It held connections to the poet Percy Bysshe Shelley. Later, the former Governor of the Bank of England purchased it in 1909. In 1984, the mansion was meticulously refurbished. It was restored and renamed Alexander House Hotel.
We jump ahead to 2006. The property was bought and an 18-month redecoration began. Alexander House transformed into the elegant, luxurious hotel it is today. Later that year, Alexander House became home to a flagship Utopia Spa. This cemented the hotel’s reputation as one of the finest spa hotels in the UK.
In 2012, AA awarded Alexander House with 5-star status. This made it one of the highest-rated hotels outside London. In 2015, the stunning Cedar Lodge Suites were completed.
But let’s step back in time to another palace. Alexandra Palace, or Ally Pally, opened in 1873. It was intended as the People’s Palace. It was to be North London’s counterpart to the Crystal Palace. Just two weeks after opening, a fire destroyed it. However, it was rebuilt and reopened in 1875.
Alexandra Palace housed a concert hall, art galleries, and a theatre. The theatre had machinery for special effects. Artists could disappear and reappear. They could even be propelled into the air.
In 1935, part of Alexandra Palace was leased to the BBC. It became the production and transmission centre for their new television service. In 1936, it became the home of the BBC’s first regular public television service.
The original studios still survive. They are used for exhibiting original historical television equipment. Alexandra Palace became a listed building in 1996.
Returning to Alexander House, it stands as a testament to history. It blends centuries of stories into its very walls. From Roman roads to poetic connections and luxurious renovations, Alexander House welcomes all. It invites you to experience its unique charm. It is a place where history and luxury intertwine seamlessly. So, next time you pass by, remember the layers of time. Remember the stories within Alexander House.