London's Royal Garden Hotel reopens after $45 million renovation

Business Wire, April 9, 1996

LONDON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 9, 1996--London regained a new five-star hotel today, with the reopening of the Royal Garden Hotel in Kensington.

Closed for nearly two years, the 403-room hotel emerged from a $45 million renovation of all guest rooms, public spaces, and exteriors.

From top-to-bottom, inside and out, the Royal Garden is totally transformed. The old, 1960s exterior has been replaced with ultra-modern steel and glass walls. Top-of-the line technology will extend its computer capabilities well into the 21st century. The hotel is fully air conditioned and amenities include a 24-hour business center, a health club, chauffeur-driven cars for guest use and parking for 160 vehicles. Meeting space has been upgraded and expanded to provide a total of 18,765 square feet of space. The new conference and banquet facilities will be among the largest, most technically advanced in London.

The new Royal Garden offers 403 guestrooms, including 36 suites and 123 Trader Rooms. A new concept in accommodations, single occupancy Trader Rooms provide access to the hotel's five-star business and entertainment services at rates approximately $76 less than the standard room rate. A Reserve Floor is available for executive guests. All rooms feature, desk area with two-line telephone with voice mail, fax and computer modem link, personally controlled air conditioning, satellite tv, mini-bar and hairdryer.

Guests will dine in style at three fine restaurants. The rooftop dining room and bar, The Tenth; the informal Park Terrace and the Asian-accented Royal Dynasty. Three new bars provide libations and live music.

First opened in 1966, The Royal Garden enjoys a premier location in Kensington - the only London hotel actually located on Hyde-Park. London's landmarks are nearby - the Royal Albert Hall, Victoria & Albert Museum and the antiques markets, fine shops and restaurants of Kensington High Street. The hotel is next door to Kensington Palace, home to several members of the Royal Family, including Princess Diana.

The hotel is now under the management of the Goodwood Group of Hotels of Singapore, which manages several deluxe Singapore properties, including the noted Goodwood Park Hotel.

For reservations, call 800-987-9317.

NOTE TO TRAVEL EDITORS: The Royal Garden offers a Reopening Rate of $175 per room, per night, including VAT, valid through Aug. 31, 1996. (This offer is not available during the month of June.) These rates are guaranteed in U.S. dollars and must be prepaid.

CONTACT: Anne Sweeney Public Relations

Anne Sweeney/Kathy Smith

609/252-0885