From the 19th century to the present day, the Royal Garden Hotel has been host to esteemed guests, iconic events and unforgettable moments.
Explore our journey through the years and discover the legacy that continues to define us today.
The first hotel to stand at 2 Kensington High Street was the King’s Arms Hotel, a grand tavern situated at the corner of Kensington Gardens. With a lively bar on the ground floor and guest rooms on the upper levels, it served as a popular stop for travelers.
In 1893, the Royal Palace Hotel replaced the King’s Arms and several neighboring shops, transforming the location into one of the world’s largest hotels at the time. Boasting over 300 rooms, elegant lounges, private dining rooms, and a magnificent ballroom, it became a prestigious destination. The hotel even featured a flat rooftop promenade that doubled as a smoking lounge - an innovative touch for its era.
By 1960, the hotel and adjacent shops at 10-24 Kensington High Street were demolished to make way for a new, bigger vision. Designed by renowned architect Colonel Richard Seifert, the Royal Garden Hotel was completed in 1965, introducing a contemporary 400-bedroom luxury hotel that redefined modern hospitality.
In 1996, the hotel entered a new chapter when Tan Sri Khoo Teck Puat, chairman of the Goodwood Group of Hotels, acquired the property. Following an extensive refurbishment, the hotel was relaunched with 394 beautifully designed rooms, continuing its legacy as a premier destination in Kensington.
Our event spaces have played a significant role in the hotel’s rich history, hosting prestigious award ceremonies, glamorous afterparties, and iconic moments. Over the years, we’ve welcomed legendary sports teams, including the 1966 England Football Team, who celebrated their historic World Cup victory with us.
Our halls have not only welcomed royalty, but also music and film royalty - from The Beatles and Johnny Cash to Mick Jagger and Elton John. Bob Dylan even borrowed a doorman’s hat and took it back to the USA!
ABBA checked in fresh from their Eurovision Song Contest win, while Hollywood legends like Michael Caine, Matt LeBlanc, and Dustin Hoffman have all stayed with us. When Justin Bieber visited in 2012, we received 20,000 calls from eager fans with many posing as his family or friends!
From its origins as a Victorian-era tavern to the transformation into a modern luxury hotel, the Royal Garden Hotel has hosted legendary guests and iconic events. We continue to welcome visitors from around the globe, providing tailored luxury experiences to make every stay unforgettable.
