The Dorchester London gets a royally good makeover ahead of the coronation
The luxury hotel is recreating the decorations from Queen Elizabeth’s coronation ahead of King Charles’s ceremony in May.
By Ella Sangster
AS EARLY CELEBRATIONS for King Charles III’s coronation begin, one London landmark is looking to the past for inspiration.
Ahead of the May 6 ceremony, luxury hotel The Dorchester is recreating the decor from the coronation of the King’s mother, Queen Elizabeth II, in 1953.
The original decorations honouring the late Queen’s ceremony were created by British stage set designer Oliver Messel. They included dramatic, theatre-esque draping which dressed the facade of the heritage building in shades of blue and crimson.
The Dorchester has become renowned for its world-famous afternoon tea, which will also be given a royal update for the monumental event. Available over the coronation weekend, from May 5 to 8, guests can enjoy a selection of themed cakes created by executive pastry chef Michael Kwan, as well as an array of sandwiches and Champagne. At the hotel’s new cocktail destination, Vesper Bar, a ‘Sovereign Martini’ will also be on offer.
Related: Here’s everything you need to know about King Charles III’s coronation
The hotel — which sits atop Mayfair’s beloved Hyde Park — is a jewel of London’s luxury scene and has even been attended by the King for various charitable dinners and state banquets. Accordingly, it’s a natural location to enjoy the coronation festivities. On the big day, The Dorchester will open its rooftop to serve an open-air lunch to watch the Red Arrows Flypast. Revellers can watch on while enjoying a three-course lunch by culinary director Martyn Nail.
Make a reservation for the coronation lunch here, and if you’re in town be sure to head to Hyde Park to take in the magnificent decor.
