Grosvenor Square
Grosvenor Square is the centrepiece of the Mayfair property of the Dukes of Westminster, and takes its name from their surname, "Grosvenor". Duke Street forms the east side of the square. Sir Richard Grosvenor obtained a licence to develop Grosvenor Square and the surrounding streets in 1710 , and development is believed to have commenced in around 1721 . Grosvenor Square was one of the three or four most fashionable residential addresses in London from its construction until the Second World War, with numerous leading members of the aristocracy in residence. The early houses were generally of five or seven bays, with basement, three main stories and an attic. Some attempt was made to produce impressive groupings of houses, and Colen Campbell produced a design for a palatial east side to the square featuring thirty corinthian columns but this was not carried out and in the end most of the houses were built to individual designs. There were mews behind all four sides. Many of the houses were rebuilt later in the 18th century or during the 19th century , generally acquiring an extra storey when this happened. Number 26 was rebuilt in 1773-74 for the 11th Earl of Derby by Robert Adam , and is regarded as one of the architect's finest works and as a seminal example of how grandeur of effect and sophisticated planning might be achieved on a confined site. It was demolished and rebuilt again in the 1860s. The central garden, which was originally reserved for the use of the occupants of the houses as was standard in a London square, is now a public park. Nearly all of the houses were demolished during the 20th century and replaced with blocks of flats in a neo-Georgian style, hotels and embassies. Access to the western side of the square is severely restricted by the very obvious security measures around the U.S. Embassy.
London Marriott Hotel
Located in fashionable Mayfair, the 5-star London Marriott Hotel Grosvenor Square enjoys renowned service and amenities many hotels in London strive to attain. Infusing contemporary chic with classic luxury the hotel boasts Gordon Ramsay's 'Maze' Restaurant and magnificent event space superb for entertaining between 10 - 1000 guests, perfect for any occasion.
Phone: 020 7493 1232
Fax: 020 7491 3201
