Tucked away on its very own quaint and quiet cul-de-sac, mere moments from some of London’s most iconic landmarks, is the Stafford Hotel. A hotel renowned for its timeless elegance and fascinating history. Although the hubbub of Piccadilly Circus and Green Park may be just around the corner; once you step through the big old oak doors (complete with a charming doorman, of course) you’ll easily forget that you’re right in the centre of one of the city’s bustiest districts.
Having started out as private residences for local aristocrats during the 17th century, The Stafford’s buildings weren’t opened as a hotel until 1912. During World War II, the hotel became a place of residence and sanctuary for American and Canadian officers who were stationed in London. At the same time, Parisian restauranteur, Simone Prunier, used the hotel’s cellars as a safe place to store her collection of wine. Those very same cellars went on to serve as public air-raid bunkers during the Blitz – but more on that later.
Among The Stafford’s notable past clientele (of which there are many) is British intelligence agent, Nancy Wake. Nicknamed ‘The White Mouse’, Wake was one of WWII’s greatest spies and she resided at the hotel for the last few years of her life.
The Stafford is now one of London’s most exclusive boutique hotels, boasting 107 individually-designed rooms. The interiors have been modernised, of course – but the hotel is still drenched in history, character and splendour.
The Wine Cellars
The Stafford’s wine cellars were built by Francis Godolphin back in the 17th century, making them some of the oldest in London. As mentioned earlier, the cellars were used as a bomb shelter during World War II and a unique glimpse into this period of time can still be seen to this day.
Guests can take a tour of the 380-year-old cellars which currently house over 8000 bottles of wine and Champagne. At the far end of the cellars, you’ll find a small museum housing artefacts left by American and Canadian WWII servicemen and women. The fascinating collection of wartime items include newspapers and cigarette packets that have been carefully preserved by the hotel.
The American Bar
The American Bar at The Stafford was given its name (like many others at the time) to attract the business of American servicemen and women, offering them a little slice of home. This particular ‘American Bar’ is one of the very few that have kept its name ever since.
Serving up cocktails of the highest callibre from a menu that is heavily influenced by the hotel’s wartime history; The American Bar is an intimate bar, adorned with memorabilia that has been donated by various guests over the years.
The bar is now a lively spot with locals and visitors alike – with an ever-reserved stool for Nancy Wake. There is also a cocktail on the menu in memory of the war hero. The ‘White Mouse’ is a twist on Wake’s favourite: the humble gin and tonic. It’s said that whilst Nancy lived at The Stafford, she drank a gin and tonic at The American Bar every single day at 11am sharp.
My new goal in life, I hear you ask? Be more Nancy Wake.
📍 16-18 St James’s Place, St. James’s, SW1A 1NJ.