A couture high tea, dinner dances and a menu for dogs: Martin Par takes a peek inside one of London’s most iconic hotels
“This place is a regular whispering-gallery,” wrote novelist Arnold Bennett in his 1930 book Imperial Palace, which was based on The Savoy Hotel in London. The story winds through a roll-call of wild characters in the bustling and luxurious hotel, full of whispers and goings on. Ever the curious observer of British culture and class, Magnum’s Martin Parr captured an average day at The Savoy, from the chamber maids, surely the keepers of many secrets, to the customers of the exclusive venue viewing the designs of couturier Suzie Turner, who holds a monthly high tea and fashion show for her glamorous clients.
Guests are treated to the famous cakes and high teas, and even canine companions are not left out – a dog menu serves up treats such as the ‘pupuccino’. And should a guest want to leave their opulent surroundings and head out into London, Tony, the head doorman has finessed a whistle for when he needs to alert a cab for a guest, calling over one of the waiting taxies, which are always queuing up outside.
