For almost two centuries, Café Royal has stood elegantly at the heart of London charming worldy sophicates and shoppers alike, indulging conversation over high teas and hosting famed celebrity gatherings behind its velvety curtains. That was, until 2008 when it closed to undergo a £90 million redevelopment that saw it transform from a cafe into a 159-room luxury hotel.

This summer saw it open a new chapter, to coincide with the London Olympics 2012. And by February 2013 visitors can expect to access the full Café Royal experience which includes the Akasha Holistic Wellbeing Centre, the Café Royal Club and The Café. The venue is part of a £750m Crown Estate regeneration of Regent Street and London’s West End.