The word ‘Athenaeum’ loosely translates as ‘library’ and is derived from the Greek name Athena, the goddess of wisdom. Our fascinating history has been shaped by culture, literature and the arts.
Discover our history
116 Piccadilly
We’ve got an enviable address in the heart of Mayfair and we’re proud of that. Surrounded by big names like the Ritz and Fortnum and Mason, The Athenaeum Hotel has long been an independent refuge in a sea of brands. A place where we deliver extraordinary service with confidence and discretion and we acknowledge each guest as our long lost friend. Not formulaic, totally personal.
Our roots are firmly grounded in culture, arts and creativity, everything that makes Mayfair so special. That story started in 1850 when Henry Hope chose our building as his home.
Henry Hope was an MP between 1833 and 1852 and his passion was in the arts. He was the first resident of 116 Piccadilly and his extravagant interiors and lavish displays of art caught the eye of Charles Dickens.
Our connection to the arts began with Hope House which held one of Europe’s finest art collections. When Henry died aged just 45, his wife sold Hope House to the fashionable Junior Athenaeum Club. Marking a new era.
From an art house to artists
The dawn of a new era
Gentlemen’s clubs were all the rage in the Victorian era, and the Junior Athenaeum surged in popularity as it entertained the elite of London society. The club was particularly favoured by gentlemen connected with literature, science and art.
In the 1930s, the building was transformed into an Art Deco apartment block.
Four decades later, The Athenaeum was snapped up by British entertainment group The Rank Organisation. The company renovated the apartments into an iconic hotel to accommodate its movie stars whenever they were filming at London’s famous Pinewood and Ealing Studios and here started a new legacy.
The Athenaeum Hotel became the place where celebrities could retreat from the public eye. The quirky back passage to the residences was often used to escape the glare of the paparazzi. The team were not unfamiliar with handling big stars with the upmost discretion.
Big moments in history happened right here. Take That announced their split from a suite. Stephen Spielberg worked on ET during his stay with us.
Today, we continue our passion with the arts, local culture and service with discretion. We champion local artists, we celebrate our local Mayfair community, all sprinkled with a personal service delivered with confidence and charm.
Our stories
The Athenaeum Hotel & Residences unveils revitalised living wall
Our iconic living wall, which has been a landmark feature for nearly 20 years has been revitalised.
Give the gift of an Athenaeum Hotel gift voucher
An Athenaeum Hotel gift voucher makes the choice of gift choosing feel beautifully thoughtful.
Festive dining at The Athenaeum
There's more than one way to celebrate Christmas at The Athenaeum. Find out how.
Insider’s guide: Mayfair’s most Instagrammable spots
Here are our tips on where to find some of the most Instagrammable spots in Mayfair.
Chelsea Flower Show: What to Expect in 2026
One of the most famous flower and garden shows in the world, The RHS Chelsea Flower Show next May.
Insider’s guide: Luxury London Pub Crawl
Spend a weekend soaking up classic London luxury pubs around Central London.
The Athenaeum's deep roots to Hollywood glamour
Explore The Athenaeum's glamorous showbiz history at our iconic Mayfair hotel.
Explore autumn park walks
Your doorstep to London’s Royal Parks and gardens in and around Mayfair.
