Hotel Westminster

The year 1807 was part of a period of upheavals for France, with Napoleon's military victories and economic actions against his rivals further solidifying his dominance over Europe. Over in Paris, major projects were already underway, including the construction of the Arc de Triomphe. It was during this time that the predecessor to Hotel Westminster opened, at the time known as the Hotel Wagram.

The hotel would not be christened into the Westminster until the latter half of he 19th century, when Queen Victoria created the title in 1874 and bestowed it on Hugh Grosvenor, then Marquess of Westminster. The Duke and his family were quite fond of the hotel, and their patronage inspired later owners to dedicate the establishment in their name.

The next set of transformations to the Westminster took place in 1877, nearly a decade after Georges-Eugène Haussmann renovated Paris. These changes included tweaks to the facade in adherence to Haussmann's Parisian architecture. Later in the 1920s, the hotel acquired a collection of antique clocks, which they then used to decorate the various suites and rooms.

It was in 1981 that Warwick Hotels and Resorts acquired the Westminster Paris. The brand is known for its collection of refined and remarkable properties, many of which are historic buildings. They also place emphasis on preserving the heritage aspect of their hotels, carefully balancing modernizations with historical authenticity and accuracy.

Since the hotel was originally built in 1807 as the Hotel Wagram, it has since undergone numerous changes through the centuries. One of the most significant was because of Haussmann's overhaul of Paris, inspiring the owners to change the building's exterior to match the city's aesthetics. At the time, it was an architect known as A. Gautier who led these efforts, resulting in the facade that we can still see to this day.

Ever since the hotel took on the name Westminster, it has upheld the noble standards deserved by its patrons. This, of course, includes interiors that will impress those from high society. Even its modern owners, the Warwick brand, have been diligent in upholding the criteria for luxurious stays, while preserving its unique and rich heritage. To accomplish this, they commissioned Pierre-Yves Rochon, a renowned interior designer, to create a Westminster Paris that succeeds in opulence and authenticity.

The Hotel Westminster of today features ritzy contemporary interiors decorated with period-style furnishings and actual antiques from the 19th century. Antique clocks and fancy light fixtures, such as chandeliers, create an air of extravagance. In more recent updates, the lobby has been furnished with a 19th-century terracotta statue, as well as murals done by French artist Philippe Coudray.

As part of their commitment to attending to guests from all backgrounds, the hotel also offers rooms with accessibility features for the mobility and vision impaired. These features include tactile and Braille signage, lowered sinks and raised toilets, as well as emergency cords in the bathroom.

Le Celadon

Le Celadon offers a chic atmosphere for luncheons and features a fulfilling menu of carefully crafted seasonal menu of dishes that represent modern French cuisine. Try their specialties, such as the Westminster Burger, served in a brioche bun, with aged cheddar and iceberg lettuce.

Opening hours: 12 pm - 2 pm (Tuesday to Friday)

Breakfast

Le Celadon also hosts a breakfast service for guests of Westminster Paris, available for a fee of 35 EUR (42 USD). The spread includes top-of-the-line items, such as freshly baked Danish pastries and muffins, locally made jams and marmalades, and healthy cereals.

Availability: 7 am - 10 am weekdays; 7 am - 11 am weekends

The Duke's Bar

Unwind in a classy, English-style lounge bar where your beverages and snacks of choice are meticulously made to how you like them. Presenting an exclusive ambiance reminiscent of private clubs of yesteryears, The Duke's Bar, boasts a menu of cocktails and other curated drinks, as well as formulated finger foods. They also hold special seasonal jazz nights starting from September.

Opening hours: Mon to Thu: 7 am - 11 pm; Fri to Sat: 7 am - 12 am

Note: Reservations are highly recommended and can be made through their website or phone number.

Cultural Experiences

With Hotel Westminster located in one of Paris's beloved cultural districts, guests can easily find attractions within walking or cycling distance. Moreover, the hotel's concierge will gladly assist in obtaining reservations or tickets should you wish to visit these locations.

First is Palais Garnier, a grand opera house commissioned by Napoleon III, and designed by Charles Garnier. It is still actively used and hosts operas, Broadway shows, and other stage performances. In the opposite direction is the Louvre Museum, a world-renowned art museum with collections from masters such as Da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Raphael.

Other Celebrations

The hotel will be glad to host any seminars and corporate events at their designated banquet halls. Catering will be handled by the team of the signature restaurant Le Celadon, available as part of their seminar packages. For guests planning to celebrate a birthday or anniversary, it's worth getting in touch with the management so they may be able to provide options for personalized services, such as a private table.