Steps away from Hyde Park, a triple-height lobby welcomes guests into the grandeur and elegance of The Peninsula London. Despite its scale, the brand is committed to meticulous attention to detail, ensuring each guest enjoys exceptional and dedicated service.
Learn a little more about Walpole's latest member in our interview with Managing Director of The Peninsula London, Rolf Buehlmann, below.
Walpole: Tell us about the history of your brand…
Rolf Buehlmann: We are blessed with a rich history, with the first Peninsula opening in Hong Kong in 1928. For almost a century now, guests' stays at The Peninsula Hotels are memorable for the dedicated service of our team members, with each holding a passion for hospitality and an intimate knowledge of their city. The brand is known for its luxury hotels set in 12 cultural epicentres around the world, with The Peninsula London a new addition to the hospitality scene having opened just last September. We are humbled that our unique blend of British charm and modern elegance – right in the heart of Belgravia – has been so warmly received.
What is your brand best known for?
Our pages in their traditional, pristine uniforms, our Brewster-green Rolls-Royce cars, our generous hotel spaces, and our meticulous attention to detail.
What has been a significant achievement in your company’s timeline?
A recent milestone for us was Brooklands by Claude Bosi earning two Michelin stars. This recognition has positioned Brooklands as a top dining spot in London. It's a testament to the hard work and passion of Chef Bosi, Chef Francesco, and their team, who consistently deliver exceptional dining experiences.
Why do you love the brand?
The Peninsula London is filled with space and light. From the moment you set foot into our triple-height lobby, you can see and feel the craftsmanship in both our design and service. Our unwavering attention to detail and commitment to personalisation ensure that every guest experience is unique and memorable. This dedication to service and excellence is what makes our brand truly special.
Why does your brand represent the very best in British luxury?
Our brand embodies British luxury through exclusive collaborations with acclaimed British artists and creators. From Jenny Packham's bespoke wardrobes to Richard Brendon's fine bone china, each partnership celebrates the nation's rich heritage of craftsmanship. Whether it's original artworks from The Royal Drawing School, sustainable fragrances by Timothy Han, or the fleet of electric house cars, every detail reflects our dedication to showcase the very best of British luxury.
What attracted you to becoming a Walpole member?
The opportunity to align ourselves with other esteemed brands in the luxury sector. Walpole's reputation for upholding the highest standards of heritage, craftsmanship and excellence perfectly resonates with our brand ethos. By joining Walpole, we hope to collaborate with like-minded brands, contribute to industry discussions and further elevate the British luxury sector as a whole.
If you could collaborate with another Walpole member, which one would you choose?
We are fortunate to already collaborate with several Walpole members such as Bentley Motors, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, National Gallery, Garrard and more. We are excited to build and strengthen relationships with other Walpole members. Being part of the community will open up endless possibilities.
Tell us about an exciting development or new launch for your brand in the coming months?
We are thrilled to announce the upcoming launch of The Peninsula Academy programme, which will offer a curated selection of exclusive experiences to in-house guests. The programme will offer a unique introduction to the culture, lifestyle, cuisine, arts, and history of London and beyond. Thoughtfully designed with the best guides and partners, the programme will include bespoke classes, tours, and activities. Each experience is crafted to create unforgettable memories.
