The Stafford, London

National GeographicJul 30

These grand hotels have legendary cellars—and centuries of history

Underneath these world-class stays, the past lives on with rare spirits and vintages, hidden walls, and secret passages that survived wars and even volcanic eruptions.

Cellar dates to 17th century, once connected to St. James' Palace.

11 things in this story

The StaffordHotelCellar dates to 17th century, once connected to St. James' Palace.
Elsewhere
Hôtel de ParisHotelMonte Carlo, MonacoMonaco's largest hotel wine cellars span 16,000 square feet.
Four Seasons Hotel George VHotelParis, FranceFamed cellar founded with the hotel in 1928, carved into rock.
Le CinqRestaurantParis, FranceOne of three Michelin-starred restaurants at Four Seasons Hotel George V.
L'OrangerieRestaurantParis, FranceOne of two Michelin-starred restaurants at Four Seasons Hotel George V.
Le GeorgeRestaurantParis, FranceA Michelin-starred restaurant at Four Seasons Hotel George V.
Il Borro ToscanaHotelSan Giustino Valdarno, ItalyLuxury resort rests atop a medieval estate and village.
The Apartment at Tour d’ArgentHotelParis, FranceOne-bedroom micro-hotel overlooking the Seine and Paris skyline.
Tour d'ArgentRestaurantParis, FranceOne of the world's most historical restaurants, opened in 1582.
The Retreat at Blue LagoonHotelReykjanes Peninsula, IcelandGeothermal cellar set in a lava cave formed by a volcano.
Moss restaurantRestaurantReykjanes Peninsula, IcelandMichelin-starred restaurant at The Retreat at Blue Lagoon.

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The Stafford

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These grand hotels have legendary cellars—and centuries of history