LONDON, May 20, 2011 /PRNewswire/ — To celebrate the official launch of London Syon Park, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel, an opening party was held last night, at the new landmark property in the grounds of Syon Park in West London.
The guest list included, Gillian Anderson, Jesse Metcalfe, Zara Martin, Dan Pirrie, Geordie Greig, Hugo Burnand, Ben Elliot, Simon Hammerstein, Jean Louis Sebagh along with Jules Knight, Stephen Bowman and Humphrey Berney of classical band Blake. They were welcomed by Chris Nassetta, (President and CEO, Hilton Worldwide), Simon Vincent, (Area President, Europe, Hilton Worldwide), John Vanderslice (Global Head of Luxury and Lifestyle Brands, Hilton Worldwide), Andreas Panayiotou, (hotel owner and Chairman, The Ability Group) and Dale MacPhee, (General Manager, London Syon Park).
John Vanderslice, global head of luxury and lifestyle brands at Hilton Worldwide, said, “Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts has applied its values of timeless elegance and extraordinary service to our first London-based Waldorf Astoria property, which is completely unique with its beautiful location. The launch of this property reflects the ongoing demand from discerning customers who enjoy luxury travel and epicurean experiences.”
As guests enjoyed a gastronomic journey through the hotel and its herb garden, executive chef Lee Streeton served delicious and hearty canapés inspired by the Capability Brown designed vistas at Syon Park Estate and respecting the heritage of the land. These included melt-in-the-mouth Scottish Lobster with Baby Gem, Cucumber and Marie Rose Sauce, Streeton’s home smoked salmon with Shaved Fennel and Lemon and Julian Temperley Brandy Truffles with Passion Fruit.
An array of food stalls presented an elegant yet rustic feast of cheeses, vegetables and seafood, sourced locally or home grown at the hotel’s kitchen garden. The entire Astor Suite, one of the property’s premiere function spaces, was transformed into a dessert room with delicate, naughty-but-nice delights from macaroons, chocolate and marshmallows to alcohol infused ice-cream scoops created by executive pastry chef, Asoka ‘Paris’ Halaoawattage.
Signature cocktail served included The Delicious Duchess, the Special Chairman and The Manhattan – recognising the heritage of Syon Park and glamour of Waldorf=Astoria New York. Laurent-Perrier Brut Champagne also flowed throughout the evening.
Referencing the Big Band and Swing Era which the Waldorf=Astoria New York has been synonymous, “The Rat Pack” performed live with a full orchestra performing music. Meanwhile, the La de Dahs, a triplet of kooky female singers, charmed guests with their delightful harmonies and vintage Brit-cool style – a nod to the quintessentially Englishness of the location.
Late night guests were invited to move into the Clubhouse – a dining and loft style entertaining space with an open kitchen. Guests enjoyed relaxed, eclectic, menu of Mediterranean tapas and more fresh cocktails, as chilled out tunes played in the background.
Tourism Minister John Penrose MP attended the event and said, “I’m delighted to see Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts developing its presence in Britain with what is a wonderful addition to our luxury offering. With our aim to attract four million extra visitors over the next four years it’s unique properties such as this that will provide people with more reasons to visit.”
London Syon Park, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel is a smart, stylish, new-build property with 137 guest rooms – offering the world renowned singular luxury experience of the Waldorf Astoria brand. Set in 200 acres of beautiful parkland, owned for the past 400 years by the Duchy of Northumberland, just seven miles from both Knightsbridge and Heathrow Terminal 5, London Syon Park provides a tranquil country retreat on the outskirts of London town.
