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Documentary to mark Claridge's 200th anniversary
Iconic London hotel Claridge's is to celebrate its 200th anniversary by allowing access to a BBC-documentary team – the first time it has ever opened its doors to the cameras.
According to the Broadcastnow website, the BBC is currently being given access all areas to produce a three-part documentary series, focussing on a series of events being held at the hotel across 2012 to celebrate the landmark year.
Boasting a hugely rich back-story, Claridge's has had several requests for media access over the years, but has turned it down each time in a bid to retain the hotel’s allure of exclusivity.
During its 200 year history, the hotel has been a favourite with royalty as well as eminent figures from the world of show business, including Cary Grant, Audrey Hepburn and Alfred Hitchcock.
Founded in 1812 as Mivart's Hotel, it was sold in 1854 to a Mr and Mrs Claridge, who owned a smaller hotel next door. The couple combined the two operations and eventually changed the name of the hotel to Claridge's.