Episode 2
Documentary series revealing the inner world of luxury hotel Claridge's. Exploring the importance of tradition and continuity to the hotel's clientele - and to its reputation.
Opened in 1854, Claridge's is famed for its art deco interiors and traditional service. Many staff, such as Roman the doorman, have worked there for over 30 years, giving guests continuity and the sense they might be living in a different century.
The Crown Prince of Yugoslavia is a regular guest, and he returns to stay in the suite where he was born in 1945. Joan Collins, Stephen Fry and the Emperor of Japan also come to visit, as well as 85-year-old Gerry Parker, an ex-East End bookmaker who has breakfasted at Claridge's for the last 40 years.
Given this weight of tradition and expectation, general manager Thomas Kochs takes any change very seriously, and no decision - from new alarm clocks to a £10 million renovation plan - escapes his obsessive attention to detail.
Last on
Clip
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Japanese Emperor Arrives
Duration: 01:05
Music Played
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Louis Armstrong
La Vie En Rose
Credits
| Role | Contributor |
|---|---|
| Director | Jane Treays |
| Producer | Jane Treays |
| Executive Producer | Magnus Temple |
| Executive Producer | Emma Tutty |
Broadcasts
Mon 10 Dec 201221:00BBC HD & BBC Two- Tue 11 Dec 201223:20BBC Two Wales & England only
- Tue 11 Dec 201223:50BBC Two Scotland
- Wed 12 Dec 201200:20BBC Two Northern Ireland
- Christmas Eve 201200:30BBC HD
Thu 3 Jan 201303:10- Thu 3 Jan 201314:15
Tue 17 Mar 201522:00- Tue 19 Jul 201622:00
- Wed 20 Jul 201602:00
- Tue 19 Dec 201715:00
