The Grade II-listed townhouse in the heart of the capital’s historic Marylebone was once home to Jane Austen’s brother, Henry. This heritage and the building’s story have been encapsulated in its Regency-style restoration, design and atmosphere. Now it’s available for exclusive hire or by room.
An immersive visual history
Owners Jane and Steven Collins (the same team who were behind the renowned Temple Guiting Manor, Barns & Pantry in the heart of the Cotswolds) have worked alongside the award-winning Russell Sage Studio, assisted by Feix&Merlin Architects. The building has been luxuriously restored as an exclusive place to stay; a thoughtful and glamorous re-imaging of the Austen era, taking inspiration from Henry and Eliza’s reported life at the house and as part of wider London society. It’s widely thought that Jane’s time visiting her brother in London carries great literary value, for it was through his support that her work was published. As such, the rooms and public spaces in the townhouse echo a richly woven past, where intriguing characters and stories have played out. It’s an exciting chapter in the life and history of the house, where the old meets the new.
A six-bedroom property minutes from Hyde Park
Found at No.24 Upper Berkeley Street, the building comprises six elegant and elaborately designed bedrooms, each with its own unique narrative. Each is like its own novel, which the guest can open up, become immersed and soak in the story. Carefully chosen colour palettes, rich fabrics and beautiful furnishings create a sumptuous backdrop, alongside imaginatively procured antiques and original pieces from across the globe.
“It was my great pleasure to focus our design experience on restoring the magnificent Henry’s Townhouse. I worked alongside owners Steven and Jane in selecting and complimenting from their personal antique collection, to create spaces which were evocative of the members of Jane Austin’s family and circle of friends. Whilst not being a museum to the history of the building, the pieces chosen create a historic ambience which combines to bring great comfort and humour to a stay at Henry’s Townhouse.” Says Russell Sage, Principal Director of Russell Sage Studio.
Read our guide to the coolest hotels in London
Its common areas are on the ground and lower floor and include a bespoke Pantry Kitchen where guests can take breakfast, and arrange private dining or parties around the sociable sharing table. And, for business travellers, the space can be swiftly transformed into a fully equipped meeting room and workspace. Drinks can be taken in the small, yet lavish, carriage-like cocktail ‘snug’ and on the alfresco terrace. Henry’s also accommodates a study/seventh bedroom and Jane Austen’s Reading Room. Together, these spaces provide a unique and magical setting for a private celebration with family and friends or a corporate stay.
Luxury, privacy and a central location
Starting from £4,950 per night, Henry’s Townhouse is available for exclusive use, catering for up to 14 guests. This includes a full breakfast, a well stocked mini bar with ‘Best of British’ products, evening aperitifs and tea and treats every afternoon. Each bedroom also has mod cons such as Dyson hairdryers and L:A Bruket Swedish, organic bathroom products. But it’s not reserved just for groups; individual rates are offered “By Room”, making it a captivating base for your city break with children, or a truly romantic couple’s bolthole (Austen was, after all, the queen of romantic fiction).
Read our guide to the best hotels in Marylebone
“We have been thrilled to see our project and years of hard work finally come to life as a beautiful and captivating small hotel. Henry’s Townhouse has a sense of occasion and is sophisticated, yet fun, appealing to those looking for a lovely base to stay in the heart of the West End, as well as those wanting to hire the house exclusively for family and friends for a special occasion,” says Steven Collins, Owner of Henry’s.
Contact Details
Website: henrystownhouse.co.uk
Address: 24 Upper Berkeley St, London W1H 7QH
