When The Telegraph compiles their list of “The eight British palaces you must visit in your lifetime,” you know you’re looking at something special. And when they recommend The Clarendon Hotel as the perfect place to stay while visiting one of these architectural treasures, we can’t help but feel rather proud.
Eltham Palace in Greenwich made their prestigious list, and we’re their recommended accommodation! Sometimes recognition comes from unexpected places, and seeing our name in The Telegraph alongside Britain’s most magnificent palaces feels pretty special.
Why Eltham Palace Deserves Its Telegraph Recognition
Eltham Palace tells two stories from very different eras. The medieval Great Hall, built for Edward IV in the 1470s, stands as a testament to royal grandeur from centuries past. Henry VIII knew these halls well, having spent considerable time here during his youth.
Then, in the 1930s, the wealthy Courtauld family created something unprecedented – they built a stunning Art Deco mansion right beside the medieval ruins. The result combines royal history with 1930s sophistication in ways you simply don’t see elsewhere.
Walking through rooms that blend medieval architecture with Hollywood glamour creates a uniquely British experience that explains why The Telegraph included it among the nation’s essential palace visits.
The Perfect Base for Palace Exploration
The Telegraph chose to mention The Clarendon for good reason – our Georgian building provides an ideal launching pad for exploring this architectural marvel. Located on the edge of Blackheath, we’re perfectly positioned for both Eltham Palace visits and everything else this corner of South East London offers.
After a morning exploring medieval halls and Art Deco interiors, you can return to the calm of Blackheath village for lunch, perhaps take an afternoon stroll across the Common, then enjoy dinner in our Meridian Restaurant while discussing the day’s discoveries.
Making the Most of Your Palace Visit
Eltham Palace sits in beautiful grounds that complement the building’s unique character. The restored gardens reflect both medieval and 1930s influences, providing the perfect setting for the architectural fusion within.
You should definitely plan to spend a full day there – the combination of historical periods requires time to appreciate properly. The medieval Great Hall alone deserves lingering, while the Art Deco rooms reveal new details with closer inspection.
Beyond the Palace Gates
While Eltham Palace rightfully claims your attention, staying at The Clarendon opens up other treasures The Telegraph might not have mentioned. Greenwich’s maritime attractions sit just minutes away, while Blackheath Common provides that rare London commodity – proper open space for evening walks and morning runs.
Our Chart Bar becomes the perfect venue for discussing the day’s architectural discoveries over drinks, while a delicious breakfast after a comfortable stay in one of our rooms sets you up for whatever historical exploration calls next.
Ready for Your Palace Adventure?
When a national newspaper recommends both a destination and where to stay, it’s worth listening. Eltham Palace offers something genuinely unique in Britain’s architectural landscape, and The Clarendon provides the comfortable base you need to explore it properly.
Book your stay and discover why The Telegraph chose us as the perfect companion to one of Britain’s most unusual royal residences!