Two hotels share the name “The Savoy”—one on The Strand in central London, another on Henry Street in Limerick, Ireland. Both carry the Savoy brand, but they operate under different ownership, serve different traveller segments, and occupy different positions in the luxury hotel landscape. This guide separates fact from confusion, covering nightly rates, current ownership structures, famous guests, and what each property is known for. The information draws from verified review platforms, editorial travel coverage, and historical hotel records.
Last checked: 2026-05-31
Locations: London (Covent Garden) and Limerick (city centre) · Price from: £468 per night (London); check for Limerick · Rating: 5-star (London); 3–4 star (Limerick) · Ownership: Accor (London); Moran Hospitality (Limerick)
How we researched this
Last checked: 2026-05-31.
Sources reviewed: official property website, Booking.com listing, TripAdvisor reviews, The Telegraph editorial review, Wikipedia and Simple English Wikipedia, Historic Hotels Worldwide, Luxury London, Business Chief Europe, The Private Traveller.
No on-site visit, no staff interview, no independent price verification.
Key facts at a glance
- Owned by Accor via Fairmont management (BBC acquisition context)
- Review score 8.5/10 on Booking.com from 1,782 reviews
- Located on Henry Street (The Telegraph)
- Owned by Moran Hospitality
- Accor acquired The Savoy and Raffles for £1.9bn (BBC)
| Attribute | The Savoy London | The Savoy Hotel Limerick |
|---|---|---|
| Location | The Strand, central London | Henry Street, Limerick city centre |
| Price from (per night) | £468 | Check booking platform |
| Star rating | 5-star | 3–4 star (Tripadvisor consensus) |
| Current owner | Accor (via Fairmont) | Moran Hospitality |
| Review score | Established luxury platform | 8.5/10 (Booking.com, 1,782 reviews) |
| Year opened | 1889 | Modern property (post-2000s) |
How much is one night at The Savoy?
London rates
Rates at The Savoy London start from approximately £468 per night, according to search snippets available as of 2026. This positions the property firmly in the luxury tier, consistent with its 5-star classification and central location on The Strand. The hotel has maintained premium pricing since its 2010 reopening after extensive renovations that began in December 2007. Guests booking through the official website or major booking platforms can expect rates to fluctuate based on season, room category, and availability.
Limerick rates
The Savoy Hotel Limerick does not have a widely published starting rate in the sources reviewed. Travellers are advised to check Booking.com, Expedia, or the property’s own website for current pricing. The Limerick property positions itself as a modern city-centre hotel with strong guest satisfaction scores (8.5/10 from 1,782 reviews on Booking.com), but it operates in a different price segment than its London counterpart.
Booking tips
For The Savoy London, booking well in advance or during shoulder seasons may offer better availability. The Accor portfolio (including Fairmont-managed properties) frequently participates in loyalty programme promotions. For The Savoy Limerick, the Booking.com platform notes that it may stop showing reviews once they reach 36 months of age or if the property undergoes a change of ownership, so recent guest feedback should be prioritised.
Who owns The Savoy Hotel now?
London ownership (Accor)
The Savoy London is currently owned by Accor, a global hospitality group, and is managed under the Fairmont Hotels and Resorts brand. Accor’s acquisition of The Savoy and Raffles brand portfolio was reported at approximately £1.9 billion (BBC). Prior to this acquisition, ownership had passed through several hands: Richard D’Oyly Carte built the hotel in 1889, and Historic Hotels Worldwide notes that Bridget D’Oyly Carte became the hotel’s primary owner during the family era. Later, corporate ownership structures took over, including a period of Middle Eastern joint venture involvement. Business Chief Europe reported that a Qatari firm bought a 50% stake, with Katara Hospitality Company (reportedly 95% owned by Prince Alwaleed bin Talal) holding the other 50% after acquiring it from Lloyds Banking Group in 2005. The current Accor/Fairmont structure supersedes these earlier arrangements.
Limerick ownership (Moran Hospitality)
The Savoy Hotel in Limerick is owned by Moran Hospitality. The property operates independently from the London Savoy and is not part of the Accor/Fairmont portfolio. Booking.com lists the property with a warning that it may stop showing reviews if the accommodation undergoes a change of ownership, which underscores the importance of checking current ownership status directly with the property if this is a concern.
History of ownership changes
The London property has the longer ownership trajectory. Built in 1889 by theatrical impresario Richard D’Oyly Carte using profits from his Gilbert and Sullivan operas, the hotel remained in the Carte family for decades. After extensive renovations and a closure period from December 2007 to October 2010, the reopened hotel operated under various corporate structures before Accor’s acquisition brought it under the Fairmont management umbrella. The Limerick property, by contrast, is a modern hotel establishment that does not share the historical ownership lineage of its London namesake.
What is The Savoy Hotel in Limerick known for?
City centre location
The Savoy Hotel Limerick sits on Henry Street in the heart of Limerick city centre. The Telegraph describes it as “a modern and decidedly swish five-star property in the very heart of historic Limerick city.” Expedia notes that the property is “very well placed in the city, walkable to historical areas and shopping areas.” The central location makes it convenient for travellers exploring the city on foot, with proximity to cultural landmarks and commercial districts.
Boutique luxury
Reviewers on Tripadvisor describe a “nice foyer, friendly reception and concierge, an executive lounge, and comfortable beds.” The Telegraph review highlights that the hotel “offers guests comfort, wonderful city views, plus a touch of glamour and excellent cuisine.” Agoda similarly describes the property as having “excellent facilities and a dedicated staff.” The property holds an 8.5/10 review score on Booking.com based on 1,782 reviews, indicating consistent guest satisfaction across the platform’s methodology.
Near King John’s Castle and Thomond Park
Limerick’s key attractions include King John’s Castle, a 13th-century fortress overlooking the River Shannon, and Thomond Park, the historic rugby stadium. The Savoy Hotel’s city-centre location positions guests within walking distance or a short drive of these landmarks. The hotel serves as a practical base for visitors attending events at Thomond Park or exploring the city’s medieval heritage around King John’s Castle.
Why is The Savoy so famous?
Historic celebrity guests
The Savoy London’s fame stems largely from its history as a destination for royalty, actors, and cultural icons since its opening in 1889. The hotel was among the first to introduce electric lighting and electric lifts in Britain, making it a marvel of its era. Historical records and public records (such as NYC OpenRecords) document actors and public figures who resided at various Savoy properties over the decades. The London property’s theatrical connection to Richard D’Oyly Carte—who built it with profits from his Gilbert and Sullivan operas—established a cultural legacy that persists in the hotel’s branding and public perception.
Five-star riverfront location
The Savoy London’s position on The Strand places it along the Thames Embankment, offering proximity to Covent Garden, the West End theatres, and major cultural institutions. The Private Traveller review describes the location as “marvellous” and notes that “the restaurant options [are] fantastic.” This centrality has made the hotel a consistent choice for discerning travellers visiting London for leisure or business.
Cultural landmark status
The Savoy London has operated for over 130 years, surviving world wars, renovations, and changes in ownership. This longevity has cemented its status as a cultural landmark. Historic Hotels Worldwide describes the property as part of its collection of historic hotels, emphasising its preservation of architectural and cultural heritage. Luxury London notes that The Savoy was London’s first luxury hotel, setting standards that influenced the hospitality industry across Britain.
London vs. Limerick: side-by-side comparison
| Property | Location | Price (per night) | Rating | Owner | Notable history |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Savoy London | The Strand, Covent Garden, London | From £468 | 5-star | Accor (via Fairmont) | Opened 1889; first UK hotel with electric lighting and lifts; renovated 2007–2010 |
| The Savoy Hotel Limerick | Henry Street, Limerick city centre | Check platform | 3–4 star (consensus) | Moran Hospitality | Modern city hotel; strong review scores; walkable to King John’s Castle and Thomond Park |
Price range overview
The Savoy London occupies the ultra-luxury segment with nightly rates from £468, placing it alongside other 5-star properties in central London such as The Ritz, The Dorchester, and Claridge’s. The Accor/Fairmont ownership connects it to a global loyalty programme network that frequently offers points redemptions and status benefits.
The Savoy Hotel Limerick operates in a different tier—a contemporary city hotel with strong ratings but without the historic prestige or premium pricing of its London counterpart. Rates for the Limerick property are not published in major search snippets, suggesting they fall in the mid-range to upper-moderate category for Irish city hotels. Travellers seeking the “Savoy” brand name at a lower price point may find the Limerick property a practical alternative, though it is an entirely separate operation.
Location and getting there
The Savoy London
The Savoy London occupies a prime position on The Strand (A4), directly overlooking the River Thames. The nearest Underground stations are Embankment (Circle, District, Bakerloo, Northern lines) and Charing Cross (Bakerloo, Northern lines), both within a five-minute walk. Charing Cross railway station is adjacent, providing direct connections to the south of England. Covent Garden and the West End theatre district are reachable within ten minutes on foot. Heathrow Airport is approximately 45 minutes by Underground or taxi; Gatwick Airport requires a train to Victoria, then Underground.
The Savoy Hotel Limerick
The Savoy Hotel Limerick is located on Henry Street in the city centre, within walking distance of Limerick’s main commercial and tourist areas. Shannon Airport is the nearest international gateway, approximately 25 kilometres (approximately 35 minutes by car or taxi). Limerick railway station is within the city, with Irish Rail services connecting to Dublin, Cork, and other destinations. Bus Éireann operates local and regional bus services from Limerick’s central bus station.
Ownership and history timeline
- 1889: The Savoy London opens, built by Richard D’Oyly Carte.
- Pre-2000s: Ownership passes through the Carte family to corporate investors.
- 2005: Katara Hospitality Company reportedly buys 50% stake from Lloyds Banking Group.
- 2007: The Savoy London closes for major renovations.
- 2010: The Savoy London reopens after three-year renovation.
- Post-2010: Accor acquires The Savoy and Raffles portfolio; Fairmont Hotels and Resorts manages the London property.
- 2017: The Telegraph last reviews The Savoy Hotel Limerick.
- 2026: Current status: Accor/Fairmont manages London Savoy; Moran Hospitality owns Limerick Savoy.
Our pick: which Savoy is right for you?
Choose The Savoy London if you prioritse historic prestige, central London access, and a verified 5-star luxury experience. Budget from £468 per night and expect the kind of service and atmosphere that has attracted celebrities and royalty for over a century.
Choose The Savoy Hotel Limerick if you want a well-reviewed city-centre hotel in Ireland at a more accessible price point. With an 8.5/10 score on Booking.com and a convenient Henry Street location, it suits travellers exploring Limerick and the wider Shannon region without requiring London-level expenditure.
“a modern and decidedly swish five-star property in the very heart of historic Limerick city”
— The Telegraph reviewer, travel writer
“offers guests comfort, wonderful city views, plus a touch of glamour and excellent cuisine”
— The Telegraph reviewer, travel writer
For travelers seeking a broader perspective, Savoys Spanish-language guide offers detailed pricing and historical context from a different editorial angle.
Frequently asked questions
How much does one night at The Savoy London cost?
Rates at The Savoy London start from approximately £468 per night, according to search data available as of 2026. Rates vary by season, room type, and booking platform.
Who currently owns The Savoy in Limerick?
The Savoy Hotel Limerick is owned by Moran Hospitality. It operates independently from the London Savoy and is not part of the Accor or Fairmont portfolio.
Which actor is known to have lived at The Savoy?
Public records (such as NYC OpenRecords) document that actors and public figures have resided at Savoy properties over the decades. The London Savoy’s 130-year history has attracted numerous celebrity guests, though specific individual records vary by property and era.
What hotel did Kate Middleton stay in?
Kate Middleton (now Princess of Wales) has been associated with The Goring hotel in London for certain stays. She has not been publicly documented staying at The Savoy London. This distinction is important given the separate identities of these London hotels.
Is The Savoy a 5-star hotel?
The Savoy London holds a 5-star classification. The Savoy Hotel Limerick is described as a five-star property in editorial reviews (The Telegraph), though Tripadvisor consensus rates it in the 3–4 star range.
Where is The Savoy Limerick located?
The Savoy Hotel Limerick is located on Henry Street in the city centre of Limerick, Ireland. It is within walking distance of Limerick’s main commercial district, King John’s Castle, and the River Shannon.
What is the price range for The Savoy Limerick?
Specific starting rates for The Savoy Hotel Limerick are not published in major search snippets. Guests are advised to check Booking.com, Expedia, or the property’s own website for current pricing.
Why is The Savoy considered so famous?
The Savoy London’s fame rests on its 1889 founding by Richard D’Oyly Carte, its status as Britain’s first hotel with electric lighting and lifts, its central Thames-side location, and its long history of hosting royalty, celebrities, and cultural figures. More than 130 years of continuous operation have cemented its status as a London landmark.
Sources cited
- Wikipedia – Savoy Hotel
- Simple English Wikipedia – Savoy Hotel
- Historic Hotels Worldwide – The Savoy London History
- The Telegraph – The Savoy Hotel Limerick
- Booking.com – The Savoy Hotel Limerick Reviews
- Business Chief Europe – Savoy London Ownership
- Luxury London – The Savoy Hotel London History
- The Private Traveller – Savoy London Review