, it is important to have a basic understanding of its evolution. The 19th century was the beginning of the history of hotels in London. The need arose from businessmen who would stay in the city during the week or part of the year. They would typically stay in rented homes or rooms during their stay while maintaining their permanent residence somewhere outside the city. Eventually the businessmen and other travelers felt the need for more service than the rentals provided. In 1812, Mivart's which was to become Claridge's began welcoming guests. The railway truly took the lead in demanding larger establishments for the growing number of visitors not staying long enough to warrant renting a house. As visitors grew in numbers, the accommodations grew in size.
The Victorian era saw a boom in London new hotel construction. The Savoy, arguably the most famous hotel in Europe, was built during this time. This period saw the first en suite bathroom offered. Between World Wars I and II, many businessmen found they could no longer afford to keep their permanent homes and the rental of one in the city for work. Hotels became the logical alternative. Many famous hotels that still exist today were built for this reason. There was a slow down after WWII that continued until air travel created a whole new market of visitors to England.
Air travel created a new need for London new hotel development. Millions more people were coming to the city and they needed somewhere to stay. New hotels popped up to accommodate the new influx of visitors. The 1980's brought the idea of the boutique style hotels. These provided an intimacy that their larger counterparts could not. These trendy, smaller places catered to the individual style and needs of their guests and have flourished in the market despite even during the recent economic downturn.
The most profitable London new hotel development today offer a variety of services including comfortable accommodations and the ability to serve as meeting places or conference centers. Environmental friendliness is also a hallmark of the present day. The awarding of the 2012 Olympic Games to the city of London has created a need for rooms of all shapes, sizes and price ranges. Rooms of all kinds will now be available in abundance throughout the city for 2012 and beyond.