While the Cat’s Away… Lilibet Takes Over 🐾
World Cat Day Special | 8th August
While the LRG editorial team enjoys a little well-earned summer break, we’ve passed the pen (or should that be the ribbon?) to one of our most astute contributors to mark World Cat Day, Lilibet, The Lanesborough’s most discerning (and undoubtedly softest) resident.
From her chaise longue by the concierge desk to her silent vigils in the spa, Lilibet has watched a thousand stories unfold at Hyde Park Corner. So who better to offer insight into a life of indulgence, discretion, and perfectly timed appearances? Here, she shares her favourite hideouts, habits, and why Lanesborough House and Luxury Restaurant Club members are always her favourite humans to tail.
Interview with Lilibet (As told to Luxury Restaurant Guide)
Q: Lilibet, what’s your typical day like at The Lanesborough – and how do you make time for a little luxury?
A: It’s a delicate balance of posing regally, accepting compliments, and sniffing out guests arriving for lunch – you never know who’s carrying caviar. I always make time to sashay into the Withdrawing Room, just as the club members I recognise arrive. They usually stop for a chat… and occasionally a scratch behind the ear. I reward them with my presence.
Q: You must have an eye (and nose) for taste – any favourite Lanesborough treats?
A: The kitchen knows better than to serve me the ordinary. I’m partial to smoked salmon (sans cream cheese, red onion, dill, capers and bagel, naturally). I’ve also noticed that LRG members tend to dine with flair – they’re usually the ones starting lunch with a complimentary glass of Champagne at The Lanesborough Grill. Très chic.
Q: Where do you go to ‘paws’ and unwind?
A: The spa relaxation room is absolute purrfection. Technically, I’m not allowed – but I prefer to interpret ‘rules’ as light suggestions. That heated stone floor is ideal for full-body flops. Lanesborough House members enjoy £100 off spa treatments, but if you’re very lucky, I might offer some making biscuits therapy of my own.
Q: What would you recommend to members looking for the full Lilibet-approved experience?
A: Start with a cocktail in the Library Bar, then dinner at The Lanesborough Grill – ideally near the window where I can supervise. And if you’re staying overnight as a Lanesborough House member with £500 off the room rate? Then a dip in the pool the next morning is non-negotiable. Fur optional.
Q: Any secret member-only benefits you think are especially meow-nificent?
A: Oh, absolutely. I love watching Lanesbourgh House members swan in with that “I know something you don’t” look. They are the ones with money off room rates, priority bookings, exclusive perks… they get the five-star treatment I enjoy every day. Well, nearly.
Q: What’s the unexpected upside of being The Lanesborough’s resident feline?
A: Having a front-row seat to everything. I’ve witnessed proposals, reunions, even the occasional impromptu photoshoot. And I’ve napped on more designer shoes than I care to name. Being centre of attention while pretending not to care? That’s the real art.
Q: What’s your Sunday wind-down routine?
A: A light snack (sashimi or nothing), a long stare out toward Wellington Arch, and a moonlit strut through the halls. Sundays are for mystery – and maintaining an air of elegant aloofness.
Q: Any team members who spoil you the most?
A: Let’s just say I know exactly who’s got something interesting in their pockets. Guests are politely discouraged from feeding me – but compliments, reverence, and admiring glances are always welcome.
Q: What’s your idea of a purrrfect night out?
A: The Garden Room terrace – especially if someone’s enjoying Lindisfarne Rock Oysters and happens to be a little clumsy. It’s a hidden gem for members in the know, offering priority reservations and that off-duty glamour I appreciate in others.
Q: And finally… how will you be spending World Cat Day?
A: Basking in attention. I’ll be taking over the hotel’s social media (with paw-sistance), reclining on the concierge desk, and possibly granting a photo or two – if the lighting is acceptable. I may even write again. Guest editorship suits me.
Lilibet’s Club Hotlist 🐾
Favourite member perk: Complimentary Champagne (strictly for humans – though I enjoy watching the bubbles rise) and the complimentary Afternoon Tea Lanesborough House members receive. I’m often invited to supervise.
Go-to grooming essential: Weekly fluff maintenance – my stylist comes to me.
Evening soundtrack: “Everyone Wants to Be a Cat” – by the Aristocats, of course.
Luxury essential: A silk-lined drawer and an uninterrupted nap schedule.
Best luxury under £25: Knowing everyone thinks I run the hotel – and being right.
🐾🐾🐾
Ready to follow in Lilibet’s pawprints?
Step into a world of privilege, poise, and perfectly timed indulgence with The Lanesborough House Membership – a club close to Lilibet’s heart (and sunniest nap spots).
Members enjoy:
* Increased dining privileges throughout the hotel
* Exclusive rates on suites and spa treatments
* Invitations to a curated calendar of private event
Plus, a host of generous welcome benefits including:
* A complimentary bottle of Champagne
* £500 room credit towards an overnight stay
* £200 of spa credits
* Two Champagne Afternoon Teas
* £3,500 of credits towards private functions and entertaining
It’s the kind of treatment Lilibet enjoys daily – now exclusively available to those who appreciate life with a little more polish (and pawse). Membership starts from £575 per year and includes over £4,000 of exclusive value.
The Lanesborough, Hyde Park Corner, London, SW1X 7TA
www.oetkerhotels.com/hotels/the-lanesborough/
🥂 A Touch of Sparkle with Lunch or Dinner
Not quite ready for full-time feline finesse?
Luxury Restaurant Club members enjoy a complimentary glass of Champagne when dining for lunch or dinner at The Lanesborough Grill. Not a member? From just £95, join Luxury Restaurant Club, or begin with a two-week free trial.
