Staying on the pulse of news

03rd Jan 2024

Special Notice: Beware of Fraudulent Websites & Phishing Links

It has been brought to our attention that there are fraudulent websites that falsely claim that Executive Chairman of Hong Leong Group, Mr Kwek Leng Beng, is promoting an investment product.

The information on the website is categorically false and misleading, enticing individuals into fraudulent schemes through clickbait and phishing links.

We would like to reassure everyone that Mr Kwek Leng Beng and Hong Leong Group of Companies are not associated with or endorse any investment platforms or products.

We strongly urge everyone to exercise caution, especially when financial and personal information are involved, and to report them to the relevant authorities.

If in doubt, please feel free to reach out to us for clarification.

Let’s remain vigilant and stay alert against scams!

09th Nov 2023

Mr Kwek Leng Beng Marks the Launch of his Biography with a S$24 Million Donation to Singapore Institute of Technology

SINGAPORE, 9 November 2023 – Real estate and hotel tycoon Mr Kwek Leng Beng had always refused to have any book written about him and rarely granted interviews. Yet tonight, he surprised many by launching his biography, Strictly Business: The Kwek Leng Beng Story, with Emeritus Senior Minister (ESM) Goh Chok Tong gracing the memorable event.

The 257-page biography, written by award-winning author Mr Peh Shing Huei, was launched at The St. Regis Singapore, one of the many luxury hotels owned by Hong Leong Group Singapore, where Mr Kwek is the Executive Chairman. Few knew that when he gave a nod for the book, Mr Kwek had one self-imposed condition: he wanted to mark the project’s completion with a meaningful donation to society.

11th Oct 2023

M Social Phuket Introduces A New Era In Hospitality With Trendy And Upscale Hotel In The Heart Of Patong

Experience a perfect combination of trendsetting design, seamless technology and gastronomical delights at the new M Social Phuket.

11 OCTOBER 2023 – PHUKET, THAILAND: Patong’s hospitality scene is set to reach new heights with the grand opening of M Social Phuket, a dynamic addition to the island’s hotel offerings. Situated in the heart of Patong, M Social Phuket combines trendy aesthetics, modern amenities, and seamless technology to redefine the way travelers experience Phuket.

Boasting a prime location just steps away from the pristine waters of Patong Beach and surrounded by trendy bars, shops and restaurants, M Social Phuket puts guests in the heart of the action. With its unique blend of style and substance, the hotel promises an unforgettable stay for those looking to connect with like-minded creative individuals.

06th Oct 2023

A Feast Fit For Kings: SANSARA Brings Authentic Awashi Cuisine To Robertson Quay

Upscale riverfront dining gets an injection of tradition

SINGAPORE, 6 October 2023 — Against a backdrop of the flowing Singapore river, gentle strums of Hindustani music and the divine aroma of freshly ground spices, one can be transported to the historically rich crossroads of North India. Welcome to SanSara, where the region’s diverse cultures and cuisines converge for an authentic rendition of Awadhi food and drink, created by Master Chef Akhilesh Pathak. SanSara is Sanskrit for ‘to flow’, and embodies the spirit of constant exploration of cuisines and updated with a thoughtful list of cocktails and non-alcoholic libations. The new restaurant is located on the riverfront and is part of the over S$30 million refurbishment of the premium Grand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel Singapore.

15th Sep 2023

Consumer Financial Survey by Hong Leong Finance Reveals Singaporeans’ Top Financial Concerns and Savings as Key Source of Retirement Funds

Singapore, 15 September 2023 – The rising cost of living, having sufficient savings for retirement or future financial goals, and managing daily expenses effectively, are the top three financial challenges faced by 1,068 Singapore respondents surveyed in the Hong Leong Finance (HLF) Consumer Financial Survey 2023.

Respondents were over 18 years old, and sampled based on nationally representative quotas by age, gender and race. Through the survey, respondents provided insights across their financial challenges, retirement planning, saving habits, and preferences in a savings account.

02nd Aug 2023

Grand Copthorne Waterfront Re-Launches After S$30 Million Renovation

Singapore, 2 August 2023 – Grand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel, part of Millennium Hotels and Resorts (MHR), has unveiled its S$30 million renovation that showcases a sophisticated redesign of all 574 guestrooms and suites with eco-friendly features, expanded conference facilities, and upgraded public spaces aimed at providing guests with a memorable experience.

The 5-star hotel underwent a nine-month revamp that commenced in October 2022. With its transformed facilities, it promises to set high standards in sustainable luxury along the iconic Singapore River and support the expanded needs of eco-conscious corporate travellers.

21st Jul 2023

Hong Leong Asia and Sunway Construction Open Largest Integrated Construction and Prefabrication Hub in Singapore, Boosts Capacity for Precast Manufacturing

Singapore, July 21, 2023 – Hong Leong Asia Ltd (“HLA”) and Sunway Construction Group Berhad (“SunCon”) today officially opened HL-Sunway Prefab Hub, the largest integrated construction and prefabrication hub1 (“ICPH”) in Singapore.

The HL-Sunway Prefab Hub was launched today by Mr Desmond Lee, Minister for National Development and Minister-in-charge of Social Services Integration, together with Mr Kwek Leng Peck, Executive Chairman of HLA, Tan Sri Dato’ (Dr) Chew Chee Kin, President of Sunway Group, Mr Stephen Ho Kiam Kong, Chief Executive Officer of HLA, and Mr Chung Soo Kiong, Managing Director of International Property Development of Sunway Berhad.

09th Jul 2023

Strong Interest At Lentor Hills Residences Launch Weekend

Singapore, 9 July 2023 – As at 5pm today, Hong Leong Holdings Limited (HLHL) sold 298 units or 50% of the 598-unit Lentor Hills Residences during its sales booking weekend on July 8 and 9. Lentor Hills Residences is jointly developed by HLHL, Guocoland and TID.

The units were sold at the price starting from S$1,834 per square foot (psf). The buyers are predominantly Singaporeans while the rest are Permanent Residents.

21st Jun 2023

Hong Leong Holdings To Launch Lentor Hills Residences

Singapore, 21 June 2023 – Hong Leong Holdings Limited (HLHL) will commence previews of the much-anticipated Lentor Hills Residences on Saturday, 24 June 2023. Sales bookings are scheduled to begin on Saturday, 8 July 2023. The project is jointly developed by HLHL, Guocoland and TID Pte. Ltd.

Situated on an approximate 184,461 square feet (sq ft) site, the 99-year leasehold project is located in District 26 within the new Lentor Hills Estate, a new growth area positioned as a sustainable and pedestrian-friendly neighbourhood with new parks and seamless walking and cycling connectivity.

Enclosed by lush surroundings with design inspired by water cascades and tranquillity of Lower Peirce Reservoir, Lentor Hills Residences features 598 premium residential units in five towers ranging from eight to 23 storeys, and parking lots for all units – a rare feature in many new projects.

19th Jun 2023

Hong Leong Group in Talks with Shanghai to Build Sustainable Developments in The City

Singapore, 16 June 2023 – Hong Leong Group Executive Chairman Mr Kwek Leng Beng met Shanghai Mayor Mr Gong Zheng in the Chinese city where they discussed a wide range of business issues including opportunities of urban renewal and transformation within the city.

According to a press announcement after the meeting, Mayor Gong said Shanghai has shown a continued trend of steady economic improvement and remains a favoured destination for foreign trade and investment.

Commenting on his visit, Mr Kwek said, “I was deeply impressed by the development and economic vitality of Shanghai. There are abundant opportunities for investment and collaboration, to create more iconic projects and deepen cooperation with the Shanghai government to achieve green and low-carbon developments in the city.”

“I remain confident in the potential of the overall Chinese market and look forward to expanding our Hong Leong Group portfolio via exciting and strategic prospects.”

26th Apr 2023

Setting the Scene with M Social Suzhou

The debut of Millennium Hotels’ lifestyle brand ‘M Social’ in China.

Singapore, 26 April 2023 – The bold and stylish brand, M Social is heralding its maiden foray in China with the opening of M Social Suzhou today (26 April). The 294-room luxury lifestyle hotel is the first and flagship M Social-branded property in China, signalling a move for future expansion in the Greater China region.

M Social is the lifestyle brand of global hotel group, Millennium Hotels and Resorts (MHR), and the brainchild of property-hotel veteran MHR Executive Chairman Mr Kwek Leng Beng. It was first launched in Singapore in 2016 to cater to the young, ‘brave’ and social media savvy.

With the opening of M Social Suzhou, the brand now has five physical locations including Singapore, Auckland, New York and Paris. It also has a virtual hotel, M Social Decentraland, marking MHR the world’s first hospitality group to enter the metaverse.

23rd Mar 2023

Book Direct, Spin & Win With ‘My Millennium Winning Wheel’

My Millennium, a global guest loyalty programme by Millennium Hotels and Resorts (MHR) has packed another punch by launching the Book Direct, Spin and Win innovative enhancement that gives members the chance to spin the My Millennium Winning Wheel for rewards like room upgrades, dining, breakfast, My Millennium Points and even a one-night stay

A first-of-its-kind among hospitality loyalty programmes in the world, it provides instant gratification to My Millennium members at a click of button in a fun way. My Millennium members have doubled since 2019 and these awards are a way to recognise their patronage to the brand.

22nd Mar 2023

CDL Aquisition of Sofitel Brisbane Central Australia

City Developments Limited (CDL), through its wholly-owned hotel subsidiary Millennium & Copthorne Hotels Limited (M&C) and in a 50:50 Joint Venture (JV) with its New Zealand-listed subsidiary Millennium & Copthorne Hotels New Zealand Limited (NZX:MCK), has entered into a Purchase Sale Agreement and Business Asset Sale Agreement on 22 March 2023 to acquire the Sofitel Brisbane Central hotel in Australia from Brookfield Asset Management at a purchase price of A$177.7 million (approximately S$159.2 million), or A$427,000 (approximately S$383,000) per key.

Located in the heart of Brisbane’s vibrant Central Business District (CBD), the 5-star luxury hotel is directly linked to the Central Station, a major transportation hub, and offers unparalleled connectivity to the city’s commercial and retail areas, the Brisbane Airport, Brisbane Entertainment Centre, Gold Coast and rest of Queensland. The hotel is also within walking distance of the city’s key attractions such as the Queen Street Mall, Eagle Street Pier beside the Brisbane River, South Bank Parklands and the Convention Centre.

Comprising 416 rooms and suites, the landmark hotel boasts exceptional views overlooking the iconic ANZAC Square, the city’s exquisite skyline, and the famed Sunshine Coast. The 30-storey hotel is home to the city’s largest hotel event and meeting facility with nine meeting and conference rooms that can accommodate up to 1,100 people.

07th Feb 2023

A Silver Sports Day with Hong Leong Foundation

More than 80 elderly beneficiaries from three senior homes (Adventist Home for the Elders, Kheng Chiu Loke Tin Kee Home, and St John’s Home for Elderly Persons) displayed their physical and mental prowess in a customised “Silver Sports Day” challenge with Hong Leong Foundation at M Hotel Singapore earlier today. The outing today marks the Foundation’s return to its first physical event since 2019.

The senior residents, aged 60 to 100, were challenged to a series of tasks that tested their mobility, motor control and hand-eye coordination. They were aided and cheered on by 50 staff volunteers across the Hong Leong Group of companies including City Developments Limited (CDL), Hong Leong Holdings Limited, Millennium Hotels and Resorts, Hong Leong Finance, Hong Leong Asia and Hong Realty. Together with the elderly and volunteers, the event saw a turnout of nearly 150 people.

01st Feb 2023

CDL Listed on 2023 Bloomberg Gender-Equality Index for Sixth Consecutive Year

City Developments Limited (CDL) joins 483 other companies as a member of the 2023 Bloomberg Gender-Equality Index (GEI), a modified market capitalisation-weighted index that gauges the performance of public companies committed to reporting gender-related data. This reference index measures gender equality across five pillars: leadership and talent pipeline, equal pay and gender pay parity, inclusive culture, anti-sexual harassment policies, and external brand.

This year, CDL is one of six Singapore companies to be listed, marking the sixth consecutive year the company has been recognised on the index since its inauguration in 2018.

The 2023 GEI reaches globally to represent 45 countries and regions, including firms headquartered in Luxembourg, Ecuador, and Kuwait for the first time. Member companies represent a variety of sectors, including financials, technology, and utilities, which continue to have the highest company representation in the index from 2022.

22nd Nov 2022

MERLION’S VIRTUAL VACATION AT M SOCIAL DECENTRALAND MARKS STB’S FORAY INTO THE METAVERSE

Singapore Tourism Board (STB) and homegrown hospitality group Millennium Hotels and Resorts (MHR) have jointly launched Merlion on Vacation, a virtual adventure that enables players to explore Singapore in the metaverse, win prizes and enjoy a Merlion 50th Birthday themed room package at M Social Singapore.

Players will search for clues to locate the Merlion as he is teleported to Decentraland, a 3D virtual world platform, for a vacation to mark his 50th birthday. Singapore’s Merlion, located at Merlion Park, turned 50 on 15 September this year.

18th Oct 2022

Peace of ART Partners CDL and Singapore Red Cross To Raise Funds for Children Victims In Pakistan

Non-profit organisation, Peace of ART is partnering with giant property developer City Developments Limited (CDL) and Singapore Red Cross to launch The Sustainable Christmas Market (27 Nov 2022) at the Grand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel.  The organisers are hoping to raise funds for the children of Climate Refugees in Pakistan.

The event’s main highlight is the sale of pre-owned items, where 100% of its proceeds will go directly to the children in Pakistan via the Singapore Red Cross. Pakistan was recently devastated by severe floods, leaving many families including children and babies without medicine and clean water to treat current conditions like typhoid, cholera, malaria and dengue.

11th Oct 2022

Millennium Hotels Pays Final Homage To Queen Elizabeth II

With the advent of Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral on 19 September, homegrown hospitality group, Millennium Hotels and Resorts (MHR) in the United Kingdom, Singapore and New Zealand will be joining many around the world to pay their final respects and homage to the remarkable reign of the late British sovereign.

Six hotels in Singapore, 18 in New Zealand, and 17 properties across the UK, will remember the Queen with a simple tribute of flying flags at half-mast and observe a minute of silence on 19 September. Guests and members of the public are invited to join staff employees at the hotel lobbies during this time.

19th May 2022

Hong Leong Finance launches HLF FASTPAY, a new multi-currency e-wallet payment solution

Marking a landmark move into the fintech space, Hong Leong Finance (HLF) will be launching HLF FASTPAY, a multi-currency e-wallet app that comes with a virtual Visa Prepaid Card for customers to enjoy more payment solutions safely and securely. The launch will take place tomorrow (20 May).

In collaboration with Nium, the global platform for modern money movement, HLF FASTPAY provides a seamless cross-border digital payment solution for small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), corporates and consumers to manage and transfer funds in multiple currencies safely, quickly and cost-efficiently.

It is an all-in-one payment solution incorporating remittance service locally and internationally, currency exchange, as well as Visa card payment.

27th Apr 2022

Millennium Hotels and Resorts Launches M Social Decentraland

Millennium Hotels and Resorts will be launching M Social Decentraland on 5 May 2022, making it the world’s first hospitality group to operate a hotel in the metaverse virtual world. Modelled on different M Social hotels around the world, the new hotel encapsulates M Social’s brand essence of being a trendsetting lifestyle and aims to be a place for all to gather and discover the virtual reality universe of Decentraland.

Located near Genesis Plaza, at the heart of Decentraland, the latest hotel by Millennium Hotels and Resorts sits on prime digital land. Similar to its brick-and-mortar sister hotels, M Social Decentraland is positioned as a hub for explorers keen to discover new experiences and connect with like-minded individuals. The virtual hotel flaunts a giant “M” on each of its four sides, with glass exteriors and neon pink accents creating a sleek interior look.

08th Feb 2022

Hong Leong Foundation Goes to Hong Kong on a Virtual ‘Holiday’

Some 130 elderly (aged 60 to 100) from six senior homes embarked on a day trip to Hong Kong earlier today. Together with Hong Leong Foundation, they experienced the sights and sounds of the lunar new year festivities in the bustling city. The entire event was broadcast live via Zoom where the elderly could enjoy the overseas day trip from the comfort and security of the senior homes.

The seniors are from Adventist Home for the Elders, Singapore Baptist Convention Golden Age Home, St Andrew’s Cathedral Home, St John’s Home for Elderly Persons, St. Vincent Home, and Zion Home for the Aged.

08th Feb 2022

River Of Life At Grand Copthorne Waterfront

Grand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel, inspired by the Singapore River and the rich history behind it, has launched an uplifting light art installation.

The hotel has partnered with Very Small Exhibition, an experimental art collective, to install special light art – as part of the Very Momentary Exhibition Series, which will run every night from 5 to 14 February, 8pm to 6am.

The exhibition led by local artist Lee Wei Lieh will deliver this artistic vision for hotel guests, residents in the Robertson Quay-Singapore River neighbourhood and members of the public to enjoy a memorable and exciting display of lights.

30th Nov 2021

My Millennium Proves Best In Class In Loyalty Engagement And Marketing Awards

My Millennium, the global guest loyalty programme of Millennium Hotels and Resorts (MHR), has proven its successful track record again by taking home multiple awards in this year’s Loyalty & Engagement Awards and Marketing Excellence Awards.

My Millennium beat shortlisted contenders from across South Asia, Southeast Asia and ANZ regions to clinch Gold for Best Regional Loyalty Campaign and Silver for Best Loyalty Programme – Travel/Hospitality at the Loyalty & Engagement Awards. It followed up this feat at its first Marketing Excellence Awards by winning Silver for Excellence in Loyalty Marketing. Both Awards were held earlier this month.

24th Sep 2021

Millennium Hotels and Resorts Achieves 100% Vaccination Rate

Ahead of the new “Vaccinate or Regular Testing” regime that comes into effect on 1 October, Millennium Hotels and Resorts (MHR) in Singapore has achieved a 100% vaccination rate for its frontline employees.

As of 20 September, all 536 frontline employees across the six Singapore hotels – Orchard Hotel, Grand Copthorne Waterfront, M Hotel, Copthorne King’s, Studio M, M Social – and the corporate office have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

24th Aug 2021

Setting Robertson Quay on Fire. Irresistible Deals All Week Long.

Beast & Butterflies jazzes up its weekly dining programme with irresistible daily specials to tempt all who seek pleasure in food and drinks. The restaurant’s daily offerings are set to tantalise taste buds with the freshest ingredients, tease with exceptional value, and pledge an unparalleled community dining experience. With these crazy weekly deals on repeat, there is a reason to dine at Beast & Butterflies every day.

24th Aug 2021

Parisian Hotel Brings Back The Roaring Twenties With Vibrant Rebranding

Millennium Hotels and Resorts is marking M Social’s first outpost in Europe with the opening of M Social Hotel Paris Opera on 9 September. The new lifestyle offering will merge the elegance of the historical Parisian lifestyle with contemporary design, vibrant art and inviting rooms to create an enchanting retreat for guests to gather, work and discover all that Paris has to offer.

The 163-room hotel is enviably located at 12 Boulevard Haussmann, in the heart of Opéra making it within walking distance to some of the city’s most famous landmarks including the Louvre, the Sacré-Coeur and the Moulin Rouge. To cater to a new diverse community of travellers, EUR 5.4 million was spent on refurbishing the former Millennium Paris Opera into more contemporary lodgings.

30th Jul 2021

Vaxxed? Get A Shot Of Joy!

As Singapore celebrates its 56th birthday, Millennium Hotels and Resorts (MHR) embraces the spirit of ‘Singapore Together’ with special F&B and Staycation deals for vaccinated guests at its six hotels in Singapore.

From luxe retreats to locally inspired gourmet experiences, vaccinated guests can claim special offers by showing proof of vaccination.

15th Jun 2021

Millennium Broadway Times Square New York Returns To The MHR Fold

15 June 2021 – Millennium Broadway Times Square is pleased to announce that the hotel will be transitioning back into Millennium Hotels and Resorts’ (MHR) portfolio of brands. Owned by Millennium & Copthorne Hotels Limited, this 52-storey landmark hotel is located in Midtown Manhattan on 145 West 44th Street with Broadway and Times Square right outside its door. This 626-room hotel is surrounded by Broadway theatres, restaurants and New York City’s best attractions and nightlife.  Rockefeller Center, Radio City Music Hall, Central Park, the Empire State Building, famous 42nd Street and Fifth Avenue shopping are all within walking distance.

27th May 2021

M Social Debuts In The United States

NEW YORK, NY. – May 27, 2021 – Today, Millennium Hotels and Resorts announced the opening M Social Times Square New York, marking the brand’s first outpost in the United States. The new lifestyle offering will merge the energy of Times Square with contemporary design, vibrant art and inviting rooms to create an engaging retreat for guests to gather, work and discover all that New York has to offer.

The 480-room hotel is located at 226 West 52nd Street, in the heart of Times Square and walking distance to New York’s best attractions, including Broadway, the Theater District, Central Park, and Fifth Avenue. A hub for explorers, M Social features spaces that are designed to be accessible, comfortable and practical to guests needs, including outdoor venues with some of the best views of the city.

25th Apr 2021

One-North Eden 85% Sold During Launch Weekend

Singapore, 25 April 2021 – As at 6pm today, One-North Eden saw 140 units (or nearly 85%) of the project’s 165 units snapped up during its virtual launch weekend, April 24 and 25. Developed by TID Pte Ltd, One-North Eden is the first residential launch in the one-north hub in 14 years.

Take-up rate was strong across all unit types with the selling price working out to about S$1,800 to S$2,250 per square foot (psf). One-bedroom plus study and two-bedroom units proved the most popular and were quickly sold out at 10am on the first day of launch.

06th Apr 2021

Millennium Hotels and Resorts Conferred Two Best-In-Class Awards in China

Millennium Hotels and Resorts (MHR) was recently conferred “Best International Hotel Management Group of China” at the 2021 AHF Asia Hotel and Travel Forum Annual Meeting and 16th China Hotel Starlight Awards Ceremony. The event, which was held in Shanghai, China, also saw the global hospitality leader win at the property level, with Millennium Resort Wuyishan listed among the “Top 10 Resort Hotels of China”.

06th Apr 2021

Strong Interest In TID’s One-North Eden Ahead Of Launch

Singapore, 6 April 2021 – One-North Eden has been generating high levels of interest well-ahead of its launch. Strategically located in the one-north technology enclave of Fusionopolis, Biopolis and Mediapolis, it is the first mixed-use development to be launched in the iconic precinct since 2007. Previews begin from Saturday, 10 April 2021 and bookings on 24 April 2021 when the project is launched.

Home to many high-tech companies, the one-north area draws a large pool of local and foreign talent. Tapping on this growing working population, this makes the launch of One-North Eden timely and highly anticipated, contributing to its attractive appeal.

23rd Mar 2021

Hong Leong Finance Launches First Green Loan For Vehicle Rental Companies

Singapore, 23 March 2021 – Ramping up efforts to push Singapore towards being a green and sustainable city, Hong Leong Finance (HLF) has today announced the launch of the nation’s first green vehicle financing initiative for vehicle rental companies.

This new initiative comes in two parts. Firstly, HLF is offering the Vehicle-Green Loan at a competitive rate as low as 1.5% per annum up to seven years to steer the vehicle rental sector towards green vehicles usage. This package is available for fully electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid vehicles (a combination of a petrol engine with an electric motor).

04th Feb 2021

Seniors Go Virtual On A Safari Adventure With Hong Leong Foundation

Singapore, 4 February 2021 – Nearly 330 elderly from six senior homes enjoyed a specially curated virtual wildlife adventure with Hong Leong Foundation and Wildlife Reserves Singapore earlier today (4 February). Established in 1980, Hong Leong Foundation is the charity arm of Hong Leong Group Singapore and is a regular and committed supporter in education, welfare, the elderly, heritage and the Arts.

The senior residents aged 60 to 105 are from Adventist Home for the Elders, Kheng Chiu Loke Tin Kee Home, St Andrew’s Cathedral Home for the Aged, St. Vincent Home, Tai Pei Old People’s Home and Zion Home for the Aged.

21st Dec 2020

Millennium & Copthorne’s The Bailey’s Hotel Ranked Among Top 20 ‘Cool and Unusual’ London Hotels by Global Grasshopper

Singapore/London, 21 December 2020 – The Bailey’s Hotel London, a luxury Victorian-style hotel operated and owned by Millennium Hotels and Resorts (MHR), has been named among London’s top 20 cool and unusual hotels by Global Grasshopper, an award-winning travel blog and resource for independent travellers.

Global Grasshopper praised the “immaculately presented” The Bailey’s Hotel – restored from a 19th century townhouse – for its “quintessentially English, old-world charm”, replete with a sweeping staircase, intricate stonework and stained-glass windows.