The Principal - Breathing life into London's Literary neighbourhood

The Principal London, is a Grade II listed landmark building that occupies the eastern flank of Russell Square in Bloomsbury. The opening of the 334-room hotel has restored the original grande dame to her original glory while “administering a shot of adrenaline to the heart of London’s most literary neighbourhood.”
Stunning refurbishment with a contemporary touch

Having first opened its doors in 1898, The Principal London is steeped in history. With its striking terracotta exterior – with four British Queens guarding the entrance – it was always intended to be a home to glamour and indulgence. The interiors have been given a strikingly contemporary touch by designers Tara Bernerd & Partners, and Russell Sage Studio. They respectfully pay homage to the building’s illustrious history while providing stylish form and function for modern expectations.

The Principal London is set to become a hub for Londoners with a passion for great food, fabulous cocktails and memorable nights in the city.

Golborne Favourites at The Principal

Our favourite hot-spots in the new hotel have to be Palm Court and the Fitz Bar.

Palm Court is the heart of the hotel and the ultimate relaxed space. Double height ceilings flood the room with light – chic and elegant it is the absolute perfect place to meet for afternoon tea or a glass of bubbly. As London event planners we often meet clients here, the Palm Court offers a relaxing and discrete place to brainstorm ideas and discuss logistics. We love the use of trees creating an indoor/outdoor vibe, and the terrace which leads out to a living wall.




Palm Court The Principal, Palm Court London


The sultry Fitz Bar is a homage to timeless glamour. Its rich tones, attention to detail, sense of humour and gigantic mirror ball which hangs from an impossibly high ceiling over a bouquet of ostrich feathers, make it one of our new favourite hang outs. The feel is that of “disco-boudoir”, and is overseen by Sean Fennelly, late of Milk & Honey.



Fitz Bar London


Meetings & Events

The ballroom - what an incredible space this is. Having been given an entire overhaul and restoration, the original hotel ballroom has been restored as part of the £85 million refurbishment. The ballroom has a double-height ceiling, original features, and windows the entire length of one wall, with a mezzanine gallery that overlooks the main room. This unique venue can hold up to 450 guests for a reception and up to 220 guests for a social celebration. For convenience it also has its own private entrance on Bernard Street. As London event planners we specialise in working within landmark event spaces, ensuring that we make our bespoke events and celebrations as unique as the building its hosted in.



London ballroom, Ballroom London, Ballroom The Principal London

For event meetings, the lower-ground floor of the hotel, has eight additional spaces that can accommodate up to 100 delegates. All of them have natural daylight and have been designed and decorated to match the aesthetic throughout The Principal London.


Meeting rooms London, London meeting rooms

Conveniently Located

Next to Russell Square Tube on the Piccadilly line, with direct connections to King's Cross and Heathrow, The Principal London is centrally located. Parking is also available nearby at the Brunswick Centre (WC1N 1AF) or Bloomsbury Square (WC1A 2RJ).

Contact our team to arrange a viewing or for further information on planning your event at The Principal.