The Lancaster in London has an enviable central location that makes it one of the more popular 4 star establishments in the city. Hyde Park lies to the south of the hotel, and the sweeping views of the park from many of the rooms are simply amazing.
However, do not expect to see the hip 1960s interior style that was in The Italian Job (1969), the design has long since been replaced by a more standard luxury hotel style of décor. The Lancaster Hotel was the filming location for several pivotal scenes in The Italian Job.
The film tells the story of Charlie Croker (Michael Caine), a small time criminal who has just gotten out of prison after serving a 2 year sentence. His girlfriend Lorna (Maggie Blye) picks him up and takes him right to the tailor, because Charlie always wants to look his best.
When they reach the hotel, Charlie learns that Lorna has a “coming out” party planned for him, complete with a full compliment of lightly-clad females from which to choose.
Charlie isn’t satisfied with simply hedonistic pursuits however, he yearns for that “big job” that will make his name. He learns that while he was in prison, one of his friends, Beckerman (Rossano Brazzi), was killed trying to pull off a big score in Italy.
Coincidentally, as Charlie is checking out he is summoned to a meeting with the widow Beckerman in her room at the Lancaster Hotel. She wants Charlie to take over the Italian Job, which is to steal gold bullion in Turin, and it turns out to be just the kind of high profile job he wanted. This is a complicated job and Charlie puts together an eclectic crew to assist him, but of course, things are always more complicated than you expect.
The Lancaster has just the right mix of elegance and mystery to make any meeting or vacation special; just ask Charlie!
Visiting Lancaster London Hotel
Address: Lancaster Hotel, 1 Lancaster Terrace, Paddington, W2 2TY
Telephone: 020 7262 6737
Photo courtesy: stevecadman
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