Belmond's first London hotel will finally open this year

Belmond, formerly Orient Express hotels, ​​has confirmed it will relaunch The Cadogan hotel in Chelsea after a four-year, multi-million pound refurbishment.

BigHospitality​ understands Belmond is hoping to reveal the exact opening date soon, but it is currently scheduled for the last quarter of 2018.

The property, originally slated to launch in 2016,​​ has reduced its 64 rooms to 54 “chic boutique” suites to in response to demand from luxury travellers for larger spaces.

Belmond’s website says the hotel will offer “world-class service and the best dining this side of the river”, alongside a private garden.

The Cadogan dates back to 1887 and is best known for its association with Oscar Wilde, who was arrested for “gross indecency” at the hotel in 1895.

It is owned by the Cadogan Family estate, who bought it for £15.4m from US-based Trinity Hotel Investors in 2011.

The property closed in July 2014 for its refurbishment, shortly after it was announced Belmond had agreed to operate the site.

In the UK Belmond owns Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat'Saisons, which is run by Raymond Blanc, as well as the Belmond Royal Scotsman and Belmond British Pullman railway companies.

The group runs three additional Michelin-starred restaurants around the world, Mee in Rio de Janeiro, Oro in Venice, and William in Madeira.

It is also behind numerous global hospitality and travel experiences, including the famous Venice Simplon-Orient Express train.