Travel and literature are both known to help expand the mind. These hotels have exquisite reading rooms, extensive libraries and uplifting reading rooms plus incredible destinations to inspire all guests in their quest for knowledge.
Ellerman House
The library of South Africa's iconic Ellerman House offers guests a collection of fiction and nonfiction titles, plus magazines from around the world. Blue and green hues throughout emulate the sea and flora, with a large private terrace opening up to panoramic views of the native environment, crystal-clear waters of the Atlantic Ocean and the lush green of Ellerman House’s native summer garden. African-themed wallpaper and a bright yellow couch illuminate the Library in a way that celebrates a rich culture, history and the stunning vista of Cape Town beyond these walls. The library has always been an integral part of the Ellerman House experience. Some of the oldest volumes are the entire 9th edition of the Encyclopaedia Britannica and the entire collection of the Arabian Nights translated by Sir R.F. Burton. There is also some interesting art in the library such as 'Ten of the Most Interesting Views at the Cape of Good Hope' by Thomas Bowler.
Jack's Camp
In honor of pioneering explorer Jack Bousfield, who knew the world would fall in love with the Makgadikgadi in Botswana as much as he did, Jack's Camp boasts a carefully curated library that doubles as a registered National Museum, all overlooking the nearby watering hole and the local herds who frequent it. Bedecked with family heirlooms, guests can put their feet up with titles from 'Out of Africa' to an encyclopedia of historic information on Botswana and the Bousfield legacy. Named after founder Ralph Bousfield’s legendary pioneering father who died in a plane crash, Jack’s Camp represents a spirit of adventure. Jack was one of the first explorers of the region, setting up camp under an acacia and never leaving.
The Draycott Hotel
Steeped in Edwardian splendor, the Library at the Draycott Hotel in Chelsea is waiting for literary enthusiasts. Centrally located yet secluded by private gardens, the Draycott provides guests the privacy to escape. There are exactly 411 books in the Draycott library, including 'So, Anyway…' by John Cleese (allegedly written partly during his stay at The Draycott). The layout of the Library in the Draycott was a collaboration between The Hotel and Ultimate Library. They selected bespoke books that would fit to the shelving units and arranged them thematically, creating shelves on history, business, London, the theatre etc.
Guests are typically seen reading titles that will familiarise them with British culture and history, brushing up on their knowledge before exploring the city or meeting people. Other times, guests take books up to their room, or if the weather is nice into the garden to read for pleasure. With high ceilings and fireplaces, each room in the Draycott Hotel is theatrically themed and named after an influential actor, producer or playwright of the past and adorned with Victorian antiques. Each room contains something of its theatrical namesake, including prints, posters, photographs and a miniature biography. Guests can stay in the Olivier, Sheridan, Coward, Grenfell, Gershwin, Ashcroft or any of the other individually named guest rooms.
Ellenborough Park
In terms of awesome reading room, the Great Hall isn't 'great' for no reason. Designed by renowned British designer Nina Campbell, the Great Hall showcases vibrant colors amongst exposed timber beams, elegant chandeliers and original 15th century architecture to create a truly authentic experience while celebrating the best of modern British hospitality. The open fire and high tea offerings make it hard to put the book down, except to stare out the stained glass windows at the rolling hills of the Cotswolds.
