The 'Last' Word - Charlotte's September Edition
- Aug 27
- 4 min read
Updated: 3 hours ago
Charlotte looks back on a month of celebrations, new discoveries, indulgent treats and one poignant farewell to a Concierge great.
It’s been another busy few months, with plenty to keep me out and about – from catching up with friends at the Golden Keys’ summer BBQ to discovering new wellness spaces, dining experiences and events.
There’s even a little excuse to leave London!
And, as always, there’s a more personal note to finish on, remembering someone very special to our Concierge community.
Summer Vibes
I had a great time at The Society of the Golden Keys' Annual Summer BBQ - an event which has become a real highlight of my social calendar.
On what was once again one of the hottest days of the year, it was so lovely to catch up with friends and colleagues - and of course, enjoy some expertly cooked food and hand-crafted cocktails (of course!)
You can read more about it and check if you made the cut in our picture gallery, here.
Elementary, my dear...
I might just have to head out of London for this one. Sheer Luck Holmes – The Case of the Floating Fiancée, is bringing a very British combination of murder, mayhem and dinner to Chatham, Oxford, Birmingham and Stoke-on-Trent this October – and it sounds gloriously daft. From the team behind Faulty Towers The Dining Experience, this immersive comedy mystery sees Holmes, Watson and Mrs Hudson attempting to solve the murder of a young heiress, with a three-course dinner thrown in for good measure.
Expect slapstick, theatrical disasters, questionable accents and plenty of audience involvement. It’s part murder mystery, part comedy show and, frankly, sounds like an excellent excuse for a night away. Now, where’s my deerstalker?
Performances are strictly limited. Find out more here.
Wellness, with wow factor
I do love a good spa, and The BoTree’s new wellness offering looks like something rather special. I was lucky enough to have a sneak peek and, spread across four floors, it really does feel like a wellness world of its own. There’s an outdoor infinity pool (always a winner), wellness café, treatment rooms, studios and even gorgeous apartment-style suites. Everything feels beautifully considered and very state-of-the-art, with an impressive range of treatments and classes. Officially opened on 18 August, the space is available to hotel guests and members – and I’m already thinking I might need to investigate that infinity pool for myself!
A few snapshots of the wellness area and infinity pool taken during my tour
Fit for a Queen - Or Me!
I’ve visited TH@51 at St James' Court, A Taj Hotel, London before and have always enjoyed its elegant setting and quietly polished atmosphere, but The Queen's Centenary Table has certainly caught my attention.
Created to mark 100 years since the birth of Queen Elizabeth II, the limited-edition menu celebrates British seasonal produce while drawing on the hotel’s longstanding connection to the Royal neighbourhood. It sounds like a beautifully considered dining experience, and one I’d particularly like to discover.
Available at TH@51 until 18 October - and just moments from Buckingham Palace!
PS. The Dine 4, Pay 3 weekday lunch also makes TH@51 an appealing choice for an unhurried business lunch or a more leisurely occasion. I think another visit is definitely in order.
Beauty, Browsing & Beyond...
I do love something a little different, and BEYOND BEAUTY in Covent Garden certainly caught my eye this September. Running to 13th September, it’s much more than a beauty festival, with pop-ups, expert masterclasses, exclusive launches and immersive experiences taking over the Piazza and Seven Dials.
I’m looking forward to having a wander around, discovering what’s on offer and, of course, making time for a little lunch and boutique browsing while I’m there. Whether you’re into beauty or simply enjoy discovering something new in London, it sounds like a lovely excuse to spend an afternoon around Covent Garden. I’m definitely intrigued!
MY FINAL THOUGHTS..
Remembering a Great Man
It was with great sadness that I heard of the passing of Michael De Cozar, Head Concierge at The Ritz London. Michael was truly one of those wonderful characters who seemed to embody everything that makes the Concierge profession so special. Joining The Ritz as a 16-year-old page boy in 1973 after first discovering the world of hospitality alongside his father, Salvador, he went on to become its youngest-ever Head Concierge at the age of 24 and dedicated an incredible 53 years to the hotel.
“If I had my life again, I would do the same thing” Michael De Cozar
A friend to many, Michael was renowned for his phenomenal knowledge of London, extraordinary memory, humour and, above all, his generosity and willingness to help. His contribution was recognised earlier this year with Honorary Life Membership of the Society of the Golden Keys. What a legacy he leaves behind.
My thoughts are with Michael's wife, Elaine, their family and his many friends and colleagues at this sad time.
Michael De Cozar | 20 July 1957 – 10 August 2026
