tradition
30 pavilion road
No. 30 Knightsbridge has long held a distinguished place in London’s social and architectural landscape. Originally constructed in the late 19th century as a private Victorian residence, the building has evolved into one of the city’s most iconic venues, known for hosting memorable occasions and high society gatherings over generations.
In 1963, Searcy’s acquired the building following the nationalisation of electricity. Formerly a London Electricity Board power station and warehouse, it was transformed into a private residence by a member of the Searcy family. The restoration was so meticulously executed that the property was later selected as a filming location for the 1963 f ilm Tom Jones, owing to its period-accurate reproduction. Key original features were retained and celebrated during this transformation. Notably, the pine panelling throughout the property was sourced from the Fleet Street home of the John Walters family, former owners of The Times newspaper.
Throughout the 1970s, 80s, and 90s, 30 Pavilion Road became synonymous with elegant and extravagant entertaining. Regularly featured in Jennifer ’s Diary by Betty Kenward MBE, it played host to a variety of events ranging from high-society weddings to children’s birthday parties for well-known names such as Jeremy Brett and Anna Massey. In 1985, the Daily Express described the house as “one of the smartest party locations in London,” where guests could hire the venue for £400 per evening. At a time when lavish celebrations were regaining popularity, 30 Pavilion Road became a coveted address for hosting society functions.
In 1963, Searcy’s acquired the building following the nationalisation of electricity. Formerly a London Electricity Board power station and warehouse, it was transformed into a private residence by a member of the Searcy family. The restoration was so meticulously executed that the property was later selected as a filming location for the 1963 f ilm Tom Jones, owing to its period-accurate reproduction. Key original features were retained and celebrated during this transformation. Notably, the pine panelling throughout the property was sourced from the Fleet Street home of the John Walters family, former owners of The Times newspaper.
Throughout the 1970s, 80s, and 90s, 30 Pavilion Road became synonymous with elegant and extravagant entertaining. Regularly featured in Jennifer ’s Diary by Betty Kenward MBE, it played host to a variety of events ranging from high-society weddings to children’s birthday parties for well-known names such as Jeremy Brett and Anna Massey. In 1985, the Daily Express described the house as “one of the smartest party locations in London,” where guests could hire the venue for £400 per evening. At a time when lavish celebrations were regaining popularity, 30 Pavilion Road became a coveted address for hosting society functions.