Jumeirah International has taken over from Hyatt International the management of two of London's most prestigious hotels - the Carlton Tower and the Lowndes - both situated in the heart of Knightsbridge.

The addition of these London hotels represents Jumeirah International's first move outside Dubai, said Gerald Lawless, managing director.

The Jumeirah International portfolio includes Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Emirates Towers and Burj Al Arab, all of which have grown to be global icons and have won numerous travel awards, said Lawless.

"Jumeirah International is delighted to be entrusted with the running of the Carlton Tower and the Lowndes, both world class hotels, which will be a welcome addition to our current portfolio.

"It is significant both of these London hotels are already highly regarded in these areas, and so are a natural fit with our properties in Dubai.

The new general manager of Carlton Tower will be Andrew Abram, who has worked with Jumeirah International for four years. An extensive refurbishment programme has commenced.

Carlton Tower is in the heart of Knightsbridge, home of many of the world's most exclusive shops, while the City and West End are within easy reach.

The hotel first opened its doors to the public in 1961. Managed by the Hotel Corp. of America, it was the first modern five-star property to open in Knightsbridge.

In 1970, the U.S. company created a new group name for their operations, 'Sonesta', and Carlton Tower became known as the Sonesta Tower.

A year later, UK Ltd. assumed the management contract. The hotel's name reverted back to Carlton Tower and, in 1977, the owners, Prudential Assurance, sold it to Proteus Hotels.

The hotel was renamed Hyatt Carlton Tower in 1982 when Hyatt International Corp. bought the management contract from Lex Hotels.

In December 2001, on expiry of the management contract with Hyatt International, Jumeirah International took over the management and the hotel was renamed Carlton Tower.

The hotel includes 220 luxury rooms and suites, many overlooking the stunning gardens of Cadogan Place. The recently refurbished, high security Presidential Suite on the 18th floor offers panoramic views of London through the six-foot conservatory style windows.

The hotel also includes six luxury suites, 15 executive suites, four spa suites, 33 junior suites, 59 deluxe rooms (king/twin) 102 guest rooms and seven non-smoking floors.

Blanca Diaz, associate director of business development at Lowndes Hotel, said the property is situated in the home of London's social elite and within walking distance of fashionable Knightsbridge.

"From the moment guests walk into the Lowndes Hotel they will experience a different feel. The lobby - in rich shades of orchid, persimmon, and brick creates a warm ambience, and comfortable sofas and fireside armchairs contribute to the atmosphere of an English boutique hotel."

Lowndes Hotel is close to Harrods, Harvey Nichols and the nearby designer shops of Sloane Street. Its central location is ideal for the theatre and sightseers.

The hotel offers 78 deluxe guest rooms, including ten balcony rooms, four junior suites and one executive suite. All have two telephones with computer data ports, as well as 17 television channels. In addition, all suites are provided with facsimile machines as well as CD and DVD players.

Convenient for the business traveller, she said the Lowndes Hotel has its own meeting room.

Situated on the ground floor, The Library seats up to 25 people theatre style or 18 boardroom style. A state-of-the-art audio-visual system, built into the bookcase, contains a large television screen and video and a programmable unit to display computer graphics or slides.

Guests are also able to benefit from the close proximity to the sister hotel, the Carlton Tower. As well as access, at a nominal charge, to The Peak health club and spa, guests can also dine any of the hotels four restaurants.