A young guest is not impressed by the food at The Panda Hotel for Children in Sussex Square, London. 1952. TopFoto / mediadrumimages.com

By Mark McConville

 

AMUSING images show the children of well-heeled 1950’s Londoners being waited on hand and foot by the staff of one of the capitals most luxurious hotel EXCLUSIVELY for child guests.

In scenes that would raise eye-brows today, photographs show the child guests dropped off by their parents, then dining and playing together inside at the Panda Hotel for Children in Sussex Square which had a staff devoted entirely to look after young guests under the age of 10.

The Panda Hotel for Children in Sussex Square, London. TopFoto / mediadrumimages.com

Other striking shots show a young guest in awe as he arrives at the hotel, other child guests being put to bed and a group of boys playing outside.

Maids, nannies, footmen and even what appears to be a butler all look to be attending the every need of the lucky children.

A young guest arrives at The Panda Hotel for Children in Sussex Square, London. TopFoto / mediadrumimages.com

The remarkable black and white photographs were taken in 1952 by famed photographer George Douglas during a trip to the hotel.

Known as ‘Speedy George’ due to his non-stop flow of ideas and his determination to get pictures in the bag and back in the office in double-quick time.

With staff dedicated solely to the attention of children, the pictures suggest that only well heeled families attended.

Young guests at The Panda Hotel for Children in Sussex Square, London. TopFoto / mediadrumimages.com

All the kids look like they are behaving themselves although perhaps that was a necessity under the watchful eye of the butlers and nannies in attendance.

Children enjoyed themselves thoroughly during their stay; taking part in ballet recitals, playing piano, having tea parties and were waited on hand and foot.

The Panda Hotel for Children in Sussex Square, London. TopFoto / mediadrumimages.com

Famous ballet dancer Veronica Tennant is believed to have stayed at the Panda Hotel for Children.

The hotel’s location in Sussex Square, London also suggests it was exclusive to wealthy families.

The Panda Hotel for Children in Sussex Square, London. TopFoto / mediadrumimages.com

The average price for property in Sussex Square stood at £2,343,039 in August 2018, according to property firm Zoopla.

In terms of property types, flats in Sussex Square sold for an average of £1,643,127 and terraced houses for £4,047,572.