Built in 1927, the neo-Gothic structure of the Windsor Arms was intended to resemble the buildings of the University of Toronto. (The hotel is near Victoria College at the university.) The entrance feels like stepping into a castle, the Windsor Arms logo perched neatly beside the portico, doorman at the ready. The hotel was purchased by developer George Friedmann in 1995 and resurrected with modern touches for a fresh debut in 1999. The hotel is birthplace to the idea of the now-famous Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). It continues to attract celebrities who want a boutique feel, and though TIFF has shifted its headquarters south, the Windsor Arms will always be a refuge for those who want Old World charm and exclusive service. The streetside patio is perfect for people watching during the lively month of September. And in the hotel’s hallways, you can “stargaze” at the portraits of celebrities, from Robert Redford to Barbra Streisand.
The Windsor Arms
The Windsor Arms
The Windsor Arms
The Windsor Arms
The Windsor Arms
The Windsor Arms
The Windsor Arms
The Windsor Arms
The Windsor Arms
The Windsor Arms
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Top Hotels: Windsor Arms Toronto
résumé: The Windsor Arms is an historic blend of nostalgia and new-millennium luxury, tucked away in Toronto’s tony Yorkville neighbourhood. Built in 1927 featuring the neo-Gothic style of architecture the original proprietor, pulp and paper magnet cum hotelier William Arthur Price, sought to create a hotel that blended in with the nearby university’s signature Victorian buildings. the wherefore: Rescued from derelict status by developer George Friedmann in 1995, he entrusted architect Sol Wassermuhl with a mission: upgrading it to modern five-star luxury. The result was 28 intimate luxury suites (all with musical instruments and fireplaces), mahogany furnishings based on 1920s French styles, limestone bathrooms, and a full spa sanctuary with salt-water pool for ‘therapy’. “The Tearoom”, with its original 1927 fireplace, is where ‘afternoon tea’ is served. “The Living Room”, with a “Euro-shabby” feel, features antique UK prints, over-sized chesterfields, elegant leather seating, an extensive comfort food themed menu, a vast selection of 60 “crafts and drafts”, and a wine list that has been a Wine Spectator Award of Excellence recipient. logistics: 18 St. Thomas St., in the heart of Yorkville. Accessible from Pearson Airport via limousine, or VIA Rail’s Union Station by limo or taxi. features: Valet Parking, luggage service luxury spa, 24-hr salt water pool, butler service, iPod docking stations, Nespresso, in-room Wi-Fi. windsorarmshotel.com or 877.999.2767
