In the bustling heart of London, The Athenaeum Hotel and Residences has long been a haven for travelers, especially those seeking a family-friendly escape. My personal journey with this remarkable hotel began years ago when I stayed in a spacious apartment-style residence with my children. As any parent can attest, finding comfortable accommodations for a family of five in the U.K. can be a daunting task. However, that charming apartment, complete with a private entrance and cleverly designed bunk beds, made our stay special. Years later, I returned with my husband to enjoy the luxurious main hotel, where we rekindled fond memories while resting in lavish surroundings. Despite the opulence of the hotel and the comfort it provided, what stands out most vividly is not the marble hallways or the sumptuous rooms, but rather the warm presence of a remarkable man, Jim Burns.
Jim Burns was the embodiment of hospitality at The Athenaeum, serving as the doorman for over three decades. Standing tall at 6 feet 7 inches and often seen wearing a top hat, he wasn’t just a fixture; he was an enduring symbol of the hotel’s charm. His passing leaves an indelible mark, not just on the property, but on the many guests who were privileged enough to experience his genuine warmth and welcoming spirit. As stated by Joanne Taylor-Stagg, the hotel’s general manager, “He didn’t just share our story — he was our story — and the face of The Athenaeum.” Such a sentiment encapsulates the deep connection Jim fostered with guests and staff alike.
What set Jim apart was not only his towering stature but also his exceptional ability to remember guest names and details about their lives. Taylor-Stagg further highlighted Jim’s unparalleled memory, noting how he often greeted guests with affectionate titles such as “Princess” or “My Lady.” These personalized gestures transformed ordinary visits into special experiences for many, particularly for children who relished being treated like royalty. Jim had a unique knack for making guests feel valued and recognized, an invaluable trait that underscored his dedication to customer service.
Beyond his role as a doorman, Jim was a master storyteller. He captivated those around him with tales steeped in the history of The Athenaeum and its notable guests. One particularly cherished anecdote recounted by Taylor-Stagg involves the legendary Nelson Mandela. Following his release from prison, Mandela stayed at the hotel during his visit to London. Amidst the crowd of supporters, he ensured to thank Jim personally for his hospitality, further solidifying Jim’s status as more than just staff but as an integral part of the hotel’s narrative.
Jim’s journey at The Athenaeum began in 1992, following his tenure at the Waldorf. His dedication to the job was so profound that he rode his bicycle across town, driven by a desire to be part of the esteemed establishment. However, life dealt him a challenging hand when a motorcycle accident in 2020 left him with serious injuries, limiting his ability to perform as he once did. Instead of bidding farewell to the hotel he loved, the management team created a new role for him as a brand ambassador. While the iconic top hat was retired, Jim embraced this new position with an enthusiasm that radiated positivity, continuing to engage and entertain guests in The View, the hotel’s stunning guest lounge.
Although Jim Burns is no longer with us, his legacy endures in the hearts of everyone who passed through the doors of The Athenaeum. His charismatic presence and unforgettable stories have evoked countless memories among guests, solidifying his place in the fabric of the hotel’s history. The Athenaeum may continue to welcome visitors from around the world, but none will ever replace the unique charm that Jim brought to it. His impact will certainly reverberate for years to come, reminding us all of the profound influence one individual can have on countless lives through kindness, memory, and an unwavering spirit.
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