Work began on the Norfolk in 1904 and was completed in 1907 making it Nairobi’s first luxury hotel. It soon became an East African landmark, synonymous with the European elegance of the “grand hotel”. It remains Nairobi’s best hotel, now a prestigious Fairmont property.

The rooms are spacious and grand, and Fairmont has restored several antique sections including the 1940s Mugumo Wing, and has also completely rebuilt a standing wing from the first constructions with renditions of the first garden cottages.

The Norfolk’s gardens are legendary and all rooms look onto them. Today’s modern hotel boasts an Olympic-sized swimming pool, state of the art fitness center, numerous boutiques and spas, a New Age restaurant (to the displeasure of many veterans) and property wide wifi.