According to various sources, a new cigar sampling lounge is set to open in 2026 at The Chancery Rosewood in Mayfair, further expanding the luxury offerings at the landmark hotel housed in London’s former US Embassy.

The Chancery Rosewood, which opened in September 2025 following a £1bn restoration, occupies the reimagined embassy building on Grosvenor Square. Redesigned by British architect Sir David Chipperfield, the hotel features 144 suites by French designer Joseph Dirand, alongside a wide range of dining and entertainment spaces.

It’s also just been announced that Chancery Rosewood has taken the top spot in a new ranking of the world’s best new luxury hotels. The list, revealed by Luxury Travel Intelligence (LTI)—a members-only site that reviews hotels, restaurants, nightclubs, and more—names the best 15 luxury hotels that opened in 2025, with the Chancery Rosewood leading the pack.

The cigar sampling lounge is being developed in partnership with specialist tobacconist Sautter Cigars and is currently scheduled to open in February, subject to the completion of construction works. Earlier plans for an expanded lounge were delayed amid uncertainty surrounding the Tobacco and Vapes Bill being debated in UK Parliament. Laurence Davis of Sautter Cigars mentioned in a recent social media broadcast that the project couldn’t move forward “until we know exactly what this bill contains.” However, recent developments indicate that this stance may have since changed.

The Eagle Bar already permits cigar smoking and offers panoramic views of the London skyline. The new cigar sampling lounge and terrace is said to be located on the same floor as the hotel’s Eagle Bar, but on the opposite side. However, those involved have acknowledged that the space required significant upgrades to meet year-round comfort standards.

During his weekly Instagram Live broadcasts, Laurence Davis mentioned that the terrace had been “cold, wet, and windy,” which led to a complete overhaul of the heating systems “All the heating provisions are being changed,” he said, with the aim of transforming the exposed terrace into a fully heated, all-season environment for guests.

Recruitment advertisements published in October indicate a strong emphasis on expertise and experience. One listing for a cigar sommelier outlined responsibilities including guiding guests through an “exclusive humidor selection”, hosting tastings and masterclasses, and curating cigar pairings with premium spirits.

Behind the scenes, preparations are already under way. Staff training has begun, specialist equipment is being installed, and high-end accessories such as table lighters are under consideration. Bespoke items have also been commissioned specifically for the lounge’s opening.

The cigar programme will be anchored by a large, custom-built humidor from Spanish firm El Cedro.

The company recently confirmed that its El Presidente humidor has been installed at The Chancery Rosewood in preparation for the lounge, describing the site as “the former American Embassy, reborn”.

London’s cigar scene is set to thrive in 2026, with a new cigar shop and sampling lounge opening at Dukes Hotel, La Casa del Habano Pall Mall arriving in late March, and now this exciting announcement! While the Tobacco and Vapes Bill is on the horizon and could bring some changes, there’s still plenty of reason to be hopeful for a vibrant year ahead for cigar enthusiasts.