When The Norfolk Hotel first opened in Nairobi on Christmas Day 1904, the Savoy Hotel in London was 5 years old and the London Ritz was still a year away. No other hotel in Kenya captures as much of Nairobi's splendid past and exciting present, and few hotels anywhere can claim a more romantic history. Adventurous visitors such as 26th American President Theodore Roosevelt, Lord Baden-Powell, the Earl of Warwick, Lord and Lady Cranworth, and the Baron and Baroness von Blixen have all been part of the Hotels history. In 1998/99 the Reception, public areas, function rooms and restaurants were renovated, and the new Acacia Wing with 44 deluxe guest rooms and suites was built. Today, the Hotel boasts 167 luxurious guest rooms, an outdoor heated swimming pool, a fully equipped health club, a ballroom, four function rooms, elegant public areas and the choice of four dining venues.