FTT Travel · journal

The Murray, Hong Kong, a Niccolo Hotel: Architectural Heritage and Urban Sanctuary in Central

A sophisticated transformation of an iconic 1969 government landmark, The Murray combines bold modernist architecture with refined urban living along Cotton Tree Drive in Central.

Information last checked on October 22, 2026

Details

What makes it special

The Murray distinguishes itself as a striking urban sanctuary carved out of an iconic modernist government building on Cotton Tree Drive in Hong Kong's Central district. Originally completed in 1969, the structure is celebrated for its monumental white recessed arches, energy-efficient angled windows, and seamless connection to Hong Kong Park and the Mid-Levels green belt.

Practical takeaways

Modernist architectural preservation in Central
Iconic multi-storey white recessed arches
Direct adjacency to Hong Kong Park and green landscapes

History, setting & people

The property occupies the historic Murray Building, an acclaimed architectural landmark originally conceived in the late 1960s with climate-responsive angled facades designed to avoid intense tropical sunlight. Thoughtfully reimagined by Foster + Partners and managed under Wharf Hotels' luxury Niccolo Hotels brand, the hotel redefines luxury hospitality along the historic axis of Cotton Tree Drive, bridging the business core of Central with peaceful Mid-Levels greenery.

Practical takeaways

Historic 1969 Murray Building government landmark
Architectural revitalization overseen by Foster + Partners
Managed by Niccolo Hotels under Wharf Hotels

Signature spaces & highlights

The hotel's design highlights center on its preserved historic grounds, notably the majestic multi-storey arches framing the forecourt and the century-old registered Old and Valuable Tree (Cassia javanica var. indochinensis) that blooms in spring. Guests encounter light-filled spaces designed around the building's distinctive geometry, expansive marble bathrooms, and soaring outdoor social terraces.

Practical takeaways

The Arches forecourt and historic driveway
Centenary Cassia javanica historic tree in the courtyard
Rooftop venue Popinjays with wrap-around outdoor terrace

Rooms, views & choosing your experience

Rooms and suites feature distinctive square recessed windows cut at calculated angles, framing views of the Central skyline, the historic St. John's Cathedral, or the green canopy of Hong Kong Park. Guests seeking tranquility often prefer park-facing rooms overlooking tropical foliage, while urban skyline enthusiasts favour higher-level suites facing the dramatic skyscrapers of the financial district.

Practical takeaways

Park-view rooms overlooking Hong Kong Park
City-facing suites framing Central's iconic skyline
Generous open layouts with deep recessed windows

Dining, bars & local flavours

Dining at The Murray encompasses rooftop bar and restaurant Popinjays, offering modern European fare and craft cocktails with panoramic views, alongside Murray Lane for afternoon tea and aperitifs. The Tai Pan presents seasonal grill specialties and international classics, while Garden Lounge serves refined afternoon tea against the backdrop of the hotel’s historic gardens.

Practical takeaways

Popinjays rooftop restaurant and bar with panoramic city vistas
The Tai Pan serving European-inspired grill cuisine
Garden Lounge offering signature afternoon tea overlooking the forecourt

Facilities & hospitality

Wellness facilities include an indoor lap pool, a comprehensively equipped 24-hour fitness center, and a serene spa offering tailored holistic treatments. The hotel also features dedicated indoor and open-air event venues, including the semi-outdoor Arches, popular for high-profile gatherings and private celebrations.

Practical takeaways

Indoor lap pool and hydrotherapy amenities
24-hour state-of-the-art gymnasium
Wellness spa with private treatment suites

Location & getting around

Located at 22 Cotton Tree Drive, Central, the hotel sits within walking distance of the Peak Tram lower terminus, St. John's Cathedral, and Central MTR Station (approximately 10 minutes on foot). Hong Kong International Airport is accessible in around 35 to 45 minutes by car, with FTT coordinating seamless private chauffeured transfers directly to the forecourt.

Practical takeaways

Prime location on Cotton Tree Drive in Central
Proximity to Peak Tram Lower Terminus and St. John's Cathedral
Accessible to Hong Kong International Airport within 40 minutes

Activities on site & nearby

Guests can explore the landscaped trails of Hong Kong Park, ascend to Victoria Peak via the adjacent historic Peak Tram, or wander through Central's art galleries along Hollywood Road. FTT assists in curating bespoke historical architecture walks and private city explorations tailored to individual interests.

Practical takeaways

Exploration of neighbouring Hong Kong Park and aviary
Heritage excursions to Victoria Peak via Peak Tram
Curated art and heritage trails in Central and Sheung Wan

Travelling with pets

The Murray is renowned for its pet-welcoming policy, accepting dogs and cats with dedicated pet-friendly rooms, designated outdoor dining spaces, and bespoke pet amenities. Four-legged companions enjoy tailored bedding, bowls, and welcoming treats across selected pet-friendly zones.

Practical takeaways

Pet-friendly accommodation for dogs and cats
Designated outdoor alfresco dining areas for guests with pets
Tailored in-room pet amenities including beds and bowls

Practical details & individual needs

The hotel provides step-free entrance ramps, accessible elevators, and designated accessible rooms equipped with roll-in facilities. Guests requiring specific mobility aids, hypo-allergenic bedding, or customized dietary preparations should advise their travel advisor prior to arrival to confirm detailed floor layouts and arrangements.

Practical takeaways

Wheelchair-accessible routes and adaptive guest rooms
Dietary accommodation available upon advance notification
Elevator access across all public dining and wellness venues

Guest questions

The following answers address key guest planning considerations for an exceptional stay at The Murray.

Practical takeaways

Are pets permitted to stay at The Murray? Yes, the hotel welcomes dogs and cats under its pet-friendly programme with prior registration.
Which rooms feature views of Hong Kong Park? Park View rooms and selected upper-floor suites offer direct outlooks over the lush greenery of Hong Kong Park.
How far is the hotel from the Peak Tram? The lower terminus of the Peak Tram is situated within a 5-minute walk along Garden Road.
Does the hotel offer airport private transfers? Yes, private chauffeur airport limousine transfers can be coordinated upon request.
Is there a dress code for rooftop dining at Popinjays? Popinjays requests smart casual attire for evening dining and drinks.

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Good to know

Are pets permitted to stay at The Murray?

Yes, The Murray is a pet-friendly hotel welcoming dogs and cats with dedicated in-room amenities and designated outdoor dining areas upon advance registration.

Which guest rooms offer greenery views of Hong Kong Park?

Guests should select the Park View rooms or higher-tier corner suites facing south to enjoy open vistas of the tropical foliage of Hong Kong Park.

How can private airport transfers be arranged?

Private luxury limousine transfers between Hong Kong International Airport and the hotel can be coordinated seamlessly through your FTT travel designer prior to arrival.

Is the hotel accessible on foot to the Peak Tram?

Yes, the Garden Road Lower Terminus of the Peak Tram is located approximately 5 minutes on foot from the hotel's entrance.

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