While Hong Kong’s is dotted with hotels large and small, there are some that stand out from the rest, by the sheer beauty of their design, the gargantuan scale of their structure or the historic value of their location. It’s the latter that defines The Murray, Hong Kong, a Niccolo Hotel. Built in 2018 on the site of a the former government office tower as part of the city’s Conserving Central initiative, it has seen the US$1-billion preservation project transform a British-era building into a super-luxury, cosmopolitan hotel. But despite the modern veneer at The Murray, what hasn’t changed is its keen resolve to protect its heritage, so we see colonial influences at each arch and turn of the building.

Now, to reinforce the conservation project’s concept to reconnect with the city and community, The Murray team has just launched The Murray Historic Tour – a walk down the memory lane that reveals the historical charms of the familiar building.

Carefully conducted by hotel’s own City Insiders, the tour explores the architectural marvels from yesteryears that still occupy pride of place in the hotel – be it its stately arches, its energy-efficient windows or its grand main entrance. One particularly eye-catching element that is sure to resonate with visitors is a 100-year-old tree (one of only two registered Old and Valuable Trees in Hong Kong) that stands tall in the courtyard.

Strolling indoors, there’s also a guided viewing of noteworthy art pieces by such acclaimed artists as Bahk Seon Ghi, Zaha Hadid, John Kennedy, Jaume Plensa, Isabel Miramontes that adorn the walls of The Murray. However, what makes The Murray Historic Tour truly special is that it’s not just a dry history lesson, it’s a nostalgia-inducing dialogue between the past and the present. 

Two guided tours are scheduled daily at 10am and 4pm. Each session accommodates up to 10 guests and advance reservation is required. The tour is complimentary and its route varies depending on availability. For reservations, contact City Insiders at cityinsider.themurray@niccolohotels.com or +852 3141 8809.