Dating back to 1875, the colonial-style building houses a comfortable hotel with considerable renown; its reputation is similar to that enjoyed by Raffles in Singapore or the Taj Mahal in Mumbai. The air-conditioned building with a terrace has long been popular with those arriving by ship as well as with the natives of Colombo, as the hotel had acquired an excellent reputation for ballroom dancing. Old crockery and furniture have been adopted for fashionable use in the hotel of today. Completely renovated in 2004, this establishment has been appointed to the benefit of business travellers and features a lobby area, a reception desk manned around the clock, a hire safe, a currency exchange facility, lift access, a gastronomy area with a bar, pub, nightclub, and restaurant, three conference rooms, and a public Internet connection. All guests in the 104 rooms and five suites may also take advantage of the room and laundry services, and parking is available for those arriving by car.

This hotel is conveniently located in the busy metropolis of Colombo, the economic centre of Sri Lanka. It lies on popular York Street, where banks and businesses indicate the high level of commercial activity, and is near the beach, shops, and bars. Colombo international airport is approximately 45 minutes from the hotel.

Guests may serve themselves from the buffets at breakfast, lunch and dinner. At lunchtimes there is also a set menu on offer. Guests may book either a half board, full board stay or bed and breakfast.