Woodville Palace

The estate on which Woodville Palace is nestled has a history dating all the way back to 1865, when Sir William Mansfield, Commander-in-Chief of the Imperial Army, became the first resident of this charming estate. The palace was reconstructed in 1938, when hundreds of expert artisans were brought in to ensure the highest quality of craftsmanship. In 1977, the palace was converted to a heritage hotel. Today, it is worth a visit even if you’re not staying here. Sprawled across four acres of greenery it is one of the finest places to stay in Shimla. Stop for a drink at the 1930s themed Hollywood Bar, which boasts a wall of signed photographs of film stars like Clark Gable, Laurel and Hardy, Katherine Hepburn. There’s even a multi-level rose garden and beautifully-maintained green lawns for a stroll in the chilly evening air.