In the heart of Whitehall, London, stands a monument to history, the Old War Office (OWO), a Grade II* listed Edwardian Baroque building that served as the nerve center for Britain's military empire. Once a hub of strategic decisions that shaped modern U.K. history, it has undergone an impressive eight-year refurbishment, emerging as Raffles London, the first European headquarters of the renowned Singaporean luxury hotel brand.
Raffles London's Communications Director, Fiona Harris, describes the allure of the hotel as a "magic combination: the building, the location, and the name, Raffles." The $1.7 billion makeover preserves the OWO's historical grandeur, with EPR Architects restoring its imperial features. The Italian marble imperial staircase and a double-tier chandelier pay homage to the birthplace of the British Secret Service and Ian Fleming's James Bond series.
The Churchill Suite, once the office where wartime Prime Minister Winston Churchill made pivotal decisions, now stands as a testament to history. Harris notes, "This building would have been full of state secrets." The suite features a replica of Churchill's desk and bust, preserving the legacy of the room where decisions like joining World War II and the D-Day landings were made.
Renowned designer Thierry Despont, known for restoring the Statue of Liberty, reimagined the Churchill Suite, honoring the building's rich history. Raffles London boasts 120 suites and rooms, including historical suites in former political and military leaders' offices, highlighting the site's historical significance.
A three-story excavation in the basement has expanded the building, creating a ballroom, a 65-foot pool, and a Guerlain spa. The hotel now has nine restaurants run by Michelin-starred chefs, including three by Mauro Colagreco of Argentina. The Guards Bar and Lounge and a subterranean spy bar in an ancient interrogation room provide unique settings to savor the hotel's culinary offerings.
Raffles London opens its doors to non-paying tourists on its 11 annual open days, a stark departure from its past as a site requiring security clearance. Harris expresses the shift, stating, “It doesn’t matter if you’re super rich or you just want to come for coffee with a friend. It’s open to everyone."
While Raffles London offers an opulent experience, with the five most luxurious suites priced between $22,001.40 and $30,557.48 per night, it is not alone in catering to London's premium market. The Hinduja Group, which purchased the OWO in 2016, emphasizes Britain's long-term appeal as a premium travel market, with Chairman Gopichand Hinduja stating, "The U.K. is an important country, and everyone loves to come to London for holiday or business."
The transformation of the Old War Office into Raffles London represents more than a luxury hotel; it is a celebration of history, an homage to the figures who shaped nations, and a symbol of Britain's enduring allure as a destination for travelers seeking both opulence and historical resonance.
