The most talked about hotel opening of the 21st Century! If you haven’t read about the renovation expenses ($1.6 billion), in the historic Old War Offices, your travel mags must have expired. Raffles deserves an ovation. Known as Raffles at the OWO, the Edwardian style structure underwent six years of work.
If the walls of The OWO could talk, it would be a lengthy tête-à-tête. Where Winston Churchill helped map out the Allied victory in World War II, where Sir Ian Fleming inspired by the building’s resident spies, dreamed up the M16 007 character. Many scenes from the 007 movies have been filmed on location. Over the last six years, architects and designers have transformed the OWO from an office building, a larger-than-life space, two and a half miles of corridors linked more than 1000 rooms. Young men, not old enough to enlist, once bicycled the halls to deliver important messages to military staff. Bike replicas with wicker baskets are conveniently placed in a stunning room with a floor to ceiling survey map of London, take a spin!
Thomas Lawrence spent time here in 1914 before becoming the legend that is Lawrence of Arabia. Christine Granville, a real-life spy, her actual name was Krystyna Skarbek, was one of Churchill’s favorite female spies. One of the grandest suites, the Granville, my favorite, pays tribute to her. Richard Haldane also has a named suite. The five Heritage Suites are crafted from former offices of influential politicians and political leaders.
Hundreds of craftspeople restored period features, including hand-laid mosaic floors, rich oak paneling, magnificent chandeliers and the dramatic marble staircase. Transformed into an elegant property with 120 guest rooms and suites, 12 bars and restaurants, a heavenly spa and pool, and 85 private residences. Raffles brand set the standard for luxury hospitality introducing the world to private butlers, all-suite hotels and its enduring celebrated service.
Raffles London at The OWO occupies a magnificent Grade II* Edwardian Baroque building in Whitehall, the epicenter of British Government. A sophisticated neighborhood with a central location, Whitehall is close to Waterloo and Charing Cross train terminals, and accessible however you choose to arrive. The River Thames, Horse Guards Parade, Buckingham Palace, St James’s Park, the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey are all within walking distance, and the West End theatres and the nightlife of Covent Garden and Soho are only a heartbeat away.
Drink and Dine. Nine restaurants and three bars. The tucked away location of each venue makes them feel unique. Langosteria, Café Laperouse, and Paper Moon, serves Milanese cuisine in comforting surroundings. You won’t find row after row of restaurants. Enjoy breakfast or lunch in the beautiful airy light filled conservatory-style Saison, operated by Mauro Colagreco, whose Menton restaurant, Le Mirazur, has three Michelin stars. Mauro’s Table is next door.
Kioku by Endo had just opened on my visit and was sold out for weeks! A beautiful terrace adds to the ambiance. The Guards Bar honors the OWO long association with the Household Cavalry is suitably clubby and pours Raffles’ signature Singapore Sling and London Sling cocktails. The Guards Bar overlooks the entrance to Buckingham Palace and the mounted horse guards.
Secrecy meets sophistication, the top-secret underground Spy Bar is fun: hidden in an untouched basement corridor, hotel guests must be escorted to the unmarked entrance.
The magnificent Guerlain Spa spans 27,000 sq. feet and four floors, each secluded corridor exudes calm. One lovely aspect, if you haven’t arrived in your robe, a choice of changing in your spa suite is offered. Take sanctuary here for a few hours, begin with a swim in the serene 65-foot swimming pool surrounded by arched pillars under double height ceilings. Fit for a Queen or a King, I loved my treatment.
Become a Legend at Raffles OWO, London! Highly Recommend!
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