September 13, 2023
2 mins read

Iconic Old War Office to Open as Luxury Hotel in London

The most historically significant areas of the building are the Heritage Suites, former offices of influential political and military leaders including Winston Churchill, David Lloyd George and Sir Richard Haldane…reports Asian Lite News

For the first time since its conception in 1906, the iconic Old War Office of UK’s World War II era Prime Minister Winston Churchill will open its doors to the public as a luxury hotel on September 29 after its restoration by the Hinduja Group.

Raffles London at the Old War Office (OWO), which will open with 120 rooms and suites with luxury residences, restaurants and spas, had tied up with the Hindujas after the UK’s richest Indian-origin group had acquired the building opposite Downing Street over eight years ago.

“When we came to Whitehall, the team were blown away by the size and beauty of this majestic building. No expense has been spared in bringing it back to its former glory and paying homage to its heritage, whilst breathing new life into it,” said Sanjay Hinduja from the Hinduja Group.

“Along with Raffles London at the OWO, we hope to create a legacy that is both timeless and unsurpassed.”

The extravagant makeover has been done with the help of hundreds of artisans, restoring historic interior elements, including delicate hand-laid mosaic floors, oak panelling, glittering chandeliers, and a marble staircase.

The most historically significant areas of the building are the Heritage Suites, former offices of influential political and military leaders including Winston Churchill, David Lloyd George and Sir Richard Haldane.

A number of these will be available for exclusive reservations as ‘The Whitehall Wing’. This six-bedroom suite will occupy the west wing of the building and can accommodate up to twelve guests – one of the largest luxury hotel wings available in London.

“At Raffles London, the history of the former Old War Office lives on, through its splendid architecture, carefully chosen interior design and expansive Heritage Suites. We are excited to provide guests with the highly personalised and intuitive service for which Raffles is known the world over. Visitors will be spoiled for choice with the eclectic array of world-class restaurants and bars in an unrivalled location,” said Philippe Leboeuf, Managing Director of Raffles London at The OWO.

Further outlets at the hotel include, The Drawing Room, a relaxed all-day dining lounge overlooking Horse Guards, and Pillar Kitchen, a wellbeing-focused outlet that will go beyond healthy food, tailoring meals akin to workouts by focusing directly on individuals’ specific needs.    

The OWO was designed by British architect William Young, and it has served as backdrop in many films and series, including ‘The Crown’ on Netflix recently, and James Bond films.

ALSO READ-Why the British must learn the full story of their Empire

Previous Story

Poland Urges EU to Extend Ukrainian Grain Import Ban

Next Story

North Korea Fires Unspecified Ballistic Missile

Latest from -Top News

Modi all set for Japan, China visits

By travelling to both Tokyo and Tianjin within the span of a week, Modi is set to balance strategic partnerships with Japan and cautious engagement with China – two relationships that will

Canada to lift counter-tariffs on US goods

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has announced that Ottawa will remove its counter-tariffs on US goods covered under the Canada-US-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA), beginning 1 September. The move marks a partial easing of
Go toTop

Don't Miss

UK angers France by granting only 12 licenses to EU fishing boats

Of these, 117 licences have been issued for EU vessels

UK’s Trade Talks Pause Irks Canada

Talks are also faltering on drafting new rules for automotive