Raffles London at the OWO
London, United Kingdom

Name: Raffles London at the OWO
Address: 57 Whitehall, London, England, SW1A 2BX, United Kingdom

About the hotel

Style

Historic

Rooms

120

"Eight years and $1.7 billion in renovations have led to the Old War Office Building’s re-debut as Raffles London at the OWO, which features 120 magnificent guest rooms alongside fabulous dining and a superb spa."

Eight years and $1.7 billion (yes, billion) in renovations have led to one very significant moment in the UK’s luxury hospitality scene: the 2023 grand opening of Raffles London at the OWO. The OWO – aka the city’s Old War Office building – has been an iconic London landmark since its construction was completed in 1906. The Edwardian Baroque behemoth – which once housed the offices of historical greats like Winston Churchill and David Lloyd George – has been extensively and exquisitely restored to become the Raffles brand’s debut UK property.

‘Magnificent’ is an understatement when it comes to describing the hotel, but it’s a word we’ll use anyway – not that we’d expect anything less, given the renovation’s eye-popping price tag. The building’s historical grandeur is celebrated throughout, while creative reimaginings breathe new life into its stately halls. The property’s 120 guestrooms and suites were masterminded by the late architect and designer Thierry Despont, with enchanting results. Within, the spaces are contemporary reinterpretations of classic Edwardian aesthetics: a perfect blend of old and new that results in fresh, timeless environments. The colour palette of ivory, wood and sage is calm and welcoming, while high ceilings and tall windows flanked by patterned drapes contribute to an airy feel. Contemporary artworks lend a tasteful splash of modernity, and large marble bathrooms feel luxurious and spa-like. Fabulous as the rooms and starting suites are, it’s in the upper-tier accommodations that you’ll find the most breathtaking of stays. Take the jaw-dropping Christine Granville Suite, for instance, which is named after Winston Churchill’s supposed favourite spy and features towering ceilings, soaring oak casement windows and magnificent rich wood panelling everywhere you look. Equally dazzling is The Haldane Suite, which is notable especially for its sophisticated drawing room and choice views over Whitehall and Horse Guards Palace.

Nine restaurants and three bars make Raffles London a culinary destination unto itself. All the flavours of a traditional English garden are exceptionally elevated at the spectacular Mauro Colagreco; the Argentine-Italian chef for whom it’s named also lends his genius to the Mediterranean Saison and the immersive private dining Mauro’s Table. Kioku by Endo is a fabulous spot for Japanese-inspired fare, while Milanese dishes and traditional Italian cocktails can be found at Paper Moon.

Spanning four floors and 27,000 square feet, The Guerlain Spa is a must-visit. Expect the works: a 20-metre indoor swimming pool, state-of-the-art gym and movement studio, experience showers, saunas and steam rooms, VIP treatment suites and more.

Hotel amenities

Air conditioning

Laundry/valet service

Pool

Restaurant

Room service

Spa

Wheelchair access

Lounges/bars

Fitness centre

Internet complimentary

Parking at a charge

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