• Raffles London at The OWO Hotel to Open Late 2022 in Churchill's Old War Office   

Raffles;

Raffles Hotels & Resorts and Hinduja Group announced the opening of Raffles London at The OWO from late 2022, a new hotel in the landmark Grade II listed former Old War Office on Whitehall. The building will open to the public for the first time, having undergone a transformation to create 120 rooms and suites, 85 unique branded residences and 11 destination restaurants and bars. Tthe UK's first Raffles hotel will have an extensive wellness space featuring world leading spa and fitness partners and will be home to a rooftop restaurant and bar with panoramic views across Whitehall, The Mall and on to Buckingham Palace.

The Old War Office, originally completed in 1906 and designed by British architect William Young, has stood witness to many world-shaping events. Grand in both size and stature, the interior proportions reflect classic Edwardian architecture. During the careful and sensitive ongoing five-year renovation, the building's key features have been completely restored whilst respecting its legacy. The family run Hinduja Group, at the helm of the redevelopment, has been committed to the meticulous restoration of the heritage features of the building since its acquisition in 2016. Hundreds of artisan craftspeople have been commissioned to restore the historic interior elements including delicate hand-laid mosaic floors, oak panelling, chandeliers, and a magnificent marble staircase.

Raffles and Hinduja Group have brought together a team of industry talent including interior design by designer Thierry Despont who brings an impeccable pedigree for transforming landmark buildings including The Getty Centre, Maison Cartier, The Carlyle and the Statue of Liberty. At the helm of the opening is Managing Director Philippe Leboeuf, a French national who is returning to the capital bringing expertise from some of the world's most notable and historic hotels.

Key suites at Raffles London will be situated in the building's most storied rooms - formerly offices of influential political and military leaders including Winston Churchill, David Lloyd George and John Profumo. Some of the most sought-after suites will be located in the building's corner turrets, from which guests will enjoy unparalleled views over Horse Guards and the stunning 57-acres of St. James's Park. The Old War Office inspired Ian Fleming to write the famous James Bond series after working as key liaison officer between the War Office and Britain's Naval Intelligence Service. The building went on to feature in various Bond films, including Skyfall, Spectre, License to Kill, A View to a Kill, Octopussy, and most recently, No Time To Die.

  • Address: Whitehall, London SW1A 2EU
  • Opening from late 2022
  • 120 rooms and suites, designed by Thierry Despont
  • 85 Raffles branded residences, designed by 1508 London
  • 11 restaurants and bars led by world-class chefs and restaurateurs including rooftop bar with panoramic views
  • Dedicated wellness concept with comprehensive spa and fitness offering and indoor pool