Raffles at The OWO, London
More photosRaffles at The OWO in Whitehall is an architectural masterpiece with a storied past. Built in 1906, the building originally served as the Old War Office, a hub of power where figures like Winston Churchill and T.E. Lawrence once worked. It even inspired Ian Fleming to create the James Bond series, with the site appearing in several 007 films.
Following a monumental six-year transformation, this Grade II* listed Edwardian gem now blends its rich heritage with modern luxury. The interior design was led by the late Thierry Despont, who helped convert the building’s former offices into 120 opulent guest rooms and suites, while keeping its grand, historical character intact.
The hotel is packed with unique features, including nine restaurants, three bars, and the UK’s first Guerlain Spa. The attention to detail is remarkable, from the intricate woodwork and custom lighting to the preservation of the building’s original corridors, which once spanned two-and-a-half miles.
Its location in the heart of London puts you right in the middle of history. You are just a short stroll from iconic landmarks like the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, and Trafalgar Square. Whether you’re walking through St. James’s Park or visiting nearby museums, the hotel serves as an incredibly prestigious base for exploring the city.
This isn’t just a place to stay; it is a chance to walk the halls where world-shaping events were once planned, now reimagined as one of London’s most sophisticated destinations.
Expert reviews
“This is the most dazzling, patrician and talked-about hotel to have opened in London this century—with great bones, spirit, heritage, and style; not to mention sybaritic restaurants, bars, and wellness spaces.”
“The first Raffles hotel in the United Kingdom has finally opened in the former old war offices in Whitehall overlooking the Royal Horse Guards, and given the Raffles brand, it couldn’t be more appropriately housed, with thoughtful, historic touches throughout including chandeliers, opulent upholstery, and grand marble staircases.”
“Whitehall’s Edwardian-baroque Old War Office, originally built in 1906 at the height of the British Empire, opened as a suitably dignified hotel with great fanfare in September 2023. It is now home to 120 rooms and suites, a further 85 private residences, a Guerlain spa, huge pool, nine restaurants and a rich slice of British wartime history.”
What guests liked
- Top location
- Historic building
- Friendly staff
- Comfortable beds
- Swimming pool
Location
Other London hotels
Belmond Cadogan Hotel, London
The Belmond Cadogan Hotel, located on the border of Chelsea and Knightsbridge, is a legendary London landmark that opened in 1887. Housed within five interconnected Queen Anne-style townhouses, the property is famous for its literary and social history. It was once a favourite retreat for playwright Oscar Wilde—who was famously arrested in room 118—and socialite Lillie Langtry, who lived there for seven years.
CN Traveler + 1 more“Following Belmond’s four-year renovation of the five adjoining Queen Anne townhouses—one the old home of socialite Lillie Langtry—now the vibe is understated, marbled elegance but with Saatchi-worthy art and a crystal-encrusted peacock.”
The Langham Hotel, London
Opened in 1865 by the Prince of Wales, The Langham, London holds the prestigious title of Europe’s first "Grand Hotel." Designed by John Giles, the property was a revolutionary marvel of its time, boasting England’s first hydraulic lifts and early electric lighting. Over its 150-year history, it has welcomed everyone from Oscar Wilde and Mark Twain to Princess Diana, cementing its status as a true London icon.
CN Traveler + 1 more“This great big castle of a building is less than five minutes’ walk from Oxford Circus, but still far enough away for the noise of crowds to have dissipated. The Langham first opened in 1865, so it’s self-assured, yet more modern than most hotels of its age.”
The Laslett Hotel, London
The Laslett in Notting Hill is a sophisticated boutique hotel spread across five beautifully restored Victorian townhouses. It is named after Rhaune Laslett, the community activist who founded the original Notting Hill Carnival. Designed by Tom Bartlett of Waldo Works, the hotel aims to feel more like a stylish, lived-in home than a traditional hotel, perfectly capturing the creative, slightly eccentric spirit of West London.
New York Times + 1 more“With its fine style, comfort and friendly staff, the Laslett fills a gap in a neighborhood with surprisingly few boutique hotels.”
Ham Yard Hotel, London
In a quiet, purpose-built urban village just off Piccadilly Circus, the Ham Yard Hotel is a masterclass in eclectic design. It was created by the renowned Firmdale Hotels founder, Kit Kemp, who is famous for her bold, colorful, and highly textural interiors. Completed in 2014, the building transformed a previously derelict site into a vibrant hub that feels worlds away from the surrounding city bustle.
CN Traveler“Snug within its own Soho enclave, Ham Yard still feels as fresh as when it opened in 2014, with its procession of fabrics, textures, and fizzy commotion that rebooted the whole concept of the boutique hotel.”