London is home to many elegant heritage hotels, but few carry the weight of history and the promise of luxury quite like The OWO. Standing on the site of the former Palace of Whitehall, this magnificent Edwardian Baroque building was completed in 1906 as the Old War Office, the centre of Britain’s defence and intelligence operations. For decades, its vast corridors echoed with the footsteps of notable figures like Winston Churchill, T E Lawrence, and Captain Sir Mansfield George Smith-Cumming, the inspiration for the character M in Ian Fleming’s James Bond novels. The building’s aura and secrecy even found their way into Bond films, with appearances in Skyfall, Spectre, and several earlier classics.
After a meticulous six-year transformation, The OWO opened in 2023 as the first Raffles property in the United Kingdom. Today, it blends architectural grandeur with refined modern hospitality. The building houses 85 private residences, 120 luxurious rooms and suites, nine restaurants, three bars, and the first Guerlain Spa in London. Every detail, from the preserved domes and ornate façades to the curated interiors, reflects its layered past while offering guests an indulgent escape.
This year, The OWO introduced a guided heritage tour as part of its Tea and Tour experience. The journey begins in the Drawing Room, where guests are served a decadent afternoon tea pairing savoury treats with delicate pastries. From there, a knowledgeable guide leads an hour-long exploration through the public spaces and the sweeping grand staircase, recounting the building’s role in British history and its transformation into a luxury destination.
Dining at The OWO is a celebration in itself. At Saison by Mauro Colagreco, Mediterranean flavours meet seasonal British produce, while the Chef’s Table offers an intimate tasting menu crafted by the three-Michelin-starred chef. Kioku by Endo brings Japanese-inspired rooftop dining paired with a world-class sake program, while Paper Moon and Langosteria deliver authentic Italian cuisine.
The Pillar Kitchen focuses on wholesome creations with fresh juices and snacks, and The Guards Bar and Lounge offers a sophisticated space for classic cocktails. The Spy Bar, once the headquarters of covert intelligence operations, now serves as an atmospheric speakeasy where the history is as rich as the drinks.
For wellness seekers, the Guerlain Spa features nine treatment rooms, a 20-metre swimming pool, and a serene recovery lounge. Guests can also experience personalised fitness and nutrition programmes at Pillar Wellbeing, complete with a state-of-the-art gym and movement studio. Art lovers will appreciate The OWO Art Collection, which features specially commissioned works displayed throughout the hotel’s public areas and suites, with contributions from celebrated London-based women artists.
A stay at The OWO is more than just a night in a luxury hotel. It is a journey through time, offering a rare blend of historic intrigue, architectural beauty, and contemporary indulgence. Whether you are there for the heritage tour, the exceptional dining, or the unparalleled service, The OWO delivers an experience that is as unforgettable as London itself.
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