Whitehall's crown jewel: Raffles London at The OWO debuts in style
Today, we celebrate the much-awaited opening of Raffles London at The OWO in Whitehall, marking the brand's inaugural foray into the United Kingdom. This is no ordinary hotel; it's a transformation, a tribute, and a gateway to the past and future all rolled into one.
Over the past eight years, the Old War Office has undergone a remarkable resurrection, and at its heart stands Raffles London at The OWO. Developed through the collaborative vision of the Hinduja Group and Accor, this magnificent establishment stands as a testament to what can be achieved when heritage meets modernity.
With 120 rooms and suites to choose from, this is a hotel that will make even the most discerning traveler's heart skip a beat. However, the true gems of the establishment are the Heritage Suites. These are the former offices of political and military luminaries of yesteryears, and now, you can reserve your very own slice of history as part of "The Whitehall Wing." This six-bedroom suite occupies the west wing of the building and can host up to 12 guests. Imagine the stories these walls could tell!
And speaking of tales, let's delve into the culinary delights awaiting your palate. Raffles London has joined forces with the renowned Chef Mauro Colagreco to craft three distinct dining experiences. From the signature restaurant Mauro Colagreco at Raffles London at The OWO, complete with its show kitchen, to the intimate Mauro's Table offering private dining for up to 23 guests, and the all-day Mediterranean fare at Saison, your taste buds are in for an unforgettable journey.
But the culinary adventure doesn't stop there. The OWO houses four independent restaurants, including Café Lapérouse, Paper Moon, Langosteria, and a rooftop restaurant paired with a ground-floor sake bar by Creative Restaurant Group. For the epicurean explorer, this is a paradise waiting to be discovered.
And let's not forget the bars. Raffles London will be home to The Guard's Bar and Lounge, a place to unwind, and The Spy Bar, intriguingly situated in a former interrogation room, adding a dash of espionage-inspired allure to your evenings.
Now, let's dive into relaxation. The Guerlain Spa at Raffles London spreads across four floors, featuring a pool, nine treatment suites, and a gym. Additionally, the Pillar Wellbeing health club stands ready to help guests reach their full potential through personalized training and nutrition.
For those planning events, the Whitehall Ballroom offers space for up to 600 guests, complemented by pre-function areas and meeting rooms named Morse and Code, where memories are made and deals sealed.
And here's the twist - The OWO Residences by Raffles are a true gem in their own right, marking the first Raffles-serviced residences in the UK and Europe. These 85 residences are uniquely designed to suit their locations within the building, ranging from studios to five-bedroom wonders. To top it off, two turret residences rise above the London skyline, offering unparalleled views of this magnificent city.
So, as we raise a glass to this historic moment, let's celebrate not just a hotel opening, but the fusion of heritage and luxury, tradition and innovation. Raffles London at The OWO is not just a destination; it's a promise of experiences yet to come, stories yet to be written, and memories yet to be made.
Photography by Chris Hill
