Iconic Old War Office in London Transformed into Luxurious Raffles Hotel, Set to Wow Visitors

The iconic Old War Office in Whitehall, London, is set to be transformed into a luxurious hotel, thanks to a collaboration between the Hinduja Group and Raffles Hotels & Resorts. The Hinduja Family acquired the building eight years ago, and after extensive restoration work, the hotel is set to open its doors on September 26. Originally completed in 1906, the Old War Office holds historical significance as the former site of the Palace of Whitehall.

Designed by British architect William Young, this majestic building has been featured in James Bond films and the popular Netflix series, 'The Crown'. With its rich heritage and stunning architecture, the Old War Office is poised to become one of the world's most awe-inspiring hotels. The Hinduja Group has spared no expense in preserving the building's former glory, while also bringing a new lease of life to the space. The hotel will feature 120 guest rooms and suites, along with world-class dining experiences curated by chef Mauro Colagreco. Additionally, a grand ballroom and entertainment spaces will be available for guests to enjoy.

As part of the building's transformation, Raffles London at The OWO will also house 85 Residences by Raffles, creating a new culinary district for London. Nine new restaurants and three bars, including a rooftop offering panoramic views of Buckingham Palace, will be available for visitors to indulge in. Sanjay Hinduja, who has overseen the project, expressed his excitement about the restoration, stating, "No expense has been spared in bringing [the Old War Office] back to its former glory and paying homage to its heritage...we hope to create a legacy that is both timeless and unsurpassed." Accor Chairman & CEO, Sébastien Bazin, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the honor of being part of such a historic project.

"Together with the Hinduja family, we proudly invite locals and travelers alike to experience this extraordinary hotel," Bazin shared. Philippe Leboeuf, Managing Director of Raffles London at The OWO, highlighted the hotel's dedication to preserving the Old War Office's history through its architecture and interior design. He expressed excitement about providing guests with Raffles' renowned personalized and intuitive service and the abundance of dining options available. With its blend of history, luxury, and impeccable design, the Raffles London at The OWO is poised to become an unforgettable destination for visitors to London.