"It's a legend just getting started and possibly the most impressive hotel in the world," said Sébastien Bazin on the occasion of the upcoming opening of Raffles London at The OWO. The fact that there's now an official date for it pleases the Accor Chairman & CEO as much as fans of the brand. For they had to wait eight years for the arrival of the luxury hotel brand in London. During this time, the former British War Office was carefully renovated.

© Raffles

Raffles London at The OWO
57 Whitehall, London SW1A 2BX, United Kingdom
Web: raffles.com
Tel: +44 800 026 3808
Price: Doubles from € 1,400

A place with history

Everyone who has ever been to London knows this building. And probably also many a traveler who has never set foot in the Thames metropolis. Because here once worked influential personalities like Winston Churchill or David Lloyd George. It's therefore one of the most important addresses in the city, first opening its doors in 1906. Its Edwardian Baroque facade and impressiveness still astonishes. After its multi-million dollar makeover, 120 rooms and suites and 85 Raffles Residences occupy its historic halls now.

Residence, © Patrick Williamson

While the design of the former was created by the late Thierry Despont, 1508 London was responsible for the design of the residences. One highlight is the Heritage Suites in the former workplaces of political leaders. However, all the rooms pay homage to the building's history. The two-story chandelier, plenty of marble, modern amenities and imposing details exude timeless elegance. Hundreds of craftsmen were on hand to renovate the historic features. Intricate and hand-laid mosaic floors and oak paneling make The OWO a work of art.

Culinary art from Colagreco

The OWO is also to be a new culinary hotspot in London. For this, they have teamed up with none other than the maestro Mauro Colagreco - known from the Mirazur. He created three distinctive dining experiences: while at Mauro Colagreco at Raffles London at The OWO British vegetables are the focus, dine at Mauro's Table in an intimate setting. The Season serves as a traditional hotel restaurant. It's housed in the former library.

Mauro's Table, © Raffles

Two bars, a lounge and a wellbeing restaurant serving healthy cuisine complement the culinary experiences. In the main courtyard of The OWO, guests can indulge in French-style dining at the charming Café Lapérouse or sample Italian cuisine at Milanese restaurant Paper Moon. Future plans also include a rooftop restaurant, a sake bar and the debut of the Milan cult restaurant Langosteria in the UK.

Spa and the City

Those looking for an oasis in the urban jungle will also find it at The OWO. As one of the largest spas in the British capital, Guerlain finds a home at Raffles London. Spanning over 2,500 square meters and four floors, it offers not only a 20-meter pool, nine exquisite treatment suites and top treatments, but also a generous gym. That, of course, is quite the catch.

© Raffles

Too beautiful to ever leave? That's it! Fortunately, if you don't want to part with The OWO, there are also Residences. They are the brand's first in all of Europe and offer their owners all the hotel amenities, plus a unique design and plenty of privacy. The branded residences range from studio size to five bedroom apartments.

Raffles London at The OWO
57 Whitehall, London SW1A 2BX, United Kingdom
Web: raffles.com
Tel: +44 800 026 3808
Price: Doubles from € 1,400