Churchill’s Old War Office in Whitehall to reopen as Hinduja Group’s luxury hotel on Sept 26

NEW DELHI: Winston Churchill’s Old War Office in central London’s Whitehall will reopen as Hinduja Group’s new luxury hotel on September 26, 2023. The 109-year-old Hinduja Group has collaborated with Raffles Hotels & Resorts to restore the Old War Office of Britain’s World War II era PM as a brand-new luxury hotel.
“When we came to Whitehall, the team were blown away by the size and beauty of this majestic building. No expense has been spared in bringing it back to its former glory and paying homage to its heritage, whilst breathing new life into it. Along with Raffles London at The OWO, we hope to create a legacy that is both timeless and unsurpassed,” said Sanjay Hinduja, who has overseen the project.
The Hinduja Family had acquired the landmark building on Whitehall, opposite Downing Street, over eight years ago and tied up with Raffles Hotels to transform the building into an “extravagant” hub complete with luxury residences, restaurants and spas.
The Old War Office, originally completed in 1906 and designed by British architect William Young, was formerly the site of the original Palace of Whitehall. Its architecture has also made the building a backdrop for James Bond films and, more recently, ‘The Crown’ Netflix series.
“Everyone at Accor feels honoured and privileged to be part of this historic project that has surpassed all expectations – truly a legend in the making and possibly the most awe-inspiring hotel on the planet. Together with the Hinduja family, we proudly invite locals and travellers alike to experience this extraordinary hotel as well as the authenticity and graciousness of Raffles, one of our most prestigious brands in one of the world’s greatest cities,” said Sébastien Bazin, Accor Chairman & CEO.
The Hotel has 120 guest rooms and suites, signature dining experiences by chef Mauro Colagreco and entertainment spaces including a grand ballroom. A number of these will be available for reservations as “The Whitehall Wing”, a six-bedroom suite occupying the west wing of the building which can accommodate up to 12 guests.
“At Raffles London, the history of the former Old War Office lives on, through its splendid architecture, carefully chosen interior design and expansive Heritage Suites. We are excited to provide guests with the highly personalised and intuitive service for which Raffles is known the world over. Visitors will be spoiled for choice with the eclectic array of world-class restaurants and bars in an unrivalled location,” said Philippe Leboeuf, Managing Director of Raffles London at The OWO.
The transformed OWO also houses 85 Residences by Raffles as part of the building’s reimagining as a new culinary district for London, complete with nine new restaurants and three bars, including a rooftop with panoramic views onto Buckingham Palace.