A monumental conversion of the former Old War Office in Whitehall, combining lavish public rooms, a substantial spa, and multiple restaurants and bars. The location is especially compelling for travelers drawn to British political and military history.
Why We Chose It
The Old War Office (1906, 57 Whitehall) was where Churchill served as Secretary of State for War, where two World Wars' strategy was devised in 2.5 miles of corridors, and where intelligence services operated. After eight years and over £1 billion in restoration by the Hinduja Group, Raffles opened its first UK property here in 2023. The 120 rooms and suites (some with gold bathtubs, all with footmen) occupy former office floors. The Spy Bar (speakeasy through a secret passage in a former interrogation room, vintage Bond car as centerpiece) is the signature evening experience. Nine restaurants include Kioku by Endo (sushi, 360-degree London views) and Colagreco's Michelin-starred Brasserie des Saveurs. World's 50 Best Hotels 2025: #31.
What Stands Out
- World's 50 Best Hotels #31 (2025): the newest entrant in the top tier of London hotels, already in the global top 35
- Former Old War Office (1906): Winston Churchill's building — the wartime center of British military and intelligence operations
- £1 billion restoration: the most expensive hotel creation in London history
- Spy Bar in former interrogation room: accessed through a secret passage, vintage Bond car centerpiece — the most distinctly London hotel bar experience
- Nine restaurants including Kioku by Endo: 360-degree London views from the top floor sushi counter
- For the historically obsessed visitor: Raffles at The OWO is simultaneously one of London's most significant buildings and its most dramatic hotel