When the Sarkies family created the Raffles Hotel in Singapore in 1887 they started a brand that would become globally recognised as a landmark for luxury. It was named after Sir Stamford Raffles, the famous naturalist and British statesman known as the founder of modern Singapore and evolved into an icon of colonial opulence with its verdant courtyards, lavish décor and links with the sophisticated lifestyle of the early 20th century. Notably, it has even etched itself into the annals of legendary mixology with the classic cocktail Singapore Sling being first developed, shaken and stirred in the hotel bar here in 1915.
The Journey to Europe
When the brand made the decision to establish a European flagship presence it quickly realised that London was the only destination that could properly fit the bill. The history, allure, connectivity and enduring mystery and magic of the capital city represented a project that simply had to be undertaken. All they needed to do was find the appropriate building to house their vision, and they certainly did that in some style.
The Old War Office Reborn
The Old War Office on Whitehall is perhaps the most significant Edwardian government building ever to appear in the city. William Young was already an esteemed architect when he designed this beautiful Baroque style construction with grand Portland stone facades surrounding grand internal courtyards, topped by the exquisite copper-roofed domes that punctuate an overall symmetry and grace.
For much of the last century, this location was the heart of Britain’s military command with offices occupied by Winston Churchill, T.E. Lawrence, David Lloyd George and Ian Fleming at certain times throughout their time of service. As one might expect, the world of James Bond was heavily inspired by Fleming’s period here, deep in the secret corridors of Naval Intelligence.
At the turn of the century, it had fallen into disuse and disrepair standing empty for over a decade until the Raffles OWO project began in earnest in 2017.
Refinement Restored
A six year restoration project that reportedly cost around £1billion looked to effectively blend the existing Edwardian magnificence with superbly elevated contemporary hospitality. The master of luxury heritage property renovation on a grand scale, Thierry Despont, was appointed to oversee the interior design elements and duly preserved many of the original features as possible with the oak panelling, mosaics, ornate stonework and arches all given a new lease of life as a result.
Rooms With a Historical View
Raffles London at The OWO is now home to 120 guest rooms & suites plus 85 private residences in the new building complex. It was completed in 2023 to incredible reviews with each space inside meticulously fitted out in custom soft furnishings, fittings and lighting that aligns the interesting historical and military motifs with world class style throughout. Immediately, many guests were keen to make a reservation at the stunning Churchill Suite that stands in what was once the Army Council Room, now bathed in light with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the unmistakable view of nearby Horse Guards Avenue.
First-Class Facilities
Drinking and dining at The OWO is an experience that captivates and enchants, with guests simply spoiled for choice. The flagship restaurant Mauro Colagreco at The OWO was awarded a Michelin Star in 2025 and remains the standard bearer for a total of nine eating eateries that each have their own unique position as part of the whole hotel’s offering.
Mauro’s Table and Saison by Mauro Colagreco are further interpretations of the Argentinian master’s prowess in an open kitchen setting and under a glass atrium respectively. Kioko by Endo brings the flavour of Japan to Whitehall with Paper Moon in the Grand Courtyard and Langosteria providing incredible Italian options too. For all day dining and the quintessential Afternoon Tea experience, The Drawing Room, delivers a lighter alternative and Pillar Kitchen leans into wellness with its juices and healthy snacks. Brunch is taken care of by Café Ciel that also transforms into a cocktail and tapas delight by nightfall.
Raising a Glass
The main Guards Bar & Lounge is open to the majority of guests and visitors with Kioku Sake Bar presenting a more intimate option of around 25 seats. However, it is The Spy Bar with its speakeasy setting and secretive atmosphere that may prove the most tempting to make the most of the building’s fascinating past of intelligence and intrigue.
Wonderful Wellness
The Guerlain Spa that has taken residence across four levels of The OWO is a triumph of wellness with a grand pool, steam rooms, saunas, salons and treatment suites that can easily rival any similar hotel offering in the whole city. Importantly, a partnership with Pillar Wellbeing also encourages guests to benefit from their tailored fitness, nutrition and recovery programs that support a state-of-the-art-gym decked out with future forward equipment.
A Wow from The OWO
Raffles can comfortably state that they have achieved what they set out to with this incredible hotel. It uses the heritage of a unique London landmark to create a new high standard of hospitality, destined to become a beacon of innovation and quality for the rest of the world. With proximity to so many of the city’s most important and interesting destinations, it could well be the only option for those looking to make a reservation right in the heart of luxury London
