Raffles Hotel to open in London

Raffles is one of the most famous names in the hotel business and now Raffles Hotels & Resorts has announced Raffles London at The OWO will start welcoming guests from late 2022.

Raffles London at The OWO will be housed in the landmark Grade II-listed former Old War Office on Whitehall - a wonderfully imposing building.

Following a major transformation it will feature 120 rooms and suites, 85 branded residences and 11 restaurants and bars.

Britain's first Raffles hotel will also have an extensive wellness space featuring spa and fitness partners and will be home to a rooftop restaurant and bar with panoramic views across Whitehall, The Mall and Buckingham Palace, Travel Mole reports.

The Old War Office interior has classic Edwardian architecture and the building’s key features have been completely restored.

Raffles and owner Hinduja Group have brought together a team of industry talent including interior design by Thierry Despont.

Stephen Alden, CEO of Raffles Hotels & Orient Express said: "The launch of Raffles London at The OWO is a singular moment for the London hospitality scene as the Raffles brand arrives in the city. 

"We are so proud to be part of the magnificent five-year transformation of the historic Old War Office building."

The original Raffles Hotel is a colonial-style luxury hotel in the downtown core of Singapore. 

It was established by Armenian hoteliers the Sarkies Brothers in 1887.

The hotel was named after British statesman Sir Thomas Stamford Raffles, the founder of colonial-era Singapore.