The Langham, a five-star gem nestled in London’s Marylebone district, boasts a history as rich and captivating as the city itself. Standing proudly on Langham Place, its grand facade faces Portland Place, offering a breathtaking view of Regent’s Park.
This architectural masterpiece wasn’t always a luxury haven. It was born in the 19th century, a testament to the architectural ingenuity of John Giles. Constructed by the Lucas Brothers between 1863 and 1865 at a staggering cost of £300,000 (equivalent to a whopping £36,230,425 in today’s currency!), it was the largest and most modern hotel in London at the time.
The Langham, with its hundred water closets, thirty-six bathrooms, and the first hydraulic lifts ever installed in England, was a marvel of its era. The grand opening in June 1865 was a dazzling affair, graced by the presence of the Prince of Wales himself.
A Hotel for the Elite: Royalty, Celebrities, and a Spy
The Langham’s allure quickly spread, attracting a diverse clientele of the world’s elite. From royalty like Napoleon III to literary giants like Oscar Wilde and the renowned composer Dvorák, the hotel became a magnet for the famous.
American businessman James Sanderson took the helm as general manager in 1867, drawing a vast American clientele, including literary icons like Mark Twain and the influential financier, Hetty Green. The Langham was at the heart of London’s social scene, a place where history unfolded alongside lavish gatherings.
The hotel’s legacy was further solidified by the presence of legendary figures like Winston Churchill, Charles de Gaulle, and Diana, Princess of Wales. Noël Coward, Wallis Simpson, and renowned Australian cricketer Don Bradman all graced its halls, adding to its remarkable history.
Through the Storms: From Bombing to a BBC Haven
While the Langham’s journey was filled with triumphs, it also faced its share of trials. The Great Depression dealt a blow to the hotel’s prosperity, leading to attempts to sell it to the BBC. While the BBC’s plans for a new headquarters across Portland Place eventually materialized, the Langham found itself at the heart of another historical event.
During World War II, the hotel served as a temporary home for the British Army, but its grandeur was marred by bomb damage, forcing its closure. The BBC, who had been using the Langham as ancillary accommodation to their Broadcasting House, eventually purchased the hotel in 1965. This transition was a symbol of the changing times and the shifting landscape of London.
From BBC Headquarters to Reimagined Luxury
The Langham’s use as a BBC facility brought its own set of stories. Guy Burgess, a member of the Cambridge Five spy ring, was one of the many BBC employees who called the Langham home. The story of Burgess’s late-night attempt to break down his hotel door with a fire extinguisher, as revealed in a BBC memo, is a testament to the hotel’s rich history and the fascinating characters it has hosted over the years.
The BBC’s ownership of the Langham lasted over two decades, during which the hotel’s character evolved. The Palm Court became a library for the BBC staff, while the restaurant was transformed into a staff bar and refreshment room. The 1980s saw a proposed demolition of the Langham to make way for an office complex. However, the BBC eventually opted to sell the hotel to the Ladbroke Group in 1986.
The Langham’s future took a turn towards a reimagined luxury when it reopened in 1991, after a £100 million refurbishment, as the Langham Hilton. This new chapter saw the hotel reclaim its place as a premier London destination.
Modernity Meets Heritage: A New Chapter for the Langham
In 1995, the Langham was acquired by Hong Kong-based Great Eagle Holdings. The new ownership brought a new wave of renovation, extending the hotel and adding more luxurious amenities. Further renovations in the early 2000s restored the Langham to its original glory, ensuring that the hotel’s architectural heritage was preserved.
Great Eagle, eager to capitalize on the Langham’s success, expanded the brand, establishing Langham Hotels International and creating a luxury hotel chain that now boasts a global presence.
A Hotel Woven into the Fabric of London’s History
Today, the Langham continues to be a symbol of London’s grandeur and enduring charm. With its 380 rooms, the restored Palm Court, and a range of amenities, the Langham offers a luxurious experience.
The hotel’s legacy extends beyond its physical space. The Langham has become a focal point for culture, history, and culinary experiences in London. It is a testament to the enduring power of hospitality and the timeless allure of a true icon.
