The Corinthia Hotel London, standing proudly at the corner of Northumberland Avenue and Whitehall Place, is a captivating blend of history and luxury. This iconic building, originally known as the Metropole Hotel, occupies a prime location in the heart of London, nestled between the majestic Trafalgar Square and the Thames Embankment.
From Grand Hotel to Government Offices
Opened in 1885, the Metropole Hotel quickly gained a reputation as a luxurious haven for discerning travelers. Its proximity to the Palace of Westminster and government offices in Whitehall made it a popular choice for dignitaries and influential figures. However, the hotel’s close ties to power also meant that it was requisitioned by the British government during both World Wars.
After World War II, the Metropole was acquired by the Ministry of Defence and served as government offices for decades. The building remained in government hands until 2007 when it was deemed surplus to requirements and sold by Crown Estates.
A Transformation into Modern Luxury
The Metropole Hotel, once a symbol of grandeur and wartime necessity, was meticulously restored and reopened in 2011 as the Corinthia Hotel. This transformation breathed new life into the historic structure, blending its rich past with modern amenities and luxurious accommodations.
A Glimpse into the Past: The Metropole’s Notable History
The Metropole Hotel wasn’t just a place to stay; it was a stage for notable events and a backdrop for intriguing stories. It hosted the annual dinners of the Aero Club and the Alpine Club for several years, and served as the starting point for the first London to Brighton run in 1896. The Prince of Wales, later King Edward VII, was a frequent guest, even having a reserved box in the ballroom and a dedicated Royal Suite.
The hotel played an important role in World War I, providing accommodation for government staff and serving as a temporary home for the British Expeditionary Force’s Commanders-in-Chief, Field Marshals John French and Douglas Haig.
The “Midnight Follies” cabaret, a popular entertainment fixture in the 1920s, further added to the hotel’s vibrant history. The England Rugby Union team celebrated their historic victory over the New Zealand All Blacks in 1936 at the Metropole, cementing its place in sporting legend.
A Tapestry of Government and Espionage
In the years leading up to World War II, the government leased the entire hotel, utilizing it as office space for various departments, including the Ministry of Labour, the Ministry of Transport, the Air Ministry, and the Ministry of Defence. The hotel even housed MI9, the British secret intelligence agency, and its sub-division, the Special Operations Executive.
Following the war, the hotel remained under government control, serving as an overflow building for the Ministry of Defence. During this period, the hotel’s mirrored ballroom was used for press conferences and other significant events, adding another chapter to its legacy.
A New Era of Glamour and History
In 2007, a consortium purchased the Metropole Building and its adjoining property, 10 Whitehall Place. The building was then transformed into a luxurious hotel and residential complex, preserving its historic grandeur while embracing modern design.
The Corinthia Hotel, now a renowned symbol of London’s sophisticated charm, retains echoes of its past. Its halls have witnessed history unfold, and its rooms have welcomed dignitaries, royalty, and even spies. The hotel’s connection to the James Bond franchise further solidifies its place in popular culture, as the iconic spy’s presence has forever intertwined with the hotel’s captivating past.
From a grand hotel to a government building, the Corinthia Hotel has always been at the heart of history, a testament to London’s vibrant past, present, and future.
