The Corinthia Hotel London, a grand structure perched at the corner of Northumberland Avenue and Whitehall Place, boasts a fascinating past. It stands proudly in the heart of London, nestled between Trafalgar Square and the Thames Embankment, its location echoing with history and power.
This imposing building, originally christened the Metropole Hotel, welcomed its first guests in 1885. Its proximity to the Palace of Westminster and government offices meant it was quickly swept up in the chaos of both World Wars, serving as a vital base for British forces. After World War II, the hotel was acquired by the Ministry of Defence and transformed into government offices. But time, like the tides of the Thames, has a way of shifting things, and in 2007, the hotel was declared surplus and sold by the Crown Estate, ushering in a new chapter.
From Grand Hotel to Government Hub
This iconic hotel’s transformation was fueled by a bold ambition: to become a haven for luxury and elegance. It was reborn as The Corinthia Hotel, a name that captured the essence of both its past and its future.
The Metropole Hotel, built by the Gordon Hotels company, opened its doors to a flurry of excitement. An 88-page brochure touted its luxurious amenities and promised a memorable experience. Its grand ballroom became a focal point for society events, hosting annual dinners for renowned clubs and serving as the starting point for the first London to Brighton motor race. Even the Prince of Wales, later King Edward VII, was a frequent guest, choosing the Royal Suite as his favored accommodation.
But the world’s tides, as they often do, shifted dramatically. The outbreak of World War I transformed the Metropole Hotel into a strategic haven. It was commandeered by the government, providing vital accommodation for government staff, mirroring the fate of other nearby buildings. The hotel was also home to the British Expeditionary Force’s Commanders-in-Chief – Field Marshals John French and Douglas Haig – on the eve of their departure to France.
From the Jazz Age to the Cold War
The roaring Jazz Age brought a new energy to the Metropole Hotel. It re-opened its doors as a hotel, welcoming a flourishing cabaret scene that captivated Londoners. Bert Firman, a young violinist, landed a job with the Midnight Follies Orchestra, eventually becoming the youngest bandleader in the world, at the tender age of sixteen. The hotel also hosted a diverse array of musicians, including the legendary Mantovani, cementing its reputation as a place where music and entertainment thrived.
However, the tranquil world of music and entertainment was soon interrupted by the ominous shadow of the Second World War. Once again, the Metropole Hotel was commandeered, this time becoming a hub for government operations. The hotel’s rooms housed a diverse array of departments, including the Air Ministry, the Ministry of Defence, and MI9, the secret intelligence service, making the Metropole Hotel a strategic point for Allied operations.
From Government Offices to a Luxurious Haven
After World War II, the Ministry of Defence acquired the hotel, using it as a secondary office space. The Air Ministry was again a major tenant, and the Defence Intelligence Staff called it home for decades. But the passage of time, like the wind through the Thames, has a way of reshaping things.
In 2004, the Metropole Hotel stood empty, its grandeur seemingly lost in the shadows of time. Then, in 2007, a consortium of investors, led by Malta’s IHI plc, purchased the hotel for a whopping £130 million. The City of Westminster council approved the conversion of the hotel into a luxury hotel and residential complex, breathing new life into the once forgotten landmark.
The Corinthia Hotel London opened its doors once again in 2011, welcoming guests with the promise of a luxurious experience. Its 10 Whitehall Place building was transformed into 12 residences, while a serene Espa spa offered an oasis of tranquility.
A Legacy of History and Glamour
The Corinthia Hotel London remains a vibrant testament to its rich history. It has played a pivotal role in shaping London’s landscape, from a grand hotel catering to the elite to a strategic hub during times of war and peace. Today, the hotel continues to enchant visitors with its blend of elegance and history, offering a glimpse into London’s captivating past.
And as a final nod to its heritage, the hotel was chosen as the location for the official announcement of the James Bond film Skyfall in 2011. The hotel’s enduring allure and its association with iconic figures like James Bond serve as a reminder of its enduring presence in London’s history. Today, the Corinthia Hotel London stands as a testament to the city’s enduring appeal and the powerful story it holds within its walls.
