The Corinthia Hotel London is a stunning building with a rich history, standing proudly at the intersection of Northumberland Avenue and Whitehall Place in central London. Located on a triangular plot between Trafalgar Square and the Thames Embankment, it has been a witness to significant historical events, transitioning from a luxurious hotel to a government building and back again.
From Luxury to Government Headquarters
The Corinthia Hotel was initially opened in 1885 as the Metropole Hotel. Its strategic location near the Palace of Westminster and Whitehall government offices made it an attractive choice for both the elite and the government. However, its proximity to power also meant that it was commandeered during both World Wars. Following World War II, the Ministry of Defence purchased the hotel, utilizing it as government offices until it was deemed redundant and sold in 2007. The hotel was then meticulously restored and renamed the Corinthia Hotel, combining hotel accommodations with residential apartments.
A Glimpse into the Past
From its inception, the Metropole Hotel was a hub of activity. It hosted prestigious events like the annual dinners of the Aero Club and the Alpine Club. The hotel was also the starting point for the first London to Brighton car race in 1896. Notably, the Prince of Wales (later King Edward VII) frequented the hotel, enjoying the comfort of a reserved box in the ballroom and a private suite.
The Metropole as a Government Hub
During World War I, the government requisitioned the hotel, using it to house government staff. The hotel witnessed history in August 1914, when the two Commanders-in-Chief of the British Expeditionary Force, Field Marshals John French and Douglas Haig, stayed at the hotel before departing for France. After the war, the “Midnight Follies” cabaret made the hotel a popular entertainment destination.
In 1936, the government leased the entire hotel, initially to house the Ministry of Labour and the Ministry of Transport. Later, the Air Ministry and the Ministry of Defence occupied the building. This marked a period of significant transformation, as the hotel transitioned from a luxury establishment to a government office complex.
A Wartime Haven
In the lead-up to World War II, the government requisitioned the hotel again. During this time, room 424 served as the first home for MI9 and the Special Operations Executive, responsible for espionage and sabotage. The hotel also played a role in Operation Overlord, with one of the model planning beaches for the Normandy landings being located there.
From Government Building to Hotel Once Again
The Ministry of Defence purchased the hotel from Gordon Hotels after World War II and used it as an overflow facility for its main Whitehall complex. For over 30 years, the hotel housed the Defence Intelligence Staff, and its mirrored ballroom was used for press conferences and other significant events.
A New Chapter Begins: The Corinthia Hotel
After standing vacant for several years, the Metropole Building and the adjoining 10 Whitehall Place were acquired in 2007. The buildings were transformed into a hotel and residential complex, reopening in 2011 under the management of Corinthia Hotels International.
The Corinthia Hotel is not only a luxurious hotel but also a symbol of a rich and diverse past. Its history is intricately woven with significant moments in British history, from its glamorous beginnings as a high-society destination to its important role in wartime. Today, it continues to stand as a testament to its glorious past, attracting visitors from around the world who come to experience its elegance and unique historical significance.
