The Langham, London, is a renowned five-star hotel nestled in the heart of Marylebone, a district known for its elegance and charm. Standing tall on Langham Place, it boasts a prime location, offering breathtaking views of Portland Place and the serene Regent’s Park.
A Legacy of Luxury and Innovation
The Langham’s story is one of grandeur and pioneering spirit. In the mid-19th century, the hotel was a marvel of modern engineering, constructed by the Lucas Brothers at a cost of £300,000 (approximately £36.2 million in today’s currency). At the time, it was the largest and most modern hotel in London, boasting an impressive array of amenities, including one hundred water closets, thirty-six bathrooms, and the very first hydraulic lifts in England.
The grand opening on June 10th, 1865, was a momentous occasion, graced by the presence of the Prince of Wales. The hotel quickly gained recognition as a symbol of luxury and innovation, attracting a diverse and illustrious clientele.
A Haven for Royalty, Celebrities, and Visionaries
The Langham’s reputation for impeccable service and luxurious accommodations attracted royalty, celebrities, and world-renowned figures. The hotel’s guest list reads like a who’s who of history and culture, featuring names such as Napoleon III, Oscar Wilde, Antonín Dvorák, Arturo Toscanini, and Jean Sibelius.
In the late 19th century, James Sanderson, a former Union Army officer, took the helm as general manager, drawing a significant American clientele, including the iconic Mark Twain and the formidable financier Hetty Green.
The hotel also played a role in the development of modern technology. Electric lights illuminated the entrance and courtyard as early as 1879. The famous author Arthur Conan Doyle even chose the Langham as the setting for two of his Sherlock Holmes adventures, “A Scandal in Bohemia” and “The Sign of Four”.
Navigating Challenges and Retaining Grandeur
The 20th century brought both challenges and triumphs. The Great Depression and World War II tested the hotel’s resilience. During the war, the Langham was utilized by the British Army, but sadly sustained damage from bombing raids, leading to its temporary closure. In the post-war era, the BBC took over, using it as ancillary accommodation to Broadcasting House, eventually purchasing it in 1965.
Despite the changing landscape, the Langham maintained its allure, welcoming notable guests like Diana, Princess of Wales, Winston Churchill, Charles de Gaulle, Noël Coward, Wallis Simpson, Don Bradman, Emperor Haile Selassie of Ethiopia, and Ayumi Hamasaki.
A New Chapter: Revitalization and Recognition
The 1980s saw a turning point. After the BBC made an unsuccessful attempt to demolish the building, the Ladbroke Group acquired the property in 1986, embarking on a significant £100 million refurbishment project, transforming the hotel into the Langham Hilton in 1991.
In 1995, the Great Eagle Holdings of Hong Kong took ownership, further expanding and enhancing the hotel’s grandeur. The hotel underwent extensive renovations between 1998 and 2000, followed by another significant refurbishment between 2004 and 2009, restoring it to its original splendor at an estimated cost of £80 million.
The Great Eagle Holdings also expanded the “Langham” brand, establishing Langham Hotels International, a subsidiary encompassing various luxurious properties around the world.
Today: A Timeless Symbol of Luxury and History
Today, the Langham stands as a beacon of timeless elegance and unparalleled service. With 380 rooms, a restored Palm Court that has served afternoon tea since 1865, a business center, and 15 function rooms (including the Grand Ballroom), it continues to be a destination for discerning travelers and hosts a diverse array of events.
The Langham’s commitment to excellence is evident in its numerous accolades, including its five-star classification. The hotel features a range of dining options, including Mimosa, its new restaurant opening in 2024, The Wigmore, a British tavern by Michelin-starred chef Michel Roux Jr, and Artesian, its renowned cocktail bar.
The Langham also boasts a cookery school, Sauce by The Langham, launched in 2019, offering guests a unique culinary experience.
From its grand opening to its present-day revival, the Langham has witnessed history unfold, serving as a backdrop for countless memorable moments. It remains a testament to the enduring power of tradition, innovation, and the art of hospitality.
