The Langham, London, a five-star hotel, stands proudly in the heart of the British capital, a testament to history and luxury. Located in the Marylebone district, its grand facade on Langham Place faces towards Regent’s Park, a picturesque oasis in the city’s bustling heart.
A Grand Beginning
The Langham’s story began in the mid-19th century, a time of rapid industrialization and societal change. Built between 1863 and 1865 by Lucas Brothers, under the guidance of architect John Giles, it was a marvel of its time. At a cost of £300,000, equivalent to £36,230,425 today, it was the largest and most modern hotel in London. Imagine the awe of stepping into a place boasting 100 water closets, 36 bathrooms, and the first hydraulic lifts in England! The grand opening on June 10, 1865, was a celebrated event, graced by the presence of the Prince of Wales, who marked the occasion with his ceremonial presence.
A Gathering Place for the Elite
The Langham quickly gained a reputation as a hub for society’s elite. It became a favorite among American travelers, especially after James Sanderson, a former Union Army officer, took the helm as general manager in 1867. This American connection attracted famous figures like Mark Twain and Hetty Green, adding to the hotel’s growing list of illustrious guests. The Langham was a place where Napoleon III, Oscar Wilde, Dvorák, Toscanini, and Sibelius all walked its halls, leaving their mark on its history. The installation of electric light in 1879, a remarkable feat for the time, further solidified its status as a modern marvel. It’s hard to imagine a more fitting backdrop for the famous detective stories of Arthur Conan Doyle, who set parts of “A Scandal in Bohemia” and “The Sign of Four” at the Langham.
A Legacy of Royalty and Celebrities
The Langham’s reputation continued to soar throughout the 20th century, attracting royals like Diana, Princess of Wales, and politicians like Winston Churchill and Charles de Gaulle. The hotel’s guest list reads like a who’s who of the era, featuring names like Noël Coward, Wallis Simpson, Don Bradman, Emperor Haile Selassie of Ethiopia, and Ayumi Hamasaki. It was truly a place where history was made, stories unfolded, and legends were born.
Facing the Storms of History
The Langham, however, wasn’t immune to the challenges of its time. The Great Depression dealt a heavy blow, forcing the owners to consider selling the property. The BBC, however, chose to build Broadcasting House across Portland Place instead. The World War II brought its own set of tribulations, with the Langham used by the British Army. Sadly, bomb damage forced its closure. The BBC occupied the hotel after the war, ultimately purchasing it in 1965.
A New Chapter Begins
The Langham’s story takes a surprising turn in 1980, when the BBC attempted to demolish the building, replacing it with a Norman Foster-designed office complex. Thankfully, the plan was scrapped, and in 1986, the BBC sold the property to the Ladbroke Group, who then reopened the hotel as the Langham Hilton in 1991, following a £100 million refurbishment.
Redefining Luxury: The Langham’s Renaissance
In 1995, the Langham was acquired by Hong Kong-based Great Eagle Holdings, ushering in a new era. Further renovations, between 1998 and 2000, and a £80 million investment from 2004 to 2009, returned the Langham to its former glory, restoring it to its original architectural splendor. Great Eagle then expanded the “Langham” brand, creating Langham Hotels International, a testament to the enduring legacy of the London flagship.
A Modern Oasis
Today, the reconfigured Langham boasts 380 rooms, each a haven of luxury and comfort. The Palm Court, restored to its original grandeur, continues to serve afternoon tea, a tradition dating back to 1865. The hotel also offers a business center and 15 function rooms, including the Grand Ballroom, perfect for any occasion. A new restaurant, Mimosa, is set to open in 2024, while the Wigmore, a British tavern by Michel Roux Jr., stands next door, offering a taste of London’s culinary scene. The Langham also hosts The Good Front Room, a popular long-term residency by Dom Taylor, winner of the Five Star Kitchen TV show. And for those who prefer a more intimate setting, there’s the Artesian, their cocktail bar, and a private dining room.
A Legacy of Culinary Excellence
In 2019, the hotel launched Sauce by The Langham, a dedicated cookery school, showcasing the art of culinary excellence. The Langham’s culinary legacy is further cemented by its role as the primary setting for the culinary drama film “Burnt,” starring Bradley Cooper. The Palm Court, also, serves as the backdrop for the reality TV cooking show “Five Star Chef,” proving that the Langham continues to be a culinary destination for both food lovers and aspiring chefs.
A Place for Stories
The Langham’s enduring charm is not just about its architectural grandeur or its luxurious amenities. It’s also about the stories that have unfolded within its walls. From the meeting of literary giants Oscar Wilde, Arthur Conan Doyle, and Joseph Marshall Stoddart in 1889 to its appearance in the James Bond film “GoldenEye” and Michael Winterbottom’s “Wonderland”, the Langham has been a backdrop for countless moments in history, art, and culture.
A Timeless Icon
The Langham, London, stands as a testament to the enduring power of history, luxury, and elegance. It’s a place where the past and present converge, a timeless icon in the ever-evolving landscape of London. Whether you’re seeking a luxurious stay, a taste of history, or a glimpse into the world of culinary artistry, the Langham offers an experience that will leave a lasting impression.
