The Langham, London, is a renowned 5-star hotel nestled in the heart of the city, specifically in the Marylebone district. Its majestic presence graces Langham Place, overlooking Portland Place and offering breathtaking views of Regent’s Park.
From Humble Beginnings to a Grand Icon
This architectural masterpiece was born from the vision of John Giles and the skilled hands of the Lucas Brothers. Constructed between 1863 and 1865 at a colossal cost of £300,000 (equivalent to £36,230,425 in today’s currency), The Langham boldly declared itself as the largest and most advanced hotel in London. Its innovation was evident in the inclusion of a hundred water closets, thirty-six bathrooms, and the groundbreaking introduction of hydraulic lifts in England. The hotel’s grand opening on June 10, 1865, was a momentous occasion, graced by the presence of the Prince of Wales himself.
Despite facing financial challenges in its early years, The Langham emerged stronger under new management, quickly becoming a symbol of luxury and sophistication.
A Haven for Celebrities and Royals
The Langham quickly attracted a distinguished clientele, becoming a haven for celebrities, dignitaries, and royalty alike. In 1867, James Sanderson, a former Union Army officer, took the reins as general manager and deftly expanded the hotel’s appeal, attracting a substantial American clientele, including legendary figures like Mark Twain and the renowned financier Hetty Green.
The hotel’s allure extended beyond the Atlantic, captivating prominent figures from across the globe. Napoleon III, Oscar Wilde, the celebrated composers Dvorák, Toscanini, and Sibelius all graced its halls, adding their own chapters to the rich tapestry of The Langham’s history.
The Langham continued to be a favored destination throughout the 20th century, welcoming members of the royal family, including the beloved Diana, Princess of Wales, and prominent politicians like Winston Churchill and Charles de Gaulle. Its guest list reads like a who’s who of history, including Noël Coward, Wallis Simpson, Don Bradman, Emperor Haile Selassie of Ethiopia, and the acclaimed Japanese pop singer Ayumi Hamasaki.
From Wartime to a Resurgence
Despite experiencing setbacks during the Great Depression, The Langham continued to weather the storms of time. The owners attempted to sell the property to the BBC, but the broadcasting giant opted for a different location, ultimately building Broadcasting House across Portland Place.
During World War II, The Langham served as a vital support base for the British Army, but unfortunately, it sustained damage from enemy bombs, forcing its temporary closure. In the postwar era, the BBC took over the hotel, using it as ancillary accommodation for Broadcasting House. The corporation ultimately acquired the property outright in 1965, ushering in a new era for The Langham.
A New Chapter for the Grand Hotel
The BBC’s ownership of The Langham brought both challenges and opportunities. The iconic Palm Court was transformed into a reference library, while the grand restaurant became a staff bar and refreshment room. In 1980, the BBC made a bold move to demolish the hotel and replace it with a modern office complex designed by the renowned architect Norman Foster. However, their ambitious plans were thwarted, and The Langham remained standing.
In 1986, the BBC sold the property to the Ladbroke Group for £26 million. After a meticulous £100 million refurbishment, the hotel reopened its doors in 1991 as the Langham Hilton.
A Global Icon and a Continued Legacy
The Langham experienced a significant shift in ownership in 1995 when it was acquired by Great Eagle Holdings, a prominent Hong Kong-based company. The new owners embarked on a series of renovations and expansions between 1998 and 2000, further enhancing the hotel’s grandeur and prestige.
The years 2004 to 2009 witnessed another significant renovation effort, estimated to have cost £80 million. This meticulous restoration brought The Langham back to its original splendor, restoring its architectural elegance and historical charm. Great Eagle Holdings, recognizing the immense value of the Langham brand, wisely expanded its hotel portfolio, establishing Langham Hotels International, a subsidiary dedicated to upholding the standards of excellence synonymous with the Langham name.
Today, The Langham stands as a testament to its rich history and enduring appeal. With a five-star classification, it offers 380 exquisitely appointed rooms, a meticulously restored Palm Court that has served afternoon tea since 1865, a state-of-the-art business center, and 15 elegant function rooms, including the impressive Grand Ballroom.
Culinary Delights and a Touch of Glamour
The Langham continues to delight discerning palates with its exceptional culinary offerings. The new hotel restaurant, Mimosa, is set to open its doors in 2024, replacing the esteemed The Landau. Next door to the hotel, guests can indulge in the traditional British fare at the Wigmore, a charming tavern helmed by the acclaimed chef Michel Roux Jr.
The Langham also houses The Good Front Room, a popular long-term residency curated by Dom Taylor, a talented chef who rose to fame by winning the Five Star Kitchen TV show. The hotel’s Artesian bar is a haven for cocktail connoisseurs, offering a curated selection of expertly crafted drinks. For private gatherings and intimate celebrations, the hotel offers an exclusive private dining room, providing a discreet and luxurious setting.
In 2019, The Langham added another feather to its cap by opening Sauce by The Langham, a renowned cookery school designed to inspire aspiring chefs and food enthusiasts alike.
The Langham: A Cinematic Presence
The Langham’s allure has extended beyond the realm of hospitality, captivating the imagination of filmmakers and storytellers. Its grandeur and historical significance have made it a popular setting for movies and television productions. The hotel’s entranceway played a pivotal role in the James Bond film GoldenEye (1995), doubling as the exterior of Saint Petersburg’s Grand Hotel Europe. While the exterior scenes were filmed at The Langham, the interior shots were captured in a studio.
The Langham’s cinematic presence extends to other notable films, including Michael Winterbottom’s Wonderland (1999), Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen’s made-for-TV movie Winning London (2001), and Garfield: A Tail of Two Kitties (2006). The hotel’s restaurant takes center stage in the culinary drama film Burnt, starring the talented Bradley Cooper.
The Langham’s enduring appeal continues to capture the hearts of filmmakers and television producers. In 2023, the hotel’s Palm Court became the backdrop for the reality TV cooking show, Five Star Chef, further cementing its status as a culinary haven.
A Literary Legacy
The Langham’s allure has also attracted the attention of writers, inspiring them to weave its grandeur and history into their literary masterpieces. The hotel features prominently in Felicia Kingsley’s Italian novel “Prima Regola: Non Innamorarsi.” In Jane Smiley’s 2024 novel, Lucky, the main character enjoys a stay at The Langham in Chapter 5.
The Langham Hotel, a beacon of luxury and history, continues to enchant and inspire, captivating the hearts of travelers, celebrities, and storytellers alike. As we look to the future, The Langham is poised to remain a cherished landmark, a testament to the enduring power of elegance, history, and exceptional hospitality.
