The Corinthia Hotel London, a majestic structure nestled between Trafalgar Square and the Thames Embankment, boasts a history as rich and fascinating as its Victorian architecture. This iconic building has played host to presidents, royalty, and spies, its walls echoing with the whispers of centuries past. Its journey, however, wasn’t always one of luxury and glamour. It began life as the Metropole Hotel, a grand establishment opened in 1885, captivating London with its opulence and grandeur.
A Meeting Place for the Elite
The Metropole Hotel’s location, adjacent to the Palace of Westminster and Whitehall’s government offices, made it a hub for the city’s elite. The hotel was a popular destination for the city’s influential figures, and its ballroom witnessed countless soirées and celebrations. The Prince of Wales, later King Edward VII, held court in the hotel, enjoying the elegant ambiance and reserving a special box in the ballroom. The hotel’s legacy was further cemented when it hosted the annual dinners of the Aero Club and the Alpine Club, and served as the starting point for the inaugural London to Brighton Run in 1896.
From Hotel to Government Hub
The outbreak of World War I saw the hotel transformed from a social haven to a vital government center. The British government requisitioned the building to accommodate its growing staff, reflecting the hotel’s strategic location close to the seat of power. The Metropole Hotel, along with other buildings in Northumberland Avenue, became a temporary home for officials working tirelessly to secure the nation’s future.
A Legacy of Music and Sport
The Metropole Hotel was not just a place for politicians and royalty. It resonated with the sounds of music and the thrill of sport. After the war, the Midnight Follies, a renowned cabaret, took center stage, bringing a touch of bohemian allure to the hotel. The hotel even became a stepping stone for a young musician, Bert Firman, who, at the tender age of sixteen, became the world’s youngest band leader after taking over the orchestra’s reins.
However, the hotel’s greatest sporting moment arrived on 4 January 1936. The England Rugby Union team, led by the legendary Prince Alexander Obolensky, achieved a historic victory over the New Zealand All Blacks. This triumph, marked by Obolensky’s unforgettable try, cemented the hotel’s place in the annals of sporting history.
A Vital Hub for World War II
The onset of World War II saw the Metropole Hotel again serve as a government hub. This time, the hotel housed vital departments, including the MI9, the secret intelligence agency dedicated to espionage, and the Special Operations Executive (SOE), tasked with conducting clandestine operations behind enemy lines. The Metropole Hotel, once a haven of luxury and celebration, became a critical base for the Allied war effort.
From Government to Hotel Once More
After the war, the Metropole Hotel was acquired by the Ministry of Defence and continued its role as a vital government facility. Despite its use as an office building, the hotel remained a venue for important events. Press conferences and celebrations were held in the hotel’s grand ballroom, showcasing its continued importance as a landmark in the heart of London.
A New Chapter: The Corinthia Hotel
In 2007, the Metropole Hotel was acquired by a consortium and underwent extensive renovations. It reopened in 2011 as the Corinthia Hotel, a testament to its enduring legacy and a symbol of London’s dynamic spirit. The hotel retains its opulent grandeur, offering guests a glimpse into its illustrious past. The Corinthia Hotel, however, is not just a luxurious hotel. It is a living museum, its walls whispering stories of presidents, kings, spies, and athletes. It stands as a testament to the changing face of London, and a reminder that history is not a relic of the past but a vibrant force that shapes the present.
