The Langham, London, a beacon of elegance and history, stands proudly in the heart of the city. This iconic five-star hotel, nestled in the Marylebone district, boasts a captivating past that mirrors the evolution of London itself.
A Grand Opening and Early Success
From its grand opening in 1865, The Langham was a marvel of its time. Designed by John Giles and constructed by the Lucas Brothers, the hotel was a testament to Victorian grandeur, with its hundred water closets, thirty-six bathrooms, and, most notably, the first hydraulic lifts in England. The opening ceremony, graced by the Prince of Wales, was a spectacle that cemented the hotel’s place as a symbol of luxury and modernity.
Despite facing an economic downturn that forced the original company into liquidation, The Langham soon found new management and blossomed into a commercial triumph. The hotel’s appeal was further amplified by the appointment of James Sanderson, a former Union Army officer, as general manager.
A Gathering Place for Luminaries
Sanderson’s leadership attracted a diverse and distinguished clientele, including prominent Americans like Mark Twain and Hetty Green. Napoleon III, Oscar Wilde, and renowned composers like Dvořák, Toscanini, and Sibelius all graced the hotel with their presence. The Langham was a stage where history unfolded, a meeting place for luminaries, and a sanctuary for creative minds.
A Century of Change
As the 20th century unfolded, The Langham continued to be a favorite haunt for royalty, politicians, and celebrities. Diana, Princess of Wales, Winston Churchill, and Charles de Gaulle were among the distinguished guests who sought solace within its elegant walls. The hotel also welcomed artists, writers, and athletes like Noël Coward, Wallis Simpson, Don Bradman, and Emperor Haile Selassie of Ethiopia.
The Langham, however, wasn’t impervious to the trials of the century. The Great Depression and World War II left their mark on the hotel. During the war, The Langham served as a temporary home for the British Army before being damaged by bombs and forced to close its doors.
A New Chapter with the BBC
After the war, the BBC occupied The Langham, using it as ancillary accommodation to Broadcasting House. In 1965, the corporation purchased the hotel outright. The BBC’s presence brought a new energy to the hotel, but it also sparked a period of transformation. The Palm Court became a reference library, while the restaurant transformed into a staff bar and refreshment room.
In 1980, the BBC attempted to demolish The Langham to make way for a new office development. Thankfully, the plan was rejected, preserving the architectural gem.
A Return to Glory: The Langham Hilton
The BBC sold the hotel to the Ladbroke Group in 1986, beginning a new chapter in its story. After a £100 million renovation, The Langham reopened as the Langham Hilton in 1991, regaining its former glory.
A Global Legacy: The Langham Brand
In 1995, Great Eagle Holdings, a Hong Kong-based company, acquired The Langham. Under their ownership, the hotel underwent a series of expansions and renovations, ensuring that the Langham remained a symbol of modern luxury.
The Langham’s enduring appeal led Great Eagle to expand the brand, establishing Langham Hotels International, a subsidiary dedicated to creating luxury hotels around the world.
A Timeless Experience: The Modern Langham
Today, The Langham stands as a testament to its rich history. With its 380 rooms, restored Palm Court, business center, and 15 function rooms, The Langham offers an unparalleled experience. From the iconic afternoon tea served in the Palm Court to the innovative Artesian cocktail bar, The Langham continues to captivate guests with its timeless elegance and luxurious amenities.
The Langham is not just a hotel; it’s a living museum, a reminder of London’s vibrant past, and a symbol of enduring elegance. Its history is intertwined with the city’s story, and its future promises to be just as exciting and captivating as its past.
