The Langham, a London Landmark
Step into the grand world of The Langham, a five-star hotel in the heart of London. Situated in the elegant Marylebone district, this iconic building stands proudly on Langham Place, its imposing facade facing Portland Place and offering captivating views of Regent’s Park.
A Legacy of Luxury and Innovation
The Langham’s Birth: A Triumph of Engineering and Style
Imagine stepping into the largest and most modern hotel in London during the 1860s. That was The Langham, a marvel of architectural ingenuity, boasting a staggering 100 water closets, 36 bathrooms, and the groundbreaking introduction of hydraulic lifts to England. This extraordinary structure, the brainchild of John Giles and built by Lucas Brothers, was a testament to the era’s technological prowess and a symbol of Victorian elegance. The Langham’s grand opening on June 10, 1865, was a momentous occasion, graced by the presence of the Prince of Wales himself.
An American Touch and a Who’s Who of Guests
The Langham’s story is interwoven with fascinating personalities. James Sanderson, a seasoned American officer, took the reins as general manager in 1867, drawing a prestigious clientele that included literary giants like Mark Twain and the formidable financier Hetty Green. The hotel became a haven for royalty, artists, and intellectuals, attracting the likes of Napoleon III, Oscar Wilde, Antonín Dvorák, Arturo Toscanini, and Jean Sibelius, among others.
Challenges and Transformations
Navigating Through Adversity
The Langham, like many institutions, faced its share of challenges. The Great Depression cast a shadow on its prosperity, leading to attempts to sell the site to the BBC. During World War II, the hotel’s grandeur was temporarily eclipsed by its role as a temporary home for the British Army. Sadly, it sustained bomb damage, forcing its closure.
The BBC’s Interlude
After the war, the BBC stepped in, using the hotel as ancillary accommodation for its staff, ultimately purchasing it outright in 1965. This period saw a peculiar incident involving Guy Burgess, one of the infamous Cambridge Five spy ring, who famously attempted to break down his hotel door with a fire extinguisher.
Rebirth and Reinvention
The Langham’s transformation in 1986 marked a significant chapter in its history. Sold to the Ladbroke Group, it underwent a remarkable £100 million refurbishment and emerged as the Langham Hilton in 1991.
A New Era of Luxury
In 1995, Hong Kong-based Great Eagle Holdings acquired the hotel, embarking on a series of enhancements that expanded and restored its magnificence. This period saw significant renovations between 1998 and 2000 and further enhancements between 2004 and 2009, culminating in a restoration to its original splendor at a cost of £80 million. Great Eagle’s vision expanded beyond the Langham, creating a subsidiary, Langham Hotels International, and adding the “Langham” brand to its portfolio of luxurious properties.
A Modern Haven of Luxury and History
The Langham Today: A Blend of Timeless Elegance and Modern Amenities
Today, The Langham stands as a beacon of sophisticated hospitality, boasting 380 rooms, a meticulously restored Palm Court, a business center, and 15 elegant function rooms, including the grand Ballroom.
A Culinary Journey
The Langham tantalizes taste buds with a delightful array of dining experiences. The new Mimosa restaurant, opening in 2024, promises culinary delights. The adjacent Wigmore, a British tavern under the masterful helm of Michel Roux Jr, offers a traditional touch. The Good Front Room, a popular residency by Dom Taylor, who rose to fame on the “Five Star Kitchen” TV show, adds a vibrant touch. The hotel’s acclaimed Artesian cocktail bar and a private dining room complete the culinary experience.
Preserving Legacy
The Langham remains a place of enduring legacy, celebrating its illustrious history. In 2019, it unveiled Sauce by The Langham, a dedicated cookery school, further cementing its connection to the culinary world. A Green Plaque from the City of Westminster commemorates the legendary meeting of Oscar Wilde, Arthur Conan Doyle, and Joseph Marshall Stoddart at the Langham in 1889, marking the beginning of literary collaborations that produced masterpieces like “The Sign of Four” and “The Picture of Dorian Gray.”
The Langham’s Cinematic Presence
The Langham’s enduring appeal has transcended its physical boundaries, finding its way onto the silver screen. Its grand facade graced the James Bond film “GoldenEye” (1995), serving as a stand-in for the Grand Hotel Europe in St. Petersburg. It further graced the films “Wonderland” (1999), “Winning London” (2001), and “Garfield: A Tail of Two Kitties” (2006).
A Legacy of Culinary Delights
The Langham’s restaurant has become a prominent setting in the culinary world, featuring prominently in the drama film “Burnt” (2015), starring Bradley Cooper.
The Langham’s Enduring Appeal
The Langham’s captivating story continues to unfold, solidifying its place as a London icon. The Palm Court remains a popular setting for the reality TV cooking show, “Five Star Chef,” further reinforcing its role in the culinary arts. The hotel continues to be a favorite among discerning travelers, its enduring grandeur a testament to its storied past and a promise of memorable experiences.
From its illustrious past to its vibrant present, The Langham, London, remains a timeless symbol of elegance, innovation, and enduring charm.
