Step inside the grand Corinthia Hotel in London, and you’ll be stepping into a building that holds a wealth of history. While it may look like a brand-new hotel, its walls whisper tales of wars, espionage, and luxury.
This majestic building has seen it all. During World War I, it housed Great Britain’s government offices, becoming a central hub for wartime operations. In World War II, the building transformed into a secret spy agency with hidden tunnels snaking beneath the city streets.
From Victorian Opulence to Government Headquarters
But the Corinthia’s story goes even further back. Before it served the nation, the building was a luxurious hotel called the Hotel Metropole. It opened its doors in 1885, during Queen Victoria’s reign, and was considered the largest hotel in Europe at the time.
Imagine a hotel with 600 rooms and seven stories, a concept that was just taking root in Great Britain. The visionary behind this masterpiece was Frederick Gordon, often referred to as the father of the modern hotel industry. He wanted to create hotels of unparalleled luxury, complete with modern amenities like bathrooms, phones, and even elevators to transport guests to the top floor.
A French Touch
Not only was Gordon a pioneer in hotel design, but his vision also extended to the building’s aesthetic. The Metropole, and the Corinthia today, boast distinctive French architecture, with classic motifs and Haussmann-era style, reflecting the influence of France on London’s design.
The grandeur of the hotel drew in high society, with celebrities and British royalty flocking to its elegant halls. Edward VII and Buffalo Bill Cody were among those who graced the Metropole with their presence, making it the center of social life in late 19th-century London.
A Building Dedicated to Service
But the Metropole’s role changed dramatically in 1916, as it became government offices during World War I. Its strategic location at the heart of London made it a vital asset in guiding the nation’s war efforts.
The future prime minister, Winston Churchill, worked within those walls, watching the city celebrate the war’s end from his office window. During World War II, the building was once again called upon to serve the nation, this time as a secret service headquarters, with agents monitoring German internment camps and aiding escaping troops.
Hidden Tunnels and Unexplained Encounters
The building holds many secrets, some known, some still shrouded in mystery. There are underground tunnels connecting the building to nearby government offices, their purpose now a closely guarded secret. Some even say that until 2006, a special office within the building was dedicated to monitoring UFO sightings.
After World War II, the building continued its government service, housing the Ministry of Defense and various other agencies. It eventually fell into disuse and was put up for sale in 2008. The Corinthia Hotel Group purchased the property, embarking on a journey to restore the building to its original purpose as a grand hotel.
A Blending of Old and New
The renovation was a monumental task. The developers wanted to honor the building’s history while creating a modern and luxurious experience. Original features like the ceiling in the Grand Ballroom were painstakingly preserved, while state-of-the-art technology was discreetly woven into the fabric of the building.
The project involved meticulous attention to detail. Replacement stones were carefully selected from European quarries to match the original marble, even down to the veining. The result is a stunning blend of Victorian charm and contemporary elegance.
A Modern Jewel in London’s Crown
Today, the Corinthia Hotel London stands as a testament to the building’s remarkable history. With almost 300 renovated guest rooms and 47 suites, including some with two stories, private elevators, dining rooms, and decks overlooking iconic London landmarks, it offers an experience of luxury and grandeur.
From its humble beginnings as a Victorian-era hotel to its wartime service and its modern revival, the Corinthia Hotel in London has witnessed history unfold. It is a building that whispers stories of bygone eras, a reminder of the city’s enduring spirit, and a symbol of luxury and elegance for generations to come.
