The Corinthia Hotel London, a stunning building perched at the intersection of Northumberland Avenue and Whitehall Place, boasts a rich history as both a prestigious hotel and a vital government center. Its prime location in central London, nestled between Trafalgar Square and the Thames Embankment, has made it a witness to countless historical moments.
The Early Days: A Luxurious Gathering Place
The Corinthia Hotel’s story begins in 1885 when it opened its doors as the Metropole Hotel, a grand establishment commissioned by the Gordon Hotels company. Its lavish interiors and prime location quickly made it a popular spot for London’s elite, attracting notable figures like the Prince of Wales, who later became King Edward VII, and renowned athletes. The hotel’s ballroom hosted the annual dinners of prestigious organizations like the Aero Club and the Alpine Club, and its elegant suites provided a haven for esteemed guests.
World War I: A Hub for Government Operations
As the clouds of war gathered in 1914, the Metropole Hotel was requisitioned by the British government, transforming it into a vital base for government operations. It became a center of activity, hosting numerous government staff and playing a vital role in the nation’s war effort.
The Roaring Twenties: A Hotspot for Entertainment
After the war, the Metropole Hotel reopened its doors, once again welcoming guests seeking luxurious accommodations and vibrant entertainment. The Midnight Follies cabaret, a popular fixture in the hotel, brought laughter and music to its halls. The hotel also hosted renowned musicians, including the young and talented Bert Firman, who became the youngest bandleader in the world at the age of sixteen.
World War II: A Vital Base for Intelligence and War Planning
The outbreak of World War II saw the Metropole Hotel once again transformed into a vital government center, housing various departments, including MI9, the organization responsible for espionage and sabotage behind enemy lines, and Special Operations Executive, a covert organization that trained and equipped resistance fighters. The hotel’s strategic location and its spacious rooms made it an ideal base for intelligence gathering and war planning.
From Government Building to Hotel Once More
After the war, the Metropole Hotel was purchased by the Ministry of Defence and continued to serve as a government building, housing various departments until the early 2000s. In 2007, the building was sold and underwent a massive restoration project, returning to its original purpose as a hotel. It was renamed the Corinthia Hotel, a combination of “Corinthian,” a style of architecture known for its elegance and grandeur, and “hotel,” reflecting its hospitality.
A Hotel with a Cinematic Past
The Corinthia Hotel’s rich history has made it a popular filming location for various films and television shows. Its opulent interiors and iconic façade have been featured in productions like the James Bond film Skyfall, the thriller Red Sparrow, and various other productions. The hotel’s glamorous history continues to captivate audiences, immortalizing its unique identity through the magic of cinema.
A Legacy of Elegance and History
The Corinthia Hotel London stands as a testament to the city’s rich history, having served as a luxurious hotel, a vital government center, and a hub for entertainment and espionage. Its fascinating past continues to fascinate visitors, while its elegant present promises a luxurious stay for guests from around the world. From its grand beginnings as the Metropole Hotel to its present incarnation as the Corinthia Hotel, the building’s journey reflects the changing tides of history and the enduring allure of London as a global center of culture and commerce.
