The Corinthia Hotel London stands majestically at the intersection of Northumberland Avenue and Whitehall Place in the heart of London, a triangular plot nestled between Trafalgar Square and the Thames Embankment. This iconic building, once a grand hotel and a prominent government office, boasts a rich and varied history spanning over a century.
The hotel’s origins can be traced back to 1885 when it opened its doors as the Metropole Hotel. Commissioned by the Gordon Hotels company, the hotel was an immediate success, attracting dignitaries and high society. Its prime location near the Palace of Westminster and Whitehall’s government offices made it a popular destination for both social and political gatherings.
But the hotel’s peaceful existence was disrupted by the outbreak of World War I. The British government requisitioned the Metropole, along with other buildings on Northumberland Avenue, to accommodate government staff. This marked the beginning of a long association with government operations, with the hotel serving as a temporary home for various departments throughout both World Wars.
A Century of Transformations: From Entertainment Hub to Government Headquarters
During the inter-war period, the Metropole Hotel experienced a revival as a center of entertainment. The “Midnight Follies” cabaret, a popular fixture, attracted prominent musicians like Bert Firman, the youngest bandleader in the world at the time, and Mantovani. The hotel even played host to sporting legends, with the England Rugby Union team celebrating their historic victory over the New Zealand All Blacks in 1936 within its walls.
However, the hotel’s role as a social and entertainment hub was once again interrupted by the looming threat of World War II. The government, anticipating wartime needs, once again commandeered the Metropole, using it as a temporary headquarters for various government departments, including the Ministry of Labour, the Ministry of Transport, the Air Ministry, and the Ministry of Defence. The hotel even became the first home for MI9 and its secret operation, the Special Operations Executive.
From Government Overflow to Luxury Hotel: A Rebirth
After World War II, the Metropole was purchased by the Ministry of Defence, which used it as an extension of its main complex in Whitehall. The hotel housed various government departments, including the Defence Intelligence Staff, for several decades. This era saw the hotel’s role as a government building solidify.
However, in 2007, the hotel was sold by Crown Estates and underwent a complete transformation, reopening in 2011 as the Corinthia Hotel London. This rebirth marked a return to the hotel’s grand origins as a luxurious destination.
The Corinthia Hotel now boasts a modern spa run by Espa, a collection of 12 residences, and an elegant ballroom that echoes its former glory. Its rich history continues to fascinate and inspire, evident in the fact that the announcement of the James Bond movie, “Skyfall,” was made at the hotel in 2011.
In conclusion, the Corinthia Hotel London stands as a testament to its multifaceted past. From its humble beginnings as a grand hotel to its service as a vital government building, its history is a fascinating blend of social, political, and cultural significance. Today, it is a luxurious sanctuary where the echoes of its past are blended with modern amenities, ensuring a unique experience for its guests.
