The Langham, London, a five-star hotel with an illustrious past, stands proudly in the heart of Marylebone, overlooking the serene Regent’s Park. Its story is a captivating tapestry woven with threads of grand architecture, distinguished guests, and historical events.
A Grand Beginning: The Birth of a Landmark
John Giles, a visionary architect, dreamt up The Langham in the 1860s. Completed in 1865, the hotel was a marvel of modern engineering. It boasted 100 toilets, 36 bathrooms, and England’s first hydraulic elevators, a feat that wowed the city. Its opening ceremony was graced by the Prince of Wales, solidifying its place as the largest and most modern hotel in London.
The Langham’s success story, however, had its hiccups. The original company faced a financial crisis and sold the hotel for less than half its construction cost. But under new management, it soon rose to prominence.
A Hub for the Elite: The Golden Era of The Langham
The Langham became a magnet for the world’s elite. In 1867, James Sanderson, a former Union Army officer, took the reins as general manager, attracting a wealth of American clientele. Literary giants like Mark Twain and the influential Hetty Green graced its halls. European royalty like Napoleon III and cultural icons like Oscar Wilde, Dvorák, Toscanini, and Sibelius added to the hotel’s aura of prestige.
The Langham continued to attract the world’s most notable figures throughout the 20th century. Diana, Princess of Wales, Winston Churchill, and Charles de Gaulle joined the ranks of its distinguished guests. The hotel also witnessed the presence of Noël Coward, Wallis Simpson, and Emperor Haile Selassie of Ethiopia, solidifying its reputation as a haven for royalty, politicians, and world-renowned individuals.
A Symphony of Change: The Langham’s Enduring Spirit
The Langham, like many, weathered the storms of history. It endured the hardship of the Great Depression and the destructive impact of World War II. The BBC occupied the hotel after the war, adding a new chapter to its story. This period also saw a curious incident involving Guy Burgess, one of the Cambridge Five spies, who attempted to break down his hotel room door with a fire extinguisher!
In the 1980s, the BBC attempted to demolish the building, but the Langham’s charm proved too strong to be extinguished. It was saved and reborn as the Langham Hilton in 1991 after a £100 million refurbishment.
A Legacy Reborn: The Langham’s Continued Excellence
In 1995, Great Eagle Holdings acquired the Langham, beginning a new era. Extensive renovations transformed the hotel into a modern oasis, while preserving its classic elegance. The Palm Court, a symbol of the Langham’s legacy, was restored to its original glory, serving afternoon tea since 1865. The hotel also boasts a business center, 15 function rooms including the Grand Ballroom, and a collection of exciting dining options.
Today, The Langham stands as a testament to its enduring spirit. It remains a beloved destination for discerning travelers seeking a glimpse into history and a taste of luxury. The Langham is not just a hotel; it’s a living legacy, a reminder of the enduring power of elegance, history, and the art of hospitality.
