The Langham, London, a prestigious five-star hotel, stands proudly in the heart of the English capital. It graces the Marylebone district, its imposing presence dominating Langham Place, facing towards Portland Place and the serene Regent’s Park.
This iconic hotel, a testament to Victorian architecture and ingenuity, boasts a rich and fascinating history. Its construction, completed in 1865, was a monumental feat, costing a staggering £300,000 (equivalent to over £36 million in today’s money!). At the time, it was the largest and most modern hotel in London, showcasing cutting-edge amenities like numerous water closets, bathrooms, and the first hydraulic lifts in England. The grandeur of its opening ceremony, officiated by the Prince of Wales, set the stage for its future as a haven for royalty, celebrities, and luminaries.
A Gathering Place for the Elite
The Langham quickly established itself as a favorite destination for the world’s elite. The hotel’s American connections, fostered by its general manager James Sanderson, brought in prominent figures like Mark Twain and the shrewd financier Hetty Green. It attracted international royalty, including Napoleon III, and prominent figures from the world of arts and culture such as Oscar Wilde, Antonín Dvorák, Arturo Toscanini, and Jean Sibelius. The hotel’s allure extended to the world of literature, as Arthur Conan Doyle used it as a setting for his famous Sherlock Holmes stories, “A Scandal in Bohemia” and “The Sign of Four.”
The Langham’s reputation as a gathering place for influential individuals only grew throughout the 20th century. It welcomed members of the British Royal Family, including Princess Diana, and prominent politicians like Winston Churchill and Charles de Gaulle. A constellation of stars graced its halls, including Noël Coward, Wallis Simpson, Don Bradman, Emperor Haile Selassie of Ethiopia, and pop icon Ayumi Hamasaki.
Navigating Through Turbulent Times
The Langham’s journey was not without its challenges. The Great Depression dealt a heavy blow, and the hotel narrowly escaped being demolished when its owners attempted to sell the site to the BBC, who instead chose to build Broadcasting House across Portland Place. World War II brought its own share of hardship, forcing the hotel to close after bomb damage. The BBC occupied it after the war, eventually purchasing it in 1965.
The BBC’s tenure was marked by a mix of ordinary routines and extraordinary events. While the hotel served as ancillary accommodation for BBC staff, it was also the scene of an incident involving Guy Burgess, a member of the notorious Cambridge Five spy ring. The Palm Court became a reference library, and the restaurant was transformed into a staff bar and refreshment room. In 1980, the BBC sought planning permission to demolish the hotel and replace it with a modern office building, but the proposal was rejected.
Rebirth and Continued Success
The Langham’s story took a dramatic turn in 1986 when the BBC sold the property to the Ladbroke Group. This marked the beginning of a new era for the hotel, which underwent a complete transformation under the Ladbroke Group’s ownership. A £100 million refurbishment, completed in 1991, restored the hotel to its former glory, and it reopened as the Langham Hilton.
The Langham’s journey wasn’t finished yet. In 1995, the Hong Kong-based Great Eagle Holdings purchased the hotel, adding to its legacy. The new owners continued the process of revitalization, extending the hotel and carrying out further refurbishment between 1998 and 2000. A subsequent renovation project between 2004 and 2009, costing an estimated £80 million, restored the hotel to its original splendor. Great Eagle’s commitment to the Langham went beyond the hotel itself, as they expanded the brand, establishing Langham Hotels International, a subsidiary that manages a portfolio of hotels under the “Langham” name.
A Modern Icon
The Langham today is a five-star hotel with 380 rooms, a testament to its enduring elegance and charm. The iconic Palm Court, where afternoon tea has been served since 1865, continues to captivate guests. The hotel offers a variety of amenities, including a business center and fifteen function rooms, including the Grand Ballroom.
The Langham continues to evolve, embracing contemporary tastes while honoring its heritage. It has introduced new culinary experiences, including the restaurant Mimosa, a British tavern called The Wigmore, and The Good Front Room, a long-term residency from renowned chef Dom Taylor. It has also added a cookery school, Sauce by The Langham, catering to food enthusiasts. The hotel’s commitment to culinary excellence is evident in its acclaimed Artesian cocktail bar and private dining room.
The Langham’s story is one of resilience, adaptation, and enduring appeal. It has weathered the storms of time, adapting to changing circumstances while holding onto its core values of elegance and luxury. From its grand opening to its present-day status as a leading luxury hotel, The Langham has consistently stood as a beacon of hospitality and a testament to the rich history and vibrant culture of London.
