The Langham, London, a grand hotel steeped in history, has always held a special place in my heart. My most recent visit, in January 2017, was a testament to its enduring charm and commitment to excellence. This time, my experience was transformative, surpassing my expectations in every way.
A Storied Past and a Modern Touch
The Langham boasts a rich history dating back to 1865 when it opened its doors as Europe’s first “Grand Hotel.” The hotel, inaugurated by HRH The Prince of Wales, stands proudly in a prime location, just a short stroll from Oxford Circus. While I had stayed at The Langham years ago, I wasn’t entirely blown away by the standard room. However, since then, the hotel has undertaken extensive renovations, resulting in a modern and sophisticated ambiance.
Unexpected Perks and Exceptional Service
My latest stay was enhanced by exclusive benefits reserved for members of the Langham 1865 loyalty program, which is free to join. We snagged a fantastic deal, upgrading to a Junior Suite, gaining access to the Club Lounge, and receiving a complimentary bottle of wine – all for an incredible price. A slight mishap involving the closure of the spa and pool led to a further upgrade to a spacious one-bedroom suite, a truly luxurious treat. While we declined the hotel’s offer of access to the YMCA pool (perhaps a bit out of place for The Langham’s clientele!), the exceptional customer service shone through.
Unparalleled Comfort and Indulgence
The Club Lounge was a haven of refined elegance and impeccable service. From the moment we arrived, the warm and welcoming staff were attentive to our every need, always remembering our names and offering helpful suggestions for exploring the city. A constant flow of champagne added to the festive atmosphere.
The suite itself was an oasis of luxury, featuring a spacious hallway, living room, and bedroom. The thoughtful touches, such as a chilled bottle of white wine, snacks, fresh fruit, and mineral water, made our stay truly unforgettable. The bathroom was a sanctuary of relaxation, complete with a freestanding bath (albeit a bit on the short side), twin sinks, a makeup mirror, and plush bathrobes. The Chuan Spa toiletries, with full-size tubes of everything, including body scrub, were a welcome indulgence.
A Culinary Journey of Delight
The Club Lounge’s afternoon tea was a culinary masterpiece, showcasing the hotel’s commitment to exquisite flavors and artistic presentation. The selection of pastries, sandwiches, and scones, prepared by the renowned celebrity chef Cherish Finden, were miniature works of art, and the complimentary champagne added to the luxurious experience.
Evenings in the lounge were equally delightful, with a variety of cocktails and substantial canapes complementing the extensive wine list. The attentive staff went above and beyond to satisfy our every craving, even crafting a perfect “dirty martini” for me, which wasn’t on the menu.
Breakfast was a lavish spread with a wide array of options, including fresh fruit, yogurt, salmon, cheeses, pastries, and bread. For those seeking something more substantial, a full menu was available, allowing guests to order everything from eggs benedict to eggs royale.
A Sanctuary of Relaxation and Rejuvenation
The newly rebranded Chuan Body + Soul spa, true to The Langham’s dedication to traditional Chinese medicine, offers a sanctuary of rejuvenation. The spa boasts state-of-the-art facilities including treatment rooms, a gym, wet rooms, steam and sauna facilities, and a 16-meter swimming pool.
Exploring the Langham’s World of Flavors
Beyond the suite and the Club Lounge, The Langham offers a variety of dining options, each with its own unique appeal. The Palm Court, renowned as the birthplace of the afternoon tea tradition, continues to enchant guests with its timeless elegance. Roux at the Landau, the hotel’s fine dining restaurant, showcases the culinary genius of Michel Roux Jr and Albert Roux OBE.
Artesian, the hotel’s award-winning bar, has been recognized as one of the best bars in the world for four years. The bar’s innovative cocktails and classic favorites are a testament to the artistry of mixology. The Wigmore, a recently launched pub-inspired bar, offers a cozy atmosphere with cask ales, organic wines, and an all-day dining menu in collaboration with Chez Roux.
A Stay You Won’t Soon Forget
My stay at The Langham, London, was a truly unforgettable experience. From the exceptional service and luxurious amenities to the culinary delights and relaxing spa, every aspect of my stay was designed to create a sense of unparalleled comfort and indulgence. If you are looking for a memorable and luxurious getaway, I highly recommend The Langham.
