Step into a world of grandeur and history at The Langham, a London landmark with a rich past and a vibrant present. This iconic hotel has played host to royalty, celebrities, and literary giants, and its elegant charm continues to enchant guests today.
The Langham’s story began in 1865 when it was inaugurated by the Prince of Wales. It quickly became a favorite of the elite, including Diana, Princess of Wales, and Louis Napoléon III, who spent much of his exile from France within its walls. Even literary giants like Charles Dickens and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle were drawn to its luxurious ambiance. Dickens claimed that The Langham served the most expensive hotel meals in London, while Conan Doyle set several of his Sherlock Holmes stories within its opulent halls.
A Legacy of History and Modern Luxury
The Langham endured the trials of World War II, serving as a local first-aid post and military headquarters. The West Wing suffered damage during Luftwaffe air raids, but the hotel persevered, eventually becoming the home of the BBC, where it broadcast “Grand Hotel” – a radio program featuring classical music performed by the Palm Court Orchestra.
Today, The Langham stands as a symbol of modern luxury, meticulously restored and enhanced. Its timeless elegance blends seamlessly with contemporary amenities, creating a truly unique experience for discerning travelers.
A Journey Through Timeless Elegance
As you enter The Langham, prepare to be transported to a bygone era of sophistication. The grand lobby, a testament to meticulous design, greets you with towering glass doors and a breathtaking white marble staircase adorned with golden railings. Mauve marble pillars, cherry blossom trees, and hydrangeas arranged in blown glass vases complete this stunning tableau.
Stroll across the marble floors, passing by plush grape velvet armchairs, chrome caged lanterns, and huge mahogany mirrors. The mid-century mahogany concierge desk, with its silver lamps and long plum curtains, adds a touch of vintage charm. Through a marble doorway, you enter the reception area, where lush cream walls, vine carpets, and champagne silk chairs create a welcoming ambiance.
Japanese oil paintings, brushed gold tables, cast iron sculptures, and a vintage bronze mural provide a captivating backdrop for the sweeping burnt orange reception desk. Golden curls adorn the desk, while porters push golden luggage trolleys beneath a sweeping olive beaded chandelier.
The Portland Suite: A Luxurious Haven
Ascending in a cream leather elevator, you arrive at the opulent Portland Suite. Two bedrooms await, their pearl walls, herringbone floors, and long Japanese prints creating an atmosphere of refined elegance. Golden busts and jacquard curtains add a touch of historical flair, while a bronze antique dining table, encircled by shimmering champagne chairs, sits beneath a grand Palermo chandelier.
The cozy lounge, lined with curious artwork and brass shelves, offers a relaxing retreat. Potted terrariums, giant chess pieces, Nordic vases, and a vintage armillary globe add a touch of whimsy. Sink into a plush cream leather sofa and savor the silver platters of strawberries, pineapple, pomegranate, and blueberries, illuminated by a two-tiered smoke glass chandelier.
A snakeskin bar cabinet, stocked with Tuscany martini glasses, corrugated champagne flutes, and vintage leather mixology utensils, beckons you to indulge in a handcrafted cocktail. Step out onto the sweeping terrace, where a black iron parapet and regency brass lights frame breathtaking views of Portland Place and the historic BBC Broadcasting House.
Nestle into cream woven linen chaise lounges, surrounding a grand marble table, and enjoy a glass of Moët & Chandon under the stars. Or, arrange a private terrace breakfast with your 24-hour butler, who will serve frosted croissants, thick Lincolnshire sausages, and creamy avocado on crusty sourdough.
A Sanctuary of Exquisite Details
The high-ceilinged master bedroom is a haven of refined luxury. Ivory damask carpets, mirror-paneled walls, cherry blossom tapestries, and shimmering espresso curtains create a captivating ambiance. Golden medusa-like lamps illuminate the mammoth king-sized bed, adorned with hand-engraved pillows bearing your initials. Marble cake bedside tables provide a touch of elegance.
Sliding doors reveal a walk-in closet, showcasing herringbone oak floors, floor-to-ceiling mirrors, and glossed teak wardrobes. Hand-engraved initialed robes await, adding a personalized touch.
The sumptuous bathroom, wrapped in mink grey marble, features vintage chrome mirrors, a frosted glass walk-in shower, and a beaded crystal chandelier hanging from a glowing pink recessed ceiling. Every detail reflects the hotel’s commitment to providing a luxurious and unforgettable experience.
Palm Court: A Timeless Tradition
Descend to Palm Court, where you can experience one of London’s most renowned afternoon teas. Twining green vines, black onyx marble floors, long tiered crystal lanterns, raindrop-textured walls, and a Jurassic marble alcove bar create an enchanting atmosphere.
Snuggle into plush pink velvet cushions on champagne Chesterfield wraparound sofas and savor the delectable treats. Ploughman’s cheese scones, smoked chicken and spiced apricot finger sandwiches, and raisin scones from Palm Court bakery with Cornish clotted cream and chef’s seasonal preserves, will tantalize your taste buds.
Sip a glass of Taittinger Brut Reserve and sample Palm Court’s stupendous tea menu. From Indian Assam to White Peony from China and Genmaicha from Japan, each blend offers a unique flavor experience. A pianist plays Greensleeves in the background, adding a touch of elegant ambiance.
Chuan Body + Soul Spa: A Journey of Wellbeing
The Langham’s Chuan Body + Soul Spa, located in the cellars, is a haven of relaxation and rejuvenation. Statley white and apple-lined granite floors lead to a sanctuary of woven taupe walls, Italian Murano crystal lamps, and a woven leather reception desk. A glass alcove encloses brass shelves stacked with Chinese tea lights, silver mosaic elephants, Tsubo ceramics, and little essential oil pots, adding a touch of Asian charm.
Glide along narrow halls lit with glass caged lanterns and slip into a snug treatment room. Caramel walls, antique bronze mirrors, little bonsai trees, Chinese tea lights, and crystal singing bowls create a tranquil atmosphere.
Indulge in a gua sha facial, Chinese cupping therapy, or a Chuan Harmony massage, based on the philosophies of Chinese doctors. These therapies stimulate your meridian lines, balance your chi, and encourage lymphatic drainage, leaving you feeling revitalized and refreshed.
After your treatment, retire to a cozy lounge, where curved olive sofas, mustard zigzag stitched rugs, salt-glazed stone pots, ceramic sea urchin vases, and rippled black coffee tables create a calming ambiance. Sip chamomile orange blossom tea and nibble ginger biscuits, while enjoying the tranquil atmosphere.
Winding stone steps lead to a deep cerulean pool, surrounded by taupe rattan armchairs, granite-layered walls, ivory mosaic showers, and a colossal bonsai tree motif. Take a dip and enjoy the calming waters, surrounded by tranquil beauty.
The Wigmore: A British Tavern with a Twist
Upstairs, The Wigmore, The Langham’s British tavern, offers a unique culinary experience. Peel back rich olive velvet curtains to unveil a bustling suburb housed in a former banking hall. Octagonal oak floors, an art deco corrugated orb chandelier, a limestone marble bar with brass steel pipes, and olive marble tables bordered by camel leather stools create a vibrant atmosphere.
Settle into the cozy dining area, where leaf wallpaper with English countryside oil paintings, Turkish rugs, toad green armchairs, mustard ceramic lamps, and mocha velvet benches create a warm and inviting ambiance. Indulge in buttered crumpets with steamed cock crab and masala spiced scotch eggs coated in crispy vermicelli.
For a heartier meal, opt for slow cooked beef brisket pie with Padron peppers or a succulent cheeseburger with grilled ox tongue and crispy shallots. Finish with a plum and almond frangipane tart with smooth crème fraiche.
Sip a glass of Blanc de Blancs or sample The Wigmore Saison ale and tickling cocktails. Black Opium Martinis with vanilla vodka and Disaronno, or Earl Grey Negroni are just a few of the creative options available.
Artesian: An Award-Winning Cocktail Bar
As a full moon rises, head to Artesian, The Langham’s award-winning cocktail bar. The grand double doors lead to a chic and sexy space, inspired by Victorian cabinets of curiosity. Eggshell walls, mauve pillars, crocodile skin chairs, chessboard tables, oriental temple wall lamps, and grape leather stools sat at a pagoda bar create a captivating atmosphere.
Mixologists craft sour lychee martinis, smokey micheladas, and grapefruit Palomas, each a testament to the artistry of cocktail creation.
The Langham, a timeless icon of London, blends history, luxury, and contemporary sophistication. Whether you seek a grand escape, a luxurious spa experience, or a delectable dining adventure, The Langham promises an unforgettable experience.
