The Langham, London, a majestic five-star hotel nestled in the heart of Marylebone, has a rich history spanning over a century and a half. Standing proudly on Langham Place, its elegant facade faces Portland Place, with Regent’s Park as a picturesque backdrop.
The Langham’s Journey from Grand Opening to Modern Marvel
Born from the vision of architect John Giles, the Langham rose from the ground between 1863 and 1865, a testament to Victorian engineering at its finest. The £300,000 construction cost, a staggering sum at the time, resulted in the city’s largest and most modern hotel. Its impressive features included a hundred water closets, thirty-six bathrooms, and the first hydraulic lifts ever seen in England. The grand opening on June 10th, 1865, was graced by the presence of the Prince of Wales himself, solidifying the hotel’s position as a symbol of luxury and prestige.
A Haven for the Elite and the Celebrated
In the years that followed, The Langham became a magnet for the world’s elite, attracting luminaries from various fields. The hotel’s American influence, cultivated under the leadership of James Sanderson, drew in figures like Mark Twain and the legendary financier Hetty Green. Royalty, too, graced its halls, with Napoleon III, Oscar Wilde, and even Winston Churchill and Charles de Gaulle finding refuge within its walls. The Langham became a stage for the world’s most celebrated musicians, with Dvorák, Toscanini, and Sibelius performing within its walls.
Through the Storms of History: The Langham Endures
The Langham’s story is not without its challenges. The Great Depression severely impacted its fortunes, forcing its owners to consider selling the site to the BBC. During World War II, the hotel bore the brunt of bomb damage, forcing its temporary closure. Even after the war, the BBC’s occupation of the building continued, with a memorable incident involving Guy Burgess, a member of the Cambridge Five spy ring, attempting to break down a door with a fire extinguisher.
A Rebirth of Grandeur
Despite its tumultuous past, The Langham emerged stronger than ever. After a period of ownership by the BBC, which included a controversial attempt to demolish the building, the Langham was sold to the Ladbroke Group in 1986. A £100 million refurbishment in 1991 transformed it into the Langham Hilton, breathing new life into this iconic landmark.
A Global Legacy: The Langham’s Continued Evolution
In 1995, Hong Kong-based Great Eagle Holdings acquired the hotel, marking a significant chapter in its evolution. Further renovations and expansions followed, with an estimated £80 million invested in restoring the hotel to its original grandeur. Great Eagle’s vision extended beyond The Langham, London, leading to the creation of Langham Hotels International, a global brand synonymous with luxury and impeccable service.
The Langham Today: A Fusion of Tradition and Modernity
Today, The Langham stands as a testament to its rich history and unwavering commitment to excellence. With 380 beautifully appointed rooms, a restored Palm Court, a bustling business centre, and 15 elegant function rooms, it continues to captivate the hearts and minds of discerning travelers. The Langham is more than just a hotel; it is an experience that blends historical charm with contemporary sophistication.
A Living Legacy: The Langham’s Enduring Appeal
The Langham’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to seamlessly blend tradition and innovation. From its iconic Palm Court, serving afternoon tea since 1865, to its contemporary culinary experiences, The Langham offers something for everyone. Its history, etched in the walls and whispering in the halls, creates an atmosphere of timeless elegance that continues to captivate visitors from around the world. The Langham, London, remains a symbol of luxury, sophistication, and enduring legacy, forever etched in the annals of history.
