Raffles London at The OWO

Raffles London at The OWO Overview

Honestly, I wasn’t sure what to expect when I first walked up to Raffles London at The OWO – I mean, you’re literally staying in what used to be Churchill’s war rooms and the original Old War Office. The building itself is this massive Edwardian fortress right on Whitehall, and when you’re standing outside, you can practically feel the weight of history pressing down on you. But here’s the thing that actually surprised me: somehow they’ve managed to turn this incredibly formal government building into a hotel that feels… well, luxurious without being stuffy.

The location is honestly perfect if you want to be in the thick of everything without dealing with the tourist chaos of Covent Garden or Oxford Street. You’re a two-minute walk from Westminster Bridge (brilliant for those Instagram shots of Big Ben), and St. James’s Park is right there when you need to escape the city noise for a bit. What I really appreciated was how quiet the rooms are – and I mean properly quiet, which is sort of miraculous when you consider you’re sleeping in the heart of Westminster. The soundproofing must be incredible because even with all the government buildings and constant foot traffic outside, I could barely hear anything once I was inside.

The rooms themselves are gorgeous – they’ve kept these amazing high ceilings and period details, but everything feels fresh and modern. My bathroom had this massive soaking tub that I actually used (you know how hotel tubs usually look nice but are weirdly uncomfortable?), and the bed was one of those where you sink in just enough without feeling like you’re being swallowed whole. The service is top-notch too, though not in that overly formal way that makes you feel like you need to dress up just to ask for extra towels. Check-in was smooth, even during what seemed like a busy weekend, and the staff genuinely seemed to know the area well – they pointed me toward a brilliant little pub tucked away near King Charles Street that I never would have found otherwise.

What really sets this place apart, though, is that you’re staying somewhere with genuine historical significance. I mean, you can wander down to the Churchill War Rooms afterward and think about how the hallways you’re walking through for ice probably saw some pretty intense conversations during WWII. It’s not just marketing fluff – you really can feel it. The whole experience feels special without trying too hard, if that makes sense. Sure, it’s expensive, but honestly? For a proper luxury stay in central London with this much character and history, it’s actually worth it.

Raffles London at The OWO Accommodations

Facilities