Step through the grand arched doors of London's historic Old War Office, a fortress of British secrets and power hidden from the public eye for nearly 120 years. Formerly a hub for political giants, spies, and military masterminds, this opulent structure, designed by architect William Young, witnessed the shaping of the 20th century's pivotal events. In 2023, it reopened as residences and a 120-room luxury hotel, OWO.
The billionaire Hinduja brothers reportedly snapped up the building for £350m ($444m) and spent years renovating it. Built in the extravagant Baroque style, the Old War Office harbored the clandestine discussions of influential figures like Winston Churchill and T. E. Lawrence. Its Grade II-listed grandeur also inspired the world of James Bond, finding its way into Ian Fleming's iconic novels and films. It isn't merely a backdrop for Bond’s escapades from Octopussy (1983) to Skyfall (2012) but has also played a role in the acclaimed series The Crown.
Beyond being a haven for political elites, the Old War Office holds a historical pedigree as the original site of the Palace of Whitehall, once a royal residence for Henry VIII and other monarchs until a devastating fire in 1698 altered its course. Constructed during a time when London sought to showcase its imperial might, the building once housed more than 1,000 offices, linked by 2.5 miles of corridors where messengers on bicycles relayed notes in an atmosphere of grandeur and secrecy.
This physical structure has borne witness to pivotal global decisions and events. Notable figures such as scandalous War Minister John Profumo and PM David Lloyd George utilized its spaces.
What tales lie behind the massive stone walls of this secretive stronghold?
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Step through the grand arched doors of London's historic Old War Office, a fortress of British secrets and power hidden from the public eye for nearly 120 years. Formerly a hub for political giants, spies, and military masterminds, this opulent structure, designed by architect William Young, witnessed the shaping of the 20th century's pivotal events. In 2023, it reopened as residences and a 120-room luxury hotel, OWO.
The billionaire Hinduja brothers reportedly snapped up the building for £350m ($444m) and spent years renovating it. Built in the extravagant Baroque style, the Old War Office harbored the clandestine discussions of influential figures like Winston Churchill and T. E. Lawrence. Its Grade II-listed grandeur also inspired the world of James Bond, finding its way into Ian Fleming's iconic novels and films. It isn't merely a backdrop for Bond’s escapades from Octopussy (1983) to Skyfall (2012) but has also played a role in the acclaimed series The Crown.
Beyond being a haven for political elites, the Old War Office holds a historical pedigree as the original site of the Palace of Whitehall, once a royal residence for Henry VIII and other monarchs until a devastating fire in 1698 altered its course. Constructed during a time when London sought to showcase its imperial might, the building once housed more than 1,000 offices, linked by 2.5 miles of corridors where messengers on bicycles relayed notes in an atmosphere of grandeur and secrecy.
This physical structure has borne witness to pivotal global decisions and events. Notable figures such as scandalous War Minister John Profumo and PM David Lloyd George utilized its spaces.
What tales lie behind the massive stone walls of this secretive stronghold?
As you ascend the flamboyant marble staircase, once exclusive to secretaries of state and military leaders, the juxtaposition of regality and simplicity becomes apparent. The building's history unfolds with a saga of key decisions on the second floor, clerical activity on the others, and, in its prime, a wartime command center for more than 22,000 staff during both World Wars.
What adds intrigue to this narrative is the shroud of secrecy that enveloped the Old War Office.
It is a space where decisions with global repercussions were made under chandeliers and decorated ceilings, yet concealed behind a facade of silence. It even had a door in the back known as ‘the spies entrance’ and became a hub for espionage. In 1909, Britain's Secret Service Bureau - an organization that would develop into MI5 and MI6 - was created during meetings at the Old War Office.
OWO Penthouse: It could be the best £100m you’ll ever spend
Celebrating spies
Agents and spy chiefs regularly visited the Old War Office for meetings, discussions, and orders. Christine Granville (aka Krystyna Skarbek) - the daring WWII agent who skied across borders, outwitted the Gestapo, and became Churchill's favorite spy - was one of the more infamous visitors. Today, her triumphs, and those of other extraordinary women, are commemorated with suites named in their honor at Raffles London in The OWO.
A spectacular two-bedroom suite with an elegant drawing room, once used by War Secretary Lord Haldane and Churchill, enjoys prime views over Whitehall and Horse Guards Parade.
The Penthouse - set over 7,700 sq feet and with five bedrooms - is the crown jewel of the residences, set on the seventh floor of the famous building that once served as the HQ for the likes of Lord Kitchener. The residence comes with a private gym, sauna, cinema and games room, and staff quarters.
London’s Old War Office building was originally constructed in 1906
From secrecy to success
It's a transformation that couldn't be more different from the covert history that once defined it. The property includes 120 guest rooms and suites, 85 residences, a 600-person ballroom, a spa, nine restaurants, and three bars. Nightly rates? You’ll need to do a bit of sleuthing to find out.
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