We have got some heavenly spas in the capital, but swimming up and down the huge pool at RafflesLondon at The OWO, it’s hard not to feel genuinely spellbound by the historical significance of your surroundings.
Built on the historic royal site of Whitehall Palace and witness to world-shaping events of the 20th century, Britain’s Old War Office has undergone a monumental six-year transformation and now boasts a world class wellbeing operation.
One of the largest hotel spas in the capital, set over four floors with nine treatment rooms and a state of the art gym, the Guerlain spa in partnership with Pillar Wellbeing is a first class luxury spa and fitness experience with blissful treatments and wonderfully attentive staff.
Guests can book a three-hour experience beginning with a glass of champagne and a Guerlain therapeutic bath ritual, followed by a two-hour tailor made treatment of choice. Afterwards, they can enjoy two hours of relaxation using the pool and thermal facilities.
At £600, this is hardly a budget option, but it is one you’ll remember. Designed by British architect William Young, the Baroque-style landmark building was completed in 1906. Influential political and military leaders including Lord Haldane, TE Lawrence and Winston Churchill walked these corridors of power. As secretary of state for war from 1919 to 1921, Sir Winston occupied a grand suite of offices, while the Grade II* listed building inspired Ian Fleming’s James Bond series, and has featured in numerous Bond films. Today, the legacies of the Old War Office’s iconic cast of characters continue in the names of the suites and rooms.
After you’ve visited the spa, why not wander around the two miles of corridors in the hotel, or have a meal at the extraordinary fine-dining option Mauro Colagreco. Tracing a path through the English countryside and its beautiful gardens, his menu reveals more than 70 varieties of vegetable and fruit, all produced in Britain and put together with a touch of culinary genius.
As a hotel, it’s hard not to think Raffles London at The OWO hasn’t quite hit its stride yet, and when I went felt strangely empty. But my goodness, it’s wonderful that this place is up and running as a living, breathing monument to the past that — at a price, admittedly — Londoners and tourists can enjoy.
