Family Travel Guide with Kids

Raffles London at The OWO | Winston Churchill’s former war office becomes new luxury hotel

Raffles London at The OWO | Winston Churchill’s former war office becomes new luxury hotel

Raffles opened its first UK luxury hotel in London on September 29, 2023, in Winston Churchill’s historic Old War Office (OWO). After undergoing a six-year renovation, the historic address, 57 Whitehall, will now house 125 luxury guest rooms and suites, a 600-person ballroom for weddings and special events, and 2.5 miles of pure corridors. luxury.

Raffles’ nine restaurants and three bars will please gourmands, including three distinct culinary experiences from Argentinian chef Mauro Colagreco. Buckingham Palace can be seen from the rooftop bar. In the Old Library, elegant afternoon teas will be served as a monument to the building’s history.

The structure was originally the Tudor and Stuart palace, but it burned down in 1698 when a servant hung washing too close to the fireplace. A lovely structure was created during the Victorian era to house a new war headquarters. Sir Winston Churchill had his office here during WWII. In addition, while working as a British intelligence officer, Ian Fleming, the creator of James Bond, was a frequent visitor, and numerous scenes from the 007 films were shot in and around the edifice.

A 20-meter underground swimming pool is available. The first Guerlain brand spa in London occupies four of the hotel’s fourteen floors (7 above ground and 7 below ground). The Guerlain spa has saunas, hammams, and sensory showers, as well as a state-of-the-art gym and movement studio, luxurious treatment rooms with private showers and changing rooms, a single and two double VIP treatment suites with private showers, changing rooms, and deep soaking bathtubs, and an Atelier Guerlain that offers express beauty treatments, makeup, and perfumes.

Raffles London’s heritage suites include the two-bedroom Churchill Suite (formerly the Army Council Room) and the one-bedroom Granville Suite, named after Polish agent Christine Granville – also known as Krystyna Starbek . The huge bathroom includes a freestanding tub and custom walk-in shower. However, all suites at Raffles London benefit from 24-hour butler service. This is just another example of Raffles’ impeccable luxury customer service.

Raffles London at the OWO, 57 Whitehall, London

Why Raffles London at The OWO is the Perfect Choice for Families

Raffles London at The OWO is a luxurious hotel located in the heart of London, England. It is the perfect destination for families looking for an innovative and inspirational getaway to the city.

Family-Friendly Accommodations

Raffles London at The OWO offers a variety of family-friendly accommodations, including connecting rooms and suites with multiple bedrooms. All rooms and suites are beautifully decorated and feature luxurious furnishings and amenities.

Innovative Family Activities

Raffles London at The OWO offers a variety of innovative family activities, including:

  • The OWO Kids’ Club: This supervised kids’ club offers a variety of activities for children of all ages, including arts and crafts, games, and storytelling.
  • The OWO Family Pool: This heated indoor pool is the perfect place for families to relax and have fun together.
  • The OWO Family Cinema: This private cinema shows a variety of family-friendly movies throughout the day.
  • The OWO Family Dining: Raffles London at The OWO’s restaurants offer a variety of family-friendly dining options, including a children’s menu and special dietary requests.

Immersive Cultural Experiences

Raffles London at The OWO is located in the heart of London, which means that families have easy access to the city’s many cultural attractions, including:

  • Buckingham Palace: The official residence of the British monarch, Buckingham Palace is a must-see for any visitor to London.
  • The Houses of Parliament: The Houses of Parliament are the seat of the British Parliament and one of London’s most iconic landmarks.
  • The Tower of London: The Tower of London is a historic castle that has been used as a royal palace, a prison, and an execution site.
  • The British Museum: The British Museum is one of the world’s largest and most comprehensive museums, with a collection of over eight million objects from all over the globe.

Inspirational Dining

Raffles London at The OWO offers a variety of inspirational dining options, including:

  • The Indian Accent: This award-winning restaurant serves modern Indian cuisine in a stylish setting.
  • The Grill: This classic British restaurant offers a variety of grilled meats and seafood dishes.
  • The Library Bar: This elegant bar offers a variety of cocktails, wines, and beers, as well as a selection of light bites.

Raffles London at The OWO is the perfect choice for families because it offers:

  • Family-friendly accommodations with connecting rooms and suites with multiple bedrooms
  • Innovative family activities, including a kids’ club, family pool, family cinema, and family dining
  • Immersive cultural experiences with easy access to London’s many cultural attractions
  • Inspirational dining options with a variety of restaurants to choose from

Things to do in Raffles London at The OWO with Kids

Visit the OWO Residences

The OWO Residences are a collection of luxury apartments located within the hotel. Families can arrange for a private tour of the residences to learn about the history of the building and see the amazing views of London.

Take a dip in the heated indoor swimming pool

Raffles London at The OWO has a heated indoor swimming pool that is perfect for families with kids. The pool is large enough to swim laps, but it also has a shallow area for younger children.

Play in the children’s playroom

This is a children’s playroom that is filled with toys and games for kids of all ages. The playroom is supervised by staff, so parents can relax and enjoy their time at the hotel.

Enjoy a family-friendly meal at one of the hotel’s restaurants

The hotel’s main restaurant, The Grill at The OWO, serves a seasonal menu of British and international cuisine. The hotel also has a casual café and a bar, where guests can enjoy lighter meals and drinks.

Book a babysitting service

Raffles London at The OWO offers babysitting services, so parents can enjoy a romantic dinner or explore London’s many attractions without worry.

Visit the hotel’s spa

Raffles London at The OWO has a luxurious spa that offers a variety of treatments for adults and children. Parents can relax with a massage or facial, while kids can enjoy a manicure or pedicure.

Take a cooking class

Raffles London at The OWO offers cooking classes for adults and kids. Families can learn how to make traditional British dishes, such as fish and chips and shepherd’s pie.

Attend a family-friendly event

The hotel frequently hosts family-friendly events, such as afternoon tea and storytelling sessions. Families can check with the hotel’s concierge to see what events are scheduled during their stay.

Explore the surrounding area

The hotel is located in the heart of London, within walking distance of many of the city’s most popular attractions, including Buckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament, and the Tower of London. Families can also easily access public transportation, making it easy to explore all that London has to offer.

Several additional tips for families staying at Raffles London at The OWO:

  • Pack light: The hotel has a laundry service, so you don’t need to pack a lot of clothes.
  • Bring comfortable shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking in London, so make sure to pack comfortable shoes for the whole family.
  • Take advantage of the hotel’s concierge: The concierge can help you book tours, make reservations, and arrange activities for the whole family.
  • Don’t be afraid to ask for help: The staff at Raffles London at The OWO is very friendly and helpful. They are always happy to help you make the most of your stay.

Raffles London at The OWO is a prestigious hotel located in the heart of London, England. It is a popular destination for discerning travelers from all over the world, and it offers a variety of transportation options to suit the needs of its guests.

What to eat in Raffles London at The OWO

With its nine restaurants and three bars, each with its own unique concept and cuisine, the hotel caters to the discerning guest’s every desire.

The Grill at The OWO

The Grill at The OWO, the hotel’s signature restaurant, serves a seasonal menu of British and international cuisine, prepared with the freshest ingredients and cooked to perfection. The restaurant’s sophisticated and elegant atmosphere makes it the perfect place to enjoy a special meal.

Some of the most popular dishes at The Grill at The OWO include:

  • Seared scallops with black truffle and cauliflower purée
  • Dover sole meunière with brown butter and capers
  • Roast Scottish lamb with mint sauce and rosemary potatoes
  • Beef Wellington with black truffle and foie gras

La Dame de Pic London

La Dame de Pic London, the hotel’s Michelin-starred restaurant, is helmed by renowned French chef Anne-Sophie Pic. The restaurant serves a tasting menu of modern French cuisine, created with innovative techniques and the finest ingredients.

Some of the most popular dishes at La Dame de Pic London include:

  • Lobster with caviar and cauliflower cream
  • Turbot with artichokes and black truffle
  • Pigeon with foie gras and black truffle
  • Chocolate sphere with hazelnut and caramel

Mauro Colagreco

Mauro Colagreco, the hotel’s fine dining restaurant, is helmed by acclaimed Argentinian chef Mauro Colagreco. The restaurant serves a seasonal menu of Mediterranean cuisine, inspired by the chef’s travels and experiences around the world.

Some of the most popular dishes at Mauro Colagreco include:

  • Scallops with chorizo and black truffle
  • Sea bass with artichokes and bottarga
  • Lamb with aubergines and cumin
  • Chocolate cake with dulce de leche and ice cream

Paper Moon

Paper Moon, the hotel’s Italian restaurant, serves a menu of classic Italian dishes made with the finest ingredients. The restaurant’s warm and inviting atmosphere makes it the perfect place to enjoy a casual meal with friends and family.

Some of the most popular dishes at Paper Moon include:

  • Truffle pasta
  • Pizza with buffalo mozzarella and fresh tomatoes
  • Risotto with porcini mushrooms
  • Branzino al forno

Cafe Lapérouse

Cafe Lapérouse, the hotel’s Parisian-inspired café, serves a menu of classic French dishes and pastries. The café’s relaxed and informal atmosphere makes it the perfect place to enjoy a light meal or a cup of coffee.

Some of the most popular dishes at Cafe Lapérouse include:

  • Croque monsieur
  • Quiche Lorraine
  • Escargots
  • Crème brûlée

How to get around Raffles London at The OWO

Raffles London offers a variety of transportation options to suit the needs of its guests.

Walking

Raffles London at The OWO is situated in a highly walkable area of London. Many of the city’s most iconic landmarks, such as Buckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament, and the Tower of London, are within easy walking distance of the hotel. Additionally, there are a plethora of restaurants, shops, and cafes located within a short stroll of the hotel.

Public Transportation

Raffles London at The OWO is also well-served by public transportation. There are numerous bus and train stops located within walking distance of the hotel. Additionally, the hotel is situated near the Charing Cross Underground station, which provides access to all of London’s Underground lines.

Taxi

Taxis are also readily available outside of Raffles London at The OWO. Taxis can be hailed on the street or ordered through the hotel concierge.

Hotel Car

Raffles London at The OWO offers a variety of hotel car services, including airport transfers, city tours, and private hire. Hotel car services can be booked through the hotel concierge.

Navigating Within the Hotel

Raffles London at The OWO is a large hotel, but it is very easy to navigate. The hotel has a number of elevators and escalators, as well as a variety of stairs. Additionally, the hotel has a number of public areas, such as the lobby, the bar, and the restaurant, where guests can relax and socialize.

Navigating with Children

Raffles London at The OWO is a family-friendly hotel, and it offers a number of amenities and services for families with children. The hotel has a dedicated kids’ club, a heated indoor swimming pool, and a children’s playroom. Additionally, the hotel offers a variety of family-friendly dining options and activities.

Tips for navigating Raffles London at The OWO:

  • If you are staying in a room on one of the upper floors, you may want to use the elevators to get around. However, if you are staying in a room on a lower floor, it may be faster to use the stairs.
  • If you are traveling with a lot of luggage, you may want to request assistance from the hotel staff. The hotel staff will be happy to help you with your luggage and to direct you to your room.
  • If you are visiting the hotel during peak season, it is a good idea to book a hotel car in advance. This will ensure that you have a car available when you need it.
  • If you are traveling with children, be sure to take advantage of the hotel’s kids’ club and other family-friendly amenities. This will allow your children to have fun while you relax and enjoy your stay at the hotel.


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