If walls could talk, The Langham, London would whisper secrets from the Victorian age, tales of literary icons, and perhaps a cheeky anecdote or two from royal guests. Since opening its grand doors in 1865, The Langham has stood as a beacon of luxury and historical significance, right in the heart of Marylebone. Long before Instagram gave us a peek into hotel lobbies, The Langham was already hosting royalty, inventing afternoon tea, and installing Britain’s very first hydraulic lifts. Positioned between Marylebone, Fitzrovia, Mayfair, and Soho, this landmark doesn’t just enhance its neighbourhood—it helped define it.
Victorian Ambition: The Grand Opening of The Langham
The journey began in 1863 when architects John Giles and James Murray teamed up with Lucas Brothers to build what would become Europe’s first “Grand Hotel”. When it opened in 1865, The Langham wasn’t just large; it was audaciously modern. We’re talking one hundred water closets, thirty-six bathrooms, and the first hydraulic lifts in England. For its time, this was nothing short of revolutionary.
Fun Fact: The Langham was one of the first buildings in London to feature an early version of air conditioning—more than a century before the rest of us caught on.
It also made headlines with its early use of electric lighting by 1879, dazzling guests as much with its innovation as with its crystal chandeliers. But despite the royal fanfare and the presence of the Prince of Wales at its opening, the hotel initially struggled financially. An economic slump forced the liquidation of its original company, but new owners with sharper business acumen quickly turned things around. By the late 1860s, it was the place to be—especially for visiting Americans.
Cultural Magnetism: The Langham’s Impact on the Arts and Society
More than a place to rest your head, The Langham has been an active participant in the cultural life of London. In the 19th century, it became the go-to for the artistically inclined elite. French Emperor Louis Napoléon III made it his refuge during exile. Literary titan Charles Dickens begrudgingly praised its pricey meals. And Oscar Wilde found inspiration within its walls—rumour has it The Picture of Dorian Gray was partly written here.
Then there’s Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, who not only stayed here but also immortalised the hotel in his Sherlock Holmes stories. “A Scandal in Bohemia” and “The Sign of Four” both feature The Langham, linking the hotel forever with literary fame.
And yes, afternoon tea? Born here. The Palm Court, still celebrated today, introduced what is now a quintessentially British tradition.
In more modern decades, the guest list continued to impress. Princess Diana, Winston Churchill, and Charles de Gaulle have all checked in. The hotel even honoured its rich guest history with the “Langham Luminaries” campaign, reminding us that the story of The Langham is also the story of those who’ve passed through it.
Marylebone’s Crown Jewel: A Local Institution
Located on Portland Place, just off bustling Regent Street, The Langham isn’t just geographically in Marylebone—it’s part of the district’s DNA. From the beginning, its presence helped elevate Marylebone’s reputation, drawing in affluent visitors and catalysing local growth.
Today, the hotel maintains a close connection with its neighbours. Its community programmes, local staff involvement, and even the naming of an events space as “The Marylebone” reflect a genuine relationship with the area. Just a stone’s throw from Regent’s Park and the beloved Daunt Books, it offers guests a truly local London experience with a touch of royal sparkle.
A Prime Address: Why Location Still Matters
Let’s talk geography. You could almost draw a luxury map of London starting at The Langham. Oxford Street? A couple of blocks away. Bond Street, Soho, and the theatres of the West End? All walkable. Museums like the Wallace Collection, British Museum, and National Gallery? Practically next door.
For those seeking nature amid the city, Regent’s Park offers open green space within minutes. The Oxford Circus and Bond Street tube stations are nearby, ensuring swift travel across London.
What makes this location exceptional is how it balances urban energy with village charm. Whether you’re a shopper, a culture vulture, or a jet-setter needing easy access to Heathrow or Gatwick, The Langham’s location fits the bill—and then some.
From Bombs to Broadcasts: The Langham in Historic Moments
History hasn’t always been tea and tiaras. During WWII, The Langham served as a military post and first-aid station, a sobering chapter that saw part of the hotel damaged in 1940 bombings. After the war, the BBC took over, transforming it into office space and even using the ballroom as a record library. It wasn’t until 1991 that the building returned to hospitality, reborn as The Langham Hilton after an extensive refurbishment.
Since then, it’s starred in films (GoldenEye, Garfield, Burnt) and hosted the glitterati, including Elton John, Richard Gere, and Cindy Crawford.
Timeline of Key Events at The Langham
Year(s)Event
- 1865 Opened as Europe’s first ‘Grand Hotel’
- 1889 Wilde and Conan Doyle meet; spark legendary literary works
- 1940 Damaged in WWII, becomes a military facility
- 1965 Purchased by the BBC
- 1991 Reopens as The Langham Hilton
- 2015 Celebrates 150th anniversary with new luxury suites
- 2025 Launches new campaign for 160th anniversary
Modern Masterpiece: Recent Developments and Enhancements
Today’s Langham isn’t content resting on Victorian laurels. A £80 million renovation in 2009 brought updated suites, a grand lobby, and a revitalised Palm Court. The Sterling Suite, the largest in London, offers opulence with a modern twist—bespoke furnishings, a private media room, and the kind of elegance that would make even the royals blush.
There’s also The Wigmore, a trendy tavern, and Chuan Spa, offering traditional Chinese therapies. Dining remains a highlight, with celebrated chefs like Michel Roux leading the charge and Mimosa, a new Mediterranean restaurant, adding to the menu of indulgence.
In 2025, the hotel launched “Your Story. Our Legacy”, a brand campaign celebrating its guests and timeless values.
Earning Its Accolades: Awards and Recognition
You don’t get to be London royalty without racking up a few trophies. The Langham, London is Cateys 2024 Hotel of the Year, Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice, and a proud holder of EarthCheck Platinum Certification. It’s not just for show—these awards reflect a genuine commitment to sustainability, service, and guest satisfaction.
The Artesian bar was crowned ‘World’s Best Bar’ three years running, and the Palm Court’s afternoon tea? It’s still winning hearts—and awards.
With Michelin-starred dining and partnerships with culinary legends, The Langham is as much a food destination as it is a hotel.
A Visual and Architectural Feast
Architecturally, The Langham blends Italianate style with early Gothic flair, crowned with French pavilion roofs. Its signature yellow Suffolk bricks and Portland stone accents have aged like fine wine, giving the building a dignified glow.
Inside, it’s a world of high ceilings, grand windows, rich textures, and curated art. The Palm Court retains its timeless elegance, while the Sterling Suite brings modern grandeur to a new level. Design firm Richmond International infused English pageantry with contemporary comfort, producing interiors that are both opulent and personal.
Design Highlights at a Glance
- FeatureDescription
- Architectural Style Italianate with Gothic and French influences
- Materials Yellow Suffolk bricks, Portland stone
- Palm Court Origin of afternoon tea, timeless décor
- Sterling Suite London’s largest suite, bespoke design by Richmond International
- Langham Club Exclusive butler-serviced lounge
- Art Collection Curated pieces and contemporary British design flourishes
The Langham’s Timeless Appeal: Why It Still Matters
At its core, The Langham is more than bricks, velvet chairs, and Michelin stars. It’s a living witness to history, a home to stories both grand and intimate. Whether it’s a literary meeting that changed the course of fiction or a relaxing afternoon tea, The Langham shapes memories.
For Marylebone, it is a cornerstone of identity, a symbol of elegance, hospitality, and cultural heritage. And for visitors, it remains what it always aspired to be: a place where the extraordinary feels natural, and the past meets the present in the most luxurious way.
