OWO Raffles London: A Luxury Labyrinth You’ll Never Want to Escape

Your humorous and heartfelt guide to London’s newest (and possibly most luxurious) playground

So You’ve Booked OWO Raffles London. Cancel Everything Else.

Checking into OWO Raffles London isn’t just checking into a hotel. It’s willingly entering a five-star maze—one so glamorous you’ll wonder if you should just forward your mail there permanently.

Housed inside the former Old War Office (yes, Churchill’s old stomping grounds), the OWO is what happens when history, elegance, and "I’m sorry, is this another chandelier?" energy collide. There are over four miles of hallways, which means by Day 2 you’re either blissfully lost or training for the London Marathon without realizing it.

Let’s take a (leisurely, heavily carpeted) stroll through everything you need to know.

First Impressions: Grand. Gorgeous. Maybe Slightly Intimidating.

Walking into the lobby feels a bit like walking onto the set of The Crown...if The Crown had better lighting, a scent program, and much more flattering mirrors.

Staff members seem to materialize out of nowhere to offer help, water, or a discreet "you look fabulous" glance. It’s welcoming but not suffocating—very "we’re here if you need us, but also you’re clearly thriving."

Dining: If You Leave Hungry, It’s Your Own Fault

There are nine dining venues at OWO Raffles, because obviously one restaurant isn’t enough for the former headquarters of an empire.

Highlights include:

• Mauro Colagreco’s Dining Room: Michelin-starred magic. Every plate looks like it belongs in the V&A.

• Paper Moon: Italian comfort food that whispers "stay for another course."

• The Drawing Room: Where afternoon tea is less "a snack" and more "an event."

Pro Tip: Snack responsibly, because there’s always another tempting restaurant just down another absurdly glamorous hallway.

The Pool: Are We Sure We’re Still in London?

You know those resort pools in Bali where people pretend to read while actually posing for Instagram? Imagine that—but subterranean, candle-lit, and somehow even more peaceful.

The OWO’s spa and pool feel like they were designed for royalty who secretly just wanted a good float session. Heated to perfection, surrounded by stone columns and luxurious loungers, it’s the kind of place where you “accidentally” spend five hours.

You’ll forget it’s drizzling outside. You’ll forget you’re in London. You might forget your own name.

The Hallways: More Steps Than a Fitbit Challenge

Four miles of hallways is not an exaggeration. Bring sensible shoes or embrace the fact that you’re going to hit your step goal by noon just looking for the spa.

Each corridor is slightly different—ornate here, minimalist there, historical plaque over yonder—so you’re never bored. Just… geographically confused. It’s all part of the charm. (Plus, you’ll feel like a minor character in Downton Abbey, and who doesn’t want that?)

The Speakeasy: "The Spy"

Hidden away—because obviously—is The Spy, OWO’s resident speakeasy bar. Is the name a little cheesy? Sure. Is the decor trying very hard to remind you that Churchill once roamed these halls? Absolutely.

But… the cocktails are spectacular.

Sip a "Double Agent" martini or a "Cipher" Negroni and you’ll forgive the on-the-nose decor. You’ll also probably start plotting ways to make your living room look more like an MI6 hideout.

Bonus: The bartenders know their stuff. Ask for something "off menu" and prepare to be impressed.

The Hardest Part: Leaving

At some point, you’ll realize you actually have to leave OWO Raffles to explore London. It will not be easy.

You’ll look at Big Ben and think, "Cute clock, but does it have heated bathroom floors?" You’ll sip tea elsewhere and miss the scent of the Drawing Room. You’ll briefly consider giving up your apartment and moving into Suite 401 permanently.

Final Thoughts: Stay Here. Just… Stay Forever.

Yes, the price tag may seem unbearable at first glance—like, "am I paying for the hotel or buying shares in it?" But keep an eye out for seasonal offers and promotions that include extras like breakfast, spa credits, or complimentary transfers. These little luxuries add up and can make the splurge feel surprisingly justifiable. Think of it as high-end math: luxury + perks = emotional ROI.

OWO Raffles London isn’t just a hotel; it’s a destination, a mood, and frankly, a lifestyle aspiration. Whether you’re a history buff, a luxury addict, or someone who just loves a really good hallway, this place is a must.

Bring your appetite, your best shoes, and maybe a compass. You’re going to need all three.