EMPIRES decline and fall, but some of their finest structures remain standing, if only – think the Colosseum or Machu Picchu – as magnificent ruins. In more recent times, imaginative minds look to buildings of imperial might with habitable rooms and set about reinventing them as grand luxury hotels.
This has already happened in London, but now, with a building that is a major ceremonial landmark and an edifice of monumental proportions, it reaches a truly spectacular level with Waldorf Astoria – London Admiralty Arch.
Waldorf Astoria – London Admiralty Arch exterior
An Edwardian design by the architect of the V&A and completed in 1912, Admiralty Arch was originally a hub of British imperial rule that evolved over the years into a base for various government bodies; James Bond, was probably dreamt up here by his creator Ian Fleming when employed in the building reading secret naval intelligence documents in World War II.
Nelson Suite Terrace
The culmination of almost a decade of planning and scrupulously crafted labour sees Admiralty Arch about to provide the public with accommodation and dining for the first time. Residential and signature suites will occupy more than half of the accommodation space, and the total of 114 rooms are complemented by two restaurants with menus designed by illustrious chefs: Clare Smyth and Daniel Boulud.
Given that they hold eight Michelin stars between them, their restaurants, Coreus and Café Boulud, respectively, will soon be the talk of the town. Coreus, appropriately acknowledging the building’s historical legacy, will focus on seafood while Café Boulud, dramatically positioned at the top of the arch, will serve an all-day menu. From its terrace, Café Boulud’s commanding views over St James’s Park and Buckingham Palace will be unmatched.
North Wing Residential Suites Entrance
Equally prized and exceptional in its nature, a ballroom will host events from gala dinners to weddings and conferences and attendees are unlikely to forget the dedicated entrance, descending the building’s original oval staircase to the ballroom below and its nine-metre antique Murano chandelier. Another dedicated entrance, less theatrical and more contemplative in its vibes, leads to the hotel’s spa for private moments of relaxation and bodily contentment.
Spa
Rumour has it that an underground passage connects Admiralty Arch with 10 Downing Street, some 800 metres away; good luck to anyone inquiring at reception for the exact whereabouts of its entrance.
by Sean Sheehan
Waldorf Astoria London – Admiralty Arch, located at The Mall, London SW1A 2WH, is now open for reservations at waldorfastoria.com/londonadmiraltyarch, for stays from 1 March 2027. Earlier availability will follow as the hotel nears its autumn debut and this progress towards this hugely anticipated moment can be followed along on Instagram at @waldorfastorialondon.