Raffles Hotels & Resorts has signed a partnership with the Hinduja Group and Obrascon Huarte Lain Desarrollos to transform the iconic Old War Office building in Whitehall into the most unique hotel and deluxe residences in London.

The Raffles Hotel in London will be the heart and soul of this exciting landmark destination.

Steeped in history, the first Raffles Hotel was opened in 1887 in Singapore, named after the British statesman and founder of Singapore, Thomas Stamford Raffles.

Raffles was celebrated by Nobel Prize winner, Rudyard Kipling in his 1889 book, From Sea To Sea and in 1915 Singapore’s most famous cocktail, the Singapore Sling was created at the hotel.

The Grade II listed Old War Office, with its 1,100 rooms across seven floors, and two miles of corridors, was completed in 1906.

It was the office to many of the United Kingdom’s most important and influential political and military leaders of the twentieth century, notably Sir Winston Churchill, David Lloyd George, Lord Kitchener, Herbert Asquith and T.E. Lawrence.

It was also the haunt of the British Secret Service who had their own, more discreet entrance.

Close to 10 Downing Street, the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey, the Old War Office was bought by Hinduja Group and OHLD in December 2014 following a public bid.

Planning permission was granted for a multi-purpose development including 125 rooms (of which 40 per cent are suites), 88 private residences, restaurants and other amenities.

Completion is expected in just over three years.

Commenting on the new partnership, Sébastien Bazin, chairman, AccorHotels said: “I am delighted to announce this long-term management contract with the Hinduja Group and OHLD.

“This is the start of an important partnership for Raffles Hotels & Resorts and will create a new and vibrant landmark for London.

“This is a significant step for Raffles and a strategic addition to the group’s luxury portfolio.

“We remain committed to providing guests with unparalleled service and experience.”