150 Years Of London's Tea, Luxury and Tradition

The legendary hotel Langham London this year celebrates its 150th birthday.

London's Langham Hotel opened in June 1865 as Europe's first "Grand Hotel" and will this year celebrate its 150th anniversary with an extensive refurbishment, numerous special events and the launch of new suites.

The landmark hotel of London, the Langham, in its 150 years has witnessed a lot of world’s history. In 1940 its West Wing was wrecked by high explosive bomb which hit one of the towers of the Langham, but the hotel has endured in being the "Grand Dame“ of the London. It was a birthplace of the world-renowned afternoon tea tradition. At the extraordinary lounge bar of the Langham London, the Palm Court, where the famous tea tradition began, on June 10th a special celebration of the anniversary will take place. "The Langham Afternoon Tea with Wedgwood" – serving Wedgwood specialty teas in tailor-made “Langham Rose” Wedgwood teaware will be available for 7 pennies for lucky 50 winners. That was the original price for the afternoon tea in 1865. Today, the price is £59.

To mark the big occasion, the Langham has embarked on a renovation program, the largest since the hotel’s talked-about relaunch in 2009. And the first phase was unveiled in March. The new Regent Wing with over forty renovated guest rooms and suites, is designed by Richmond International. The Regent Wing marks the first phase of renovations taking place at the hotel in its 150th year, preceding the launch of The Langham Club Lounge and The Sterling Suite. Aimed for awakening the feeling of a private residence, The Regent Wing overlooks Langham Place and benefits from a private entrance at the top of Regent Street and direct access to the hotel's Chuan Spa. Stepping into the private world of The Regent Wing will evoke the feeling of a boutique hotel, with individual styling that reflects the era of the Regency period influenced by historic detailing, with an eclectic artwork evoking a strong sense of place.

The Langham Club Lounge redefines the club concept with the ultimate in exclusivity, modern conveniences and attentive service. At 345 sqm,The Langham Club Lounge will feature private check-in/check-out and personal concierge, an adult only Drawing Room and a Library with a Writers’ Corner. The spacious and exquisitely appointed Langham Club guestrooms and suites will evoke a warm, residential feel. The Langham Club Lounge will serve a sophisticated and well-appointed display of culinary offerings from all of The Langham, London’s outlets including menus compiled by Chez Roux, signature cocktails created by "World’s Best Bar" Artesian’s Alex Kratena and Afternoon Tea designed by Executive Pastry Chef, Cherish Finden.

Third part of the 150 years anniversary renovation is the Sterling Suite. The ultimate residential penthouse, The Sterling Suite serves to exceed every notion of luxury and space. At 450 square metres, with up to six bedrooms, this suite will indulge even the most elite traveller. With bespoke furnishings from Britain’s finest craftsmen, a personal butler, a private media lounge, and more, The Sterling Suite transcends the definition of a Penthouse suite. It is a destination unto itself.