A London hotel served as Winston Churchill’s secret office and the top-secret headquarters of MI5, MI6, and SEO during WWII. The location became a gathering place for spies to meet, exchange information, conduct business in the ‘office’ on the top two floors, or wait around the iconic Caxton Bar. This situation continued until the 21st century, when the hotel was closed for two years of renovations, and all listening devices and similar equipment were removed.
Today, St Ermin’s is a five-star hotel with a small museum, only two blocks from Westminster. The tunnel used by Winston Churchill and Members of Parliament between the hotel and Westminster still exists. In the lobby, a bell rings to announce that a vote is ongoing in Parliament, and MPs have 15 minutes to return.
The small museum in the hotel illustrates its history as a spy headquarters. It displays spy-vs-spy gadgets and tools, along with uniforms, maps, and other memorabilia. There are also books written about the hotel and its clandestine business in the past.
Are you a fan of Ian Fleming, John le Carré, or Eric Ambler? Are espionage thrillers your favorite books and movies? Did you read Spy vs. Spy in Mad Magazine? Are you interested in learning about the lesser-known stories of World War II’s leaders? If you answered yes to any of these, St Ermin’s in London should be on your bucket list.
St. Ermin’s Hotel in London, near Westminster, served as Winston Churchill’s secret office during World War II. It served as a covert hub for British intelligence, housing MI5 and MI6 operatives who utilized its top two floors for clandestine meetings and strategic planning. The hotel’s proximity to Parliament enabled MPs to engage with spies and exchange critical information discreetly.
Today, St. Ermin’s is both a luxurious five-star hotel and a captivating museum, preserving its historical significance while offering guests a glimpse into the thrilling spy activities that once took place within its walls.
The Spy Museum isn’t restricted to guests. Anyone can enter the hotel and be shown to the museum. It’s free of charge.
At St Ermin’s Spy Museum, visitors can explore a captivating collection that delves into the world of espionage. The museum showcases a variety of artifacts and memorabilia that illuminate the hotel’s storied past as a secret hub for intelligence operations during World War II. Among the highlights are various spy gadgets, including concealed cameras, listening devices, and tools for covert communication, which illustrate the ingenuity required in the world of espionage.
The exhibits also feature uniforms worn by operatives, detailed maps tracing secret routes, and rare photographs documenting historical events related to Britain’s intelligence community. Additionally, guests can browse books recounting thrilling tales of espionage and the hotel’s pivotal role in the clandestine operations that shaped history.
Interactive displays engage visitors by inviting them to discover the hidden stories behind the artifacts. At the same time, informative panels provide context on key figures, including Winston Churchill and notable spies.
This unique museum experience not only highlights the thrilling nature of espionage but also preserves the hotel’s legacy as a crucial part of the narrative surrounding World War II intelligence operations. Whether you’re a history buff or a fan of spy fiction, the museum offers a fascinating glimpse into a world of secrets.
St. Ermin’s Caxton Bar, burrowed within the historic St. Ermin’s Hotel in Westminster, has long been a clandestine meeting place for spies and intelligence operatives. Its rich history dates back to the early 20th century, when the hotel became a favorite among politicians and military officials.
The bar’s discreet ambiance and hidden corners provided the perfect setting for secretive conversations. During World War II, it reportedly hosted numerous covert meetings as agents exchanged vital information.
Today, the bar still evokes an air of mystery, with echoes of espionage lingering, making it a captivating destination for history buffs and spy enthusiasts alike. Stop in for a refreshment after your museum visit.
St Ermin’s Hotel in London is often described as a living museum, a place where history and hospitality intertwine seamlessly. Initially built in 1887, the hotel has retained much of its Victorian charm while embracing its history. As you stroll through the elegant corridors, you are greeted by stunning period architecture, intricate moldings, and historical artifacts that speak to its rich heritage.
One of the most compelling aspects of St Ermin’s is its connection to British history, particularly during World War II. The hotel served as a base for spies and government officials, adding an air of intrigue to its legacy. The renowned ‘secret’ meeting spots within the hotel supported critical wartime operations, making it a site of significant historical importance.
In recent years, St Ermin’s has undergone extensive refurbishment, marrying modern luxury with its storied past. The refurbishment has carefully preserved historical features while enhancing guest experience with contemporary amenities. Artworks and decor reflect a narrative of both the hotel and the vibrant city around it.
Whether it’s the fascinating tales of espionage or the elegant design of a bygone era, St Ermin’s stands as a unique blend of luxury hotel and museum, inviting you to immerse yourself in its history.
St Ermin’s is in the Westminster District of London. It’s the ideal location for a saturated walk through England’s history.
Westminster, London, is often referred to as an open-air museum due to its rich tapestry of history, architecture, and cultural significance.
This vibrant area is home to some of the UK’s most iconic landmarks, including the Houses of Parliament, the majestic Big Ben, and Westminster Abbey, each reflecting different eras of British history. Walking through the streets of Westminster, you can admire stunning Gothic architecture, Renaissance influences, and modern developments, all coexisting harmoniously.
The district’s historical significance is palpable; it has been the heart of British political life for centuries. As the seat of government, Westminster houses not only remarkable structures but also the weight of national decision-making and historic events. The abundance of memorials, statues, and placards throughout the area adds layers to this living museum, offering insights into significant figures and events that shaped the nation.
Moreover, its proximity to landmarks such as Tate Britain and Victoria Tower Gardens enhances the experience, offering a blend of art and history in a serene setting. Whether you’re strolling along the River Thames or exploring the cobblestone streets, Westminster continually narrates the rich story of London, making it a captivating open-air museum.
St Ermin’s Hotel and its Spy Museum are must-visit destinations for World War II enthusiasts in London. This historic venue served as Winston Churchill’s secret office and a covert hub for MI5 and MI6, making it central to the British intelligence efforts during the war. The museum offers a fascinating glimpse into this clandestine world, showcasing an array of espionage artifacts, including gadgets and uniforms that tell the stories of daring spies and their intricate operations.
Visitors can explore detailed exhibits that highlight the hotel’s significant role in intelligence history, along with interactive displays that delve into the lives of notable figures. The hotel’s unique architecture, combined with its rich heritage, immerses guests in the era’s atmosphere. Whether you’re a history buff or simply curious about WWII secrets, St Ermin’s offers a captivating journey into the past, making it an unmissable experience for anyone fascinated by this era.
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Mary and Kevin are travel writers, travel photographers, and hotel scouts. They are based in Gozo, Malta. M&K travel internationally and domestically, looking for their next travel story.
Mary and Kevin are lifelong photographers and passionate travelers. Mary became a published travel writer in 2016, and Kevin began his career as a travel journalist in 2021. Today they work together, focusing on off-the-beaten-path, not-well-known, and in-the-shadow-of locations. They delve into art, music, food, and libations. In addition, they explore architecture, museums, parks, well-curated tours, history, agriculture, and the unexpected in micro-towns and big cities, domestically and internationally.