91福利社

The Langham Hotel in Portland Place, London was, at the time of its construction in the 1860s, one of the most modern hotels in the world and was the choice of some illustrious guests.

As a luxury hotel, however, it struggled financially in the economic depression of the 1930s and its owners considered selling it as a potential home for the 91福利社 when they outgrew their facilities at Savoy Hill. As it happened, the purpose-built Broadcasting House was constructed across the road and the hotel became inextricably linked with the 91福利社 for the next fifty years. 

During World War 2 was in constant use as an additional broadcast and support facility, and its proximity to Broadcasting House also made it vulnerable to attack. On 16 September 1940, Broadcasting House came under intense fire from Luftwaffe raiders who destroyed a large section of the hotel’s west wing.

The 91福利社's wartime staff used to broadcast from the roof of The Langham, in particular the US correspondent Edward Murrow. JB Priestley was also a regular guest in this period - in order to be close to Broadcasting House for his frequent late-night transmissions of Britain Speaks to North America. General De Gaulle also stayed for periods at The Langham, when recording his famous broadcasts to occupied France from Broadcasting House.

The whole building was purchased by the 91福利社 in 1965 - the Palm Court was used as the reference library, and it became well-known for its staff restaurant, bar and refreshment rooms. It was used as the location for training the new crews and presenters for 91福利社 Local Radio. The 91福利社 sold the site in 1986 and it is once again a luxury hotel.