Churchill's historic war office to be turned into 5-star hotel

The Old War Office where Sir Winston Churchill worked during World War II has been sold by the Ministry of Defence for an undisclosed sum.

The heritage-listed property at 57 Whitehall has around 1,100 rooms across seven floors, linked by more than two miles of corridors.

Rumours swirled it could be turned into flats but buyers, global conglomerates Hinduja Group, reportedly have plans to redevelop it as a five-star hotel.

It is also set to feature residential apartments and a series of private function rooms as well as a spa and fitness facility.

Previously closed off from the public, a commitment is said to have been made to grant new access to the building with an outdoor space part of the plans.

Defence staff located in the Old War Office building are expected to move out in around a year, with most operations to transfer to MoD's main building.

Defence Secretary Michael Fallon said: "The building has played an important part in our country's history and now presents a unique redevelopment opportunity in the heart of Westminster.

"The purchaser will be granted a new 250-year lease to ensure that the heritage and security of the building is well managed."

Completed in 1906, the Old War Office once housed secretaries of state including Lord Haldane, Lord Kitchener, David Lloyd-George and Churchill.

It was put up for sale after being declared surplus to MoD requirements in August 2013.