Waldorf Astoria London Admiralty Arch. Photo: © 2026 Hilton London’s historic Admiralty Arch is set to welcome another new hospitality destination as Inception Group prepares to open The Admiral’s Mess, a new 2,400-square-foot bar inside the upcoming Waldorf Astoria London – Admiralty Arch.
The new venue will seat 60 guests and represents a new concept for Inception Group, the London hospitality operator behind immersive brands including Mr Fogg’s and Cahoots. Rather than becoming part of those existing collections, The Admiral’s Mess is a standalone concept designed specifically for its historic location.
The bar will form part of the food and beverage offering at Waldorf Astoria London – Admiralty Arch, the highly anticipated luxury hotel being created within the Grade I listed landmark at the end of The Mall, opposite Buckingham Palace.
The hotel is undergoing an extensive restoration led by Reuben Brothers in partnership with Hilton. When it opens, the property will feature 114 rooms, suites and residences, alongside a collection of restaurants, bars, event spaces and wellness facilities. Reservations are already open for stays from March 2027, while the hotel is expected to make its debut in autumn 2026.
The Admiral’s Mess is intended to draw on the history and heritage of Admiralty Arch while offering a contemporary hospitality experience.
Charlie Gilkes, co-founder of Inception Group, said the company was honored to have the opportunity to open in such an iconic London location. He added that the group was excited to create a concept suited to the character and history of the site.
The venue will add another distinctive drinking destination to the hotel's growing lineup. It will sit alongside Whiskey & Seaweed and the property's signature cocktail bar, giving guests several options for drinks and socializing within the restored landmark.
Guillaume Marly, general manager of Waldorf Astoria London – Admiralty Arch, said Inception Group was a natural partner because of its experience creating memorable hospitality concepts.
The Admiral’s Mess will not be the only major food and beverage attraction at Admiralty Arch. The hotel will also feature restaurants associated with acclaimed chefs Clare Smyth MBE and Daniel Boulud. Smyth and Boulud will bring their respective culinary concepts to the property, adding to the luxury dining offering being developed within the historic building.
Waldorf Astoria London – Admiralty Arch is being positioned as more than a traditional luxury hotel. Its location, architecture and collection of restaurants and bars are intended to make it a destination for both hotel guests and visitors to London.
The building itself occupies a prominent position at the ceremonial end of The Mall. Commissioned by King Edward VII in memory of Queen Victoria and designed by architect Sir Aston Webb, Admiralty Arch has long been associated with London's national ceremonies and major public occasions.
Its transformation into a luxury hotel represents the first time overnight guests will be able to stay within the historic monument.