The historic Custom House, nestled between London and Tower Bridges, is set for a major transformation as plans emerge to convert it into a hotel and public venue.
The Grade I-listed neoclassical structure on Lower Thames Street has remained unoccupied since HMRC vacated it in 2021. Now, a new planning application proposes converting the 200-year-old building into a 170-room hotel, complete with spas, pools, and wellness facilities.
Historic Spaces to Reopen for Public Use
Crucially, the proposals also prioritise public access. The scheme, developed by Orms alongside heritage specialist Richard Griffiths Architects, includes the following features:
“A new public ground-floor route through the former King’s Warehouse which will be brought to life by dynamic historic displays, a series of galleries and an exhibition/engagement space in the West Wing, and a curated historical library within the former Tide Waiter’s Room.”
This revised proposal follows an earlier, controversial scheme for a luxury hotel that was ultimately rejected due to concerns from heritage organisations like SAVE Britain’s Heritage and the Georgian Group.
Critics had argued that the previous plans failed to respect the building’s historical significance and excluded the public from its use.
The current plan, submitted by new owners Jastar Capital, has reportedly been developed in consultation with heritage bodies and the City of London. The developers claim it is based on “painstaking research into the history of the building”.
While the primary use will remain a hotel, significant portions will be accessible to the public, and the riverside terrace will be redesigned to include step-free access for the first time.
Originally constructed to facilitate the collection of customs duties, Custom House has a legacy stretching back centuries. Though the current structure dates to the early 19th century, historical records suggest that taxation activities on this site go back to the 14th century.
The press release describes the site as an “Iconic London landmark”. While that might be a bold claim—many Londoners may be unfamiliar with the building—its historical importance and prominent riverside location certainly warrant greater recognition.
It may not quite match the cultural cachet of Somerset House, as some campaigners had hoped, but the revised development could restore this hidden gem to public consciousness.
Should the project be approved, Transport for London may even need to clarify for travellers—perhaps with signage akin to that at Abbey Road DLR—that this is not the station for Custom House, which lies some distance away on the Elizabeth line and DLR.
