House of Spies

This captivating narrative explores the true history of espionage at St Ermin’s Hotel, revealing its significance in the world of spies.

In this paperback edition, Peter Matthews delves into the fascinating history of St Ermin’s Hotel, a pivotal location in British intelligence since the 1930s. Known to MI6 as 'The Works Canteen,' this hotel has hosted numerous notable figures, including Ian Fleming and Noel Coward, who frequented its Caxton Bar. It is said that Winston Churchill conceived the Special Operations Executive there, marking the hotel as a significant site in the early days of the Second World War. This backdrop of espionage and intrigue sets the stage for a tale more gripping than fiction.

As the Cold War unfolded, St Ermin’s continued to play a crucial role in the intelligence community. The hotel became a meeting point for spies, including Kim Philby and Guy Burgess, who shared secrets with their Soviet handlers in its shadowy corners. Meanwhile, George Blake, a double agent for the Soviets, operated just across the street, highlighting the hotel’s strategic importance in the world of espionage. The intertwining lives of these agents provide a compelling narrative that reflects the tension and drama of the era.

House of Spies offers readers an insider’s perspective on the covert operations that shaped modern history. Matthews, having witnessed these events firsthand, presents a captivating account that reveals the complexities of intelligence work and the personalities behind it. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the secretive world of spies and the remarkable stories that unfold within its walls.