traveldk.com

The Columbia has a delightful leafy setting overlooking Kensington Gardens. Originally five mansions, and once used as a US military officers’ club, it has magnificent rooms and is much more opulent than its prices suggest.

London’s most innovative new hotel group is distinguished here by modern style and traditional elegance. Rooms are individually designed with luxurious marble bathrooms. A basement screening room is a nod to its showbiz guests.

Occupying four large Victorian mansions, this is one of the best of the many South Kensington town-house hotels. Overlooking a quiet square (some rooms have balconies), this is a relaxed and friendly place to stay.

Located in a quiet, upmarket part of town, this privately run hotel has 43 bedrooms and two executive suites, with 24-hour service, coffee- and tea-making facilities in the rooms and a bar. It has no restaurant but there is a good Greek taverna just a few yards away.

Part of the fabric of London, the Dorchester opened in 1931 and was the centre of glamorous London life for several decades. It can still out-swank most places. Book a “superior executive” for a view over Hyde Park.

Located in an elegant square near Regent’s Park, this stylish, modern small hotel is decorated in English country style. The theme is continued in its basement restaurant, The Potting Shed, which has live jazz Tuesday to Saturday. Rooms are decorated with antiques (two have four-posters) and there is a pleasant small garden.

Visitors from all over the world come to this south London hotel, which has been open since 1913. It offers good food and facilities – including eight pianos for residents to use. All its 200 rooms are for single occupancy only, and the price includes breakfast and dinner. Weekly rates available.

In a quiet street opposite one of west London’s most attractive corners, Leinster Mews, this small hotel is one of the cheapest in the area. Basic but comfortable, there are various size rooms available, including a family room for up to five people.