traveldk.com

In London’s most luxurious hotel, the Regency decoration reaches a peak in the Oriental Conservatory restaurant, while all the rooms, with deep pile carpets and gleaming mahogany, are fitted with the latest entertainment and communications technology. There is also a fitness centre.

A fantastic setting, with unrivalled views over the river to Westminster, is the best part – but the wood-panelled rooms, original library and dining room are magnificent too. Plus a gym, sauna and indoor pool.

Fortunate in its riverside setting, the Savoy is London’s top traditional hotel – a dignified, clubby place with few airs and graces. Leisure facilities include a small rooftop pool.

One of London’s most glamorous hotels, the Ritz is decorated in cream and pink, with gold and silk trimmings, chandeliers and Louis XVI furniture. Afternoon tea in the Palm Court is popular and the restaurant has a garden terrace.

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.

This is one of London’s great Edwardian hotels. Recently refurbished, it now presents a 21stcentury interpretation of this classic hotel. The leisure facilities are excellent.

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.

Since 1837, when this Mayfair hotel was founded by James Brown, valet to Lord Byron, to accommodate country society staying in London for the Season, it has mellowed with grace and style. It is clubby without being exclusive, old with modern conveniences.

Dating from the 19th century, this hotel has a marble-clad lobby with ornate ceilings. The grandeur of this room, and the dazzling Reflections restaurant, are enough to make you want to stay. It has a fully-equipped business centre.

The first hotel in London to have a swimming pool also once had a skating rink, in what became the Great Room, the largest banqueting room in Europe.