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Westminster | Victoria | St. James’s | Mayfair | Marylebone | Soho | Covent Garden | Holborn | Bloomsbury | The City | The East End | The South Bank | Kensington | Chelsea | Knightsbridge | Notting Hill | Bayswater | Regent’s Park and Hampstead | Islington

Westminster

Fodor’s Choice | The Corinthia.
$$$$ | HOTEL | No one can deny that this is the most spectacular of the new crop of hotels that opened in London in 2011, the only argument is which is the most photogenic spot in the place: the eye-popping Moderne lobby, or the Northall restaurant—an amazing symphony of soaring while columns, apricot-hued seats, Edwardian woodwork, and futuristic chandeliers—or the Massimo restaurant (a ravishing David Collins masterpiece, whose candy-striped columns make a nod to medieval Siena) or even the drop-dead chic shop; no matter, wherever you are in this hotel it is design heaven-on-earth and will make anyone feel like a VIP. Guest rooms are decorated in soothing, masculine tones, and have beautiful views over the city. The spacious bathrooms have underfloor heating—so even your toes will feel pampered. Service is excellent and your every whim catered for. Pros: so much luxury and elegance you’ll feel like royalty; the staggeringly beautiful Edwardian building (a wow illuminated at night). Cons: prices jump to the stratosphere once the cheapest rooms sell out. TripAdvisor: “perfect luxury,” “excellent high tea,” “best hotel shower ever.” | Rooms from: £329 | Whitehall Pl., Westminster | SW1A 2BD | 020/7930–8181 | www.corinthia.com | 294 rooms | Station: Charing Cross.

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel London Westminster.
$$$ | HOTEL | Spectacular views of the river, Big Ben, and the London Eye fill the floor-to-ceiling windows in this rather stark, steel-and-glass building steps from the Tate Britain, and techy perks include Skype-enabled phones (allowing for free calls) and Macs in every room; cots, baby baths, Nickelodeon, special menus, and baby food are on tap for kids. The restaurant and bar serve Modern British cooking. Pros: amazing views; flat screens and other high-tech gadgetry. Cons: small bedrooms; tiny bathrooms; TV has to be operated through a computer (confusing if you’re not used to it). TripAdvisor: “great location for Tate Britain,” “friendly staff,” “very nice modern hotel.” | Rooms from: £210 | 30 John Islip St., Westminster | SW1P 4DD | 020/7630–1000 | www.minthotel.com | 444 rooms, 16 suites | Station: Pimlico.

Vandon House Hotel.
$ | HOTEL | Accommodations are the very definition of cheap and cheerful at this simply decorated hotel close to Westminster Abbey and Buckingham Palace, where bathrooms are either shared or have showers only. Family rooms include a double bed and camp-style bunk bed, which could result in scuffles over who sleeps where. There’s also a one-bedroom apartment available for £100–£150 per night. Pros: excellent location; comfortable beds; very friendly. Cons: simple decor; few extras; some rooms share bathrooms. TripAdvisor: “good for one night,” “great location,” “comfortable and clean.” | Rooms from: £75 | 1 Vandon St., Westminster | SW1H 0AH | 020/7799–6780 | www.vandonhouse.com | 32 rooms; 1 apartment | Breakfast | Station: St. James’s Park.

Victoria

B&B Belgravia.
$$ | B&B/INN | At this modern guesthouse near Victoria station, a clean, chic white color scheme, simple modern furniture, and a lounge where a fire crackles away in the winter are all geared to stylish comfort. Two rooms have a connecting door, effectively making a family suite. Pros: nice extras like free use of a laptop in the hotel lounge; coffee and tea always available. Cons: bathrooms and rooms are small; unimaginative breakfasts; can be noisy, especially on lower floors. TripAdvisor: “very good value,” “heart of the city,” “modern and clean.” | Rooms from: £135 | 64–66 Ebury St., Victoria | SW1W 9DQ | 020/7259–8570 | www.bb-belgravia.com | 17 rooms | Breakfast | Station: Knightsbridge.

The Goring.
$$$$ | HOTEL | Buckingham Palace is just around the corner, so this hotel, built in 1910 and now run by third-generation Gorings, has always been a favorite among discreet VIPs—it was picked by Kate Middleton’s family to be their London “home” the night before her royal wedding at Westminster Abbey—who love its Edwardian style: striped wallpapers, floral curtains, patterned carpets, and brass fittings make it luxurious and welcoming at the same time. Pros: comfortable beds; spacious rooms. Cons: price is too high for what you get; decor is a bit fussy. TripAdvisor: “first class experience,” “finest hotel in the UK,” “perfect evening cocktails.” | Rooms from: £455 | 15 Beeston Pl. , Grosvenor Gardens, Victoria | SW1W 0JW | 020/7396–9000 | www.thegoring.com | 68 rooms, 6 suites | Station: Victoria.

Fodor’s Choice | Hotel 41.
$$$$ | HOTEL | Designer credentials are everywhere in these impeccably coordinated black-and-white rooms, some of them split-level and all gorgeously furnished with extraordinary pieces drawn from every corner of the globe and equipped with a plethora of high-tech gadgets, exquisite bed linens, feather duvets, and luxurious marble baths. Even the entrance is unique: You walk into an elevator and are swept up to the fifth-floor lobby, where you can relax on a buttery leathery couch in front of the fire. A “whatever, whenever” button on the telephone connects you with the helpful, amiable staff that provides exactly that. Perhaps the best example of the laid-back attitude is breakfast being served until a magnificently lazy 1 pm on Sunday. Pros: unique place opposite Buckingham Palace; great service. Cons: the unusual design is not for everyone. TripAdvisor: “professional and friendly staff,” “simply the best,” “eclectic boutique hideaway.” | Rooms from: £299 | 41 Buckingham Palace Rd., Victoria | SW1W 0PS | 020/7300–0041 | www.41hotel.com | 26 rooms, 4 suites, 2 apartments | Breakfast | Station: Victoria.

Lime Tree Hotel.
$$ | HOTEL | In a central neighborhood where hotels veer from grimy bolt-holes at one extreme to wildly overpriced at the other, the homey Lime Tree stands out for its gracious proprietors, the Davies family, who offer comfortable, contemporary rooms and hearty cooked breakfasts that set you up nicely for the day. The simple breakfast room, covered with notes and gifts from former guests, opens onto a garden. Thoughtful extra touches include a guest computer and a guidebook library. Pros: lovely and helpful hosts; great location; rooms are decent size (though the cheaper rooms are small). Cons: some rooms are up several flights of stairs, and there’s no elevator; family rooms don’t allow kids under five. TripAdvisor: “a true gem,” “great service and location,” “fun hotel.” | Rooms from: £150 | 135–137 Ebury St., Victoria | SW1W 9QU | 020/7730–8191 | www.limetreehotel.co.uk | 25 rooms | Breakfast | Station: Victoria.

The Luna Simone Hotel.
$$ | HOTEL | This delightful and elegant little hotel, a short stroll from Buckingham Palace, is a real find for the price in central London, and though rooms are on the small side, they are clean and comfortable, with queen-size beds and power showers; a few have balconies that look out over the bustling Georgian street. The home-cooked English breakfasts—included in the price—are delicious. TIP Bus no. 24, which stops opposite the hotel, goes past several major sights, including Westminster Abbey, the Houses of Parliament, and Trafalgar Square. Pros: friendly and comfortable; family rooms are outstanding value; superb location. Cons: no lift or air-conditioning. TripAdvisor: “great location for exploring London,” “awesome service,” “friendly and efficient.” | Rooms from: £120 | 47–49 Belgrave Rd. Belgravia | SW1V 2BB | 020/7834 5897 | www.lunasimonehotel.com | 36 rooms.

Studios @ 82.
$ | RENTAL | A new side operation from , these self-catering apartments represent fantastic value for money; they’re pleasant, contemporary spaces that have everything you need, plus a few useful extras such as free Wi-Fi.A continental breakfast is included in the price. Pros: great price; lovely location; all the independence of self-catering. Cons: lots of stairs and no elevator. | Rooms from: £99 | 64–66 Ebury St., Victoria | SW1W 9DQ | 020/7259–8570 | www.bb-belgravia.com | 9 apartments | Breakfast | Station: Knightsbridge.

Windermere Hotel.
$$ | HOTEL | This sweet old hotel occupies the former premises of London’s first B&B, which opened here in 1881, and is a cheery little place, with comfortable (if small) bedrooms draped in floral fabrics of the kind your grandmother would love, thoroughly modern bathrooms, and a restaurant serving good British and European cuisine. In all, the Windermere is a decent, well-located option—but only if you can’t get a discount rate at a plusher hotel for the same price. Pros: good location; free Wi-Fi. Cons: price is a bit high for what you get; rooms and bathrooms are tiny; no elevator. TripAdvisor: “nice quiet hotel,” “friendly and relaxing,” “home away from home.” | Rooms from: £155 | 142–144 Warwick Way, Victoria | SW1V 4JE | 020/7834–5163 | www.windermere-hotel.co.uk | 22 rooms | Station: Victoria.

St. James’s

Best Western Shaftesbury.
$$$$ | HOTEL | At this member of the Best Western chain right in the heart of the West End theater district (we counted three within a stone’s throw of the front door), the small, pleasingly Victorian exterior gives way to ultramodern rooms inside, with neutral rugs, white walls, dark curtains, and sleek furniture. The price reflects all this effort, so it’s not the typical Best Western bargain, but it’s pleasant and well situated. Pros: great location for theaters, shopping, and museums. Cons: rooms are tiny; you pay for the location, rather than its amenities; 3-night minimum stay sometimes required. | Rooms from: £350 | 65–73 Shaftesbury Ave., Piccadilly | W1D 6EX | 020/7871–6000, 866/891–7710 in U.S. | www.shaftesburyhotel.co.uk | 69 rooms | Station: Piccadilly Circus.

Fodor’s Choice | Claridge’s.
$$$$ | HOTEL | Perhaps Spencer Tracy said it best when he remarked that, when he died, he wanted to go not to heaven, but to Claridge’s, and he was just one of the famed names to sign the guestbook here—little wonder they chose this place as their London home-away-from-home, since all guests are tended to by a friendly staff that is not in the least condescending and accommodated in quarters that are never less than luxurious (with soothing, modern decor in tones of taupe and cream and spacious bathrooms with enormous showerheads). Enjoy a cup of tea in the lounge, or retreat to the stylish bar for cocktails—or, better, to Gordon Ramsay’s famed restaurant. The original art deco public spaces are gloriously unspoiled, down to the grand staircase and magnificent elevator, complete with upholstered sofa. Pros: serious luxury everywhere—this is an old-money hotel; kids won’t be bored, with comics, books, and DVDs to help keep them amused. Cons: better pack your designer wardrobe—the guests in the hotel bar can be almost cartoonishly snobbish. TripAdvisor: “the home of Kings and Queens,” “fabulous service,” “first class as expected.” | Rooms from: £300 | Brook St., St. James’s | W1A 4HR | 020/7629–8860, 866/599–6991 in U.S. | www.claridges.co.uk | 203 rooms | Station: Bond St.

Dukes Hotel.
$$$ | HOTEL | At this small, exclusive hotel in a discreet cul-de-sac, ample natural light brightens contemporary-style rooms decorated in shades of cream and chocolate. The hotel’s trump card is that, for such a central location, it’s remarkably peaceful. Pros: low-key ambience; peaceful setting. Cons: can be a bit quiet for some; price is still rather high for what’s available. Rooms from: £250 | 35 St. James’s Pl., St. James’s | SW1A 1NY | 020/7318–6585, 800/381–4702 in U.S. | www.dukeshotel.com | 78 rooms, 12 suites | Station: Green Park.

The Ritz.
$$$$ | HOTEL | Immortalized in song by Irving Berlin, the Ritz is synonymous with London’s high society and super-rich decadence. The central lobby, with its chandelier and balconies circling above, is a photo opportunity waiting to happen. The lounges are as gorgeous as ever, but the bedrooms are bastions of 1980s Louis XVI style, with acres of luxurious fabric, and glittering chandeliers. With a ratio of two staff members to every bedroom, you’re guaranteed personal service despite the hotel’s massive size. However, guests must sit up straight: formal dress is encouraged, jackets are required in the bar and restaurant, and jeans and casual shoes are forbidden in public areas. What’s more, the staff can be so snobby they verge on downright rude. This place feels much more about showing off than relaxing, but then money doesn’t always buy class. Pros: historic luxury hotel; service at every turn. Cons: snooty service; some rooms have views of a nearby wall; tediously old-fashioned dress code. | Rooms from: £306 | 150 Piccadilly, St. James’s | W1J 9BR | 020/7493–8181 | www.theritzhotel.co.uk | 133 rooms | Station: Piccadilly Circus.

Fodor’s Choice | The Stafford London by Kempinski.
$$$$ | HOTEL | Many praise this as a rare find: a posh hotel that is equal parts elegance and friendliness, and while all the accommodations are luxurious and chic, it boasts 13 especially pleasant rooms installed in an 18th-century stable block, with cobbled mews entrances, gas-fueled fireplaces, and exposed beams. It’s hard to check in without meeting the gregarious manager, and his unshakable cheeriness must be infectious, for the staff is also upbeat and helpful. The location is one of the few peaceful spots in the area, down a small lane behind Piccadilly. The popular little American Bar has ties, baseball caps, and toy planes hanging from the ceiling. Pros: great staff; big, luxurious rooms; quiet location. Cons: traditional decor is not to all tastes; men must wear jackets in the bar. TripAdvisor: “quiet haven in busy London,” “no reason to stay anywhere else,” “outstanding all around.” | Rooms from: £300 | St. James’s Pl., St. James’s | SW1A 1NJ | 020/7493–0111 | www.kempinski.com/london | 81 rooms | Station: Green Park.

Mayfair

Athenaeum Hotel and Apartments.
$$$ | HOTEL | This grand hotel overlooking Green Park offers plenty for the money: rooms are both comfortable and lavishly decorated, with deeply comfortable Hypnos beds, plasma-screen TVs, luxurious fabrics, and original contemporary artworks, and breakfasts are luxurious and varied, with endless continental and cooked options. If you need more space, you can choose one of the apartments (£530–£630 a night) that occupy a row of Georgian town houses next to the main hotel buildings, each with separate living, dining, and sleeping areas and tiny, fully equipped kitchenettes. The spa is available only to guests, ensuring you can always get an appointment, and the restaurant serves butter-rich European cuisine and a full afternoon tea here (£29), an elegant experience (complete with honey from bees in Regent’s Park). Pros: peaceful park views; handy for Buckingham Palace and Piccadilly; great value for elegant setting. Cons: bathrooms are almost all small. TripAdvisor: “very nice hotel,” “lovely location,” “for business or pleasure.” | Rooms from: £276 | 116 Piccadilly, Mayfair | W1J 7BJ | 020/7640–3557 | www.athenaeumhotel.com | 111 rooms, 46 suites and apartments | Breakfast | Station: Green Park.

Brown’s Hotel.
$$$$ | HOTEL | Founded in 1837 by James Brown, Lord Byron’s “gentleman’s gentleman,” this hotel made up of 11 Georgian town houses holds a treasured place in London society. Lounges and dining rooms are chic and contemporary and everything is done up in cool neutral tones of coffee and cream; all guest rooms have office spaces and marble bathrooms equipped with high-end bath products. No expense has been spared, and if you stay here, you will not be spared expense either. The staff is exceedingly professional and helpful; nothing is too much trouble for them. Pros: elegant space; attentive service. Cons: everything costs here. | Rooms from: £505 | 34 Albemarle St., Mayfair | W1X 4BT | 020/7493–6020, 888/667-9477 in U.S. | www.brownshotel.com | 88 rooms, 29 suites | Station: Green Park.

Chesterfield Mayfair Hotel.
$$$ | HOTEL | Set deep in the heart of Mayfair, the former town house of the Earl of Chesterfield welcomes guests in wood-and-leather public rooms that match the dark-wood furnishings in the small bedrooms, which are done in burgundy, fawn, gray, or forest green. There are bargains to be had if you book online in advance, and the service is excellent. Pros: laid-back atmosphere; attentive service. Cons: prices rise sharply if you don’t get the cheapest rooms; some rooms are tiny; restaurant is old-fashioned and very expensive; free Wi-Fi in lounges and restaurants, but broadband access only in rooms. TripAdvisor: “hidden gem,” “good old-fashioned service,” “comfort in the ideal location.” | Rooms from: £200 | 35 Charles St., Mayfair | W12 5EB | 020/7491–2622, 877/955–1515 in U.S. | www.chesterfieldmayfair.com | 94 rooms, 13 suites | Station: Green Park.

Fodor’s Choice | The Connaught.
$$$$ | HOTEL | This huge favorite of the monied set since its opening in 1917 has many dazzlingly modern compliments to its historic features, including up-to-date rooms done in smooth taupes and creams and, the ultimate sign of devil-may-care swagger, a swanky bar with platinum-plated walls. Chef Hélène Darroze runs the titual, Michelin-starred restaurant; altermatively the afternoon tea (around £35) is a great splurge. Incidentally, as ever with blue bloods, the clue is in the name–this elegant hotel was named in honor of Queen Victoria’s son, the Duke of Connaught. Pros: legendary hotel; great for star-spotting. Cons: history comes at a price; bathrooms are small. TripAdvisor: “London with no attitude,” “post-refurbished excellence,” “perfection.” | Rooms from: £400 | Carlos Pl., Mayfair | W1K 2AL | 020/7499–7070 in U.S., 866/599–6991 | www.the-connaught.co.uk | 92 rooms | Station: Bond St.

Fodor’s Choice | The Dorchester.
$$$$ | HOTEL | The glamour level is off the scale here with gold leaf and marble public rooms and guest quarters awash in English country-house-style furnishings, with more than a hint of art deco—along with Irish linen sheets on canopied beds, acres of brocades and velvets, and Italian marble and etched-glass bathrooms with exclusive toiletries created by Floris. Three elegant-to-the-point-of-fussy restaurants include one helmed by Alain Ducasse that is always making headlines. Yet few hotels this opulent manage to be as personable as the Dorchester. Pros: historic luxury in 1930s building; lovely views of Hyde Park; top-notch star-spotting; lots of modern technology, including Web TVs. Cons: traditional look is not to all tastes; prices are high; some rooms are rather small. TripAdvisor: “truly amazing,” “never miss afternoon tea,” “traditional English comfort.” | Rooms from: £365 | Park La., Mayfair | W1K 1QA | 020/7629–8888 | www.thedorchester.com | 195 rooms, 55 suites | Station: Marble Arch, Hyde Park Corner.

Durrants Hotel.
$$$ | HOTEL | Wonderfully old-fashioned Durrants sits on a quiet corner not far from the Wallace Collection and, occupying premises that have served as a hotel since the late 18th century, is awash in old-English good taste—with wood paneling, leather armchairs, patterned carpets, and genteel guest quarters. Bedrooms at the back of the hotel are smaller than those at the front, but are also quieter and air-conditioned. Pros: comfortable; relaxed base for exploring; Oxford Street and the smaller, posher shops of Marylebone High Street are just outside the door. Cons: not all rooms are air-conditioned; some rooms are small; breakfast is expensive. TripAdvisor: “excellent service in a lovely area,” “compact but clean and pleasant,” “great place for tea.” | Rooms from: £210 | 26–32 George St., Mayfair | W1H 5BJ | 020/7935–8131 | www.durrantshotel.co.uk | 87 rooms, 5 suites | Station: Bond St.

Fodor’s Choice | Hyatt Regency London – The Churchill.
$$$$ | HOTEL | You don’t need to be a genius to figure out why this hotel (one of London’s largest) is usually packed with customers smiling at the purring perfection they find here: a lobby that shimmers in Robert Adamesque 19th-century style; the warmly personalized service; the exceptional Locanda Locatelli restaurant; the calmly alluring guest rooms; and the chic art-world connections with the Frieze Art Fair—let other hotels take you for “silly money” and über-hip decor, but the Churchill (the hotel’s name when it was opened by NYC’s Tisch family as a homage to Sir Winston) does not. The modern Park Avenue luxury the Tischs brought has only been refined over the decades, with a glamorous lobby that shimmers with gilded ceilings and black marble columns and Regency-style gracenotes that continue throughout. Most guest rooms are modern sanctums of calm (except the new suites that are decorated with art from the cutting-edge Saatchi museum!). No-nonsense business travelers and VIPs like Madeleine Albright love this place and others like the Portman Square location, just two blocks from the Marble Arch Tube, the shops of Oxford Street (even better: the Marylebone High Street boutiques), and the Wallace Collection. Pros: decent prices; our-home-is-your-home vibe; a style that pleases everyone. Cons: world-is-ending noise when kitchen disposes of glass bottles every morning. TripAdvisor: “excellent location and customer experience,” “friendly sophistication,” “great traditional hotel.” | Rooms from: £350 | 30 Portman Sq., Marylebone | W1H 7BH | 020/7486–5800 | 434 rooms | Station: Marble Arch, Bond. St..

InterContinental London Park Lane.
$$$ | HOTEL | Overlooking busy Hyde Park Corner and the Queen’s back garden (much to her chagrin, allegedly), these luxurious rooms aimed at high-end business travelers are comfortable and slightly masculine, incorporating dark woods, with rich curtains and bedspreads. You really feel treated like a king in the suites, where special guest services range from free snacks and a dedicated butler to a spin in an Aston Martin, should you feel like it. Pros: central location; business facilities. Cons: no park views with standard rooms; only half the rooms are non-smoking; £15 a day charge for Internet access is a bit rich given the room rates. TripAdvisor: “fab hotel with all you need,” “friendly luxury,” “great location.” | Rooms from: £260 | 1 Hamilton Pl. , Park La., Mayfair | W15 7QY | 020/7409–3131 or 871/423–4901 | www.intercontinental.com | 447 rooms, 60 suites | Station: Hyde Park Corner.

London Marriott Park Lane.
$$$ | HOTEL | The ornate facade and beautiful public rooms of this swanky hotel date to 1919, though the sizable bedrooms are standard Marriott fare, with neutral decor, comfortable mattresses, and lots of business accoutrements. The location at the Oxford Street end of Park Lane gives access to great shopping on Bond Street and lovely strolls through Hyde Park. The 140 Park Lane bar has its own cocktail, the Crantini 140, a heady mix of white cranberries, vodka, and Cointreau. Pros: great location; big bedrooms. Cons: a bit nondescript; very busy streets outside. TripAdvisor: “great hotel in best location,” “fantastic service,” “perfect base for a family holiday.” | Rooms from: £280 | 140 Park La., Mayfair | W1K 7AA | 020/7493–7000 | www.marriott.co.uk | 148 rooms, 9 suites | Station: Marble Arch.

The Montcalm.
$$$ | HOTEL | This grand hotel at the edge of Park Lane might have a modern look—along with contemporary rooms decorated in tones of toffee and cream and furnished with comfortable king-size beds—but the attitude toward providing solid comfort and luxury seems old fashioned. The bar, Barre Noire, is a pleasant place to meet a few locals over a martini, and the Vetro restaurant specializes in Italian cuisine. The small spa (“wellness center”) has a workout pool and relaxing treatment rooms where you can have the day’s cares worked out of your shoulders by somebody else. Pros: great location off Park Lane; dedication to luxury and comfort. Cons: service can be patchy; old-fashioned approach might seem stuffy to some; marble bathrooms are not large, but they do have soothing rain showers. TripAdvisor: “pure luxury,” “geared towards foreign tourists,” “very central to everything.” | Rooms from: £280 | 34–40 Great Cumberland Pl., Mayfair | W1H 7TW | 0207/402–4288, 877/898–1587 in U.S. | www.montcalm.co.uk | 170 rooms | Breakfast | Station: Marble Arch.

No. 5 Maddox Street.
$$$ | RENTAL | It doesn’t get more boutique than this: 12 luxury suites, some with balconies and working fireplaces, are decorated with subtle, Asian-inspired touches like bamboo and delicate art and filled with everything you could ever need. Room service caters to every whim, delivering groceries and lending out CDs, DVDs, or even a bicycle. Guests have access to a nearby health club. Pros: handy kitchens stocked with everything from cookies to herbal tea; extremely attentive room service; a great option for those who tire of traditional travel. Cons: you can feel isolated, as there’s no communal lobby. TripAdvisor: “lovely secret hideaway,” “Alice in Wonderland feeling,” “great location and value.” | Rooms from: £270 | 5 Maddox St., Mayfair | W1S 2QD | 020/7647–0200 | www.living-rooms.co.uk | 12 suites | Station: Oxford Circus.

Marylebone

The Landmark London Hotel.
$$$$ | HOTEL | A glass-covered, eight-story atrium sets the scene at one of the truly grand London hotels, where the huge bedrooms are done in rich fabrics and have white marble bathrooms (odd-numbered rooms overlook the Winter Garden that flourishes beneath the glass roof). Built by a wealthy industrialist to serve a planned Channel Tunnel rail link in 1899, the Landmark was the victim of atrocious timing twice in its life—first just after completion at the tail end of the Victorian era, when the original tunnel was canceled, and then 40 years later when the army requisitioned the hotel during World War II. The Landmark was lavishly reborn in the late 1990s, and it has been going full steam ahead ever since. Pros: amazing levels of luxury; spacious rooms; one of the few really posh London hotels that doesn’t make you dress up; grandeur comes at a hefty price, but there are good discounts available. Cons: two-night minimum stay at certain times. TripAdvisor: “like going home,” “excellent service,” “amazing Sunday brunch.” | Rooms from: £310 | 222 Marylebone Rd., Marylebone | NW1 6JQ | 020/7631–8000 | www.landmarklondon.co.uk | 299 rooms, 47 suites | Station: Marylebone.

Park Plaza Sherlock Holmes Hotel.
$$ | HOTEL | In honor of the fictional detective who had his home on Baker Street, rooms here have a masculine edge with lots of earth tones and pinstripe sheets (along with hyper-modern bathrooms stocked with fluffy bathrobes) and the bar has a relaxing, clubby feel, with wood floors and leather furniture. Despite the name, this isn’t a theme hotel, although they do run murder mystery nights once a month (£55 including dinner). Pros: nicely decorated; near Marylebone High Street; international electrical outlets, including those that work with American equipment. Cons: have to walk through the bar to get to reception; not well soundproofed from the noisy street. TripAdvisor: “style and service,” “close to all you need,” “excellent food.” | Rooms from: £190 | 108 Baker St., Marylebone | W1U 6LJ | 020/7486–6161 | www.sherlockholmeshotel.com | 119 rooms | Station: Baker St.

22 York Street.
$$ | B&B/INN | This Georgian town house has a cozy, family feel, with polished pine floors and plenty of quilts and French antiques in the homey, individually furnished bedrooms, but pride of place goes to the communal dining table where guests share a varied continental breakfast. A living room with tea/coffeemaker is at your disposal as well. Family rooms are available. Pros: handy guesthouse in a great location for shoppers; friendly hosts. Cons: some rooms could do with a refurb; location aside, you’re still paying a lot for a B&B. TripAdvisor: “great location,” “a quiet friendly corner,” “wonderful B and B.” | Rooms from: £130 | 22 York St., Mayfair | W1U 6PX | 020/7224–2990 | www.22yorkstreet.co.uk | 10 rooms | Breakfast | Station: Baker St.

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Bed-and-Breakfasts

You can stay in small, homey B&Bs for an up-close-and-personal brush with city life (Parkwood Hotel; The Arosfa), or find yourself in what is really a modern guesthouse, where you never meet the owners (B&B Belgravia; The Main House). The main benefit of staying in a B&B is that the price is usually cheaper than a hotel room of comparable quality, and you receive more personal service. However, the limitations may be off-putting for some: although you can sometimes arrange for daily maid service, there’s usually no restaurant or bar, and no concierge should you have a question. Prices start at around £70 a night, and in that bracket the grimmer places are legion, so make your choice carefully. Prices usually (though not always) go up for more central neighborhoods and larger and more luxurious homes. It’s a nice option, both for seasoned travelers who want a more authentic taste of London, and for those trying to travel well without busting their budgets.

Host & Guest Service.
Host & Guest Service can find you a room in London as well as in the rest of the United Kingdom. This a great source for bargains, and you know that all properties have been vetted by the agency, but the Web site functionality is a bit creaky. | Rooms from: £32 | 103 Dawes Rd., Fulham | SW6 7DU | 0870/220–2640 | www.host-guest.co.uk | Full payment in advance.

London B&B.
The long-established family-run agency London B&B has some truly spectacular—and some more modest—homes in central London. Most cost $130–$150 per night. You can check many of them online, but you still have to call to find out prices. | Rooms from: £130 | 437 J St., Suite 210 | San Diego, California, U.S. | 92101 | 800/872–2632 in U.S. | www.londonbandb.com | 30% deposit required.

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Soho

Fodor’s Choice | Dean Street Townhouse.
$$ | HOTEL | At this discreet, unpretentious, but oh-so-stylish place to stay in the heart of Soho, walls are papered in tones of subtle cream, gray, or pale green; comfy sofas and heavy upholstered chairs jostle for space; and many beds are four-poster—minus the canopy, which somehow just adds to the bohemian vibe. The excellent, modern British restaurant (referred to simply as the “Dining Room”) is decorated with art by, among others, Peter Blake and Tracy Emin. It’s all very hip and au courant, which comes at a price—but here lies one of London’s best-kept hotel secrets: A single room, the teeny-weeny “Broom Cupboard,” costs £95 a night; you have to book and pay for it in advance, and you won’t be without competition—but if you can snag it, this is one of the hottest bargains in town. Pros: über-cool; rooms resemble a kind of upper-class pied–à–terre. Cons: at full rate you’re paying more for the address than what you get; some rooms are quite small; rooms at the front can be noisy, especially on weekends; occasional two-night minimum stay. TripAdvisor: “great location,” “very helpful and attentive staff,” “cool but cozy.” | Rooms from: £170 | 69–71 Dean St., Soho | W1D 3SE | 020/7434–1775 | www.deanstreettownhouse.com | 39 rooms | Station: Leicester Sq., Tottenham Court Rd.

Hazlitt’s.
$$ | HOTEL | Three connected early-18th-century houses, one of which was the last home of essayist William Hazlitt (1778–1830), make up this disarmingly friendly place, full of personality, robust antiques, and claw-foot tubs but devoid of certain modern amenities (as the owners say, “In 1718 there were no elevators, and there still aren’t”). Nearby are more restaurants than you could visit in a year. Pros: great for art and antiques lovers; historic atmosphere with lots of small sitting rooms and wooden staircases; truly beautiful and relaxed. Cons: no in-house restaurant; breakfast is extra; no elevators. TripAdvisor: “beautiful and relaxing,” “classic London,” “country house comforts.” | Rooms from: £180 | 6 Frith St., Soho | W1D 3JA | 020/7434–1771 | www.hazlittshotel.com | 20 rooms, 3 suites | Station: Tottenham Court Rd.

The Soho Hotel.
$$$$ | HOTEL | At this redbrick, loftlike getaway, public rooms are boldly designed with bright colors and big artworks, while the large bedrooms are calmer, most with neutral, beige-and-cream tones, or subtle, sophisticated pinstripes, all offset by modern furniture. The bar and restaurant, Refuel, is one of Soho’s hot spots, and there are movie-screening rooms downstairs (in case the wide-screen TVs in the rooms aren’t big enough for you). Pros: small and sophisticated; comfortable beds, great in-house restaurant. Cons: bar can be crowded and noisy on weeknights. TripAdvisor: “hip comfortable room,” “beautiful in every respect,” “warm and trendy.” | Rooms from: £354 | 4 Richmond Mews , off Dean St., Soho | W1D 3DH | 020/7559–3000 | www.sohohotel.com | 91 rooms, 4 apartments | Station: Tottenham Court Rd.

Covent Garden

Fodor’s Choice | Covent Garden Hotel.
$$$$ | HOTEL | It’s little wonder the Covent Garden is now the London home-away-from-home for off-duty celebrities, actors, and style mavens: with painted silks, style-anglais ottomans, and 19th-century Romantic oils, the public salons are perfect places to decompress over a glass of wine, while guest rooms are World of Interiors stylish, each showcasing mix-and-match couture fabrics to stunning effect. For £35, the popular Saturday-night film club includes dinner in the brasserie and a film in the deluxe in-house cinema. Pros: great for star-spotting, super-trendy. Cons: you can feel you don’t matter if you’re not famous; setting in Covent Garden can be a bit boisterous. TripAdvisor: “wonderful location,” “home sweet home,” “excellent service.” | Rooms from: £300 | 10 Monmouth St., Covent Garden | WC2H 9HB | 020/7806–1000, 800/553–6674 in U.S. | www.firmdale.com | 55 rooms, 3 suites | Station: Covent Garden.

One Aldwych.
$$$$ | HOTEL | An Edwardian building is an understated blend of contemporary and classic, resulting in pure, modern luxury, with an artsy lobby and guest rooms equipped with feather duvets, Italian linen sheets, and ample elegance. Suites have such amenities as private gyms, kitchens, and terraces, and the gorgeous swimming pool in the health club has underwater speakers that play music you can hear only when you dive in. Pros: understated luxury; ultracool atmosphere. Cons: all this luxury doesn’t come cheap; fashionable ambience is not always relaxing; design sometimes verges on form over function. TripAdvisor: “very trendy,” “personal touch,” “superbly comfortable.” | Rooms from: £342 | 1 Aldwych, Covent Garden | WC2 4BZ | 020/7300–1000 | www.onealdwych.co.uk | 93 rooms, 12 suites | Station: Charing Cross, Covent Garden.

Fodor’s Choice | The Savoy.
$$$$ | HOTEL | One of London’s most famous hotels has recently emerged from a £220 million renovation, and the old girl is looking like a super-star again; guest rooms are individually designed, and are as cosseting as they were (thanks to chandeliers, silk wall coverings, and Edwardian- or art deco–style furnishings, with huge marble bathrooms) when they welcomed Elizabeth Taylor on her first honeymoon; even better, there is still no grander stage-set in London than the main stately-house lobby—replete with velvet armchairs, carved wood friezes, and blazing fireplaces—or a more glamorous setting than the adjacent Thames Foyer, a dreamy salon done up in black-and-white chinoiserie and pink orchids: no wonder most of Hollywood stays here. Gadgets such as iPod docking stations and LCD TVs are oh-so-discreetly incorporated so as not to destroy the effect as you get ready to go down for cocktails at the oh-so-iconic American Bar (where the first Martini was served in London). There are four superb restaurants: Simpson’s in the Strand, the Savoy Grill, the stunningly chic Thames Foyer, or the River (no prizes for guessing which has the best view). Pros: the best hotel in London, period; Thames-side location; less snooty than many others of its pedigree. Cons: everything comes with a price tag (even Wi-Fi), but if you’re going to really splurge anywhere in town, this should be near the top of your short list; bedrooms can be surprisingly noisy, particularly on lower floors; right off super-busy Strand Avenue. TripAdvisor: “fabulous old world elegance,” “big hotel with a bigger heart,” “fantastic location and atmosphere.” | Rooms from: £350 | Strand, Covent Garden | WC2R 0ET | 020/7836–4343, 800/257–7544 in U.S. | www.the-savoy.com | 268 | Station: Covent Garden, Charing Cross.

The Trafalgar London.
$$$ | HOTEL | The guest rooms here, in either sky-blue or beige color schemes, keep many of the 19th-century office building’s original features, and some have floor-to-ceiling windows with extraordinary views of Trafalgar Square and The City; 21 are split-level, with upstairs space for chilling out and sleeping space below. Bathrooms have deep baths, full-size toiletries, eye masks, and mini-TVs. Go up to the roof garden for spectacular views of the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, and the London Eye. Better yet, ask for Room 303 to enjoy these exquisite views in privacy. Pros: amazing location and views; spacious rooms; a fresh, contemporary hotel that defies the Hilton norm; good reductions on weekends. Cons: decor is somewhat austere; service is patchy. TripAdvisor: “perfect location and great service,” “lovely accommodation,” “boutique ambience.” | Rooms from: £222 | 2 Spring Gardens, Covent Garden | SW1A 2TS | 020/7870–2900 | www.hilton.co.uk | 127 rooms, 2 suites | Station: Charing Cross.

Waldorf Hilton.
$$$ | HOTEL | Understated bedrooms, with white-marble baths and plenty of amenities (such as plasma-screen TVs and laptop chargers) nicely meet the demands of modern travelers. The elegant restaurant and bar make for memorable evenings. Pros: tradition meets modern life comfortably here. Cons: prices are quite high for a Hilton; few discounts or deals. TripAdvisor: “beautiful character,” “pure luxury,” “fabulous afternoon tea.” | Rooms from: £180 | Aldwych, Covent Garden | WC2B 4DD | 020/7836–2400 | www.hilton.co.uk | 303 rooms | Station: Charing Cross.

Holborn

Fodor’s Choice | Chancery Court Hotel.
$$$ | HOTEL | This landmark structure, built by the Pearl Assurance Company in 1914 and so striking it was featured in the film Howards End, houses a beautiful hotel, with spacious bedrooms that are popular with business travelers and have a masculine edge—lots of leather and dark-red fabrics, with luxurious mattresses—and a day spa in the basement that is a peaceful cocoon. There’s marble everywhere, from the floors in public spaces and the massive staircase to the bathrooms. The restaurant, Pearl, is known for its Modern European cuisine, and the bar, in an old banking hall, has elegant soaring ceilings. Pros: gorgeous space; great spa; your every need catered to. Cons: area is deserted at night and on weekends. TripAdvisor: “luxury in heart of London,” “charm and tradition,” “beautiful grand hotel.” | Rooms from: £215 | 252 High Holborn, Holborn | WC1V 7EN | 020/7829–9888 | www.marriott.com | 342 rooms, 14 suites | Station: Holborn.

SACO Serviced Apartments, Holborn.
$$$ | RENTAL | Down a quiet backstreet, a 10-minute walk from the British Museum, these apartments are spacious, modern, and extremely well equipped—each has its own kitchen (with dishwasher and washing machine) and those on the top floor have large terraces, ideal for a morning coffee or alfresco dining. A maid cleans the apartments once a week, and there’s a staffed reception area, but otherwise you’re pretty much left to your own devices to live like a Londoner. There are plenty of good restaurants and bars in the neighborhood, and a grocery store is a block away. Pros: more independence than hotels; pleasant and spacious accommodations. Cons: exterior is dated; you must provide own bedding for baby cots. | Rooms from: £214 | 82 Lamb’s Conduit St., Holborn | WC1N 3LT | 020/7269–9930 | www.sacoapartments.co.uk | 30 apartments (mixture of studios, 1, 2, and 3 bed) | Station: Russell Sq.

Bloomsbury

Alhambra Hotel.
$ | HOTEL | One of the best bargains in Bloomsbury is a stone’s throw from King’s Cross and the Eurostar terminal, and though rooms are very small and the neighborhood is still “edgy,” few places are this cheery and clean for the price. Television and Wi-Fi (“where service reaches”) are included, but that’s about it—you even have to ask for an alarm clock. Pros: low price, with breakfast included; friendly service; central location. Cons: zero frills; stairs to climb; some rooms have shared bathrooms. TripAdvisor: “great value and location,” “great base in London,” “clean and well situated.” | Rooms from: £75 | 17–19 Argyle St., Bloomsbury | WC1H 8EJ | 020/7837–9575 | www.alhambrahotel.com | 52 rooms | Breakfast | Station: King’s Cross.

Arosfa Hotel.
$$ | B&B/INN | Friendly owners; simple, quirky charm (from the 1940s-style phone on the painted sign out front); and the clean and contemporary look of the public areas all set this B&B—in what was once the home of pre-Raphaelite painter Sir John Everett Millais—apart from the Gower Street hotel pack. Bedrooms are comfortable and well designed, double-glazed windows keep street noise at bay, and some rooms overlook a small garden. Pros: friendly staff; check-in from 7 am; good location for museums and theaters; free Wi-Fi. Cons: some rooms are very small; few services. TripAdvisor: “yummy breakfast and clean rooms,” “great location and superb service,” “warm and friendly atmosphere.” | Rooms from: £107 | 83 Gower St., Bloomsbury | WC1E 6HJ | 020/7636–2115 | www.arosfalondon.com | 15 rooms | Breakfast | Station: Goodge St.

Celtic Hotel.
$ | HOTEL | At this clean and comfortable budget accommodation with basic amenities, bedrooms aren’t fussy and the cheaper rooms have shared bathrooms, but the staff is friendly and helpful and the British Museum and London’s West End are nearby. The best advertisement is the fact that many guests are regulars who come back again and again. Pros: good prices; friendly staff recommends restaurants and pubs; handy location at the edge of Bloomsbury. Cons: no-frills approach means few extras; cheaper rooms don’t have private bathrooms. TripAdvisor: “wonderful people,” “great location,” “clean and quirky.” | Rooms from: £98 | 61–63 Guilford St., Bloomsbury | WC1N 1DD | 020/7837–6737 | 35 rooms | Breakfast | Station: Russell Sq.

Charlotte Street Hotel.
$$$ | HOTEL | Modern flair and the traditional are fused with real style in public spaces and bedrooms beautifully decorated with unique printed fabrics from designer Kit Kemp; bathrooms are truly impressive, lined with gleaming granite and oak—with walk-in showers and flat-screen TVs, so you can catch up on the news while you soak in the deep baths. The restaurant, Oscar, is excellent for European cuisine, and the bar is a trendy (though pricey) local hangout. There’s a public screening room for the Sunday-night dinner-and-film club or you might want to indulge in afternoon tea by the fire in the spacious drawing room. Pros: elegant, luxurious; great attention to detail. Cons: the popular bar can be noisy; reservations are necessary for the restaurant. TripAdvisor: “fab hotel with excellent service,” “lovely Valentine’s treat,” “a true boutique gem.” | Rooms from: £288 | 15 Charlotte St., Bloomsbury | W1P 1HB | 020/7806–2000, 800/553–6674 in U.S. | www.charlottestreethotel.com | 46 rooms, 6 suites | Station: Goodge St.

Crescent Hotel London.
$$ | B&B/INN | At this friendly, attractive B&B on one of Bloomsbury’s grand old squares, rooms are small and simply decorated in cheery colors and breakfasts are big and hearty—but although the overall effect is somewhat utilitarian, but the basics are well covered. You can use the tennis courts and private gardens in the square, a great spot for picnics on a sunny day. Pros: lovely, convenient location; friendly staff. Cons: price too high for what you get; decor needs a face-lift; no elevator; bathrooms are tiny and some have only a bath, so if you want a shower, ask when you book. TripAdvisor: “quiet,” “clean and nice,” “great character and location.” | Rooms from: £110 | 49–50 Cartright Gardens, Bloomsbury | WC1H 9EL | 020/7387–1515 | www.crescenthoteloflondon.com | 27 rooms, 10 with bath | Breakfast | Station: Russell Sq.

The Generator, London.
$ | B&B/INN | This former police barracks, with decor that makes the most of the nightclub-with-bunk-beds vibe, is where the young, enthusiastic traveler comes to find fellow partyers and provides singles, twins, and dormitory rooms, each with a washbasin, locker, and free bed linens. The Generator Bar has cheap drinks and a rowdy crowd, and the Fuel Stop cafeteria provides inexpensive meals. It sure isn’t fancy but it’s about as good as hostels in London get—and sure is cheap! Pros: youthful attitude; funky design; good security; great location. Cons: bar is crowded and noisy; nonstop party atmosphere not for everyone; it’s still a hostel, so will always be a bit hit-or-miss. TripAdvisor: “great way to meet backpackers,” “friendly and safe,” “not the best but you’ll survive.” | Rooms from: £32 | MacNaghten House, Compton Pl. off 37 Tavistock Pl., Bloomsbury | WC1H 9SE | 020/7388–7666 | www.generatorhostels.com/london | 214 beds | Breakfast | Station: Russell Sq.

Grange Blooms Hotel.
$$ | HOTEL | At this white Georgian town-house hotel just around the corner from the British Museum, rooms are not too tiny by London standards—and those in the back of the hotel look out onto a leafy green garden—and service is excellent, with a concierge and porter always on hand to help. Decor in public areas is a bit stuffy with bright carpeting, curtains, and sofas, but only in a pleasant, traditional way. Pros: great location; overall good value; good prices if you book early through the website. Cons: bathrooms could use an upgrade; guests can be bumped to sister hotel if fully booked; no air-conditioning; street noise in some rooms. TripAdvisor: “calm oasis,” “elegant and comfortable,” “lovely overnight stay.” | Rooms from: £114 | 7 Montague St., Bloomsbury | WC1B 5BP | 020/7323–1717 or 800/2247–2643 | www.grangehotels.com | 26 rooms, 1 suite | Station: Russell Sq.

Harlingford Hotel.
$$ | HOTEL | The most contemporary of the Cartwright Gardens hotels offers sleek, quiet, and comfortable bedrooms and perfectly appointed public rooms. With space for four, the quad rooms are a good choice for traveling families. For those who tire of eggs and sausage every morning, breakfast includes a choice of fresh croissants and 10 kinds of cereal. Pros: good location; friendly staff; wider breakfast choice than many small London hotels. Cons: rooms are quite small; no elevator. TripAdvisor: “great little find in central London,” “good breakfast,” “comfortable and well-appointed rooms.” | Rooms from: £115 | 61–63 Cartwright Gardens, Bloomsbury | WC1H 9EL | 020/7387–1551 | www.harlingfordhotel.com | 43 rooms | Breakfast | Station: Russell Sq.

Jenkins Hotel.
$ | B&B/INN | A classic Georgian exterior belies the simply designed, homey interior, where bedrooms are decorated in traditional color schemes—creams and blues with walnut furniture and heavy floral curtains—and bathrooms are miniscule. Pros: good location for theaters and restaurants. Cons: thin mattresses; very small bathrooms; cheaper rooms have shared bathrooms; lots of stairs but no elevator. TripAdvisor: “location is tops,” “quiet and comfortable,” “great breakfast.” | Rooms from: £98 | 45 Cartwright Gardens, Bloomsbury | WC1H 9EH | 020/7387–2067 | www.jenkinshotel.demon.co.uk | 14 rooms | Breakfast | Station: Russell Sq., King’s Cross, Euston.

The Megaro.
$$ | HOTEL | These snazzy, well-designed, modern bedrooms just across the street from St. Pancras International station surround guests with startlingly contemporary decor and amenities that include powerful showers and espresso machines. Pros: unbeatable location for Eurostar; short hop on Tube to city center. Cons: neighborhood isn’t great; standard rooms are small; decor may be a bit stark for some. TripAdvisor: “a haven of peace,” “big modern room,” “tranquil atmosphere.” | Rooms from: £160 | Belgrove St., King’s Cross | WC1H 8AB | 020/7843–2222 | www.hotelmegaro.co.uk | 49 rooms.

Morgan Hotel.
$$ | B&B/INN | This Georgian house is a handy option for those traveling on a budget: don’t expect many bells or whistles, but the basic rooms are sunny and attractive—some are quite spacious, some have floor-to-ceiling windows, and some overlook the British Museum. The little apartments (£150–£250) give you a bit more space to move around in and have a tiny kitchen. The small, paneled breakfast room downstairs can rightfully be described as “cozy,” and the family that runs the place could not be friendlier. Pros: friendly staff; double and triple rooms are large by London standards; right by the museum and near West End theaters. Cons: mattresses are quite thin, as are walls; no elevator. TripAdvisor: “charming and cheap-ish,” “pleasant staff,” “great location and service.” | Rooms from: £125 | 24 Bloomsbury St., Bloomsbury | WC1B 3QJ | 020/7636–3735 | www.morganhotel.co.uk | 15 rooms, 5 apartments | Breakfast | Station: Tottenham Court Rd., Russell Sq.

The Portland Hotel.
$$ | HOTEL | Just around the corner from leafy Russell Square, the Portland is good value-for-money in a swank neighborhood, offering bedrooms that are spacious and comfortable, with large bathrooms and seating areas, and all with their own kitchenettes. The Portland is among several hotels on the same street that are owned by the Grange Hotels chain; this means that you might book into one hotel and actually end up staying in another, and while the quality is comparable, not all amenities are the same—so be quite clear of your requirements when you book. Pros: great location an easy walk from the British Museum and Covent Garden; large rooms; kitchenettes offer alternative to restaurants; staff is friendly. Cons: restaurant is in neighboring hotel, requiring a walk down the street to breakfast. TripAdvisor: “really pleasant,” “good for shopping,” “nice room.” | Rooms from: £102 | 31–32 Bedford Pl., Bloomsbury | WC1B 5JH | 020/7580–7088 | www.grangehotels.com | 18 rooms | Station: Holborn Rd.

The Ridgemount Hotel.
$ | B&B/INN | Mere blocks away from the British Museum and London’s West End theaters, this handsomely fronted guesthouse has clean, neat, and plainly decorated rooms at a bargain, and the welcoming public areas, especially the family-style breakfast room, resemble sweetly cluttered Victorian-style parlors. Breakfast (included in the price) is hearty and filling, and some room overlook a leafy garden. An interesting historical note: No. 67 was once owned by Elizabeth Stride, who later moved to the East End and fell victim to Jack the Ripper. Pros: good location for theaters and museum; helpful staff; family rooms accommodate up to five. Cons: decor is basic; no elevator; cheapest rooms have shared bathrooms. TripAdvisor: “great value,” “try to get renovated room,” “very clean.” | Rooms from: £74 | 65 Gower St., Bloomsbury | WC1E 6HJ | 020/7636–1141 | www.ridgemounthotel.co.uk | 32 rooms, 15 with bath | Breakfast | Station: Goodge St.

Rough Luxe.
$$$ | B&B/INN | Bloomsbury’s quirkiest hotel, a strange combination of shabby chic and swanky luxury, occupies a 19th-century building that has been renovated to keep bits of old battered walls and flooring in place—elegant beds, designer lighting, and original artwork are cast in stark relief and antique claw-foot tubs and designer sinks are set alongside remnants of the old, torn wallpaper. The whole effect is so extraordinary that the hotel is regularly featured in designer magazines. Certainly the chutzpah is impressive, given that prices are high while bathrooms are often shared and services few. Pros: art and design lovers will be dazzled; it’s all very avant-garde. Cons: not to everyone’s taste; no restaurant or bar; near King’s Cross train station in a neighborhood locals would describe as “dodgy”; some rooms share baths. TripAdvisor: “fantastic service,” “cute but small,” “charming oasis.” | Rooms from: £180 | 1 Birkenhead St., Bloomsbury | W1CH 8BA | 020/7837–5338 | www.roughluxe.co.uk | 10 rooms, 4 with shared bath | Station: Kings Cross.

Sanderson Hotel.
$$$ | HOTEL | At this fashionable and surreal “urban spa” housed in a converted 1950s textile factory, the lobby looks like a design museum, bedrooms have sleigh beds and a mix of over-the-top Louis XV and postmodern furnishings, and amenities include holistic bath house, indoor-outdoor fitness classes, and a gorgeous courtyard. Those inclined to less exertion will enjoy the Asian-influenced restaurant, Suka, which merges Malaysian and British cuisine, and the Alice in Wonderland themed “Mad Hatter’s Tea Party,” a quirky spin on traditional afternoon tea. The courtyard is a lovely and romantic spot, especially by candlelight. Pros: popular with design mavens; your every whim gratified. Cons: “designer cool” can be self-consciously hip; bar and restaurant are so exclusive it’s hard to get in. TripAdvisor: “hip and happening,” “excellent staff,” “charming and professional.” | Rooms from: £270 | 50 Berners St., Bloomsbury | W1T 3NG | 020/7300–1400 | www.sandersonlondon.com | 150 rooms | Station: Oxford Circus, Tottenham Court Rd.

Thistle Bloomsbury Park Hotel.
$$$ | HOTEL | A block away from leafy Russell Square and a short stroll from the British Museum, the location of the Thistle Bloomsbury Park Hotel is outstanding, though once you get past the handsome frontage and gleaming lobby, everything seems decidedly more average—though not necessarily in a bad way. This is the kind of place where all the basics are covered, but little else, though service is reasonable. Guest rooms are small, with mass-produced furniture, and simple decor. However, this place is definitely need of a makeover, which seems slowly to be underway. Pros: great location; family rooms cost only slightly more than doubles. Cons: only family rooms are a bargain, otherwise too expensive for what’s on offer; small rooms; tired decor. | Rooms from: £192 | 126 Southampton Row, Bloomsbury | WC1B 5AD | 0871/376–9007 | www.thistle.com | 95 rooms | Breakfast | Station: Russell Sq.

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London Chain Hotel Primer

England has a number of hotel chains—worth considering—some are moderately priced, others are luxurious. Here’s a quick run-down of our favorites:

easyhotel: One of the first chains to bring so-called “pod hotels” to London, the easyhotel chain specializes in very cheap (less than £50 a night for a double) rooms that are clean, secure and offer all the basics, but are teeny-tiny, and have no extras at all. | www.easyhotel.com.

Grange Hotels: This chain includes a good mix of large and small hotels, with reliable (if somewhat dull) neutral decor, good service, and plenty of gadgets for business travelers. Prices vary, although most are moderately priced. | www.grangehotels.com.

Malmaison: With lavish, elegant small hotels around the country, this upscale chain offers luxurious designer style, good restaurants, and trendy bars. | www.malmaison.com.

Millennium: Similar in style to Premier Inns, Millennium (and its other brand, Copthorne) hotels are targeted at both business and leisure travelers. They offer well-designed rooms with plenty of gadgets and have frequent sales. | www.millenniumhotels.co.uk.

myhotel: A small chain of pricey boutique hotels, with a designer decor, trendy bars, and a modern approach, myhotels offer reliable comfort and service, if you don’t mind the price tag. | www.myhotels.com.

Premier Inns: This widespread chain features medium-size, moderately priced hotels. They’re known for their attractive if bland look, and for frequent sales, which keep prices cheap. | www.premierinn.com.

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The City

Apex City of London.
$$ | HOTEL | At this sleek, modern branch of the small Apex chain near the Tower of London, bedrooms are reasonably spacious, with contemporary color schemes and little sofas and desks that make life easier for the traveler. It’s worth checking out the website for good package deals and special offers, especially in the off sesason. Pros: great location; helpful staff; full of modern comforts. Cons: geared more to business than leisure travelers; price can rise sharply during busy times. TripAdvisor: “welcoming staff,” “great decor,” “like a luxury cruise suite.” | Rooms from: £119 | 1 Seething La., The City | EC3N 4AX | 020/7702–2020 | www.apexhotels.co.uk | 179 rooms | Station: Tower Hill.

Crowne Plaza London—The City.
$$$ | HOTEL | The shell of an old stationery warehouse, on the former site of Henry VIII’s Bridewell Palace, has found its most recent reincarnation as a polished hotel with small, minimalist rooms done in cool shades of gray and cream and a Michelin-starred restaurant, Refettorio, serving high-quality rustic Italian cuisine by acclaimed chef Giorgio Locatelli. Don’t let the hotel’s all-business appearance and financial-district location put you off—it’s just paces away from the Tube, and soundproof windows block out City noise. Pros: good prices available with advance booking; kids stay free; lots of amenities. Cons: neighborhood is super-busy during the day and graveyard-quiet at night—you’ll have to go elsewhere for a party scene. TripAdvisor: “excellent staff,” “chic hotel with lovely rooms,” “great city getaway.” | Rooms from: £189 | 19 New Bridge St., The City | EC4 6DB | 0871/423–4828 | www.crowneplaza.com | 203 rooms, 3 suites | Station: Blackfriars.

Grange City Hotel.
$$$ | HOTEL | With an eye on business, this sleek hotel in London’s City has everything the workaholic needs to feel right at home—chic bedrooms subtly decorated in creams and chocolates, modern furnishings, plenty of space (by London standards), and more. Women-only rooms have extra amenities ranging from more powerful hair dryers to extra-secure doors with peepholes and chain locks. Ladies and gentlemen can exercise in the hotel’s magnificent columned swimming pool, then linger over sushi at the Koto Japanese Restaurant or sip cocktails in the Isis Whisky Bar. Pros: good-size rooms; women-only rooms are great for female travelers. Cons: location is a bit off the tourist track; some rooms overlook train platform; online discounts tend to not allow changes or cancellation. TripAdvisor: “perfect position,” “excellent service,” “very comfortable.” | Rooms from: £144 | 8–14 Cooper’s Row, The City | EC3N 2BQ | 020/7863–3700 | www.grangehotels.com | 307 rooms, 11 suites | Station: Tower Hill, Aldgate, Monument.

The London Mal.
$$$$ | HOTEL | These stylish rooms are well decorated in neutral cream and beige, and they have huge comfortable beds and CD systems with a library of music on demand, as well as satellite TVs and free broadband. The hotel prides itself on fast, high-quality room service, so breakfast in bed can be a pleasure. Pros: luxurious rooms; excellent service; good package deals. Cons: neighborhood is off the tourist track; area can be quiet at night. | Rooms from: £414 | 18–21 Charterhouse Sq., The City | EC1M 6AH | 087/2436–5548 | www.malmaison.com | 95 rooms, 2 suites | Breakfast | Station: Barbican, Farringdon.

London St. Pauls YHA.
$ | B&B/INN | Once a choir school, this hostel has an oak-panel chapel that’s now a meeting room and, the best feature of all, is on the doorstep of St. Paul’s Cathedral and the Millennium Bridge (the pathway to the Tate Modern). Most of the rooms have four to eight beds, but there are a few singles, doubles, and triples. It’s not great, but then it’s a youth hostel; “you pays-yer-money, you gets-yer-choice,” as the Cockneys say. Pros: outstanding location; friendly and safe; family rooms available. Cons: lively and often noisy; piped music in some public areas; geared to the young. TripAdvisor: “comfy and cheap,” “convenient and friendly,” “wonderful location.” | Rooms from: £46 | 36 Carter La., The City | EC4V 5AB | 0845/371–9012 | www.yha.org.uk | 210 beds | Breakfast | Station: St. Paul’s.

Fodor’s Choice | The Rookery.
$$$ | HOTEL | An absolutely unique and beautiful 1725 town house, surrounded by office buildings, the Rookery is the kind of place where you want to allow some proper time to enjoy and soak up the hotel atmosphere—in the elegant, Regency-style drawing room, which has a well-stocked honesty bar, and in the huge, wood-paneled bedrooms, with heavy raw silk drapes, antique furniture, antiquarian books artfully scattered here and there, and white marble bathrooms with deep claw-foot tubs big enough for two. The conservatory, with its small patio garden, is another relaxing place to unwind. There’s no restaurant, but there is a good-quality (and reasonably priced) room-service menu. Breakfast comes in the form of a large basket of tasty, freshly baked breads and pastries, plus juices and yogurts, served in your room. Great deals are available in the winter. Pros: beautiful; helpful staff; good deals to be had in the off-season. Cons: breakfast costs extra; short Tube ride to tourist sites. TripAdvisor: “very pleasant,” “great service and luxury,” “independent hotel with character.” | Rooms from: £198 | 12 Peter’s La. , at Cowcross St., The City | EC1M 6DS | 020/7336–0931 | www.rookeryhotel.com | 30 rooms, 3 suites | Station: Farringdon.

Threadneedles Hotel.
$$$$ | HOTEL | The elaborate building housing this grand hotel is a former bank, and the vast old banking hall has been beautifully adapted as the lobby, with luxurious marble and mahogany panels, while the stylish guest rooms are spacious, with modern bathrooms, big comfortable beds, and neutral coffee and cream colors, with dashes of deep burgundy. Given the location in the financial district, it’s no surprise that this place looks as if it were custom-designed to please business travelers—the hotel even provides personalized business cards to all guests as a basic amenity. Pros: lap of luxury; excellent service. Cons: a bit stuffy for some tastes; neighborhood is quiet at night. TripAdvisor: “consistently excellent,” “a little gem,” “stunning.” | Rooms from: £294 | 5 Threadneedle St., The City | EC2R 8AY | 020/7657–8080 | www.theetoncollection.com | 63 rooms, 6 suites | Station: Bank.

Fodor’s Choice | The Zetter.
$$$ | HOTEL | The dizzying five-story atrium, art deco staircase, and slick European restaurant are your first indications of what to expect at this converted warehouse: a breath of fresh air and rooms smoothly done up in soft dove gray and vanilla fabrics, with wonderful views of The City from the higher floors. Pros: big rooms; lots of gadgets; free Wi-Fi; gorgeous “rain-forest” showers. Cons: rooms with good views cost more. TripAdvisor: “clean and quiet,” “quirky but nice,” “great service in a stylish setting.” | Rooms from: £222 | 86–88 Clerkenwell Rd., Holborn | EC1M 5RJ | 020/7324–4444 | www.thezetter.com | 59 rooms | Station: Farringdon.

The East End

Andaz.
$$$$ | HOTEL | This swanky, upscale hotel sports a modern, masculine design, and rooms are sparsely decorated with designer furniture, intensely comfortable beds, and white walls, charcoal floors, and ruby-red touches. Instead of checking in at a desk, guests sit in a lounge while a staff member with a handheld computer takes their information. The 1901 restaurant is exquisite, with marble floors and modern chandeliers, and the Champagne bar is popular with city workers. Pros: nice attention to detail; guests can borrow an iPod from the front desk; no standing in line to check in; “healthy minibars” are stocked with nuts, fruit, and yogurt. Cons: sparse decor is not for all. TripAdvisor: “great service,” “style and tradition,” “perfect hip hotel.” | Rooms from: £276 | 40 Liverpool St., East End | EC2M 7QN | 020/7961–1234, 800/492–8804 in U.S. | london.liverpoolstreet.andaz.hyatt.com | 267 rooms | Station: Liverpool St.

Fodor’s Choice | The Hoxton Hotel.
$$ | HOTEL | The design throughout this trendy East London lodging is contemporary—but not so modern as to be absurd, and in keeping with a claim to combine a country-lodge lifestyle with true urban living, a fire crackles in the lobby, the chic but casual restaurant is packed with friendly youth, and the comfortable guest rooms have Frette linen sheets and down comforters. The bar is popular with local office workers, and the Hoxton Grill restaurant combines American steak-house style with French bistro chic. Best of all, however, is London’s best hotel deal, hands down: every night five rooms are priced at just £1. Pros: cool vibe and neighborhood known for funky galleries and small boutiques; huge weekend discounts; way-cool restaurant; price includes one hour of free international calls. Cons: price shoots up during the week; area is away from tourist sights; competition for £1 rooms is so intense that you’re unlikely to get one (they sell out months ahead). TripAdvisor: “hipster central,” “great atmosphere,” “lovely people.” | Rooms from: £80 | 81 Great Eastern St., East End | EC2A 3HU | 020/7550–1000 | www.hoxtonhotels.com | 208 rooms | Breakfast | Station: Old St.

Ramada Hotel and Suites Docklands.
$$ | HOTEL | Many of the sleek and modern rooms at this hotel dramatically set at the edge of the river in the rejuvenated Docklands area of East London have water views, and others have views of the city. Large desks, data ports, personal voice mai, and other amenities are geared to business travelers. The hotel’s restaurants and bars are handy, although there’s plenty to choose from these days in surrounding area. Pros: waterfront views. Cons: lacks character; area is tumbleweed quiet on weekends; about a 20-minute Tube ride to central London. TripAdvisor: “good hotel at a fair price,” “convenient and friendly,” “very uncomfortable beds.” | Rooms from: £109 | ExCel, 2 Festoon Way , Royal Victoria Dock, East End | E16 1RH | 020/7540–4820 | www.ramadadocklands.co.uk | 224 rooms | Breakfast | Station: Old St.

Town Hall Hotel and Apartments.
$$ | HOTEL | What used to be one of London’s living ghosts—an art deco town hall that was abandoned in the early 1980s and turned into a chic hotel in 2010—is now lively and stylish, with the best of the building’s elegant original features intact and bright and airy rooms done in masculine color schemes of cream, brown, and metallic gray. Bathrooms are visions of white and chrome, although some sacrifice too much practicality in the name of design (some only have a curtain to separate them from the bedroom, for example). The new owners added verve and even a touch of wit (the “Town Hall Tea Lady” goes door to door in the early evening, offering guests cocktails from her refreshment cart), and all in all, this is a stylish place to stay in a neglected corner of the East End. But therein lies the rub—although you’ll hear words like “cool” and “cutting edge” being thrown around to sell the neighborhood, this isn’t a nice part of town, and it’s certainly a long way from the major tourist sites. Pros: beautifully designed; lovely staff; big discounts for weekend stays. Cons: not a good part of town; a 15-minute Tube ride away from central London. TripAdvisor: “amazing renovation,” “for the design conscious,” “excellent service and great location.” | Rooms from: £163 | Patriot Square, Bethnal Green, East End | EC2 9NF | 020/7657–8080 | www.townhallhotel.com | Station: Bethnal Green.

The South Bank

Fodor’s Choice | Church Street Hotel.
$$ | HOTEL | Like rays of sunshine in gritty south London, these rooms above a popular tapas restaurant are individually decorated in rich, bold tones and authentic Central American touches, from elaborately painted crucifixes to tiles that were handmade in Guadalajara to homemade iron bed frames. Breakfast here is a joy—a tasty combination of breads, pastries, and smoothies, all organic, and much of it sourced from nearby Borough Market. There’s an honesty bar with a great selection of Spanish and American bottled beers, and the hotel even makes its own hot sauce. Camberwell is a trendy area, but it’s certainly not gentrified, so be savvy at night (and stay out of neighboring Elephant and Castle, which is super-dodgy). Pros: unique and arty; great breakfasts; lovely staff; closer to central London than it might appear. Cons: not a great part of town; would suit adventurous young things more than families; a mile from a Tube station (though bus connections are handier); some rooms have shared bathrooms. TripAdvisor: “welcome oasis,” “a piece of Mexico in London,” “unique rooms and relaxed atmosphere.” | Rooms from: £95 | 29–33 Camberwell Church St., South East | SE5 8TR | 020/7961–1234 | www.churchstreethotel.com | 267 rooms, 22 with shared bath | Station: Oval St.

London Bridge Hotel.
$$$ | HOTEL | Steps away from the London Bridge rail and Tube stations, this thoroughly modern, stylish hotel is popular with business travelers, but leisure travelers find it just as handy and the diminutive but sleek rooms, with their understated, contemporary decor, just as calming. Three spacious two-bedroom apartments (£250–£400 a night) come with kitchen, living room, and dining room. Pros: good location to visit South Bank attractions; good deals available online in the off-season. Cons: small rooms; bathrooms underwhelming for the price. TripAdvisor: “comfortable and relaxed,” “friendly hotel in a good location,” “cozy hotel.” | Rooms from: £200 | 8–18 London Bridge St., South Bank | SE1 9SG | 020/7855–2200 | www.london-bridge-hotel.co.uk | 138 rooms, 3 apartments | Station: London Bridge.

London Marriott Hotel County Hall.
$$$ | HOTEL | Housed in part of what was, until the 1980s, the seat of London’s government, many of the warmly decorated, modern rooms in this grand hotel on the Thames enjoy perhaps the most iconic view of any in the city: right next door is the London Eye, and directly across the River Thames are Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. The public areas are suitably grand, full of pedimented archways, bronze doors, and acres of polished mahogany, and all the businesslike bells and whistles you could ever want are available. Pros: handy location for South Bank arts scene, London Eye and Westminster; great gym; good weekend discounts. Cons: decor is overdone; breakfasts are pricey; rooms facing the river inevitably cost extra. TripAdvisor: “wonderful swimming pool,” “excellent location,” “fantastic building.” | Rooms from: £225 | County Hall, Westminster Bridge Rd., South Bank | SE1 7PB | 020/7928–5200, 888/236–2427 in U.S. | www.marriott.com | 200 rooms | Station: Westminster.

Premier Travel Inn County Hall.
$$ | HOTEL | Though the small but nicely decorated rooms at this budget choice share the County Hall complex with the London Marriott Hotel County Hall, they have none of the spectacular river views; that said, they have the same convenient location, and they are decidedly cheaper, too. The staff is helpful, and best of all for families on a budget are the foldout beds that let you accommodate two kids at no extra charge. Pros: good location for the South Bank; bargains to be had if you book in advance, including very cheap breakfast and dinner rates; kids stay free. Cons: no river views; limited services. TripAdvisor: “very friendly,” “nice breakfast,” “lovely location.” | Rooms from: £132 | Belvedere Rd., South Bank | SE1 7PB | 0871/527–8648 | www.premiertravelinn.com | 313 rooms | Station: Westminster.

Premier Travel Inn Southwark.
$$ | HOTEL | This excellent branch of the Premier Travel Inn chain is a bit out of the way on the South Bank, but it sits on a quiet cobbled lane and offers the chain’s simply decorated rooms with 6-foot-wide beds (really two 3-foot-wide beds zipped together). Pros: ideally located for visiting the Tate Modern or the Globe Theatre. Cons: small rooms; uninspiring building; limited extras or services; rooms near elevators can be a little noisy (ask for one farther down the hall). TripAdvisor: “fantastically placed,” “top service,” “quiet night.” | Rooms from: £117 | 34 Park St., South Bank | SE1 9EF | 0871/527–8676 | www.premiertravelinn.com | 56 rooms | Station: London Bridge.

Kensington

Astons Apartments.
$$ | RENTAL | Three redbrick Victorian town houses on a quiet residential street are the setting for Astons’s comfortable studios and apartments; all are simple and small but well designed with tiny kitchenettes, and larger units have marble bathrooms and other extra touches as well. Some sleep families of four; others are barely big enough for two people. Pros: decent alternative to full-service hotel rooms; kitchenettes help save money on long stays. Cons: modern (if rather functional) blond-wood furnishings advertised as “designer” but look a bit cheap; few customer services; weekly discounts are hardly generous. TripAdvisor: “good London base,” “fantastic staff and service,” “clean but very small.” | Rooms from: £100 | 31 Rosary Gardens, South Kensington | SW7 4NH | 020/7590–6000, 800/525–2810 in U.S. | www.astons-apartments.com | 43 rooms, 12 suites | Station: Gloucester Rd.

base2stay Kensington.
$$ | RENTAL | This near-budget option in a creamy white Georgian town house offers comfortable double rooms that have a stylish, modern look with white walls and bedding and dark throws and pillows; all have tiny kitchenettes and some even have bunk beds for traveling friends or children. Room service is available and an “arrival base” system allows you to use a room before your check-in time for £15 an hour. And if you find yourself in need of your own wheels, ask reception to reserve you an eco-friendly electric car for just £4 per hour. Pros: great value alternative to hotel; attractive rooms; handy mini-kitchens. Cons: bathrooms are small but well designed; 15-minute Tube ride to central London. TripAdvisor: “a great family-oriented place,” “green and contemporary,” “small room but comfortable and practical.” | Rooms from: £113 | 25 Courtfield Gardens, South Kensington | SW5 OPG | 020/7244–2255, 800/511–9821 in U.S. | www.base2stay.com | 67 rooms | Station: Earls Court Station.

The Bentley London.
$$$$ | HOTEL | This opulent hotel, owned by Hilton, is an elegant escape—housed in a creamy-white Victorian building, its lobby is a gorgeous explosion of marble, with high ceilings and chandeliers, and bedrooms are almost palatial in size, with silk wallpaper, golden furnishings, and fine marble bathrooms with whirlpool baths—some even have steam rooms. The restaurant serves modern British cuisine with Continental touches, and Malachite is a quiet bar for a brandy after dinner. The marble Turkish steam room is a unique haven from the stresses of the day. Pros: luxurious rooms; gorgeous spa; great location. Cons: can be a bit stuffy; old-fashioned style won’t please everyone. TripAdvisor: “lovely afternoon tea,” “old-fashioned service,” “opulence and sheer class.” | Rooms from: £306 | 27–33 Harrington Gardens, South Kensington | SW7 4JK | 020/7244–5555 | www.thebentley-hotel.com | 52 rooms, 12 suites | Station: Gloucester Rd.

Best Western Premier Shaftesbury Kensington.
$$ | HOTEL | These fresh and relaxing guest rooms, done in cool grays and earth tones and with firm queen-size beds, are just steps from Earl’s Court Tube station and offer a lot for your money. Bathrooms are small but handsome, with modern bowl sinks, towel warmers, and big walk-in showers. Pros: good neighborhood; two-minute walk from the Tube; frequent online sales. Cons: small rooms; temperamental booking system, so make sure you bring your confirmation details; at the far edge of Kensington, farther from the museums than you might expect. TripAdvisor: “nice place for gentle people,” “great stay in Kensington,” “convenient location.” | Rooms from: £137 | 33–37 Hogarth Rd., Kensington | SW5 0QQ | 020/7370–6831 | www.bw-shaftesburykensingtonhotel.co.uk | 133 rooms | Breakfast | Station: Earl’s Court.

Collingham Suites.
$$ | RENTAL | Most of the suites and small apartments in this attractive Georgian building have separate living rooms and kitchens and all rooms are tastefully decorated in contemporary style, with neutral carpets and a creamy pallet. The ambience is perhaps a little more geared to business than leisure travelers, but there’s plenty of space and a few handy extras, such as free Wi-Fi. Pros: more space than you usually get with a serviced apartment; no minimum length of stay. Cons: still a bit pricey for what you get; no in-house restaurant or bar. TripAdvisor: “very comfortable stay,” “lovely apartment in central location,” “great alternative to a regular hotel.” | Rooms from: £180 | 26–27 Collingham Gardens, Kensington | SW5 0HN | 020/7244–8677 | www.collinghamapartments.com | 26 rooms | Station: Gloucester Rd.

The Cranley Hotel.
$$$ | HOTEL | Old-fashioned British propriety is the overall feeling at this small, Victorian town-house hotel, where high ceilings, huge windows, and a pale, creamy color scheme make the bedrooms light and bright and antique desks and four-poster or half-tester beds give the place historic authenticity. Even the bathrooms have traditional Victorian fittings, although the plumbing is completely modern. Afternoon tea and evening canapés (served with a glass of champagne) are complimentary—welcome after a long day of sightseeing. Pros: good-size rooms; attractive decor; friendly staff; free evening nibbles are a nice touch. Cons: steep stairs into lobby; no restaurant. TripAdvisor: “good up market traditional hotel,” “intimate boutique,” “quiet neighborhood.” | Rooms from: £230 | 10–12 Bina Gardens, South Kensington | SW5 0LA | 020/7373–0123 | www.thecranley.com | 29 rooms, 5 suites, 4 apartments | Station: Gloucester Rd.

easyHotel South Kensington.
$ | HOTEL | London’s first “pod hotel” has 34 tiny rooms, all with a double bed, private bathroom, and little else, each brightly decorated in the trademark orange and white of the easyGroup (which includes the budget airline easyJet). The small reception desk can’t offer much in terms of service, and if you want your room cleaned while you stay, it’s an additional £10 a day. The concept continues to be a huge hit—easyHotel is fully booked months in advance and has opened branches at Heathrow Airport, as well as near Victoria and Paddington stations and elsewhere in Kensington. Check the Web site for all locations. Pros: amazing price; safe and pleasant space. Cons: not for the claustrophobic; most rooms have no windows; six floors and no elevator; everything costs extra, from a TV in your room (£5 per day), to Wi-Fi (£3 per hour) and even fresh towels (£1 each). TripAdvisor: “ideal for short stays,” “tiny but it’s fun,” “clean and simple.” | Rooms from: £35 | 14 Lexham Gardens, Kensington | W8 5JE | 020/7216–1717 | www.easyhotel.com | 34 rooms | Station: Gloucester Rd.

The Gore Hotel.
$$$ | HOTEL | Just down the road from the Albert Hall, this gorgeous, friendly hotel has a luxurious mixture of the comfortable and the extraordinary; the lobby evokes a wealthy estate from centuries past, and upstairs most rooms are spacious and beautifully decorated in calming neutral tones with rich fabrics. A few rooms are spectacular: One is a Tudor fantasy with minstrel gallery, stained glass, and four-poster bed; the Judy Garland Room contains a sumptuous bed that the actress had flown over from America during her frequent stays here. Pros: gorgeously designed and spacious rooms; staff lavishes attention on you. Cons: prices rather high; bar can be noisy. TripAdvisor: “exclusivity and elegance,” “upscale Victorian charm,” “traditional and modern.” | Rooms from: £246 | 189 Queen’s Gate, Kensington | SW7 5EX | 020/7584–6601, 888/757–5587 in U.S | www.gorehotel.com | 50 rooms | Station: Gloucester Rd.

Holland Park YHA.
$ | B&B/INN | Clean, bright, modern dorm rooms in the most celebrated (and certainly the most pastoral) of London’s super-cheap places to stay occupy a historic Jacobean mansion and overlook the wooded park, where peacocks strut around the Kyoto Gardens. High Street Kensington and all of its offerings are just a few steps away. Breakfast is included in the price—and if you’re really on a shoestring, the canteen serves inexpensive lunches and dinners, too. Pros: friendly and bright; beautiful setting. Cons: only a handful of rooms aren’t dorms; youthful atmosphere can be boisterous. TripAdvisor: “beautiful building,” “warm and welcoming,” “great staff.” | Rooms from: £21 | Holland Walk, Kensington | W8 7QU | 0845/371–9122 | www.yha.org.uk | 200 beds | Breakfast | Station: High Street Kensington.

Kensington House Hotel.
$$ | HOTEL | Streamlined, contemporary rooms in this refurbished 19th-century town house off High Street Kensington have large windows and plenty of light, and comfortable beds with luxurious fabrics and soft comforters. Rear guest rooms have views of trees and mews houses. The Tiger Bar is a pleasant and open space, flooded with natural light, to enjoy a glass of wine or a snack. Pros: attractive design; relaxing setting. Cons: rooms are small; bathrooms are minuscule; the elevator is Lilliputian. TripAdvisor: “great small hotel,” “great location for the price,” “friendly staff.” | Rooms from: £115 | 15–16 Prince of Wales Terr., Kensington | W8 5PQ | 020/7937–2345 | www.kenhouse.com | 39 rooms, 2 suites | Breakfast | Station: High Street Kensington.

Milestone Hotel.
$$$$ | HOTEL | This pair of intricately decorated Victorian town houses overlooking Kensington Palace and Gardens is an intimate, luxurious alternative to the city’s more famous high-end hotels, offering thoughtful hospitality and sumptuous, distinctively decorated rooms full of antiques. Anything seems possible in this special place, where you’ll be offered a drink upon arrival and, if you so desire, you can return to a post-theater midnight snack in your room or leave with a picnic basket for the park across the street. Many rooms have canopied beds, and each has a decorative theme; a favorite is the Ascot Room, which is filled with elegant hats of the kind worn at the famous races. Pros: beautiful and elegant space; big rooms, many with park views; excellent location. Cons: service can be a bit stuffy (it seems you’re not expected to do anything for yourself). TripAdvisor: “best afternoon tea ever,” “our luxurious home from home,” “service the old London way.” | Rooms from: £366 | 1 Kensington Ct., Kensington | W8 5DL | 020/7917–1000 | www.milestonehotel.com | 44 rooms, 12 suites, 6 apartments | Station: High Street Kensington.

Millennium Gloucester.
$$$ | HOTEL | Although the sleek lobby, with polished wood columns, a warming fireplace, and glittering chandeliers, is quite opulent, guest rooms have a traditionally masculine look, done in neutral creams and earth tones and furnished with blond-wood desks and leather chairs. There are two bars and several restaurants, which means that you don’t have to go out if you’d prefer to stay in. Pros: good deals available if you book in advance. Cons: lighting in some bedrooms is a bit too subtle; bathrooms are relatively small but have all you need; public areas and restaurant can get crowded. TripAdvisor: “very handy location,” “excellent customer service,” “stylish weekend break.” | Rooms from: £145 | 4–18 Harrington Gardens, Kensington | SW7 4LH | 020/7373–6030 | www.millenniumhotels.co.uk/millenniumgloucester | 143 rooms | Breakfast | Station: Gloucester Rd.

Fodor’s Choice | Number Sixteen.
$$$ | HOTEL | Guest rooms at this lovely luxury guesthouse just around the corner from the Victoria & Albert Museum look like they come from the pages of an interior design magazine—chic yet homey, with beautiful furniture and heavy fabrics, offset by nice little touches like piles of antiquarian books and flat-screen TVs set into the wall; bathrooms are clad in dark marble and polished oak. The staff is friendly, so lingering in the drawing rooms is a pleasure, and drinks are served in the leafy garden in summer. Pros: just the right level of helpful service; decor is gorgeous. Cons: no restaurant; small elevator. TripAdvisor: “little known gem,” “beautiful breakfast,” “special place for a special occasion.” | Rooms from: £210 | 16 Sumner Pl., South Kensington | SW7 3EG | 020/7589–5232, 888/559–5508 in U.S. | www.firmdale.com | 42 rooms | Breakfast | Station: South Kensington.

Fodor’s Choice | The Pelham Hotel.
$$$ | HOTEL | One of the first and most stylish of London’s famed “boutique” hotels, this still-chic choice is but a short stroll away from the Natural History, Science, and V&A museums; at the end of a day’s sightseeing you can settle down in front of the fireplace in the gorgeous, wood-paneled drawing room with its honor bar or retire to the stylish, contemporary guest rooms by the doyenne designer of boutique hotels, Kit Kemp. Downstairs, Bistro Fifteen offers a modern take on British cuisine. Pros: great location for museum-hopping; gorgeous marble bathrooms; soigné decor; lovely staff; good package deals for online booking. Cons: taller guests will find themselves cursing the top-floor rooms with sloping ceilings. TripAdvisor: “fantastic home away from home,” “beautiful interior design,” “impeccable service.” | Rooms from: £252 | 15 Cromwell Pl., South Kensington | SW7 2LA | 020/7589–8288, 888/757–5587 in U.S. | www.pelhamhotel.co.uk | 47 rooms, 4 suites | Station: South Kensington.

The Rockwell.
$$ | HOTEL | Bedrooms, done in earthy, slightly retro tones, are comfortable, well designed, and very spacious by London standards, and out back is a pleasant walled garden where you can relax with a drink or join a summertime barbecue. Family rooms offer especially good value-for-money, and like the other quarters are nicely furnished with polished walnut furniture offset by cream, gray, or duck egg color schemes. The restaurant serves modern British food (though you could probably do better for the price in the neighborhood). Pros: large bedoooms; stylish surroundings; helpful staff; windows have good soundproofing. Cons: on a busy, unattractive road; 15-minute Tube ride to central London. TripAdvisor: “large and good location,” “nice interior,” “unusually accommodating.” | Rooms from: £162 | 181 Cromwell Rd., South Kensington | 020/7244–2000 | www.therockwell.com | 40 rooms.

The Sumner.
$$$ | HOTEL | You can feel yourself relaxing the minute you enter this elegant Georgian town house, where the interior design has a modern flair and guest rooms are painted in neutral tones with splashes of rich color. If the weather is good, relax in the small garden; in winter, warm your feet by the fire; in any season, take breakfast in the sunny conservatory. Pros: excellent location for shopping; small enough that the staff knows your name; attractive conservatory and garden. Cons: services are limited but prices high. TripAdvisor: “classy,” “spotless hotel in good location,” “friendly and attractive.” | Rooms from: £210 | 5 Sumner Pl., South Kensington | SW7 3EE | 020/7723–2244 | www.thesumner.com | 20 rooms | Breakfast | Station: South Kensington.

Think Earl’s Court.
$$ | RENTAL | These serviced apartments are a stone’s throw from Kensington High Street and each has everything you need, including a well-equipped kitchen with washing machine and dishwasher, plus cable TV and free Wi-Fi. There’s a 24-hour reception and the apartments are serviced once a week. Think also runs a second apartment complex near Tower Bridge. Pros: brand-new building; self-catering offers greater independence. Cons: payment is made when you book; bland, officelike exterior. TripAdvisor: “strange but good place,” “comfortable and clean,” “great base of operations.” | Rooms from: £100 | 26A Adam and Eve Mews, Kensington | W8 6UJ | 020/3465–9100 | www.think-apartments.com | 133 rooms | Station: High Street Kensington.

Chelsea

The Cadogan Hotel.
$$$ | HOTEL | Elegant creams and golds and postmodern guest-room decor now prevail at one of London’s most historically naughty hotels, once the home of Lillie Langtry, a “scandalous” actress and King Edward’s mistress in the 1890s, and where Oscar Wilde was staying in 1895 (in Room 118) when he was arrested for “indecency” with a young man. The drawing room has rich wood paneling and deep, comfortable armchairs, and is a good place for afternoon tea and people-watching, as is the small, sophisticated bar. Breakfast includes healthy cereals and fruits alongside decadent pastries. Pros: luxurious but not stuffy; friendly staff; great location for shopping; good advance discounts online. Cons: rooms are quite small. TripAdvisor: “great tasting menu,” “best-in-class service,” “best hotel and staff in London.” Rooms from: £285 | 75 Sloane St., Chelsea | SW1X 9SG | 020/7235–7141 | www.cadogan.com | 65 rooms | Station: Sloane Sq.

myhotel chelsea.
$$$ | HOTEL | Rooms at this small, chic charmer tucked away down a side street are bijou tiny but sophisticated, with mauve satin throws atop crisp white down comforters, and the beauty is in the details—the fire-warmed bar serves light meals and tea; there’s a relaxing spa; and the guest library lends DVDs and books and is a quiet place to relax. Tiny bathrooms are brightned by pale-pink granite countertops. The hotel claims to use feng shui principles in its design—good luck will be yours! Pros: stylish rooms made for relaxation; upscale neighborhood. Cons: price a bit high for what you get; tiny rooms; no restaurant. TripAdvisor: “refreshingly different,” “very personal,” “a little gem in Chelsea.” | Rooms from: £216 | 35 Ixworth Pl., Chelsea | SW3 3QX | 020/7225–7500 | www.myhotels.com | 45 rooms, 9 suites | Station: South Kensington.

Knightsbridge

The Beaufort.
$$$ | HOTEL | The high-ceilinged, contemporary rooms at this gracious guesthouse have muted, sophisticated colors and a plethora of thoughtful extras—such as flowers, chocolates, free afternoon tea, and even free drinks in the evening; listen carefully and you can almost hear the cash registers ringing from nearby Harrods. Beds in deluxe rooms are huge, and junior suites have little sitting rooms that feel like designer furnishing stores. Four of the rooms have wrought-iron balconies. Pros: gorgeous decor; friendly staff. Cons: two-night minimum on some dates; standard doubles are much smaller than the price might indicate. TripAdvisor: “the perfect London boutique hotel,” “peaceful and comfortable,” “quiet excellence.” | Rooms from: £300 | 33 Beaufort Gardens, Knightsbridge | SW3 1PP | 020/7584–5252 | www.thebeaufort.co.uk | 20 rooms, 7 suites | Breakfast | Station: Knightsbridge.

Fodor’s Choice | The Berkeley.
$$$$ | HOTEL | Conveniently located for Knightsbridge shopping, the very elegant Berkeley is known for its talked-about restaurants and luxuries that culminate—literally—in a splendid penthouse swimming pool and include spacious bedrooms, decorated with William Morris prints and art deco flourishes, and lavish marble bathrooms. TIP In winter the roof terrace becomes a deliciously festive open-air cinema showing Christmas movies, complete with blankets, hot water bottles and hot chocolate. It’s open to nonresidents for £55. Restaurants include Marcus Wareing’s high-class Pétrus; Pierre Koffman’s eponymous “Koffmanns”; the eclectic and sumptuous Blue Bar (popular with celebrities); and the whimsical Caramel Room, where morning coffee and decadent doughnuts are served to well-groomed ladies who look as if they’ve never eaten such a thing in their lives. Pros: lavish and elegant; attentive service; prices aren’t quite so stratospheric as some other high-end places. Cons: even if you do decide to splurge, you’ll still need your best designer clothes to fit in. TripAdvisor: “slick service and great beds,” “a very fashionable afternoon tea,” “impeccable service.” | Rooms from: £319 | Wilton Pl., Knightsbridge | SW1X 7RL | 020/7235–6000, 800/637–2869 in U.S. | www.the-berkeley.co.uk | 103 rooms, 55 suites | Station: Knightsbridge.

The Capital Hotel.
$$$$ | HOTEL | Nothing is ever too much at this elegant hotel that was formerly a private house—mattresses are handmade, sheets are 450-thread count, bathrooms are marble, and everything is done in impeccable taste: fine-grain woods, original prints, soothing, country-chic furnishings, and understated service. Rooms are spacious, but ask for one facing the front to get more space. The Capital Restaurant is a famous gathering place of the rich and famous—its two Michelin stars mean that you’ll need to book your table well in advance. Pros: beautiful space; handy for shopping at Harrods. Cons: breakfast is expensive. TripAdvisor: “small but perfectly formed,” “food was exceptional,” “perfect location for a special occasion.” | Rooms from: £300 | 22–24 Basil St., Knightsbridge | SW3 1AT | 020/7589–5171, 800/628–8929 in U.S. | www.capitalhotel.co.uk | 42 rooms, 8 suites | Station: Knightsbridge.

Fodor’s Choice | Egerton House.
$$$$ | HOTEL | Sensationally soigné, chicly decorated, and feeling like your own private London home, this option has some gorgeous pluses, including guest rooms lavishly decorated with luxurious fabrics in rich colors, a knockout white-on-gold dining room—and did we mention all the prints and posters by Matisse, Picasso, and Toulouse-Lautrec? Some rooms have pleasant views overlooking the gorgeous gardens in back, and the two drawing rooms are good places to write letters or relax with a drink from the honor bar. Pros: lovely staff; great location; magnificent decor; striking art. Cons: some decor touches may be a little too frou-frou, but Toulouse-Lautrec would have approved. TripAdvisor: “ideally situated in Knightsbridge,” “excellent boutique hotel,” “service and comfort.” | Rooms from: £312 | 17–19 Egerton Terr., Knightsbridge | SW3 2BX | 020/7589–2412, 877/955–1515 in U.S. | www.egertonhousehotel.co.uk | 22 rooms, 6 suites | Station: Knightsbridge, South Kensington.

Fodor’s Choice | The Lanesborough.
$$$$ | HOTEL | A gilded cocoon for the seriously wealthy, this hotel exudes a spectacular richness and, when built by a Texan heiress, was the talk of the town, thanks to the magnificent 19th-century antiques (even in the guest rooms), the personal butler service (for your every whim), and that 1770 cognac on the menu—like a weekend spent in Bath, this place recreates the splendor of Georgian England and whether you’re a high-roller or a high-style connoisseur, you’ll be absolutely delighted. Even perusing the wine list at the bar is like a history lesson (ever wanted to try a 1770 cognac? It’s a snip at £5,000 a shot—that’s about $8,000). German superstar chef Heinz Beck opened his Apsleys restaurant here in 2009, quickly gaining a Michelin star for his troubles. In short, if you’re willing to spend, spend, spend, this hotel, now part of the St. Regis group, is for you. Pros: lap of luxury; your wish is their command. Cons: prices are extraordinary; not everybody likes the constantly hovering service. TripAdvisor: “a London classic,” “wonderful afternoon tea,” “beautiful hotel.” | Rooms from: £555 | Hyde Park Corner, Belgravia | SW1X 7TA | 020/7259–5599, 800/999–1828 in U.S. | www.lanesborough.com | 50 rooms, 43 suites | Station: Hyde Park Corner.

The Levin Hotel.
$$$$ | HOTEL | This posh boutique hotel created by the people behind the Capital Hotel is owned by luxury-loving bon viveurs; expect duck-egg-blue walls, hyper-modern furnishings, and a champagne bar in every room. Yes, that’s right—each room has its own selection of pricey splits of bubbly, along with all the mixings (and directions) for making champagne cocktails. Downstairs, the relaxed Le Metro Bar & Brasserie serves French and English classics (steak frites, sausages and mash) paired with an outstanding wine list. Next door to Harrods, shopping locations don’t get any more prime than this. Pros: your own champagne bar; sauntering to Harrods. Cons: no elevator; few bargains to be had. | Rooms from: £384 | 28 Basil St., Knightsbridge | SW3 1AS | 020/7589–6286 | www.thelevinhotel.co.uk | 12 rooms, 1 suite | Breakfast | Station: Knightsbridge.

Fodor’s Choice | Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park.
$$$$ | HOTEL | Built in 1880, the Mandarin Oriental welcomes you with one of the most exuberantly Victorian facades in town, then fast-forwards you to high-trend modern London, thanks to strikingly decorated guest rooms (filled with hidden high-tech gadgets and luxuries like Frette linen duvets, fresh orchids, and gourmet chocolates) and the spectacular restaurant, Dinner by Heston Blumenthal, probably London’s most talked-about eatery these days. Bar Boulud is a French brasserie from New York–based Daniel Boulud and Dinner is the first London restaurant from the insanely talented British chef, Heston Blumenthal (of the Fat Duck fame). The service here is legendary; there’s a butler on every floor, should you, for example, need a bit of help with the pillow menu. TIP For the 99% of us who can’t afford to stay here, a visit to the Mandarin Bar for cocktails is a glamorous (and surprisingly relaxed) peek into the world of London high society. Pros: the three greats of Knightsbridge—Hyde Park, Harrods, and Harvey Nichols—are at your doorstep; amazing views of Hyde Park; excellent service; gorgeous decor. Cons: nothing here comes cheap; you must dress for dinner (and lunch and breakfast). TripAdvisor: “unexpected excellence,” “elegant and luxurious,” “very elegant.” | Rooms from: £475 | 66 Knightsbridge, Knightsbridge | SW1X 7LA | 020/7201–3773 or 800/2828–3838 | www.mandarinoriental.com/london | 177 rooms, 23 suites | Station: Knightsbridge.

Notting Hill

Lancaster Hall Hotel.
$ | HOTEL | This cheap and cheerful choice just north of Hyde Park offers clean, simple rooms at a decent price, along with a good buffet breakfast. Even cheaper rooms (£50) are available in the “youth wing,” where you don’t have to be young to stay, but you do have to share a bathroom. Pros: decent, inexpensive, no-frills accommodation; excellent central location five-minute walk to Hyde Park; short Tube or bus ride away from many sights. Cons: just the basics; no nonsmoking rooms; beds could be better; all double rooms have twin beds. TripAdvisor: “basic accommodation in great location,” “nice and clean,” “wonderful staff.” | Rooms from: £87 | 35 Craven Terr., Bayswater | W2 3EL | 020/7723–9276 | www.lancaster-hall-hotel.co.uk | 180 rooms | No credit cards | Station: Lancaster Gate | 1:D4 .

Fodor’s Choice | The Main House.
$$ | B&B/INN | A stay in this Victorian building with four bedrooms and clean white linens, polished wood floors, modern furniture, and Asian art in the uncluttered and delightful spaces feels more like sleeping over at a friend’s house than in a B&B. The tiny urban terrace is a great place for stargazing or reading the morning paper. Guests can use a local gym, and get a discount for breakfast at the trendy Tom’s Deli nearby (owned by Tom Conran). Pros: unique and unusual place; charming and helpful owners. Cons: few services; two-night minimum stay. TripAdvisor: “style and class,” “stylish flat in upscale Notting Hill,” “for the independent traveler.” | Rooms from: £110 | 6 Colvile Rd., Notting Hill | W11 2BP | 020/7221–9691 | www.themainhouse.com | 4 rooms | Breakfast | Station: Notting Hill Gate.

Portobello Gold.
$ | B&B/INN | This no-frills B&B in the heart of the Portobello Road antiques area is on the floor above the pub and restaurant of the same name and offers small but comfortable accommodations; in the tiny doubles, beds take up almost the entire room. The best of the bunch is the split-level apartment (£180; sleeps six) with roof terrace, small kitchen, and soothing aquarium. The casual restaurant serves international food and has a great wine list, all at reasonable prices. There’s . Pros: great location; friendly, laid-back atmosphere; free Wi-Fi in guest rooms plus an internet café that charges £1 per half hour on the premises. Cons: “wet rooms” replace proper bathrooms (be prepared to shower by the sink); can be noisy; no elevator. TripAdvisor: “nice location,” “relaxed atmosphere,” “shabby chic.” | Rooms from: £80 | 95–97 Portobello Rd., Notting Hill | W11 2QB | 020/7460–4910 | www.portobellogold.com | 6 rooms, 1 apartment | Breakfast | Station: Notting Hill Gate.

The Portobello Hotel.
$$$ | HOTEL | One of London’s quirkiest hotels, the little Portobello (formed from two adjoining Victorian houses) is seriously hip, attracting scores of celebrities to its small but stylish rooms that are decorated with joyous abandon—you’re likely to be surrounded with an assortment of antiques, luxurious fabrics, statues, and bizarre bric-a-brac, such as the extraordinary Victorian “bathing machine” (found in Room 16) that actor Johnny Depp is said to have once filled with champagne for Kate Moss, a former flame. Some rooms have balconies and claw-foot bathtubs. Pros: stylish; celebrity vibe; guests have use of nearby gym and pool. Cons: most rooms are quite small; may be too eccentric for some. TripAdvisor: “charming,” “lovely friendly staff,” “colonial decadence.” | Rooms from: £234 | 22 Stanley Gardens, Notting Hill | W11 2NG | 020/7727–2777 | www.portobello-hotel.co.uk | 24 rooms | Closed 10 days at Christmas | Breakfast | Station: Notting Hill Gate.

Bayswater

Colonnade.
$$ | HOTEL | Each room is different in this lovely town house near a canal filled with colorful narrow boats in the Little Venice neighborhood—some are split-level or have balconies and all are filled with rich brocades, velvets, and antiques. The 1920s elevator and the Wedgwood fireplace in the lobby add to the historic style of the place, as does the Freud suite (Sigmund visited regularly in 1938), and the attitude of the staff lends a cozy air (the hotel cat is listed as “guest relations manager” on the website). Pros: beautifully decorated; unique and little-known part of London, five minutes from Paddington station; ongoing renovations are smoothing out some previously time-worn edges. Cons: you have to go through shoddier parts of town to get there; rooms are small. TripAdvisor: “a little quirky,” “a lot of history,” “quiet central location.” | Rooms from: £138 | 2 Warrington Crescent, Bayswater | W9 1ER | 020/7286–1052 | www.theetoncollection.com | 15 rooms, 28 suites | Station: Warwick Ave.

Europa House Hotel.
$ | B&B/INN | Don’t expect much more than the basics in this old-fashioned B&B near Hyde Park, but the small rooms are cozy and the owners who have been running the place since the 1970s are adept at directing visitors to the area’s best pubs and restaurants. Breakfasts are hearty enough that you may not have room for lunch. Pros: bargain price; close to two Tube stations. Cons: no extras; dated decor; tiny bathrooms; no elevator. TripAdvisor: “great location and great room,” “cheap and cheerful,” “good breakfasts.” | Rooms from: £70 | 151 Sussex Gardens, Bayswater | W2 2RY | 020/7723–7343 | www.europahousehotel.org.uk | Station: Paddington, Lancaster Gate.

Garden Court Hotel.
$ | B&B/INN | Each room in this small hotel formed from two 19th-century town houses in a quiet garden square has a character of its own—some, such as those with original Victorian fittings, are nicer than others, but all share the lush little garden, a lovely hideaway when the sun shines. Breakfast comes in the form of a cold buffet, although you can have a cooked breakfast for a few pounds. Pros: lovely garden; lots of charm; new elevator makes the upper floors more pleasant. Cons: price jumps by nearly 50% if you want a private bathroom; some rooms much better than others. TripAdvisor: “simple and lovely,” “great place for a weekend,” “quiet and nice.” | Rooms from: £80 | 30–31 Kensington Gardens Sq., Bayswater | W2 4BG | 020/7229–2553 | www.gardencourthotel.co.uk | 12 rooms, 10 with bath | Breakfast | Station: Bayswater, Queensway.

Parkwood Hotel.
$ | B&B/INN | Located mere seconds from Hyde Park in one of London’s swankiest enclaves, this sweet little guesthouse is an oasis of value-for-money, with warm and helpful hosts and bright bedrooms simply furnished with pastel color schemes and reproduction antique beds. One grisly piece of historical trivia: the Parkwood is built on the site of the “Tyburn tree,” an enormous gallows used to execute prisoners from the Middle Ages until the time of George III (and frequently referenced by Shakespeare). Pros: lovely hosts; price guaranteed to match any other hotel of its class in the area. Cons: often booked up in advance; no elevator; front-facing rooms can be noisy. TripAdvisor: “fantastic service and great value,” “good breakfast,” “perfect location for a weekend stay.” | Rooms from: £70 | 4 Stanhope Pl., Bayswater | W2 2HB | 020/7402–2241 | www.parkwoodhotel.com | 18 rooms | Station: Marble Arch.

Space Apart Hotel.
$$ | RENTAL | These 30 studio apartments near Hyde Park are done in soothing tones of white and gray, with polished wood floors and attractive modern kitchenettes equipped with all you need to make small meals. The standard units are quite small, but premium studios cost only £20 more and give you much more space to play. Bathrooms are new and modern, although they are not large. Pros: especially good value for the money; the larger suites have space for four people; handy location. Cons: no in-house restaurant or bar; minimum two-night stay required. TripAdvisor: “spacious room,” “good amenities and helpful staff,” “quiet and pleasant stay.” | Rooms from: £140 | 32–37 Kensington Gardens Sq., Bayswater | W2 4BQ | 020/7908–1340 | www.aparthotel-london.co.uk | 30 rooms | Station: Bayswater.

Stylotel.
$ | HOTEL | Just around the corner from Paddington station, this funky-looking little place has small, functional rooms done to death in contemporary style and even tinier bathrooms but is clean, cheerful, and perfectly comfortable. Note that the rather camp exterior conceals a smoothly run operation. Pros: bargain price; helpful staff; unique style. Cons: style will be too unique for some; small bedrooms and bathrooms; serves breakfast only; website is frequently down, which can make booking online a challenge. TripAdvisor: “perfect for a short stay,” “retro and futuristic,” “decent area and friendly staff.” | Rooms from: £90 | 160–162 Sussex Gardens Sq., Bayswater | W2 1UD | 0207/223–1026 | www.stylotel.com | 40 rooms | Station: Paddington, Edgware Rd.

Vancouver Studios.
$$ | RENTAL | All guest rooms in this Victorian town house are similar to efficiency apartments, with mini-kitchens and microwaves, and you can even preorder groceries, which are stocked in your mini-refrigerator on arrival. Daily maid service as well as room service are also offered. Some rooms have working fireplaces, and one opens onto the leafy, paved garden. Pros: more space than a hotel room; unique little apartments. Cons: a bit out of the way; a bargain only if several people share the space. TripAdvisor: “nice and on the small side,” “London gem,” “very nice accommodation.” | Rooms from: £130 | 30 Prince’s Sq., Bayswater | W2 4NJ | 020/7243–1270 | www.vancouverstudios.co.uk | 45 studios | Station: Bayswater, Queensway.

Regent’s Park and Hampstead

Glenlyn Guest House.
$ | B&B/INN | A few miles north of Hampstead, this is an excellent option for travelers who don’t mind being a long Tube ride away from the action; you’ll enjoy collapsing in this converted Victorian town house which offers a high standard of accommodation, with spacious bedrooms, huge flat-screen TVs, and a conservatory breakfast room that opens onto a garden. Pros: comfortable and friendly; adjoining rooms can be converted to family suites; five-minute walk to Tube station. Cons: half-hour Tube ride to central London; no restaurant. TripAdvisor: “great room,” “cheap and well located,” “friendly and helpful staff.” | Rooms from: £80 | 6 Woodside Park Rd., North Finchley | N12 8RP | 020/8445–0440 | 27 rooms | Station: Woodside Park.

La Gaffe.
$$ | B&B/INN | The name of these early-18th-century row houses is an ironic French play on “Gaff,” which is British slang for a small and simple residence—and that rather neatly sums up the bedrooms, which are tiny and with few amenities, although some have four-poster beds, and the honeymoon suite (a mere £30 more than a basic room) has its own Jacuzzi. In the enclosed courtyard there’s a summer patio, and Bernardo Stella offers guests a warm welcome, as he has for more than 20 years. Pros: pretty area of town; friendly staff; small but private bathrooms. Cons: few services; no elevator; outside city center. TripAdvisor: “professionally run,” “homey Italian restaurant,” “lovely hotel in a wonderful location.” | Rooms from: £100 | 107–111 Heath St., Hampstead | NW3 6SS | 020/7435–8965 | www.lagaffe.co.uk | 18 rooms, 3 suites | Breakfast | Station: Hampstead.

Islington

Hilton London Islington.
$$$ | HOTEL | Next door to the Islington Business Design Centre, this hotel is sleek and modern, standing out starkly among the gray 19th- and 20th- century buildings of the surroundings. The hotel has standard, good-size rooms with all the usual amenities meant to ease the life of the business traveler. For guests with an eye for aesthetics, the higher rooms have panoramic views. Pros: lots of amenities for business travelers; handy restaurant and bar. Cons: not really geared at leisure travelers. | Rooms from: £228 | 53 Upper St., Islington | N1 0UY | 020/7354–7700 | www.hilton.co.uk/islington | 183 rooms, 6 suites | Breakfast | Station: Angel.

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Apartment Rentals & Home Exchanges

For a home base that’s roomy enough for a family and that comes with cooking facilities, consider renting furnished “flats” (the British word for apartments).

These can save you money, especially if you’re traveling as a family or with a group. You also have the freedom to cook for yourselves if you want—surprisingly liberating after several days of restaurant food.

If you’re interested in home exchange, but don’t feel like sharing, some home-exchange directories list rentals as well.

If you want to deal directly with local agents, get a personal recommendation from someone who has used the company; there’s no accredited rating system for apartment-rental standards like the one for hotels.

Hideaways International.
Hideaways International offers boutique hotels, tours, and cruises. Its offerings in London are extremely high-end. Annual membership is $195. | Rooms from: £195 | 767 Islington St. | Portsmouth, New Hampshire, U.S. | 03801 | 603/430–4433 or 800/843–4433 | www.hideaways.com.

Interhome.
Interhome has dozens of flats all over London starting at about £400 per week per person. Properties range from suburban pied-à-terres to luxurious city-center apartments. | Rooms from: £400 | c/o ResortQuest, 2860 State Rd. 84 , Suite 116/PMB 214 | Fort Lauderdale, Florida, U.S. | 33162 | 800/882–6864 | www.interhome.us.

Villanet.
Villanet has hundreds of luxurious flats in residential neighborhoods all over London, with prices starting at about £1,000 per week. | Rooms from: £1000 | 1251 N.W. 116th St. | Seattle, Washington, U.S. | 98177 | 206/417–3444, 877/250–4366 | www.rentavilla.com.

Villas International.
The Villas International agency has exclusively priced flats all over London that start at around £1,800 per week—some sleep up to 10 people. | Rooms from: £1800 | 17 Fox La., California, U.S. | 94960 | 415/499–9490, 800/221–2260 | www.villasintl.com.

Acorn Apartments.
Acorn Apartments offers attractive small flats in Clerkenwell and Bloomsbury starting at around £100. | Rooms from: £100 | Ground Fl., 19 Bedford Pl., Bloomsbury | WC1B 5JA | 020/7636–8325 | www.acorn-apartments.co.uk.

The Apartment Service.
The Apartment Service specializes in executive apartments for business travelers, so prices are high, but so is the level of quality. Aside from a few super-cheap places in parts of town you wouldn’t want to stay in, prices start at around £75 per night for a one-bedroom near the Olympic Village, rising to around £585 per night for a four-bedroom near Buckingham Palace. | Rooms from: £75 | 5 Francis Grove | Wimbledon | SW19 4DT | 020/8944–1444 | www.apartmentservice.com.

At Home in London.
At Home in London offers rooms in private homes in Knightsbridge, Kensington, Mayfair, Chelsea, and West London. Prices average around £90 a night per room, making this a great alternative to budget hotels. | Rooms from: £90 | 70 Black Lion La., Hammersmith | W6 9BE | 020/8748–1943 | www.athomeinlondon.co.uk.

The Bed and Breakfast Club.
The Bed and Breakfast Club offers delightful little London flats in Knightsbridge, Kensington, and Chelsea. Properties cost from around £50–£125 per night with full English breakfasts. | Rooms from: £50 | 405 Kings Rd. , Suite 192, Chelsea | SW10 0BB | 01243/370692 | www.thebedandbreakfastclub.co.uk | There’s a 2.5% fee for using a credit card; debit cards incur no fees; the full price of room must be paid in advance. Check cancellation policies carefully.

Coach House London Vacation Rentals.
Coach House London Vacation Rentals arranges stays in the properties of Londoners who are temporarily away. Attractive apartments and houses are primarily in Notting Hill, Kensington, and Chelsea, and most cost around £130 to £160 per night. The minimum booking of five to seven nights is a bit limiting, though, and you must make a substantial security deposit (usually between £200 and £1,000), which is returned after your stay. | Rooms from: £130 | 2 Tunley Rd., Balham | SW17 7QJ | 020/8133–8332 | www.rentals.chslondon.com | Payment by credit card only; 10% deposit required.

Landmark Trust.
Landmark Trust has London apartments in unusual and historic buildings; prices start at around £100 a night, but many buildings require a minimum stay of seven days. | Rooms from: £100 | Shottesbrooke | Maidenhead, Berkshire | SL6 3SW | 01628/825925 | www.landmarktrust.org.uk.

One Fine Stay.
What sets One Fine Stay apart is the quality of the properties on offer and the outstanding support you get during your stay—fresh linen, toiletries, a kitchen full of basic supplies, iPhones helpfully loaded with maps, and, in a lovely touch, a package of tips about the area from the owners themselves. | Rooms from: £90 | 020/7097–8948 | N/A.

Uptown Reservations.
Uptown Reservations accepts only upscale addresses, and specializes in hosted homes or apartments for Americans, often business executives. Nearly all the homes on its register are in Knightsbridge, Belgravia, Kensington, and Chelsea. Prices start at £105 per person, per night. There’s limited information on their website; bookings must be made over the phone. A nonrefundable deposit is required. | Rooms from: £105 | 8 Kelso Pl., Kensington | W8 5QD | 020/7937–2001 | www.uptownres.co.uk.

In addition, travelers at Fodors.com recommend these rental services:

“I’ve used London Guest Suites (www.londonguestsuites.com) many times and like them. They have rentals of all lengths. I also just booked a flat at A Place Like Home (www.aplacelikehome.co.uk).” —carrybean

“We stayed in 1 Sloane Ave. and were extremely happy and pleased with the apartment and the company The Apartments (www.theapartments.co.uk).” —jrecm

“Try the biggest rental site in Europe: Holiday-Rentals from Home Away (www.holiday-rentals.co.uk).” —travel_tomato

“Check out VRBO (www.vrbo.com), lots of London listings, and Farnum-Christ (www.farnum-christ.com), which is a high-ish end agency with some wonderful flats.” —janisj

“I’ve used London Connections (www.londonconnections.com) several times and I’ve been very pleased.” —Tinathread

If you would like to exchange your home for someone else’s, join a home-exchange organization, which will send you its updated listings of available exchanges for a year and will include your own listing in at least one of them. It’s up to you to make specific arrangements.

Exchange Clubs

HomeLink International (2937 N.W. 9th Terr. | Fort Lauderdale, Florida, U.S. | 33311 | 954/566–2687 or 800/638–3841 | www.homelink.org); $119 yearly for a listing and online access.

Intervac U.S (San Franciso | 94159 | 800/756–4663 | www.intervacus.com); $99 yearly for a listing and online access.

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