Tucked away in a Sloane Square back street, this elegant, recently modernised hotel feels like the dream crash pad for a particularly well-connected Georgian duke. Its aristocratic lineage is represented along the portrait-lined walls of its four interconnected Victorian townhouses, while the library and ornate cocktail bar offer perfect nooks to hole up with a good book and a glass of fizz. It’s Chelsea, so only vintage champagne will do.
Neighbourhood:
Nestled just behind Sloane Square, a stone’s throw from Peter Jones department store, the hotel is a killer spot for culture vultures and fashionistas alike. If you want Chelsea, you’re at its epicentre here, with the boutiques of The King’s Road basically outside and Knightsbridge a ten minutes’ stroll through tranquil, elegant and historic Hans Town.
Nearby:
1. The Saatchi Gallery: For checking out the latest exhibition at one of London’s edgiest and most essential art galleries.
2. The Royal Court Theatre: For a legendary showcase of the best and brightest in new playwrighting, it’s a great place to rub shoulders with London's playwrights and creatives.
3. Medlar: For immaculate but affordable fine dining in a lovely, unpretentious space a mile down the King’s Road.
Time Out tip:
Book into a room in the front of the hotel, rather than the expensive suites in the extension, to soak up the olde-worlde atmosphere, before wandering down the pedestrianised Pavilion Road and browsing in some of London’s smartest delis.
