The best hotels for sex in London

We know, the actual logistics of booking a room don't sound very sexy at all – but it is. It really, really is. The Hoxton Holborn makes this list because you can book it for the daytime. You can check in at 10am and check out at 4pm, so it's a prime spot for a spontaneous whirlwind fling. And aside from that? It's a pretty decent spot (even if you're just there for the afternoon). The Hoxton is affordable, has free wifi and its rooms are very tastefully decorated. But yeah, it's that day-stay perk that really cements it on this list. 

Mama Shelter is one of the best hotels for sex in London – and for good reason, too. From the ready-to-purchase vibrator box to the quirky (although slightly questionable) masks in the bedroom, this hotel takes sex positivity to the next level. From the get-go, the plush velvet furnishings ooze eclectic luxury while the bar and restaurant hybrid offers a sleek WFH environment. Who knew work could be so sexy? Added bonuses include the greenhouse – a must-see – super comfy beds and private bathrooms complete with toiletries and free movies on demand - including those movies that you normally don't want to appear on your receipt. Time to pop a bottle and get in the mood? We couldn't agree more.

This charming boutique at 11 Cadogan Gardens Hotel & Apartments will bring the sort of decadence that'll get sparks flying. How often do you get to feel like a sexy Louis XVI? Bring some decadent je ne sais quoi to your night of passion, as each room has a different purpose – to charm, lavish, attract, indulge or, in the case of the Signature Suites, to relax. Maybe you won't be doing much relaxing, but you’ll have never done the deed in a room quite like the opulent, antiques-laden Sloane Suite. If you have that kind of cash, then start splashing for a 'priceless' night out. We're jealous.

The Shangri oh-la-la is easily up there with some of the city's steamiest hook-up locations. Don't know which one it is? You'll recognize it by the spikey structure and crazy views instantly. While the rooms themselves may not make you want to get hot and heavy, they're more sleek than sultry, and the novelty of being so far high means you'll receive an honorary membership to the Mile High Club. Now that's way too tempting to pass up. And check out the size of those windows! Yes, there's exhibitionism – but this is something else.

If the thought of getting jiggy in the 70s tickles your fancy, we have two words for you: Junior Suite. It's full of mirrors and shimmery things, there's even a mirrored pillar beside the freestanding bath. But if oppulence is what you're after, book the Junior Deluxe Suite, which is huge. It has a separate sitting room (read: more places to, er, explore), a marble bathroom with bath and walk-in shower, a sensual pale pink colour scheme and luxurious silks everywhere. There's also a super-king-size bed and triple-glazed windows, should the noise levels get out of hand.

The Rafayel makes the cut for one very particular, 550-square-foot reason: the Emperor Suite. Damn, it’s sexy. You've got a sweeping view of the Thames that’ll really make you feel like you’re on top of the world, gazing down from floor-to-ceiling windows like some kind of king. So, exhibitionists, there’s that for you. Oh, and the other reason it's perfect for getting a little steamy? The mirror-lined bathtub. It’s not too difficult to figure out the intention there, is it?

Hotting it up in front of a fireplace is hands down the classiest of romantic activities. This is all well and good if you happen to have a working fireplace at home, but if you don't, you're going to need a hotel room with such an amenity. These are in short supply, but they're out there. We'd recommend going one step further with a fireplace on the roof. The Marylebone provides just that in its Terrace Suites. These are wood-panelled, exceptionally stylish, private and offer unparalleled views across the city. It's sure to help you unleash your inner siren.

Each and every room at the W oozes a drop-dead sexy coolness. It's a party haven with mirror-lined bedrooms that are just encouraging naughty behaviour. From the sleek decor to the cinematic lighting and the undeniably hip cocktail bar overlooking Leicester Square. There’s nowhere better to stay if you’re looking to impress that special someone. They’ve also got a ‘Whatever/Whenever’ 24/7 concierge service that prides itself on how far it’ll go to satisfy the demands of guests. That's always worth looking into.