New Money, hip, cutting edge £150-250
York and Albany
— Gordon Ramsay expands his restaurant empire to now include hotels. The first opened September 2008 with the expected hype. Ten rooms range from Classic to an enormous comfy suite. It is of course just 'devine'. Lots of crisp clean white cotton and brown teak wood, simple and elegant, its sure to be a hit.
The building was a former coaching house but not resembles a private club with all its low lighting
Dining will of course take centre stage choose from either one of their private rooms or the casual Deli to pick a healthy snack of two. Just don't get crumbs on the new carpet!
The restaurant overlooks Regent's Park, starters at 8.00 and mains vary from 14 - 28, expect good hearty English food, red-leg partridge with truffle chips, Fish stew and Roasted corn-fed chicken and root vegetables, probably a 'wee' bit better than mum would make.
There's no real time booking but we can book for you
www.gordonramsay.com
127-129 Parkway London NW1X 7PS
Looking for a stay with a difference? Rough Luxe
— Opened in November 2008 this accommodation has unique approach to one's London stay. The design and quirky features are sure to be a hit art aficionados. Expect unusual features such as a copper bath. But you may have to share with other guests. Ladders and other rare objects that simply scream we are 'different'. As the names suggest its a combination or the rough of London sprinkled with luxury.
This is not a hotel but a home. Weekdays at 3.30pm - 5.30pm you are invited to the afternoon tea. On offer during your stay is complimentary wine, wonderful bed linen, the eclectic mix of art and objects d'art and the hosts.
Location: King's Cross, not your most salubrious area of London, but then this is the philosophy of the hotel bit of luxury in a bit of a rough part of London. The hotel is close by to St Pancras and is slowing seeing changes such as the new concert hall and a number of cafes and galleries opening up.
Doubles from £135 B&B
1 Birkenhead Street, London WC1H 8BA
The Nest - Classic contemporary elegance
— Hotel: Clean, modern lines now dominate in this once Victorian townhouse. Its sophisticated but relaxed with an ever-changing photography exhibition to keep your occupied as you enter. Close by to Hyde Park and the Portobello Market. Great shopping and eating in this area. Expect to pay 160 for a double buy why not try and book the studio at 200 GBP, which is a better option for more space.
Rooms:
www.guesthotels.com
1 Queens Gardens W2 3AH t: 44 (0) 845 470 1010
Dex
— A private hotel/nighclub/pub where members enjoy great benefits. Hotels guests gain entry the Dex nightclub. Even those who only check in for a few hours! They have a master suite and Junior suite priced from £125 per night. Very chic!
www.dexclub.co.uk
467-469 Brixton road, London SW9 8HH t: 44 (0)20 7325 4455
Hotel Indigo - Paddington
— A chic boutique hotel newly opened (October 2008) and moments from the all the attractions in Paddington and the Paddington tube. Lots of galleries and the West End Theatres are within walking distance.
Tariff: Standard £117.02 but a little extra will get you a superior at £150.00
www.hotelindigo.com
16 London St, W2 1HL
The Jones - A new concept hotel
— The hotel opened Summer 2008 and is part of the Guest Group (Blakes, Nest, The Chiswell). It looks all swish and modern and there's a strong focus on music and lighting in this former historical building known as Lillie Langtry's residence. Well positioned and well priced with double rooms starting from 110 GBP and a studio from 149, Not bad, can't wait to see more.
www.guesthotels.com
Inverness Terrace, W2 3JP t: 44 (0)845 470 1010
The Zetter
— A lovely boutique hotel, east of London. The conversion of this historic 19th century warehouse has been applauded by the media. Five floors are built around a spectacular atrium.
Rooms: Very modern and individual. Large factory window let in lots of light. The Rooftop Studio is particularly appealing. Prices are reasonable, weekdays more expensive than weekends for some reason.
You like: dispensing machines, everything from champagne to toothpaste. Top-floor sundecks.
www.thezetter.com
St John’s Square, 86-88 Clerkenwell Road, EC1M 5RJ