London (Fodor's 2012) - Fodor's [126]
ST. JAMES’S
Best Western Shaftesbury.
£££ | This Best Western chain in the midst of historic London does an admirable job of fitting in, while using as much chrome and frosted glass as anybody could ask. Complimentary newspapers are scattered about, and bedrooms are ultramodern, 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 ideally situated in the heart of theaterland. Pros: free Internet in all rooms; great location for theaters, shopping, and museums. Cons: rooms are tiny; the price is clearly based on its location, rather than its amenities. TripAdvisor: “staff were friendly and helpful,” “very clean with plenty of space,” “great location for the theatre.” | 65–73 Shaftesbury Ave., Piccadilly | W1D 6EX | 020/7871–6000, 866/891–7710 in U.S. | www.shaftesburyhotel.co.uk | 69 rooms | In-room: a/c, DVD, Internet (free). In-hotel: restaurant, bar, Wi-Fi, laundry service | AE, MC, V | Piccadilly Circus
Fodor’s Choice | Claridge’s.
££££–£££££ | Stay here, and you’re staying at a hotel legend with one of the world’s classiest guest lists around. The friendly staff are not in the least condescending, and the rooms are never less than luxurious. Enjoy a cup of tea in the lounge, or retreat to the stylish bar for cocktails—or, better, to Gordon Ramsay’s inimitable restaurant. The bathrooms are spacious (with enormous showerheads), as are the bedrooms (with soothing, modern decor in tones of taupe and cream). The grand staircase and magnificent elevator complete with sofa and driver are equally glamorous. Perhaps Spencer Tracy said it best when he remarked that, when he died, he wanted to go not to heaven, but to Claridge’s. 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: it’s a bit pretentious—the guests in the hotel bar can be almost cartoonishly snobbish. TripAdvisor: “old world charm with impeccable service,” “well equipped and clean,” “lovely art deco.” | Brook St., St. James’s | W1A 4HR | 020/7629–8860, 866/599–6991 in U.S. | www.claridges.co.uk | 203 rooms | In-room: a/c, safe, DVD, Wi-Fi. In-hotel: restaurant, bar, gym, spa, laundry service, parking (paid) | AE, DC, MC, V | Bond St.
Dukes Hotel.
£££££ | This small, exclusive hotel in a discreet cul-de-sac recently underwent a renovation that changed it from Edwardian to contemporary in one fell swoop. Ample natural light brightens 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. TripAdvisor: “room service was prompt and good,” “service in the bar was excellent,” “great location.” | 35 St. James’s Pl., St. James’s | SW1A 1NY | 020/7491–4840, 800/381–4702 in U.S. | www.dukeshotel.com | 78 rooms, 12 suites | In-room: a/c, safe, refrigerator, DVD (some), Wi-Fi. In-hotel: restaurant, bar, gym, spa, laundry service, parking (paid) | AE, DC, MC, V | Green Park
Fodor’s Choice | The Stafford London by Kempinski.
££££–£££££ | This is a rare find: a posh hotel that is equal parts elegance and friendliness; it’s hard to check in without meeting the gregarious manager, and his