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modern approach, which culminates in its splendid penthouse swimming pool. The big bedrooms have either swags of William Morris prints or Art Deco touches. All have sitting areas and ample luxury, including CD/DVD players, and Floris toiletries in the big marble bathrooms. Dining venues include Marcus Wareing’s high-class Pétrus restaurant, 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 luxury; attentive service; handy location for shopping. Cons: stratospheric prices; you’ll need designer clothes to fit in here. TripAdvisor: “room was spacious and stylish,” “service is hit or miss,” “luxurious yet homey.” | Wilton Pl., Knightsbridge | SW1X 7RL | 020/7235–6000, 800/637–2869 in U.S. | www.the-berkeley.co.uk | 103 rooms, 55 suites | In-room: a/c, safe, refrigerator, DVD, Internet. In-hotel: restaurant, room service, bar, pool, gym, spa, laundry service, parking (paid) | AE, DC, MC, V | Knightsbridge

The Capital Hotel.

£££££ | This is a true boutique hotel, with subtle, elegant decor, spacious rooms, and understated service. Formerly a private house, it demonstrates impeccable taste: fine-grain woods, original prints, and soothing, country-chic furnishings. Ask for a front-facing room to get more space. Nothing is ever too much here—mattresses are handmade, sheets are 450-thread count, bathrooms are marble. 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: you’ll pay dearly for this luxury. TripAdvisor: “luxury hotel of an exceptional standard,” “the location can’t be beat,” “gorgeous rooms and wonderful bar.” | 22–24 Basil St., Knightsbridge | SW3 1AT | 020/7589–5171, 800/628–8929 in U.S. | www.capitalhotel.co.uk | 42 rooms, 8 suites | In-room: a/c, safe, refrigerator, Internet. In-hotel: Wi-Fi, restaurant, room service, bar, laundry service, parking (paid), some pets allowed | AE, DC, MC, V | Knightsbridge

Egerton House.

££££–£££££ | This utterly peaceful, small hotel specializes in a traditional concept of luxury; walking around the public spaces can feel like a private tour of an art gallery with works on display that include originals by Matisse, Picasso, and Toulouse-Lautrec. Recently refurbished bedrooms are lavishly decorated with luxurious fabrics in rich colors. Some have pleasant views overlooking the gorgeous gardens in back. The two drawing rooms are good places to write letters or relax with a drink from the honor bar. Pros: staff is helpful; location is great for Knightsbridge shopping. Cons: Toulouse-Lautrec may have approved, but some may find the decor a little too Moulin Rouge for their taste. TripAdvisor: “exceedingly attentive front desk,” “atmosphere is delightful,” “rooms perfectly presented.” | 17–19 Egerton Terr., Knightsbridge | SW3 2BX | 020/7589–2412, 877/955–1515 in U.S. | www.egertonhousehotel.co.uk | 22 rooms, 6 suites | In-room: a/c, refrigerator, Internet. In-hotel: room service, bar, laundry service, parking (paid) | AE, DC, MC, V | Knightsbridge, South Kensington

The Lanesborough.

£££££ | Everything exudes richness here at this grand hotel that is now part of the St. Regis group—from the magnificent 19th century antiques in the luxurious guestrooms, to the personal butler service that caters to your every whim. 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, this place is like a gilded cocoon for the seriously wealthy. If you’re willing to spend, spend, spend, this hotel is for you. Pros: lap of luxury; your wish is their command. Cons: prices are extraordinary;