Knightsbridge Hotel, London

On tree-lined Beaufort Gardens, the hotel is a short walk from Harrods and Harvey Nichols and the designer shops of Knightsbridge. If you love art, the V&A is nearby, so you are guaranteed some must-see exhibitions; or take a wander to Kensington Gardens.

South Kensington and Knightsbridge tube stations are within strolling distance.

By car: around 4 hours from Manchester, 2 hours 30 minutes from Birmingham and 7 hours from Glasgow. Paid parking available nearby.

By train: Knightsbridge tube station is a 7-minute walk. London Victoria is a 5-minute taxi ride away. Book trains to London.

It's all about the details at the Knightsbridge Hotel. Its classic Victorian look is enhanced by a bold mix of colours and fabrics in public spaces including the Library and Drawing Room. It reflects a modern English style, but look out for Provençal designs and its collection of modern art.

The service is personable and attentive and the staff deal with any request without fuss. There's no gym, but guests can pay to work out and use the facilities at Aquila Health & Fitness in Thurloe Place. There's also no spa, but Soholistic offers a range of in-room massages and treatments.

• Library
• Drawing room
• Family-friendly
• Free Wi-Fi

The individually-decorated rooms and suites boast the signature Kit Kemp style with embroidered headboards, fetching wallpaper, bright cushions and furnishings. Rooms also have Pure radios and a well-stocked mini-bar, but there are no tea and coffee-making facilities.

Room types: Room, Superior Room, Luxury Room, Deluxe Room, Junior Suite, Knightsbridge Suite

Key amenities: ensuite bathroom with Kemp's RikRak toiletries, writing desk, TV, mini-bar, safe, iPod docking station, free Wi-Fi

There is no formal restaurant at the Knightsbridge, but the room service menu can also be served in the Library or Drawing Room. This includes homely dishes such as cottage pie and steak. The afternoon teas with sandwiches and cakes are also not be missed. There's an honesty bar in the library.

The Drawing Room: afternoon tea, room service menu of light bites and mains available.

The Library: honesty bar.