The Savoy, Strand, London

The Savoy is well placed for the West End theatres, as well as the shops and restaurants in Covent Garden. The National Gallery and the National Portrait Gallery are within walking distance, while the National Theatre is just across the river.

Boasting a central location on The Strand, the hotel's forecourt is notable for being the only street in Britain where traffic must keep to the right.

By car: over 4 hours from Manchester and 2 hours 30 minutes from Bristol. On-site parking costs £60 per day.

By train: Charing Cross tube station is a 5-minute walk away. London Waterloo is 10 minutes by taxi. Book trains to London.

Still one of the great London hotels and with a history to match. There's a distinctive blend of Edwardian and Art Deco styles enhanced by a sensitive restoration a few years ago. The stainless steel Savoy sign, redesigned Lalique glass fountain in the forecourt and beautiful marble entrance hall set the tone for the rest of the hotel.

As you might expect from a five-star hotel, the service is exceptional but also very warm. The concierge is an invaluable source of knowledge. A butler and a chauffeur service is also offered to guests staying in a suite.

• Bar
• Restaurant
• Swimming pool
• Gym
• Spa
• Pet-friendly
• On-site parking
• Free Wi-Fi

Rooms and suites come in various types - with courtyard, city or river views. All are spacious, supremely comfortable and decorated in muted shades with either an Edwardian or Art Deco style. Bathrooms are equally impressive and in a suite, you'll find rainforest showers and clawfoot baths.

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

Key amenities: ensuite bathroom with toiletries, pillow menu, coffee-making facilities, free Wi-Fi

Gordon Ramsay's two restaurants are The Savoy's central attractions. Savoy Grill is an Art Deco masterpiece, serving dishes such as swordfish schnitzel. The beef Wellington is renowned and not to be missed. River Restaurant (with views of the Thames) specialises in seafood and shellfish.

River Restaurant: seafood restaurant, all-day menu, open daily.

Savoy Grill: dishes include beef wellington and lobster thermidor. Open daily for lunch and dinner.