What it is

The 1907 former home of the Morning Post newspaper (where Sir Winston Churchill himself worked), turned Theatreland’s most stylish bastion.

What it isn't

Old news. Though it opened in 1998, One Aldwych remains au courant. You can even imbibe a virtual reality cocktail—you’ll “tour” your whiskey’s Scottish roots as you sip—in the Lobby Bar.

What we think

We’d be willing to bet that if a certain Ms. Markle and her beau ever go incognito for a night of London revelry, they’ll head here. One Aldwych combines the best of new London (the Basque-inspired Eneko Basque Kitchen & Bar is helmed by chef Eneko Atxa, who earned three Michelin stars at Azurmendi, in Spain) with the highlights of old (an afternoon tea inspired by Roald Dahl’s iconic story, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Large, clean-lined guest rooms include unexpected perks: complimentary wi-fi, shoe shines, newspapers and fresh flowers ferried to your door by the hotel’s resident florist. But our favorite reason to stay might just be the art collection: The 400 works on-site include a papier maché dog wrapped in Beano comics by Justine Smith.

You're here because

You want to recharge from culture-hopping with a good swim, and the hotel has a subterranean, 59-foot chlorine-free pool, complete with underwater soundtrack.

The Moment

As much as you love tickets to the Royal Opera House, sometimes you’d rather veg at home—a.k.a. One Aldwych’s private screening room, where you can take in The Winter’s Tale along with a glass of bubbling Lallier Grande Reserve Champagne. Pavarotti himself might opt for this.

Restaurants & Bars

- Indigo - Seasonal Ingredients carefully sourced from the British Isles

- Eneko Basque Kitchen & Bar – a modern take on traditional Basque dishes

- The Lobby Bar - Glamorous drinking space in the heart of Covent Garden

- Afternoon Tea - a magical experience inspired by the sweet shop

Location

Facing the Strand and Somerset House, just a block from the Waterloo Bridge and a quick stroll from Covent Garden’s theatres and restaurants.