What it is

A monument to luxury in a perfect location.

What it isn't

A hip or daring social scene.

What we think

A Belle Epoque behemoth built in 1885, Corinthia Hotel London led a former life as the Ministry of Defence—it was even the birthplace of the intelligence service MI-9. But after a 2011 reinvention overseen by the designer David Collins, government clerks have been replaced by butlers, bellhops and bountiful arrangements of gloriosa lilies and roses. The lobby centers on a show-stopping Baccarat chandelier, and features a series of resin panels depicting the Thames by the London art collective Based Upon. Indeed, the arts are a focus here, with an artist-in-residence program that has seen playwrights, filmmakers and an opera composer create site-specific works. The 294 rooms are massive, if a bit corporate, but nearly all have views of the Thames. Marble bathrooms are decked out with enormous walk-in rain showers, deep soaking tubs and in-wall TVs. If more curated relaxation is desired, head to Espa, whose four-story complex includes 17 treatment rooms, an indoor pool, private sleep pods, hair salon, and an amphitheater-style sauna.

You're here because

You like grandeur and a location close to the major sights.

The Moment

Dusk: A gloved doorman, smoothing his tailcoat, opens the front door for you as you approach. But your gaze is drawn elsewhere—across the Thames, as the lights of the London Eye illuminate for the evening.

Restaurants & Bars

The Northall Restaurant- Fine British cuisine showcasing the highest quality seasonal

Bassoon Cocktail Bar

Northall Bar

The Crystal Moon Lounge

The Garden Lounge

Family activities

London Zoo in Regent’s Park, The London Eye, the many Museums that can be of interest to children, Churchill's Bunker.

Location

A block off the Thames, across from the London Eye and within striking distance of the National Gallery, Southbank Center, and St. James’s Park.