"How did it strike you on arrival?This was the first hotel by celebrated restaurateurs Corbin and King, of the Wolseley fame, and what you’ll notice on the approach is an enormous pixelated steel figure jutting out of the elegant façade. This is Room, a sculpture by Antony Gormley, which you can sleep inside. It’s an interesting extra to a hotel that otherwise feels very grounded—it’s traditional but stylish, with elegant Art Deco features. What’s the crowd like?Those more interested in timeless elegance than being on trend. The good stuff: Tell us about your room.Rooms are generously proportioned and come in supremely tasteful shades of stone—slate velvet chairs, sandy-colored curtains, and putty walls—with black-and-white photos on the wall. How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that find its way into your suitcase?Each room has a mini library of British classics, and all guests get free local calls and use of a chauffeur-driven car. Please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down.A medley of marble, glass, and mosaic tiles with satisfyingly powerful rain showers—many rooms have a bath to boot—and fresh D.R. Harris toiletries. Maybe the most important topic of all: Wi-Fi. What’s the word?Free. Anything stand out about other services and features? Whether it’s childcare, gyms, spas, even parking—whatever stuck with you.The complimentary tea, coffee, juice, and pastries served in the cozy Cub Room each morning are plentiful enough to put you on till 11. The restaurant was bound to be a success and the Colony Grill doesn’t disappoint, doing a nice line in refined classics and proper atmosphere. The spa is a little gem, with a hammam and plunge pool. Bottom line: worth it, and why?Mayfair sleeps rarely come cheap, and this one ticks all the boxes." - Laura Goulden
