45 Park Lane

"The number 45 rules at this five-star spot: not only does it denote the property’s address on tony Park Lane, but also how far it is by car from both Heathrow and City Airports (about 45 minutes in normal traffic), and how many rooms and suites it holds—well, make that 46, counting the Penthouse Suite. A member of the Dorchester Collection group, the intimate 45 Park Lane opened in 2011, just opposite The Dorchester hotel, and acts a bit like that icon’s younger, more modern sister, with contemporary-leaning décor by noted architect-designer-artist Thierry Despont. Common spaces feature bespoke furniture and carpets, eye-catching light fixtures, and an artsy flair, while rooms (29 of which are suites) come with Hyde Park views, Bang & Olufsen BeoVision 10-46 TVs, Aromatherapy Associates amenities and—in the penthouse—a wrap-around roof terrace. In addition to displaying hand-picked pieces by noted artists like Damien Hirst and Sir Peter Blake throughout the building, the hotel hosts an artist-in-residence program and regular exhibits that spotlight emerging talent. Culinary expertise is celebrated, too—focusing on high-grade steaks and seafood, and serving an afternoon tea with a gourmet American twist, CUT at 45 Park Lane was the first European restaurant from legendary chef-restauranteur Wolfgang Puck when it opened with the hotel. Other on-site facilities include a well-stocked gym, library, and cozy bar. If those should fail to satisfy, guests also enjoy access to the perks at The Dorchester, such as a full spa, salon, and four restaurants, including one from Alain Ducasse."

"How did it strike you on arrival?This building on Park Lane used to be the home of the Playboy Club, but don’t let that put you off. There are no references to the hotel’s previous life behind the shiny fins of its Art Deco facade. Instead, inside, you’ll find tons of tasteful wood, lashings of honey-hued leather, and chrome. The lobby flows into Cut at 45 Park Lane, one of the best spots for a steak in the city. This is the smallest of the Dorchester Collection's properties and, as such, the vibe is more relaxed boutique than formal grand-dame. What’s the crowd like?An international bunch who prefer the old-world trappings of Mayfair to the newfangled East End. The good stuff: Tell us about your room.Even the smallest rooms are generous and have views of Hyde Park. Décor is a pleasing medley of mint walls, caramel carpet, dark wood, and leather. How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that find its way into your suitcase?Daily fresh fruit and juices in the rooms are included in the rate, as are local calls and a change of clothing pressed on arrival. There’s a yoga mat in the room in case you need to stretch off the flight, and free nibbles and coffee are served throughout the day in the Library. Please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down.Bathrooms have both bath and shower, and although they look traditional, clad in top-to-toe marble, they’re secretly up-to-date, with underfloor heating and TVs integrated into mirrors. 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.Guests get free access to the spa at the Dorchester hotel nearby. Wolfgang Puck’s first restaurant in Europe, Cut, specializes in steaks—at $67 for a sirloin, they don’t come cheap, but they also don’t get any better. The walls of the restaurant are brightened up with kaleidoscopic artwork by Damien Hirst. Bottom line: worth it, and why?You get all the perks of a Dorchester Collection property but the feel of a more modern boutique property." - Laura Goulden