Just a stone throw away from Sloane Street and Duke of York Square, The Kensington Hotel offers a spacious, alluring and beautifully laid out setting to unwind and relax.

An amalgamation of four grand Victorian townhouses, the hotel underwent a twenty-million pound renovation in April 2009, and the result has been impressive. Possessing the luxury you'd expect from a property within its postcode, and the sophistication fit for its surroundings, the decorative treatment of the hotel was led by Dublin architect Denis Looby and features an eclectic mix of vintage, contemporary and global inspirations. Featuring finds from antique shops as well as furniture from B&B Italia and George Smith, the juxtaposition between period accents and contemporary pieces quite simply works.

If you take pleasure in the finer details, then you're bound to fall in love with the rooms at The Kensington Totel. There are 150 rooms in total all sharing a wonderfully calming sepia and champagne gold colour scheme. With full-length French windows the rooms are as inviting as they are practical, complete bathroom suites that offer a power shower as well as a separate bath.


During my visit, I stopped by the Drawing room for Afternoon Tea and as I settled down to a hearty array of savory and sweet treats (including custard fruit tartlets that were deliciously moreish), I observed the room: There were ladies who lunch catching up over tea and fashion-loving tourists comparing Sloane street purchases over glasses of champagne. There was a feeling of high-end, exclusivity there, almost like a private members club, but it was juxtaposed with a sense of homeliness which instantly made me feel at ease and pampered.

Later, I visited the Aubrey restaurant and bar within the hotel, which was lovely intimate space, featuring large green leather booths, textured walls and oozing 1930s glamour. Dinner was served candlelight. The menu left me spoilt for choice - I couldn't decided between the goats cheese starter and the lightly spiced crab cake! The waitress recommended the later, and I was pleasantly surprised by the flavour. As much as I adore seafood, it can a little bland - however, the crab cakes were fresh and flavoursome; zesty with a subtle spiced aftertaste.

For the main, I tucked into breast of pheasant, served with braised red cabbage and crispy potatoes; the portion was generous to say the least - I left some aside to be able to enjoy the plum tart with real vanilla ice-cream, the perfect end to what was a carnival of flavours.

The Kensington Hotel has real character and certainly charms as one of the finest urban havens within the royal Borough. Rooms start from £180 per night.

Brown's was the first ever hotel to be opened in London. I recently had the pleasure of visiting to learn more about the legendary location and rich history.

Stepping into the grand building what immediately grabbed me was the unique blend of historical features juxtaposed with the contemporary additions from its 24-million renovation in 2005. With soft colours, chic artwork and statement furniture throughout, the hotel exudes elegance.

Founded In 1837 by hotelier James Brown and his wife Sarah, I wonder if they ever imagined the magnitude to which their small but perfectly formed townhouse hotel would expand and be rooted in the milestones of London. Impressively, the hotel has had many a pioneering personality stay; Alexander Graham Bell who made the first ever telephone call from within the hotel, the likes of Franklin Roosevelt honeymooned there, and it is believed that authors Rudyard Kipling and Agatha Christie penned bestsellers during their stays.

A hotel so rich in English history can risk being stuck in a time long past, but not so with Brown's; its services and interior meet the demands of contemporary living very well. From its award-winning Tea Room to The Donovan Bar, the atmosphere is far from dated and you won't be pushed to find gliterati sipping on cocktails whilst discussing the photography of Terence Donovan whose prints line the walls. It's a pretty trendy spot.

The bedrooms designed by director of design Ola Polizzi are pure luxury; expect 300 thread count Egyption cotton bedding and all the essential amenities for a restful experience. It's no wonder that royalty from across the globe have flocked to stay at the hotel throughout the 19th and 20th century. Fast forward to 2010 and the attraction of Brown's is still strong with 117 rooms, a acclaimed restaurant and indulgent spa.


Ah yes the spa (I do love a good beauty treatment); a hot stone massage by Brown's expert therapists will leave you positively floating. As the aches and stresses of my day were melted away with every stroke, I experienced a buzz that can only be matched by my love of chocolate. The food at the Albemarle, Brown's in-hotel restaurant, was quintessentially English with a gastronomic offering that didn't disappoint.

Executive chef Lee Stretton has devised an accomplished menu featuring Treacle-cured salmon, a savory-sweet starter that's so good it will leave you wanting another bite. The Swainson House corn-fed chicken was equally mouth-watering, and as for dessert; the Amedei Chocolate pudding with brandy ice cream was an intense burst of flavour that adequately satisfied my sweet tooth.

The hotel's Mayfair location makes it easy to reach sought-after shops and other London attractions, so for an experience that is enjoyable and enriching, Brown's deservedly earns its place as a luxe spot - in my view, it's the definition of sophistication.

Brown's Hotel
Albemarle Street
London, W1S 4BP
Tel: 020 7493 6020
Web: www.brownshotel.com

London Fashion Week's official hotel, The May Fair is home to one of central London's premier day spas. Last month, I visited the spa to try the Perfect Peace package; a two hour pampering session combing two of the spa's most sought after treatments - a traditional Swedish massage and prescription facial.

A drizzle of warm oil started 60 minutes of kneading that left me in such deep relaxation, I was practically asleep by the end of the treatment. The facial was specifically tailored to suit my combination skin and I was given a AHA treatment to shift dead skin and bring out a healthy glow, which it did - I was impressed with how clear my complexion was weeks after.

The surroundings are as luxurious as you'd expect from The May Fair, and the spa has some impressive features including a herbal sauna and aromatic steam room that guests can enjoy up to an hour before their treatment time.

The facilities have been designed with a spiritualistic feel; Asian inspired symbols and incense candles enabled me to forget the busy streets of London just outside, for a moment of r&r.

The Perfect Peace package costs £180 and a visit to the May Fair Spa is just the ticket for instant de-stressing.

The May Fair Hotel
Stratton Street,
Mayfair, London,
W1J 8LT

Tel: 020 7769 4041
Web: www.themayfairhotel.co.uk

I've visited many hotels in London but the Sanctum Soho is truly in a style league of its own. As soon as you enter the place, you step into a world of French decadence, cosmopolitan finishes and a hint of rock n' roll.

Designed by interior specialist Lesley Purcell, whose portfolio also includes the Berkley and Claridges, I had the pleasure of meeting her. She explained that her goal was to achieve a elegant and intimate feel to the hotel, with a personality that would appeal to savvy media personalities and entertainers alike.

She wanted to achieve a gimmick free zone, where guests can enjoy the confidence of the décor and the subtle grandeur that exudes every corner. When asked whether she had a muse in mind when planing the design, Lesley mentioned the actor Jack Nicholson as someone who she could imagine finding the place an ideal restbite.

I recently stayed at the hotel for a photo shoot with Georgina, founder of Bolton King Photography, and the rooms are stunning. There are five mood schemes across the bedrooms: from flirty and feminine to glittering and glamorous.

Some rooms were a picture of pale nudes and pinks featuring French Louis XiV style furniture. Others took on a very fashionable monochrome theme with mirrored surfaces, silver drapery and liquid silver tiles - think old hollywood glamour with modern day touches.

The in-room entertainment is impressive; with movies on demand and a Wii Fit so that you can workout without leaving your room. Whilst the hotel doesn't have a spa or gym facility, it does have an exclusive deal with a nearby spa to arrange mobile beauticians direct to your room, making it easy to book your pampering session.


Other facilities include a hot tub and roof top garden with an adjacent bar: host to celebrity bashes and home to the coolest game box I've come across to date. The hotel's restaurant No.20 serves traditionally English cuisine with a contemporary twist. Featuring artwork by Xavier Pick, I love the rich, warm feel with its art deco lighting and golden leather booths.

You can also expect a very sophisticated service from the team at Sanctum, with a 24-hour room service that extends beyond convention. Personal shopper Emily Cash is available on call and it's not uncommon to hire a Harley Davidson from the front desk, or to call in the hotel's guitar doctor for an impromptu jam - now that's what I can rock n' roll. Prices start from £175.




Sanctum Soho
20 Warick Street,
London, W1b 5NF
Tel: 020 7292 6100
Email: reservations@sanctumsoho.com
Web: www.sanctumsoho.com

For a luxurious party experience, a visit to Jewel in Piccadilly is just the place. The bar & club is a regular haunt for both celebs and socialites, and its reputation for being one of London's beautiful venues is completely warranted. The plush seating, chandeliers and rich fabric ceilings all add to it's glitzy appeal. But unlike other luxe clubs, this venue has that air of exclusivity minus the intimidation factor.

You have to try a cocktail or two, prepared by their expert Mixologists, and with prices starting at just £3.95 during happy hour, Jewel is great for after work drinks or a Saturday night chill out. I highly recommend the Vanilla Kiss - my favourite Jewel tipple to welcome to weekend.

On Fridays Jewel puts on a party night Glitteratti - expect plenty of funky, global house music with a little edge. On Saturdays it's all about high class glamour with an evening entitled La Boutique. Rotating DJs on the night include Ministry of Sound's Paul Mako and Bary Obzee of Pasha, Ibiza.


Jewel
4-6 Glasshouse Street
Piccadilly
London, W1B 5DQ
Telephone: 020 7439 4990
Web: www.jewelpiccadilly.co.uk

There are many luxury hotels in London, some contemporary, some cutting-edge, others more traditional. But for a charming, classic and quintessentially English experience, check in at Hotel 41. Located in the heart of London, 41 sits directly opposite the Royal Mews, just behind Buckingham Palace. The area is quiet, intimate and just five minutes from Victoria Station. It's a place known to be treasured by high profile individuals and celebrities seeking a discreet getaway without leaving the city.

Once inside, you'll find a striking colour scheme of monochrome (trendy and yet traditional). However, no two rooms are alike - each of the 30 rooms and suites have been uniquely designed with its own individual look. And there's no risk of the black and white theme looking clinical or bland - the theme has been cleverly enriched with mahogany furniture, open fireplaces and luxurious ornate finishes for a sumptuous, romantic feel. Amongst the room's traditional features, you'll find all the in-room amenities you'd expect from a 5 star hotel; wide screen plasma TV, iPod docking station and wireless internet.


But it's the warm hospitality of the concierge team that proves to be the icing on the cake. I recently had the pleasure of an overnight stay and the staff were on hand to ensure every bit of my visit was a home away from home experience. From receiving a welcome glass of champagne at check in, to the evening turndown - they really do look after their guests.

I loved the idea of the 'honesty bar' - the area where guests can help themselves to the tipple of their choice. And the invitation to 'plunder the pantry' - an evening snack time where guests are encouraged to feast on complimentary light bites in the Executive Lounge.

With the sheer decadence of the décor and the thoughtful touches that helped further enhance my experience, it's no wonder that the hotel has been voted No.1 in the UK*. 41 is a truly special boutique hotel, prepare for your expectations to be exceeded.


*Source: Tripadvisor's 2009 Travelers Choice Awards

Hotel 41
41 Buckingham Palace Road,
London, SW1W 0PS
Tel: 020 7300 0041
Web: www.41hotel.com

With Summer fast approaching, no doubt there'll be an array of garden parties and weddings to look fabulous for. If you're searching for beautifully cut classic garments fitting for special occasions then head to Lucia Silver's studio on Notting Hill.

Private and luxurious, Silver's studio is home to a new personal styling service entitled State of Grace. This bespoke outfit design service is perfect for creating your individual look and especially ideal for brides. Her team also includes professional hair and makeup artists who can polish and perfect your final look further enhancing the sumptuous styling experience.

Be sure to RSVP to one of the weekly styling events at the studio; The 'Coffee cupcake couture club' is the session for yummy mummies, starting at 9:10am. At 2:00pm, Silver hosts the 'Perfect pastries and bespoke beautifying session', perfect for ladies who lunch. And in the evenings, a soiree of 'Champagne and chic styling' is on offer at 7:00pm - ideal for career girls and office lovelies.

So raise your style stakes and book a session with Silver's personal styling team. You'll find a treasure trove of sophisticated florals, indulgent silks and amazing vintage accessories.

Lucia Silver
Notting Hill,
London, W2

Tel: 0870 850 0350
Email: mail@luciasilver.com
Web: www.thestateofgrace.com

They say that a new season is time for a new look, so let's start with the hair. If you're looking to revamp your coiffure, then I have to tell you about a hair salon that has made it into my list of London luxe spots.

Inside, the atmosphere is chilled, relaxed, and the interior is beautifully designed. The Salon is situated on Motcomb Street and neighbour to boutiques like Christian Louboutin, so it's not uncommon to find flocks of celebrities booking in for a new cut or must-have extensions.

I'm talking about the self-titled salon of Errol Douglas, one of London's most respected hair stylists. His hair and beauty pad is renowned for its expertise in both Afro and European hairstyling. Having won numerous awards in recognition of his work, booking an appointment with Douglas doesn't come cheap (with a cut and blow dry at £185) but it's definitely a worthy investment for a hairstyle that will last the distance.

Errol Douglas boasts an impressive client list. The salon has styled some of the most glamourous women to date including Iman, Christina Ricci and Emilia Fox. Alongside hair, other services available include manicures, pedicures and massages - making the salon a handy one-stop preening parlour.





Errol Douglas Limited,
18 Motcomb Street, Knightsbridge,
London SW1X 8LB
Tel: 020 7235 0110
Web: http://www.erroldouglas.com

Image Credits:
(1) Errol Douglas
(2) Errol Douglas Salon - Kiss and Makeup TV
(3) Errol Douglas, Hair Stylist - www.modernsalon.com

The city is host to some amazing places and The May Fair Hotel is what I like to call a treasure of London. The May Fair is an icon of expressive contemporary design, with impeccable attention to detail and a service that is personal yet larger than life. A regular stay for royalty, celebrities and business moguls alike, this legendary hotel has its foundation firmly in British history having been first opened by King George V in 1927.

With an offering of over 400 luxury hotel bedrooms, 12 stunning suites, spa facilities and signature restaurant it oozes glamour. It's a truly breathtaking place, so here are some of my favourite scenes that capture the spirit of the hotel and the opulence it's recognised for.






The May Fair Hotel
Stratton Street,
London,
W1J 8LT,
United Kingdom

Website: http://www.themayfairhotel.co.uk
Email: reservations@themayfairhotel.co.uk