They've served as second homes to a host of international stars lensing in the British capital, while their restaurants and spa facilities draw locals out to live the high life. Here we take a look at some of London's hottest hotels and the celebs who've enjoyed their hospitality.
One Aldwych
There’s nothing chintzy about this little number, the sleek One Aldwych, which has been a bank, newspaper office and insurance brokers. It was first opened as a hotel by Gordon Campbell Gray in 1998 and “stealth wealth” rather than “dripping deluxe” is how the owner sees his already much-awarded establishment.
There are 105 rooms and suites, some with their own private gyms and dining room, and the hotel has a permanent art collection of some 400-plus works. After a swim in the cool 18-metre pool, guests can relax in the lofty lobby where the bar serves organic teas and coffees and dreamy sushi, prawn or caviar nibbles.
Who stays there: Situated at the junction of the Strand, Aldwych, the City and West End theatreland, One Aldwych attracts a legal, banking, theatrical and media crowd.
Star guests: Meg Ryan holed up here when she was having her reported dalliance with Russell Crowe. Nicole Kidman made it her pad when she was in The Blue Room produced by Sam Mendes, and Gwyneth Paltrow was based here when she made her West End stage debut in Proof.
The Grove
Antique and modern styles are cleverly mixedin The Grove’s lounges and bedrooms. Since its opening late last year, this country house hotel has been attracting not only hordes of locals desperate for a reservation at one of its three restaurants but also droves of Londoners takingadvantage of its proximity to the capital.
Just 30 minutes’ drive from centralLondon, the Grove is a stone’s throw fromthe M25, near Watford. Sounds terriblyunglamorous? You couldn’t be more wrong. Nothing has been left undesigned: modern and antique styles are mixed to great effect, and bedrooms are individually decorated, all with huge plasma TV screens. Golf and a world-class spa –Sequoia – complete the package.
Who stays there: Stressed-out townieslooking for a quick escape. Service, foodand facilities are all top notch.
Star guests: Hugh Grant, Tony Blair, RubyWax and Victoria Beckham.
