Rosewood London

Right from the outset, there's no mistaking that the five-pearl Rosewood London is one seriously upscale establishment. The ornate and stately facade of this spectacular Edwardian mansion has a majestic arched entrance topped with neoclassical columns. After passing through two wrought-iron gates, guests are greeted by doormen dressed in flat caps and tweed suits and ushered into a dazzling copper-gilded hall with black-and-white marble flooring. Guests next enter the lobby -- a chic, low-lit space with a hushed vibe and scent of freshly-cut flowers -- and move into hallways finished with Cuban mahogany and no less than seven types of marble. 

But it's the stunning white Pavonazzo marble staircase that really steals the show, spiraling up seven floors to a lofty domed cupola. The effect is undoubtedly glamorous, though humorous artwork by anarchic cartoonist Gerald Scarfe adds fun, modern elements. Clientele tend to be a mixture of well-heeled tourists and business travelers.

This hotel is set on the busy central thoroughfare of High Holborn, which connects the West End with the City of London. While there's little of much interest in the immediate surrounds, the neighborhood is dotted with traditional pubs and restaurants. Holborn Tube station is just a couple minutes' stroll away, while Tottenham Court Road station and the start of Oxford Street are a 10-minute walk away. The British Museum is also under 10 minutes on foot. Lincoln's Inn Fields, a public square with the intriguing Sir John Soane's and Hunterian museums, is just a block from the hotel.

There are 262 rooms and 44 suites at the Rosewood London, all immaculately finished with both contemporary decor and classical-style furnishings that give them an English country house feel. Rooms are generally spacious (for London), while some of the signature suites are enormous and have separate lounges and/or dining rooms. High-tech amenities include Wi-Fi, iPod docks, and (at least) 46-inch flat-screen TVs. Other luxury touches include Nespresso machines, minibars, Italian linens, and an impressive pillow menu. Lavish bathrooms are finished in marble and have shower/tub combos or walk-in showers and separate tubs, plus designer toiletries, bathrobes, sound speakers, and hairdryers.

Though the hotel lacks a pool, it still has plenty of luxury amenities on-site. Food-wise, the all-day Holborn Dining Room is a bright brasserie-style eatery with red leather banquettes and antique mirrors. The elegant Mirror Room restaurant is popular particularly for their Sunday brunch, though it also serves seasonal dishes for lunch and dinner. The Terrace offers alfresco seating on heated benches surrounded by a lush garden; a selection of cigars and hot alcoholic drinks are available here. Scarfes Bar, which is decorated with leather chairs, book-lined shelves, and work by the aforementioned artist, has the feel of a gentleman's club.

The Sense Spa has bamboo walls and water features, and offers high-end treatments (which are predictably pricey) alongside amethyst crystal steam rooms and sensory showers. The spa also has a treatment menu for children and teens. A windowed fitness room offers cardio machines and free weights. Meeting and event spaces, as well as a business center, are available and Wi-Fi is free throughout.