Sheraton Grand London Park Lane

Following its renovation that was completed in 2016 and upgrade to the chain's highest tier, the Sheraton Grand (formerly Park Lane Sheraton) certainly lives up to its name. The 1920s property was updated with Art Deco finishes throughout, most in a sleek, neutral palette. From reflective pillars and shimmering crystal light fixtures, to velvet furniture and gold or silver circular accents, everything looks stylish and high-end. Stained-glass ceilings, cozy seating areas, and patterned carpet in the Palm Court Tea Lounge are lovely, and the spot is famous for its traditional afternoon tea spreads. Inspired by a fictional detective story, Smith And Whistle is a stylish bar with zigzag dark- and light-wood floors, a striking copper accent wall, and blue velvet booths and armchairs. There's a lot to love about this classy property, but its lack of a spa and expected amenities in lower-category units are downsides. Additionally, some guests have complained of slow, limited elevators. Well-heeled couples make up the bulk of guests here, but families, groups of friends, and business travelers can all be found here.

On the main road of Piccadilly, the Sheraton sits on the fringes of the scenic Green Park, which has lots of open space and maple trees. Travelers are a quick one-minute walk to the nearest tube of Green Park, but there's also plenty accessible on foot. English Heritage site Apsley House is a five-minute walk and luxury department store Fortnum and Mason is five minutes farther. Buckingham Palace is a seven-minute walk away, and numerous restaurants, bars, and shops line surrounding streets.

Quick tube links from the hotel include Piccadilly Circus in 14 minutes, Trafalgar Square and Bond Street in 15 minutes, and the London Eye in 20 minutes. Numerous museums can be reached in less than 15 minutes via the tube. Multiple bus routes also run from near the hotel, from which Victoria Station can be reached in 10 minutes.

A 50-minute train from Heathrow Airport goes directly to Green Park station, or it takes the same time via taxi. The journey from Gatwick is slightly longer and London City Airport is a half-hour drive, or 40 minutes by public transit.

Rooms are all decorated in a sleek, modern take on '20s style. Expect neutral tones in patterned carpet, dark-wood furniture with silver ring handles, big mirrors above the headboards, and striking gold-painted dome ceilings. On the downside, rooms start at 20 square meters (215 square feet) and are a bit compact, plus lower-category rooms don't have espresso machines or tubs. All rooms, however, come with the chain's signature "Sweet Sleeper" beds, HD Plasma TVs with premium channels, and kettles alongside tea and coffee, as well as desks with international charging points, minibars, and closets with ironing facilities, bathrobes and slippers, hairdryers, and safes. Bathrooms have white subway tiles, rainfall showers, and Sheraton-brand toiletries.

Higher floors offer stunning park views, and the most prestigious suites have dining tables and living spaces. Upgraded units also come with espresso machines separate bathtubs, and occasionally, bidets.

The hotel's highlight is afternoon tea at the famed Palm Court, where diners are serenaded by a harpist as they have a selection of teas, cakes, and scones. All-day beverages and light bites are also available. Mercante serves Italian-inspired fare for all three meals, while Caffe Musetti has grab-and-go fare such as coffee, sandwiches, salads, and pastries. Club-level guests get access to a lounge with free breakfast, daytime snacks, and evening drinks and canapes. 

A small fitness center is open 24/7, but there are no spa or pool on-site. An elegant Ballroom has a 1,200-person capacity. Pre-loaded "Handy" smartphones are given to all guests for free calls to seven countries, including the U.S. and United Arab Emirates. Concierge and laundry services and free newspapers are perks, and Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel. Though expensive, on-site parking is available.