Knightsbridge Hotel

Classy hotel with crisp English country style in one of London's most privileged neighbourhoods

If Kensington is the funky duchess, then Knightsbridge is the gracious princess - this is Lady Di territory. And like her, the Knightsbridge Hotel is a modern English rose - charming, fashionable, with a blush of decorum in her furnishings. Think linen drapes, marble fireplaces, swishy sofas piled with pillows, tasteful art on warm pink walls. And that's just the bedrooms. Add in a polished blonde wood, Africa-chic drawing room and an exquisite book-lined library in lavender, all set over 3 classic Victorian terraced houses on a tranquil tree-lined street and you’ve got a palace fit for a princess.

Staff regard you royally too: whether you’re a tourist, business traveller or treating yourself to a posh weekend, service is genial and professional. The traditional turn-down ritual is mixed with contemporary courtesies like an honesty bar. With some of the city’s most elite shops and supping places on your doorstep, this mid-size hotel is a metropolitan jewel and another bright link in the Firmdale group of London boutique hotels.

Highs

• Modern English, neo-chintz interiors, personally chosen by the hotel's owner-designer
• Clean, bright, well-cared-for bedrooms with a range of attractive colour schemes and patterns
• A strikingly decorated drawing room and a gorgeous library for guests' use
• High-ceilinged rooms with an excellent collection of British art and sculpture
• Room service and honesty bar operates 24 hours a day
• In the midst of a shopping and culture mecca - Harrods and Harvey Nicks, V&A and Natural History museums are all close by

Lows

• There is no restaurant in the hotel; breakfast is served in room and is not included in the rate
• WiFi access in rooms is £20 per day; laptop hire £30 per day
• Although staff are happy to book theatre tickets, the hotel is not within walking distance of the West End shows
• Double rooms are on the small side, but i-escape clients may receive a complimentary upgrade
• No tea- or coffee-making facilities in the rooms, but there is 24 hour room service