The Cadogan, A Belmond Hotel – Chelsea, SW1

A standout on Sloane Street, The Cadogan’s sleek and glamorous good looks may recall well-heeled neighbouring Knightsbridge, but its many literary and artistic accents mean that boho Chelsea is in here too. There are bold checked uniforms that reference Mary Quant, books and author talks curated by beloved Chelsea bookshop John Sandoe, specially commissioned art from young artists, and recollections of Oscar Wilde (famously arrested here) and his friend Lillie Langtry, whose adjacent house now forms a private entrance for hotel guests and a dining room of the café restaurant, The LaLee. Offering delightful European dishes, the sophisticated menu, which features the very best of the season, reflects the refined tastes that seduced Lillie on her travels. The Cadogan first opened in 1887, but a recent makeover made the bedrooms and suites stylish yet homely, all velvet, silk, wood, marble and chrome, with circular tables doubling as desks and statement paintings from female British artists. It took its inspiration from the private gardens opposite – and so can you, as guests get keys, a wonderful perk. 

Doubles from £750 

+44 (0)20 7048 7141; belmond.com