Great Scotland Yard Hotel – Westminster, SW1

Expect the unexpected at one of London’s most historic and cherished buildings. Dedicated to delight, the hotel holds more hidden stories than any other kind in London as the former headquarters of the Metropolitan Police.  The ground floor is split into various bars and restaurants including the flagship Ekstedt at The Yard, run by Michelin-star chef Niklas Ekstedt, known for his signature style of wood fired ‘old Nordic’ cooking. There’s also The Parlour, a lounge for afternoon tea in collaboration with perfumery Floris London, the only appointed perfumery to Her Majesty The Queen (the tea cakes and pastries are inspired by their seasonal fragrances); Síbín bar which specialises in whisky; and The 40 Elephants, the hub of the hotel named after the UK’s first all-female gang and serves delightful cocktails. This spring saw the launch of The Townhouse, a private residence next to the hotel on the site that was once home to H.R.H. The King of Scotland.

Doubles from £295

+44 (0)20 7925 4700; hyatt.com