The Lanesborough Hotel is one of London’s most beautiful and luxurious hotels, offering distinguished, residential-style service in elegant, historic surroundings. Built in 1719, the original structure was built as a country retreat for the second Viscount Lanesborough and the hotel today recreates the elegance and sophistication of an eighteenth century private residence.

Over the years, the exterior and interior of the building have undergone meticulous restoration, to spectacular effect. Artisans, under the direction of a team of world-class interior designers, were commissioned to faithfully recreate an elegant 19 ^th -century residence and walking into the building is like taking a step back to the ultimate opulence of that period.

There are 95 guestrooms, including 43 suites. All of the suites and guestrooms are luxuriously decorated with 21 ^st century technology subtly concealed by 1820’s furnishings; handsome armoires, desks and selected works of art.

The stunning Conservatory, with its glass roof, exotic palms, Chinese lanterns and oriental figurines is a fantastically relaxing venue for a business breakfast or a romantic dinner. Executive Chef Paul Gayler serves a modern eclectic cuisine with Mediterranean and Pacific- Rim influences. Breakfast is also an absolute indulgence and not to be missed. Music also features strongly in The Conservatory, with gentle piano music accompanying afternoon tea, live jazz at the Supper Dances on Friday and Saturday evenings and soft jazz during Sunday Brunch.

If you are looking for the ultimate after dinner retreat, The Library Bar, rated by Hardens 2004 as the “Best hotel bar in the world”, houses the ‘Liquid History’ collection of vintage cognacs (some of which are over 200 years old) and is a perfect end to an evening at the hotel.

At the Lanesborough, looking after guests is one of the key aspects of the service. All hotel guests are looked after by experienced personal butlers, in the traditional sense, with a complimentary service available 24 hours a day to all rooms. The service is really second to none. Guests also enjoy complimentary landline calls to all UK, US and EU country numbers as well as unlimited email and internet access, extensive on-screen video library and personalised business cards and stationary.

Situated on Hyde Park Corner in the heart of London the hotel is ideally located for many of London’s top attractions, and is the perfect luxurious retreat in the heart of the city. Although whether you will actually want to leave the grounds of the hotel once you arrive, is another matter entirely…

Deluxe double rooms start at £455 per night. Suites range from £995 to £7,000 per night.

For further information visit www.lanesborough.com

By Claire Symonds