The Cadogan, A Belmond Hotel, London

To step inside The Cadogan, A Belmond Hotel, London is to forget about the busy city streets, crisscrossing out front. Were it not for the staff that sweeps over to swap your luggage for a welcome sup of rhubarb, apple and Cadogan bees honey, you might think you’ve strolled into a private home. Despite spanning five Chelsea and Knightsbridge properties, this luxury hotel feels intimate and inviting, with just 54 rooms and suites. The lighting is ambient, the décor a mix of chocolate wood paneling, intricate mosaic floors and white walls adorned with more than 400 pieces of British art, inspired by nearby Cadogan Place Gardens.

The little touches are like a love letter to The Cadogan’s past, present and local area, further enriching your stay. Doormen are dressed in long red coats inspired by the Chelsea Pensioners. Front desk staff dons burgundy velvet jackets once favored by literary great Oscar Wilde, who lived (and was notoriously arrested) here. The floral patterns that adorn the housekeeping staff dresses are one of many references to famed collector Hans Sloane’s botanical interests and the gardens. So too is the blue butterfly that lights up when you peel open the minibar and the carefully selected books and curios in the suites. The daily room amenities, on the other hand, tell fond tales of childhood foodie memories of the hotel’s staff.

Follow the lead of the undisclosed celebrities who have stayed here and come and go via the private door on 21 Pont Street, once home to Lillie Langtry, the American actress, socialite and lover of the then Prince of Wales, who has inspired many elements of the hotel. Take a booth in the European café-style LaLee bar or restaurant for seasonal cocktails and signatures such as the veal schnitzel. Say yes to the chocolate truffles on checkout.