London travel: An insider’s guide to the best of all things British

England is having a moment. Not only is the Queen celebrating her Diamond Jubilee, but the country is also playing host to the 2012 Games. Catch the buzz in one of the world's most exciting cities.




Checking in



You can’t go wrong with any of the small
boutique hotels in the Firmdale group.
All are charming, colourful and chic — pick
according to which location you prefer. Rooms from $240.




What a clever idea: the Grazing Goat is
a gourmet pub with eight quietly stylish
bedrooms, close to Marble Arch. The look
is English country house with open fires,
bleached wooden tables, sage-green walls
dotted with vintage prints and polished
antlers. The bedrooms are lovely — fresh
and comfortable, with iPod docking stations
and thoughtful touches such as organic
Earl Grey tea and soft throws — and you are
perfectly situated to pop into the new shoe
hall at Selfridges. 6 New Quebec St., W1. Doubles from $314.




Alternatively, of all the old-school,
big-player hotels in London, pick the
Connaught. It’s unfaultable, especially
after a huge renovation: sublime rooms,
impeccable service (a silver flask of hot chocolate is left by your bed at night)
and a brilliant location — central, but
hear-a-pin-drop quiet. Carlos Place, W1. Rooms from $949.




And for an absurdly good, cheaper option,
Dean Street Townhouse bills itself as a
39-room “bed and brasserie.” It is utterly
stylish and well executed, with superb
food to boot. 69-71 Dean St., W1. Rooms from $225.