Jumeirah Carlton Tower London

Once the tallest hotel in London (when it opened, back in 1961), The Carlton Tower Jumeirah still has some lofty advantages, including a gym, 20-metre pool and spa. The Knightsbridge setting puts shoppers in striking distance of Harrods and Harvey Nicks, as well as the boutiques of Sloane Street. Early risers are in for a treat: the horses of the Household Cavalry trot by on their way to the barracks in Hyde Park most mornings.