Sofitel London St James

An injection of Parisian chic in London's ritzy West End
Noteworthy for: The hotel’s new brasserie, The Balcon, has been generating buzz since it opened in late 2011 – its Franco-English mashup menu includes cottage pie with foie gras.

An expert blend of regal British style and cool French efficiency, Sofitel’s flagship London hotel proves that ‘big’ doesn’t always mean ‘impersonal’ when it comes to accommodation in the British capital. The staff-to-guest ratio here is one of the most generous in town, with an abundance of charming Frenchmen and women at your beck and call. (Be prepared to tip those who go above-and-beyond.)
Extensive renovations were completed in 2011, bringing several communal areas - including the St James Bar - up to date while retaining the classic charm of this heritage-listed building. Sofitel’s signature browns and greens have a calming effect in the 200-or-so suites and rooms, which are massive by London standards and are decked out with sleek French touches like Hermes toiletries and proprietary Sofitel MyBeds.