The Westminster London

BACKGROUND The hotel previously operated under the Doubletree by Hilton brand, but underwent a multimillion pound refurbishment and reopened as part of Hilton's Curio Collection in 2021.

- Tamsin Cocks

WHERE IS IT? Right in the heart of the action. London landmarks such as the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben and Westminster Abbey are within walking distance, while M15 is directly in front, and the M16 headquarters lies just across the River Thames. The closest underground station is Pimlico on the Victoria Line, a seven-minute walk away.

WHAT'S IT LIKE Rows of bowler hats in the entrance window nod to a spy theme from the offset. The spacious lobby is served by three check-in desks, which were all in use during my mid-afternoon arrival (check in starts at 3pm), but I didn't have to wait long and was offered some water while I was checked in. There is also a seating area and a small business desk in the lobby, with computer, phone and printer facilities. There was no security function on the lift all floors can be accessed without keycard access. I made my way to room 544 on the fifth floor down dark corridors peppered with spy-inspired art works, which added to an aura of intrigue.

ROOMS The hotel has 464 rooms and suites. I stayed in a Queen Premium Corner Room, which measures 23 sqm.