Did you have a good time?
Excellent. Went to London and stayed at the Cadogan on Sloane Street.
Haven't heard of that one. Glitzy then?
Not at all. This is one of those traditional discreet establishments that are hard to find these days.
Discreet? You mean you signed in as Mr and Mrs Smith?
No, it's not like that. Mind you Oscar Wilde was arrested here on 5 April, 1895 (ask for room 118), and Lillie Langtry entertained the Prince of Wales in her home next door, also in the 1890s - she later sold out to the Cadogan and sometimes stayed in her old bedroom (her drawing room is used for private functions). Those indiscretions are history. Today's discretion is summed up by the notice in the lobby warning that 'irritating gadgets' such as portable telephones and computers are not permitted in public rooms.
What did you get up to?
Shopping, of course. The Cadogan is within easy walking distance of Harrods, Harvey Nichols and the Kings Road and more designer shops than you could dream of. Good base for the Chelsea Crafts Fair in October.
Is the decor designer?
Yes, in a nineteenth-century sort of way. The corridors are decorated with William Morris's willow pattern and there's a splendid iron-grille lift running up the centre stairwell. The bedrooms combine period furniture with all mod cons.
Did you eat out?
There's no need. The Cadogan's restaurant is one of London's better-kept secrets. Savour starters including red mullet and scallop mille feuille and main courses such as rack of lamb and stuffed roast guinea fowl. These may sound traditional but are served with a modern lightness of touch. The atmosphere in the Edwardian room is hushed but welcoming. A three-course dinner costs £27 a head (a bottle of house burgundy is £16.50), cheaper than some of the big-name restaurants nearby.
What's the overall damage?
The quoted 'rack rates' look intimidating, offering little change from £200 a room a night. Look out for the special breaks such as 'A weekend In Town' for £140 per person per night for accommodation, full English breakfast and table d'hote dinner.
· The Cadogan, 75 Sloane Street, London SW1X 9AG, 020 7235 7141. email info@cadogan.com or visit www.cadogan.com
