Address: 5 Halkin Street, London SW1X 7DJ.

Tel: 020-7333 1000.

Website: halkin.com.

First impressions: Cool, calm, ultra-stylish and ever so discreet - so discreet it's tricky to find. (I walked into a nearby embassy by mistake.) Attentive, unfussy service from Armani-clad staff immediately makes you feel fantastically well looked after.

What are the rooms like? Super slick. Super luxurious. All cream colours and dark wood. Massive TV and stereo, with great speakers in the bathroom. And a sofa that could accommodate a herd of elephants. Your own fax and use of a mobile phone are also provided.

The bed test: Huge and comfy; but in reality, two mattresses joined together, which means that however great the linen, there's that inevitable gap-in-the-middle problem.

The bathroom: Pampering heaven in mushroom-coloured marble. Huge shower and deep bath. Oh, and a choice of bathrobe, of course - lightweight waffle or thick towelling.

Breakfast: Delicious juices and pastries, and superb coffee. Brought to your room on a trolley with a tiny oven to keep those eggs and bacon warm and your own toaster (brushed chrome, of course) for fresh toast.

The restaurant: Nahm, the first and only Michelin-starred Thai restaurant.

The bar: Again, discreet and intimate, with high-sided sofas and subtle lighting. Delicious cocktails. One for quiet chats rather than raucous nights out.

What is there to do nearby? You're in walking distance of Hyde Park and Green Park. Then there's the National Gallery, Science Museum and the V&A. And top shopping right on your doorstep.

How much a night? Double rooms £305-£390, excluding VAT and breakfast. Suites £475-£1,030.