The Capital Hotel

Founded in 1971 by the same family who still runs it today, The Capital Hotel balances a fine line between swanky and upmarket, and welcoming and homey. This upscale boutique property -- one of the first of its kind in London -- occupies a Victorian mansion block that still retains its period and quintessentially English character. A liveried doorman mans the entrance to the small reception area, decked out with patterned rugs, gilt-framed paintings, and original marble fireplace. Staff are friendly and attentive with a personal touch, adding to the property's family-run feel (the owner Mr. Leven still lives on the sixth floor and the hotel is managed by his daughter). A 2016 renovation has also given the interiors an immaculate finish throughout its carpeted and floral-print hallways and (albeit limited) public area. Decor also incorporates acclaimed names from the world of British design such as Nina Campbell fabrics. Clientele are a mix of well-heeled day shoppers, weekending older couples, and business travelers with healthy expense accounts. The hotel was also once visited by Queen Elizabeth II. 

The Capital Hotel is located on a quiet street in central London's upscale and affluent Knightsbridge neighborhood, surrounded by restaurants, boutiques, and traditional pubs. It's within a short stroll of the area's famous shopping district that includes the iconic Harrods department store (whose entrance is just round the corner). Other nearby attractions include leafy Hyde Park at five minutes' walk and the Natural History Museum, around 15 minutes away. The nearest underground station is Knightsbridge, a three minutes' walk and two stops from buzzing Piccadilly Circus and Soho -- it also connects directly with Heathrow Airport in around 45 minutes.

The hotel has 49 rooms, including eight suites, all of which have been individually styled with a combination of traditional English fabrics, carpeted floors, patterned wallpapers, and original paintings and antiques. Some have a fresher contemporary feel, while others sport a more classically English look; a few dowdy and dated rooms are also starting to show signs of age. Entry-level Classic Queen Rooms are typically on the small side, while Deluxe Rooms are larger and located in the original building and with period architectural features. All beds feature handmade mattresses topped with Egyptian cotton sheets.

Standard in-room amenities include 20-inch flat-screen TVs (with satellite channels and movies on demand), well-stocked customizable minibars, and coffee- and tea-making facilities on-request. Junior Suites add Nespresso machines. Wi-Fi is free of charge and generally fast and reliable. Traditionally-styled marble bathrooms can be on the small side (some feel tiny), though with shower/tub combos, bathrobes, and Temple Spa toiletries. Junior suites feature second bathrooms with walk-in showers. Evening turndown service is provided. 

Most rooms have street views, though rear-facing rooms have less appealing views over a courtyard, backs of buildings, and fire escapes; these can be prone to noise due to service entrance. Serviced studio and one-bedroom apartments are also available with parquet flooring and contemporary neutral decor. 

Dining has always been a real forte at the Capital Hotel. The original restaurant in the 1970s was one of the first hotel restaurants in London to hold a Michelin star. Now that position is held by the also Michelin-star Outlaw's Restaurant, with a menu focusing on freshly-caught Cornish seafood. Interiors are elegantly restrained with an intimate atmosphere and high ceilings. Breakfast is a choice of continental or cooked-to-order (with a full English breakfast option) from an a la carte menu served in a small, slightly old-fashioned dining room; breakfast is not included as standard though quality is good and prices are reasonable for London. 

The small Capital Bar has a snug, vintage '70s feel, excellent range of cocktails, and oyster menu. It features masterclasses in whiskey and cheese pairing. Afternoon tea is also served, and rooms for private dining and meetings are available. There are no spa or health facilities, though guests receive discount rate at a local health club. Valet parking is available. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property.