The hotels below have been classed into four different pricing categories:
$$$$ (over £300)
$$$ (£200 to £300)
$$ (£100 to £200)
$ (up to £100)
The prices quoted above are the starting costs for a standard double room and include taxes and breakfast unless otherwise specified.

City Inn Westminster
Located near Tate Britain in Pimlico, and a 10-minute walk from Parliament and Westminster Abbey, the hotel offers comfortable facilities at very reasonable prices. All 460 rooms are stylish in a minimalist fashion and feature all mod cons and floor-to-ceiling windows. The hotel has a small gym, six meeting rooms and two bars, while the award-winning City Café serves up excellent modern British seasonal cuisine.

30 John Islip Street, SW1
Tel: (020) 7630 1000.
Website: www.cityinn.com
Price: $$

The Haymarket
The impressive entrance lounge alludes to the stylish hotel beyond, with striking pieces of modern art adorning the walls. The sleek and classy feel continues throughout the hotel, from the light and colourful décor of BRAMUS bar and restaurant to the individually designed granite, glass and oak bathrooms. For a spot of relaxation, head to the spectacularly lit swimming pool and gym, complete with treatment rooms offering massages and beauty treatments. As well as the 50 sumptuous rooms, there are five self-contained townhouses.

1 Suffolk Place, SW1Y
Tel: (020) 7470 4000.
Website: www.haymarkethotel.com
Price: $$$

One Aldwych
This hotel is a beautiful example of Edwardian architecture. Luxurious without being glitzy, the hotel enjoys a great Covent Garden location. Each of the 105 rooms and suites are equipped with the latest audiovisual technology. The health club has a swimming pool with underwater music, a sauna and a steam room, a gym, and a range of beauty treatments. For those less worried about their waistline, there are two restaurants, Axis and Indigo, and the impressive Lobby Bar - arguably one of the most beautiful bars in London.

One Aldwych, WC2
Tel: (020) 7300 1000.
Website: www.onealdwych.com
Price: $$$$

The Zetter
This converted warehouse in the heart of Clerkenwell offers stylish affordable accommodation. There are 59 rooms, all featuring sleek upholstery, cool mood lighting and in-room entertainment systems. Nice little touches, such as hot water bottles and old Penguin paperbacks, add a homely feel. The popular restaurant, which serves modern Mediterranean food, occupies most of the ground floor and looks onto St John's Square.

86-88 Clerkenwell Road, EC1
Tel: (020) 7324 4444.
Website: www.thezetter.com
Price: $$

Charlotte Street Hotel
Situated just moments from the trendy surrounds of leafy Soho Square, the Charlotte Street Hotel is the height of urban luxury. With private screening rooms and dining areas, the hotel is one of the hip hang-outs for aspiring film makers as well as those longing for a homely boutique charm in the heart of London's most vibrant areas. For a real taste of luxury, check into the fifth floor penthouse suite, complete with separate lounge, mammoth shower and stunning views over the London skyline.

15-17 Charlotte Street, W1T
Tel: (020) 7806 2000.
Website: www.firmdale.com
Price: $$$

Hotel 41
Situated next to Buckingham Palace, and opposite the Royal Mews, this boutique 5-star hotel is surrounded by some of London's most cherished attractions. The warm and inviting décor creates the feel of a private members club. Attention to detail is key at Hotel 41 and the staff are extremely conscientious.

41 Buckingham Palace Road, SW1W
Tel: (020) 7300 0041.
Website: www.41hotel.com
Price $$$

The Lanesborough
Minutes from Buckingham Palace, this lavish hotel treats its guests like royalty. Formerly Viscount Lanesborough's home, the hotel remains true to its Regency building, with ornate furnishings and décor. Guests can expect 24-hour butler service, personalised business cards and stationery on arrival. Each of the 95 guest rooms and suites are filled with period furniture and 21st-century technology. Michael Jackson, Madonna and Sylvester Stallone have all stayed here.

Hyde Park Corner, SW1
Tel: (020) 7259 5599.
Website: www.lanesborough.com
Price: $$$$

The Ritz
Since 1906, The Ritz has been providing exemplary service to its well-heeled guests. The interior of this elegant building is fastidiously decorated in Louis XVI style with marble columns, rich fabrics and antique furniture. The rooms are furnished in soothing pastel colours and two members of staff are on hand to service each room. For business matters, a computer, printer and scanner can be arranged in room, as can secretarial support. You can take formal meals in the chandelier-filled restaurant, while the famous Ritz tea can be enjoyed in the Palm Court at 1530 or 1700, for which it is necessary to book well in advance.

150 Piccadilly, W1
Tel: (020) 7493 8181.
Website: www.theritzlondon.com
Price: $$$$

Hampstead Guest House
Escape the city bustle at this charming bed and breakfast situated in one of London's most sought-after residential areas. Just 20 minutes by Tube from central London and a short walk from beautiful Hampstead Heath, the stunning Victorian house is tucked away from a high street strewn with stylish boutiques and bistros. There are seven rooms and one self-contained apartment. The ambience is distinctly homely with eclectic, bohemian furnishings, a family dog, floor-to-ceiling bookshelves and a rambling garden.

2 Kemplay Road, NW3
Tel: (020) 7435 8679.
Website: www.hampsteadguesthouse.com
Price: $

The Soho Hotel
The Soho Hotel has quickly established itself as one of the trendiest places to stay in the capital. All 91 rooms and suites have been individually designed and are sumptuously appointed in a modern, eclectic style, with flatscreen TVs and huge, ultra-comfortable beds. The bathrooms are just as nice, all in grey granite, glass and oak. There is a private event space, and as befits a hotel located in the heart of the capital's entertainment district, not one but two private screening rooms, for the ultimate in corporate entertaining. Refuel, the hotel restaurant, serves very decent food at reasonable prices.

4 Richmond Mews, W1
Tel: (020) 7559 3000.
Website: www.sohohotel.com
Price: $$$