The Leonard ★★☆

The Leonard links four 18C Marlyebone townhouses for a British atmosphere with an Imperial touch

The Leonard offers subtle reminders of the glory days of the old British Empire: Furnishings in public areas are often of Indian origin or inspiration and the air is lightly scented with exotic spices, a decor carried over into many guest rooms, especially the excellent Grand Suites.

These have high stuccoed ceilings towering above the enormous rooms with tall windows opening onto balconies (romantics: no. 15 even has a four-poster bed).

Two-bedroom suites are like renting your own posh little London pad, with a marble fireplace, large sitting/dining rooms, and a small (but full) kitchen, all fitted with oil paintings and old fashioned settees mixed with antique or post-modern furnishings.

Even the simple doubles are elegant (though some can verge on cramped)—the best of these is largish no. 27, with its canopied bed.

Many rooms in each category come with a butler's pantry or small (but full) kitchen.

There's also a tiny exercise room, plus 24-hour concierge and room service.

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