HOTEL OF THE WEEK

the dilly Central London

where and why: In the heart of Piccadilly, close to the shops of Oxford Street, Regent Street and Bond Street, the hotel opened as The Piccadilly in 1908. After renovations and a rebrand the hotel has a new name, but has retained period features such as the rich oak panelling and picture windows.

Our contemporary room had a stunningly large bathroom with toiletries by Floris, and treats of fudge and chocolates made us feel welcome.

On The Menu: For a predinner drink, The Balcony, overlooking the lobby, is the place to be. Dinner at awardwinning Madhu’s in the hotel’s Grade Ii-listed Oak Room was a gourmet delight.

We kicked off with starters of chilli and garlic prawns and palak patta chaat, followed by masaledar kuku (Madhu’s signature chicken dish) and boozi bafu (spring lamb chop on the bone) for mains. We rounded things off with carroty gajar ka halwa served with ice cream and biscuits topped with petals. Starters from £9, mains from £11, and desserts from £6.

The Terrace, inset, with its elegant arches and slanted glass ceiling, was where we enjoyed a fantastic buffet breakfast and there’s a Peter Rabbit-themed tea in the afternoons. while you’re There: Strictly fans can book a latin, smooth, or ballroom dance class at The Dilly’s in-house dance studio. Or take a dip in the pool, one of London’s largest, and there’s also a wellness centre if you fancy a facial or massage treatment.

Hotel bikes are on hand for hire for a spot of exploring. There are also weekly walking tours including a behind-thescenes peek at the Floris’ flagship store in Jermyn Street. wake UP CALL: Doubles from £320 a night, room only, thedillylondon.com