Hotel of the week

The Dilly, London WHERE AND WHY:

In the heart of Piccadilly, just a stone’s throw from the shops of Oxford Street, Regent Street and Bond Street, this heritage hotel has been welcoming guests since 1908 when it opened as The Piccadilly Hotel.

After recent renovations and a rebrand the grand Edwardian building 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 pre-dinner drink, The Balcony, overlooking the lobby, is the place to be. It’s also where we heard the sound of the ceremonial Edwardian gong signalling the change from day to night.

Dinner at award-winning 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. And the sunset paradise mocktail is a must. Starters cost from £9, mains from £11, and desserts from £6.

The Terrace, with its elegant arches and slanted glass ceiling, was where we enjoyed a fantastic buffet breakfast of fruit, hot dishes, smoked salmon, olives, cheeses, yogurts and pastries. It also offers a Peter Rabbit-themed tea in the afternoons.

WHILE YOU’RE THERE:

Strictly fans can book a smooth, latin or ballroom dance class at The Dilly’s own in-house dance studio.

Or take a dip in the pool, one of the largest in London, 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-the-scenes peek at the Floris’ flagship store in Jermyn Street.

WAKE UP CALL:

Doubles from £320 a night, room only. thedillylondon.com