AN INSPECTOR CALLS

He pays his way... and tells it like it is

IT’S tempting to suggest that Lime Tree is one of London’s great little secrets — except that this exceptional hotel in Belgravia has been going about its business for more than 30 years.

Now it’s run by Matt and Charlotte Goodsall, who bought out Charlotte’s parents some years ago and then, during the first lockdown, gave the double-fronted Georgian townhouse a complete revamp.

There are 27 rooms. Seven are singles, costing £120 a night, something of a bargain in this part of town and ideal for anyone popping up from the shires.

Indeed, there’s a private country house feel to Lime Tree: plush sofas, bright cushions, pretty walled garden with its own potting shed, original art, muted colours throughout. All that’s missing is a golden retriever stretched out in front of the fire in reception.

My single room is small, but pretty: tongue-and-groove panelling, a framed picture listing different breeds of cattle, sumptuous pillows and duvet. The bed just fits at the end of the room under the window, with views of Elizabeth Street, which looks wonderfully festive.

The bathroom is teeny-weeny. Wash your face and you end up giving your feet a proper soaking. And I’m surprised how small the towels are.

A new addition is The Buttery on the ground floor, where residents are given a 10 per cent discount. It’s open for breakfast and throughout the day, but not for dinner. My toasted bacon butty is the best ever.

I get talking to Matt. He says that when his parents-in-law were in charge, Lime Tree was popular with Americans and that bookings from across the pond are looking good for next year. But I suspect the domestic market will be strong too, as word spreads. It deserves to do well.

Lime Tree Hotel 135-137 Ebury Street

London SW1W 9QU 020 7730 8191, limetreehotel.co.uk Singles from £115 and doubles from £165

hhhhi