BEST FOR UPTOWN CHIC THE LOWELL

After a day battling the Christmas shoppers, beat a retreat to this haven of Upper East Side elegance. Just to set foot in the Lowell’s lobby, with its discreet, attentive staff, marble floors and bouquets of blooms scenting the air, is to feel oneself ushered into the elegant era of Edith Wharton. My bedroom came with the rare luxury, especially in this city, of an open fire; other suites offer four-poster beds, curated libraries and spacious terraces. Restore yourself with afternoon tea and something from the ‘haute chocolate’ menu in the Pembroke Room; sip a well-made martini in an armchair in the cosy Club Room, or dine on Moroccan-influenced cuisine at the stylish Majorelle restaurant. lydia slater

The Lowell, from about £455 a room a night (www.lowellhotel.com).