Run by four generations of the same family since 1910, the Goring Hotel is a somewhat historic property, being the first in the world to have central heating and a private bathroom in every guestroom. The interior retains a pleasingly Edwardian feel and the whole property offers the residential atmosphere of an English country house. The medium sized lobby is quite modest in appearance, with an attractively tiled floor, a dark wood reception desk and a pale yellow colour scheme. The 71 air conditioned guestrooms are sumptuously decorated – most frequently in traditional Queen Anne and Chippendale styles – and are furnished to the highest standard. All are clean and well maintained, as are the luxurious, refurbished bathrooms with extra-long tubs, red marble walls, dual pedestal basins, bidets, deluxe toiletries and power showers. Newly refurbished by Linley, the celebrated furniture maker, the Dining Room is one of the most famous hotel restaurants in London, offering superbly cooked British food. The Garden Bar consists of three interconnecting rooms, overlooking Goring Gardens, which provide different environments for breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and evening suppers. These lead in turn to a light, airy terrace. There’s also a wood-panelled drawing room, where fires crackle in the ornate fireplaces on nippy evenings.