I quite like Browns as it has such a good location, but the finish in the bathrooms leaves much to be desired and service is very up and down. The restaurant is good sometimes (traditional British cuisine with guéridon service) but I cannot say it is a great hotel.

I think that the Stafford works well for US guests because they tip so well! Porters and doormen rush around for US visitors, but tend to ignore the Europeans - or at least that is my experience. The service is amateurish, especially when you compare it to Four Seasons.

I don't think there are any good Grandes Dames in London now that FS is closed. I would stay at one of the Firmdale properties, where the food is very good - not pretentious or gourmet, but fresh seasonal produce and very good cooking in a brasserie style. My favourites are Covent Garden Hotel and Charlotte Street Hotel. If you are on a budget and think you will eat out all the time, then Knightsbridge Hotel is excellent value - no restaurant by good 24-hour room service and really lovely rooms and public areas.