Originally Posted by
You want to go where?
Tired corridors I grant you. However, dated furnishings can be antique furnishings. New is not always better. This is a general statement. I have never been to the Carlyle so can't say whether dated means tatty, or that you have a preference for very current design.
I liked what they did in the lobby and the bar at the Carlyle, but thought the corridors were appalling, and no, I did not come across any collectible antiques there either - it was just tatty. I like both traditional and contemporary, but whatever the style, the hotel should work on every level and should, most importantly, be really comfortable (especially the beds).
The Goring is very well thought of in England and it is, compared to most independently owned hotels, very well run, but it is not in the high-end league, and I am sure they would agree with that.
If the OP wants quintessential England/London then The Fox & Anchor, seriously, is a good choice.
http://www.foxandanchor.com
Another quirky option is Flemings in Mayfair -
http://www.flemings-mayfair.co.uk/