Along with the Dorchester and the Ritz, this is London's great landmark hotel - built in 1889 on the edge of Covent Garden, with a magnificent view of the Thames. A grand and imposing neo-classical façade gives way to deco rooms with fabulous gilt mirrors, Queen Anne chairs and Victorian sofas - fit for all the Presidents and Kings who have stayed here. Views from the river-front side include Big Ben, the Tate Modern, Houses of Parliament and the London Eye. The health club is said to be one of the best in town too but we spent too much time in the Michelin starred Savoy Grill - with the inspired cuisine of chef Marcus Wareing - to find out.