Portobello Hotel

Don’t be fooled by its location on a peaceful street facing one of London’s loveliest gardens—this Neoclassical mansion hotel may feel more like a posh home than a hotel, but its hassle-free ambience draws an eclectic smattering of musicians, models, poets, writers, and actors. (Gwyneth Paltrow, Natalie Portman, U2, Naomi Campbell, and the White Stripes have all stayed here; Johnny Depp and Kate Moss once filled their bath with bubbly, only to have a chambermaid pull the plug on it while they were out.) Expect seventies Marrakesh madness meets faded country-house glamour: antique beds from Rajasthan bedeck the guest rooms (one features a round sleeper that pop star Robbie Williams attempted to buy from the owners), and Victorian claw-foot tubs anchor the bathrooms. There’s no restaurant, but 24-hour room service and Julie’s, the hotel’s co-owned nearby eatery, will keep you sated; the latter gives hotel guests a 10 percent discount.

Insider Tip: During your stay, take advantage of complimentary evening membership at the Cobden Club—an exclusive, members-only restaurant and lounge on Kensal Road.

Room to Book: The one hotel apartment provides a full kitchen and separate dining room, plus a charming working fireplace.