Review: The Jumeirah Lowndes Hotel, London

In a city not renowned for great service in its hospitality sector this is a welcome treat for guests who expect the best.

The intimate 87-room Lowndes Hotel could not be more different from the Jumeirah's Burj Al Arab, the tallest free-standing hotel in the world.

This bijoux property has been finely styled by British designers Hunt Hamilton Zuch into a haven of minimalist chic likely to appeal to the Knightsbridge fashion set.

The rooms are tastefully furnished with the accent on maximising the use of light and space. The most modern amenities include an iPod clock radio, LCD TVs and high speed internet access.

Try one of the four one-bedroom Executive Suites on the sixth floor for your own balcony with a view over the roof tops of Knightsbridge; and ask for a corner suite to get the largest bathroom.

Top class restaurants

On the ground floor the Mimosa bar and restaurant is open all hours, with a terrace for al fresco meals. The theme of the restaurant is Mediterranean and its welcoming white interior complements the high standard of the food and wine.

Guests can also visit the restaurants and bars of the Jumeirah Carlton Tower, which is a very short walk away, and particularly recommended is the new Gilt champagne and cocktail bar tucked inside the entrance.

In order to work of the inevitable self-indulgence the Carlton also offers an excellent gym, spa and swimming pool with a fine view down over the gardens of Cadogan Square where there are also tennis courts for the use of guests.

Similarly, guests from the Lowndes have access to the business centre, and any service charges can be made to a single account from either hotel.

Occupancy stood at 87% when AME Info visited in late July, somewhat better than hotels in Dubai where a very hot summer and the rising cost of airfares has left occupancy down around 15% on last summer.

Apparently guests at the London Jumeirah properties are viewing less videos and taking up the happy hour offer of 30% off mini-bar prices after 9pm, but otherwise the global economic slowdown is having little effect.

Certainly the Dubai number plates in this part of London are a reminder of the popularity of Knightsbridge at this time of year with visitors from the Middle East.

AME Info found the newly refurbished Jumeirah Lowndes a credit to the group with its calm and uncluttered interior complemented by friendly and attentive staff. Other hotel groups could learn from a stay.