Review of Radisson Edwardian Hampshire , by Isabel Clift

Standing bang on Leicester Square, the Radisson Edwardian Hampshire has plenty of the expected buzz and bustle, as well as refined interiors befitting its 5 star status. Recent renovations have somewhat diluted the hotel's 'Edwardian' character, leaving a chic mix of standout antique pieces and new-style Thai and Japanese-influenced design.

The facilities

Tables from the ground floor bar and restaurant spill out onto the Square, making it great for fine-weather drinking and dining. Inside, the restaurant is cool and dark with mahogany-panelled walls and high-backed maroon velvet chairs. It's a sophisticated space for sampling the Modern British menu, whilst various artworks bring the Asian influence to the fore. More opulent Eastern styling is found to one side of the bar, which can be sectioned off for private parties.

The Hampshire's dedicated subterranean conference area is much-used by business clientele. 4 mid-sized conference rooms are kitted out with up-to-date AV equipment and glass tables, while dark walls are countered by natural light-imitating lighting. On the top floor, the Penthouse Boardroom takes in picture-postcard views of London and boasts the largest meeting space. An Edwardian grandfather clock, ornate gold-framed mirrors and modern Thai art add quirk to the business area's contemporary design.

The rooms

127 guestrooms are of varying shapes and sizes, as expected with a listed building. Standard rooms are still comfy and livable, with queen sized beds and ornate Thai desks and wardrobes. All rooms have LCD TVs as well as a mix of contemporary and traditional Asian furniture. Rooms also have authentic Thai artwork on the walls, and doorways are painted with delicate flower motifs. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout.

Junior Suites are in prime position for viewing red-carpet premieres outside the neighbouring Odeon cinema. They also boast generously sized interiors complete with boxy sofas and armchairs, plus spacious bathrooms with deep tubs. Design va-va-voom comes in the form of king sized beds with dramatic tan croc-effect wall panels for headboards.