Review of Dukes, by Nadia Latif

Dukes Hotel is a mere stroll away from Piccadilly Circus, just around the corner from its famous neighbours, The Ritz and The Wolsley. Surroundings-wise, it couldn't be more different than this flashy twosome. Near-miraculously tucked away on a small cul-de-sac, this hotel is both quiet and refined, a little haven of sophisticated Englishness.

By far the easiest place to start is the infamous Dukes Bar, the place where Ian Fleming got inspiration for Bond's tipple of choice. It has the feel of a gentleman's club, with sexy blue velvet seating huddled around dark-wood furnishings. The martinis themselves are made at each individual table, and it certainly isn't libellous to say that they pack the strongest punch in London.

The Dining Room restaurant offers traditional British fare, with a homely feel. The desserts are unashamedly classic - even knickerbocker glories makes a welcome appearance. And if this wasn't enough to take you right back to your school days (or Enid Blyton's, at least), those in the know rave about the afternoon tea, served in the pretty, floral surroundings of the Drawing Room.

There's also a health club, which is quite a bonus for a medium-sized luxury hotel. A well-equipped gym, Italian marble steam room and various therapeutic and beauty treatments are also on offer here. As an added bonus, access to the health club is complimentary to all hotel guests.

The 90 rooms carry the same understated decor as the communal areas. Top-of-the-range technology is cleverly hidden, so as not to distract from the traditional atmosphere. Flat-screen televisions, individually-controlled air conditioning and WIFI (which does carry an additional charge) appear in every room, while DVD players and iPod speakers are available on request. Bathrooms are marble throughout, and their size reflects the spaciousness of the bedrooms.