Jolly Hotel Lotti by Jamie Dunford Wood

Currently going through an extensive renovation, the 167 room Lotti could become a useful central hotel of character once again. It's in a great position, between the Ritz and the Intercontinental, and has a small hotel feel that is lacking in its prestigious neighbours. By reception, there's a small winter garden style lounge/bar with polished travertine floor.

The older rooms are more traditional, and have some character, though they are scuffed and worn. If you can handle this, all the bathrooms have been renovated. The newer rooms try to be original in design though will not please everyone - with odd fabric bedheads, good wooden floors, blond wood furniture, striped fabric walls and yellow/brown/beige colorways. However, they are now supremly comfortable, and some have separate showers. Rates are good for this position.