Where to stay

Boasting international chains and characterful independent establishments, London has a place to stay for everyone. A classic is The Beaumont Hotel, which capitalises on the Art Deco beauty of its 1926 building with sleek dark wood panelling and cognac-coloured leather upholstery.

Enjoy a sophisticated splash in the heated rooftop pool at The Berkeley Hotel while taking in views of Knightsbridge. Glasses of icy granita, plush loungers and parasols make for an experience befitting a five-star stay. If East London is your base for meetings during the day, The Mondrian Shoreditch offers cool, contemporary lodgings within convenient travelling distance.

Presiding 125m over South London in the city’s tallest skyscraper is the Shangri-La The Shard. Views from the hotel’s 185 rooms and suites are an obvious highlight, but guests can also enjoy East Asian-influenced dishes and drinks at Tīng Restaurant and Gŏng Bar, the latter designed by Hong Kong interior architect André Fu.

What to say

London has a lively after-work drinks culture. Office workers can be seen gathering in crowds outside the city’s many pubs from 5pm onwards. Break the ice by asking which local pub pours the best pint and prepare for an ensuing debate.