One of London's most prestigious addresses, for more than 100 years guests have been drawn back to the timeless elegance of The Cadogan, a small, luxury hotel situated just off Sloane Square. It's the perfect base for those wishing to indulge in some retail therapy in Knightsbridge or Sloane Street, or visit some of London's most famous landmarks including the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum and the Royal Albert Hall.

The history of the hotel is a fascinating one, and involves some of London society's most pivotal figures. It was here that England's future King, Edward, would liaise with close friend and famous British actress Lillie Langtry, while playwright Oscar Wilde sipped hock and awaited his arrest for gross indecency in Room 118.

A wonderfully romantic place to stay, the hotel also holds a wedding license, and beneath the stunning cornicing and ornate plasterwork, this deeply historical building is the perfect setting for a wedding, first night or honeymoon.

The atmosphere is discreet and luxurious - the feel of a private townhouse steeped with British old-world elegance. Staff are courteous and extremely welcoming and there is an emphasis on personal service. The hotel has a very intimate feel and is the perfect hideaway for couples looking to enjoy some private time together. However, families and children are also welcome and some of the rooms have two bathrooms and can accommodate a single bed.

Comfortable, chic and newly refurbished, the 65 rooms and suites tend to be spacious and include queen-sized beds. Our room featured an original Victorian fireplace, heavy curtains, paintings and a wardrobe disguised as a vintage bookshelf, as well as modern touches including a flat-screen TV with freeview channels, DVD and iPod docking station. For history buffs, there is also the Lillie Langtry Suite (room 109), the graciously appointed Edward VII Suite and of course, the Oscar Wilde signature accommodation which overlooks Cadogan Place.

Romantic and charming, Langtry's restaurant is steeped in history, having once formed part of the home of Lillie Langtry, who lived at the property from 1892 to 1897. It offers British dishes with unique, inventive flavour combinations, while the décor is elegant and sophisticated, with high ceilings, marble fireplace and stunning original chandelier. However, it's not stuffy and we found the atmosphere to be relaxed and friendly. Perrier Jouet is the preferred Champagne on the wine list - Oscar Wilde was famed for his love of the drink, and following his arrest at the hotel, he wrote to his partner asking him to settle his PJ account at the hotel.

The rooms at the back are very quiet and we enjoyed a good night's sleep in the spacious room. Breakfast in the room arrived promptly and we found the staff to be attentive and knowledgeable yet discreet. The location is also a real bonus. With only one overhead light and two bedside lamps, lighting in the room was a challenge however, and there were fewer TV channels than as stated on the room literature. The hotel lift which was originally hand-winched by the porters, is charming but tiny, and you may have to wait a while if you're staying on one of the higher floors. While the gym is small, you will probably find you have it all to yourself. Overall, a very unique and charming place to stay in one of the most prestigious areas of London.

The Cadogan Hotel, 75 Sloane Street, Knightsbridge, London SW1X 9SG. Reservations on 020 7235 7141 or visit cadogan.com