The hotel’s showpiece restaurant is W/A, an elegant French bistro with marigold velvet sofas and chic wall art. The food is Gallic-inspired with an Asian twist: the very rich seafood bouillabaisse is served with black sesame, fried crab and lobster nuggets, while the seared scallops are paired with burnt bacon and pear juice. Go for the peppered côte du boeuf from the grill if you fancy something simple and delicious. For desserts, the lemon secret – a citrus tart with meringue and cactus sorbet – is not to be missed, and pairs especially well with the Château Thénac dessert wine. 

ESQ bar is an attractive space from which to enjoy a nightcap. The drinks menu, inspired by various crazes and fads in Victorian times, is on the light and sugary side. Try the Clock O’59, made from sloe gin and dry gin. A simple menu of light bites is also available. 

Botanica, a pretty lounge with plants hanging from the ceiling, serves a floral-inspired afternoon tea menu. The sweet treats are laid out on chocolate 'soil', and paired with a selection of fine teas from Whittard. At £35 per person, it's good value for a hotel tea in this part of town. Also worth a try are the special botanical-themed cocktails, especially the mango and bergamot tea gin martini.

The buffet breakfast includes a plentiful spread of homemade granola, yogurts, mueslis, meats and cheeses, sliders and baked goods. There are à la carte options available; try the William Alexander omelette, made with herbes de Provence, mushrooms and leeks.