This month, GTW’s choice of the very finest hotels features a London river residence ideal for longer stays in the capital. All hotels have been tried out by us and come with our personal recommendation.

Many of the suites have their own balcony, making the most of the views

Hotel visitors needing to stay for longer than an average guest often have slightly different requirements, but expect the same level of quality and service. The Plaza on the River, a five star all-suite hotel in London, successfully meets these challenges and offers a very luxurious, highly functional, ‘better than home’ experience. Guests are more than welcome for a single night, but it almost feels like a waste not to stay for longer, so good are the facilities and suites.

The Plaza on the River has a central location on the bank of the Thames

The Plaza on the River enjoys an undeniably impressive location; situated on the south bank of the River Thames, it is opposite the Tate Britain art gallery and has inspiring views of the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben and the London Eye. Close to Waterloo rail and underground stations among others, with many of London’s key attractions easily and speedily accessible, the hotel is ideal for both business and leisure. Despite its central and convenient location however, there is a noticeable sense of calm and privacy as soon as you step into the restaurant or the lift lobby, which continues into the suites. This is surely ideal for the business traveller who needs to make London his or her home for a time, as despite the pressing needs of business, having one’s own space to relax is vital. There are 65 suites, ranging from open plan studios to three bedroom suites, with all suites having the luxury of a bathroom per bedroom.

Open lounges, kitchens and work areas don’t compromise on square feet or quality, with a genuine feeling of spaciousness and comfort; many of the larger suites have a balcony as well. State-of-the-art technology includes plasma televisions in both lounges and bedrooms, CD players, high-speed wireless internet and more. There is also a very generous amount of storage space, including wardrobes, chests of drawers, kitchen cupboards and large sideboards; there is no doubt that a family could easily make their home here for many months without feeling cramped. The kitchens are fully equipped, with high quality fridge freezers, washer dryers, hob, microwave, dishwasher and coffee machine - likely to evoke the much sought-after reaction ‘better than we have at home’!

Services at the Plaza on the River aim to be personalised and discreet. Assistance can include everything from personal shopping, expert help in selecting food and wine for a dinner party in your suite (or there is a private chef and butler service available), in-room spa treatments such as massages and facials to arranging chauffeur-driven cars. Fridges can be stocked with groceries ahead of arrival, room service is available 24 hours a day and suites are cleaned twice a day. None of the service is intrusive, however, allowing guests to genuinely enjoy ‘home away from home’ privacy. For visitors who would prefer to dine outside the suites, the Chino Latino Brasserie, Bar & Lounge on the ground floor is a modern, stylish restaurant serving an East meets West fusion menu including great seafood and sushi. They even offer an afternoon tea in the lounge, with an Eastern and modern twist taken on the British classic.

T: (0207) 7692525

E: info@plazaontheriver.co.uk

W: www.plazaontheriver.co.uk