The Lobby Bar at one Aldwych Hotel

Flooded by natural light, this majestic marble-pillared space, decorated with striking sculptures & outsize floral arrangements, is more akin to a chic art gallery than a hotel bar. Discreetly grouped seating & seamlessly unobtrusive service is just right, whether brokering deals or bitching about the office bitch. Top-drawer cocktails at around £10 are rotated to reflect the seasons, but a Thai Martini (ginger-infused Stolichnaya, coriander, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaf, Angostura & ginger syrup) works whatever the weather. Serving everything from continental breakfast to sushi & feather-light cakes to deep-fried Camembert, the Lobby Bar is much more than just a dramatic setting for pre-theatre drinks.