It’s hard to know what to call 51 Buckingham Gate – it’s not like a normal hotel, but then “service apartments” doesn't do it justice, and “all-suite hotel” sounds a bit Floridian.

The property has 86 suites/apartments that have up to five bedrooms plus kitchen, living room and bathrooms. It offers the amenities of a hotel – room service, toiletries, lounge, concierge and so on, but the flexibility to cook your own meals, drink your own wine and watch your own DVDs.

The highlight is the entrance – day or night the hotel’s serene courtyard offers a retreat from the bustle of Victoria Street and nearby Victoria Station. There’s trickling fountains, neat box hedges and attractive red brick facades on three sides, with a spectacular arched entrance to the street.

The hotel is part of the Taj group and this shows from the outset – fresh elaborate flower displays in the lobby and a tray bearing a jogger’s map, towels and bottles of water for runners in the porch. There’s also the exemplary service – I was checked in while seated in my suite, drink in hand, and my butler, Joy Joby, gave me his card should I need anything further.

St James's Hotel & Club, Mayfair, SW1

A Victorian townhouse with exquisite decor and central Green Park location

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He referred to me by name for the rest of the stay and brought me a DVD, tea and advice on the local area. This was personal service with just the right balance of goodwill without imposition.

My one-bedroom apartment was spacious, with a full kitchen and lounge with dining area for up to six people. The air conditioning was blissfully quiet and the positioning on the seventh floor meant traffic noise was minimal, so I slept soundly.

The décor is what you’d expect from a luxury boutique hotel – neutral tones, smooth wood and marble textures, and striking modern art and photography.

The bathroom was my favourite part. Although it was a bit on the chilly side I loved the Molton Brown toiletries, huge free-standing bath and powerful rain-soak shower with side sprays that would wake even the most sluggish morning riser.

The suite had wireless internet (£14.99/24 hours), plus internet access through the TV, which also had a movie and radio menu, in addition to the hotel’s extensive DVD library. There was free bottled water plus iron and board, safe, trouser press, walk-in wardrobe, hairdryer and minibar.

Food was another highlight – its sister property, the Crowne Plaza London St James next door provides a host of options including Bistro 51 for modern European food, Bank for modern British food and the Michelin-starred Quilon restaurant, which serves Keralan cuisine.

I had breakfast in The Library, the lounge and bar for residents of 51 (£19.50 continental, £24 Full English, served 7am-10:30am or 11.30am at the weekend). The walls are adorned with books and more photography, there’s comfy banquette seating and in winter the soft lighting and open fire create a warm atmosphere.

The breakfast spread was impressive, and lots of it organic and homemade. I had a freshly squeezed orange juice, fresh fruit with yoghurt and porridge, plus a dip into the breadbasket, which included delicious wholemeal croissants, something I’ve not seen before.

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