Shangri-La The Shard, London  

Perched high in The Shard above London Bridge, this luxury hotel puts you steps from Borough Market and a short walk to HMS Belfast, the Globe Theatre and Tate Modern. London Bridge station is a minute away, with river taxi and Underground links to the City, West End and financial districts.

Occupying the upper floors, the hotel offers 202 guestrooms and suites with dramatic skyline and river views. Rooms feature pillowtop beds with down comforters and Frette-style linens, minibars and LED TVs, Nespresso machines, and marble bathrooms—many with separate tubs, glass showers and heated floors.

Facilities include a heated indoor pool, sauna and full spa with massage rooms, plus a 24-hour fitness center for early morning laps or late-night training. Two bars and lounges, concierge and 24-hour room service round out the offerings—perfect for skyline cocktails or relaxed mornings with city views.

Event planners get about 2,335 sq ft of conference space with three meeting rooms, express check-in/out and business services. Complimentary wired and wireless high-speed internet keeps you connected, and a roundtrip airport shuttle and on-site parking are available for a surcharge.

An on-site restaurant specializes in Asian-inspired cuisine, plus there's a coffee shop/café, two bars and 24-hour room service for late arrivals. Buffet breakfast is offered daily for a fee, and the bars are ideal for after-theatre drinks or pre-show snacks.