The Spa at Claridge's

"View the entire 2011 Gold List of the world's best places to stay › Also appeared in the Gold List in 2010, 2009, 2008, 2007, 2006, 2005 Amenities: Spa"

"Guest rooms are soothing and suave, and spacious bathrooms have enormous showerheads"

"Other assets include an elegant restaurant serving upscale British cuisine and a traditional afternoon tea; two stylish bars, Claridge’s and The Fumoir (the latter with a Lalique glass-paneled door); and a top-floor health club and spa with city views"

"The spa is a haven on the top floor, with Sisley facials and a well-equipped gym"

"Deluxe perks include twice-daily housekeeping and laundry service, turndown, complimentary shoeshine and daily newspapers"

"The building dates to 1894 (when Gilbert & Sullivan’s producer rebuilt it), but modern amenities are installed among the gilded plasterwork and (non-working) fireplaces, the fitness center and spa are huge and up-to-date, and neither floorboards nor exacting staff grumbles upon your approach"