First impressions: Wow! An 1840s townhouse that is now one of the funkiest hotels in London — popular with the glam fashion and rock‘n’roll set. Rich, vibrant colours, lavish textures and exotic artefacts catch the eye in reception, which feels a bit like a Moroccan boudoir.

Why it’s special: each room is themed — Casablanca Nights is an Art Deco-inspired Moorish fantasy, while the newly opened Cosmic Girl offers a retro-minimalist experience, and other new rooms are planned. The owners, Danny and Noshi Karne, a brother and sister team, have bought the next building but one and want to expand the hotel there.

Hitting the sack: although all 30 rooms have outlandish interiors and quirky eccentricities, the essentials are all there, such as en suite facilities and satellite television. Other themes include: Diamonds are Forever, Highland Fling, Better Red than Dead and White Days, Soul Nights (Naomi Campbell’s favourite).

Sampling the fare: basic snacks available through room service. Alternatively, Lebanese, Italian and Cuban restaurants are around the corner.

Star quality: the rooms are a big hit with music and fashion gurus and are often used as a backdrop for music videos and photo shoots. Naomi Campbell, Helena Bonham Carter and Leonardo DiCaprio have all stayed.

Added attractions: shopping on Oxford Street is a short walk away.

Access all areas: not suitable for wheelchair users.

Bottom line: B&B doubles from £100.

What we think: quirky and dazzling.

Need to know: The Pavilion Hotel, 34-36 Sussex Gardens, London W2 (020-7262 0905, www.msi.com.mt/pavilion ).

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