One destination, three ways: London

AS far as global cities go, London is always on the move. From new openings to clandestine treasures, each visit unearths something fresh whether it’s your first or 50th time here.

London: The capital of cool that continues to evolve.

AS far as global cities go, London is always on the move. From new openings to clandestine treasures, each visit unearths something fresh whether it’s your first or 50th time here. Experience the best of the city centre, or veer slightly off the beaten track for some rewarding surprises.

MINTED

Fancy gliding through Mayfair in a vintage Daimler with a top-hatted chauffeur? Stay at The Beaumont and you can arrange exactly that. Tucked away down a side street in London’s swankiest neighbourhood, this five-star boutique bolthole is a lesser-known Art Deco gem dripping with glamour and discretion.

The Beaumont is one of the best positioned luxury hotels in London — Selfridges is just 200 metres away. From $709 per night; thebeaumont.com.

Pull on a suit by Kathryn Sargent (the first female tailor on Savile Row) and dine at the Japanese/Brazilian Sushisamba. The Willy Wonka-esque glass elevator alone is worth the $350-plus bill for two; sushisamba.com.

MID

The latest flagship from Soho House is a hip hotel, fancy food court and mall for the moneyed — all rolled into one. The Ned (thened.com) is housed in a former bank building in the heart of London, with nine restaurants nestled among 92 green marble columns and clerk counters. Even on a Monday night, it’s buzzing.

Perch on a stool at the long communal table at Asian-Pacific Kaia for delicious poke bowls, and watch emerging musicians on The Nickel Bar stage.

Afterwards head to The Rooftop, London’s newest open-air bar at The Trafalgar St James, and sightsee from your seat with panoramic city views. Cocktails from $26; trafalgarstjames.com.

MODEST

In culture-packed London, treating your senses costs nothing except time. Browse through Spitalfields, Borough and Portobello markets and stop to smell the roses (literally) at Columbia Road Flower Market.

Alternatively, keep it compact with Museum Trio in Kensington. The Victoria and Albert, National History and Science museums are all free and within a block of one another.

Find some solitary space in a park-within-a-park at the Japanese-style Kyoto Garden. This serene spot is wrapped within Holland Park and even comes with peacocks.

TRAVEL NOTES

Expect the UK to be on the radar more next year. The 17-hour Perth to London Qantas flight launches in March 2018, with connections from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane. Head to visitbritain.com for more travel inspiration.

Originally published as One destination, three ways: London