The Marriott Maida Vale Hotel is housed in a modern, corner building with a stone and brick façade that juts forward into Plaza Parade rather like the prow of a ship. Given its proximity to Abbey Road studios, it is frequented by a lot of music industry types and this fact is reflected in a Wall of Fame at reception, which displays autographed photographs of world famous musicians and bands. Otherwise, the lobby is soberly appointed with marble floors and wood panelling. There’s also a first floor, indoor landscaped garden to sit and relax in. The 134 spacious guestrooms feature neutral, soothing colour schemes, enhanced by occasional splashes of colour and complemented by down duvets, bolster pillows and light wood furniture. All are clean and well maintained, as are the tiled en suite bathrooms. The hotel’s Fratellis restaurant is a unique, two-tier venue serving speciality pizzas and other Italian cuisine in an open kitchen. Breakfast and lighter meals are provided at the international-style Café Maurice, where live music is also performed regularly.