Lisa Cook finds a small oasis of luxury in the midst of the hustle and bustle of London's West End.

Most of us only ever feel the call to the capital for two things - shopping and entertainment.

Getting there is easy enough; GNER to King's Cross by train in about two hours is straightforward and usually stress free. The real poser is what hotel to head for once you get there.

There is always the risk that the hotel you book on the Internet turns out to be a flea pit in a part of London that's so rough the taxi driver won't dare come to a complete stop when he drops you off.

So let me give a tip - try Dukes Hotel.

It's best described as the calm in the eye of the storm that you came for.

At just a five minutes' walk from the buzz of Regent Street, Oxford Street, Jermyn Street, Leicester Square and Theatreland, you'll find everything you're in London for is on your doorstep.

But the best part is that Dukes Hotel is tucked away in a quiet, private courtyard, so you feel like you've escaped to a little haven of peace and serenity when you stagger back with your shopping bags.

It is this year's "London Luxury Hotel of the Year" - as voted for by the Good Hotel Guide.

The individually-decorated rooms are comfy but not designer chic.

They are filled with period furniture and art, together with the requirements of modern living - satellite TV, air-conditioning and modems.

There's a gym, lounge and breakfast room but, best of all, a Dukes Bar where legendary barman Tony Micelotta will make you a Martini in some style and leave you feeling London was well worth the effort.

And if that's not enough after your shopping and entertainment frenzy, why not unwind with a relaxing massage in the health club before heading back on the train?

Fact file:

Single rooms from £198 and doubles from £235. Contact the hotel on 0207 491 4840 or visit the website www.dukeshotel.com

Updated: 08:55 Saturday, February 12, 2005