London's Hotel Café Royal has been named the top UK hotel in The Independent's inaugural Travel Awards, based on a survey of over 17,000 readers. The five-star hotel on Regent Street, which first opened in 1865, has welcomed notable guests such as Oscar Wilde and David Bowie. With 159 guest rooms and suites, a subterranean spa featuring an 18-metre pool, and a pastry menu crafted by renowned chef Albert Adrià, the hotel blends historic charm with modern luxury. In second place, the Blakeney Hotel in Norfolk was recognized as a popular, family-run and dog-friendly retreat. Situated on a quay with views of salt marshes, the hotel offers 60 rooms, a leisure area, and a restaurant that emphasizes local and seasonal ingredients. It is praised for its welcoming atmosphere and connection to the surrounding natural environment. The Hotel Café Royal was completely renovated and reopened in 2012 as a contemporary luxury hotel. It now includes six signature suites, an intimate two-Michelin-starred restaurant, and the Akasha Spa, which features a sauna, two marble Hammams, and a fully equipped gym. Emilee Tombs, assistant travel editor and hotels expert, noted that the hotel's historic location, elegant design, and distinguished past guests played a significant role in its success. She also highlighted its family-friendly amenities and the presence of one of the world's top pastry chefs. According to Emilee, Blakeney Hotel is a well-deserving runner-up, located in a designated National Landscape. The hotel offers individually decorated rooms, a bar, and a restaurant, along with a relaxing leisure area that includes an indoor swimming pool, steam room, sauna, and mini gym, all overlooking a sun terrace. Its blend of comfort, natural beauty, and thoughtful design makes it a strong contender in the UK hotel scene.