London's Most Anticipated Hotel at The Shard Announces Opening Date

One of London's most luxurious hotels has announced it will open for business in May after a series of setbacks delayed its opening.

The Shangri-La, which will occupy levels 34 to 52 at The Shard skyscraper and open on May 6, has been beset by delays and even though it opens in spring, it won't be until September that all its 202 rooms are ready.

Guests will be guaranteed the best views of London, Surrey, Sussex and Kent from rooms costing between £450 and £3,250 a night and feature floor- to-ceiling windows.

Being housed in Western Europe's tallest structure already sets the hotel's facilities apart from competitors.

For example, it's Gong bar, which will be on the 52nd floor, will be London's highest.

The same floor will also house the hotel's 24-hour gym and an infinity pool which, obviously, will be the highest in the capital.

But the jewel in the crown of Shangri-La Hotel will be the 232-square metre Shangri-La suite.

The one-bedroom suite comes with en-suite bathroom and dressing room, separate living room with dining area, office space, guest washroom and kitchenette and floor-to-ceiling windows provide 180-degree views of London, spanning from the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey, right across to Canary Wharf, Maritime Greenwich and the O2 Arena.

Five of London's most famous hotels

The Savoy, Strand - Reopened in 2010 after a £220m refurbishment, guests at the Savoy have included include Frank Sinatra and Katharine Hepburn. Known for its combination of English Edwardian appeal and Art Deco features, the hotel is also famed for its American Bar.

The Dorchester, Park Lane - Arguably the capital's most celebrated hotels. Positioned near Hyde Park, The Dorchester has oriental restaurant China Tang and three Michelin-starred Alain Ducasse.

Bulgari hotel, Knightsbridge - Known for being one of the most stylish hotels in London. Since opening in 2012 the Bulgari has set high standards among the luxury hotels of the capital, treating guests to Bulgari toiletries, naturally.

The Ritz, Piccadilly - The Ritz dates all the way back to 1909 and has done its best to retain its original features. Guests often visit the hotel for afternoon tea, but there is much more to the London stalwart than its bone china and cupcakes.

St Pancras Renaissance, Kings Cross - The gothic hotel was reopened in 2011 after £150 million was ploughed into restoring it. Built in 1873 by Sir Gilbert Scott, the hotel is perfectly placed for anyone travelling by Eurostar.