The Academy Hotel, London

Explore the vibrant, regenerated King's Cross area or head south to enjoy the endless shopping possibilities of Oxford Street. The Academy is in the heart of literary Bloomsbury too - the British Library and British Museum are close by, as is the Petrie Museum of Egyptian Archaeology.

In a great position on Gower Street, three Tube stations lie within easy walking distance.

By car: around 4 hours from Manchester, 2 hours 30 minutes from Birmingham and 7 hours from Glasgow. Paid parking available nearby.

By train: Goodge Street and Russell Square tube stations are both 5 minutes' walk away. King's Cross and Euston stations are 15 minutes by taxi. Book trains to London.

The hotel comprises five houses dating back to the 1700s, and it reflects both past and present, with a five-star look created by New York-based designer Alexandra Champalimaud. The dark green-walled Refectory and the Library, with its monkey wallpaper, are both comfortable spaces. We also love the funky Alchemy Bar.

Service is friendly and unobtrusive. While there is no gym or spa, for instance, the 24-hour concierge can recommend numerous activities and walks in the area. Book lovers will enjoy the Book of the Month, available on the Academy Kindle.

• Café
• Bar
• Terrace
• Garden
• Family-friendly
• Free Wi-Fi

Rooms range from singles to suites and are attractively designed, with muted colours and geometric wallpaper. Triple-glazed windows ensure they are quiet from outside noise. The beds are super comfortable, and there are Nespresso machines in every room.

Room types: Townhouse Single, Townhouse King, Bloomsbury Twin, Bloomsbury King, Bloomsbury Suite

Key amenities: marble ensuite with Aromatherapy Associates toiletries, TV, tea and coffee-making facilities, free Wi-Fi

There is no formal restaurant, but breakfast is served in the downstairs Refectory - expect continental options such as fruit salad, charcuterie, pancakes and pastries. Mr Ma's Afternoon tea (traditional English tea with an Asian twist) is indulgent and rather special. A 'Refuel' menu can be taken in the Refectory, Library or your room.

The Refectory: breakfast, Asian and British-inspired afternoon tea, light lunches. Afternoon tea served daily 12-6pm. From £25 per person.

The Alchemy Bar: bespoke cocktails, speciality gins, wines, champagne.