Fox & Anchor, Farringdon, London

Although The Fox & Anchor is in the heart of the city, it is tucked down a side street. Nearby, you'll find plenty of coffee shops and restaurants, as well as the Museum of London and St Paul's Cathedral.

Being just five minutes from Barbican and Farringdon tube stations, much of London is just a short underground journey away.

By car: around 4 hours from Manchester and under 3 hours from Bristol. Paid parking available nearby.

By train: Farringdon station is 3 minutes' walk away. Liverpool Street station is a 15-minute taxi ride. Book trains to London.

A Victorian building retaining its characterful detailing, including the Art Nouveau tiling on the façade. In the bar area, you'll find features such as low beams, wooden panelling, leather-clad benches, romantic little alcoves and antique furniture. This contrasts with the bedrooms - modern, and colourful, with bright furnishings. Rooms have funky touches like bold wallpapers, contemporary artworks and antique telephones.

The facilities are attractive and well maintained - so you can sit back, relax and enjoy the ambience. The friendly staff and buzzing atmosphere make a stay here a real pleasure.

• Bar
• Restaurant
• Pet-friendly
• Free Wi-Fi

Six comfortable boutique bedrooms come with quirky and traditional décor, coupled with the luxury of modern technology. Facilities include Hypnos beds, flat-screen TVs with Sky+, Nespresso coffee machines, a laptop-sized safe, and a writing desk. The bathrooms have out-of-the-ordinary fittings and Green and Spring toiletries.

Room types: Room, Suite

Key amenities: ensuite bathroom with toiletries, hairdryer, Nespresso machine, TV with Sky+, free Wi-Fi

The menu includes classics such as steaks, burgers, fish and chips, vegetarian options throughout the day and Sunday roasts. The lamb shank pie with truffle mash potato and hispi cabbage was quite a treat. The breakfasts are hearty, and the brave can go for the Fox's City Breakfast - a huge and tasty spread that includes the usual full English plus liver, kidney, both black and white puddings, steak and a pint of Guinness!

The Fox & Anchor: traditional British pub. Hearty fare, locally sourced ingredients. All-day menu, open daily. Mains from £17.