The Hoxton, Holborn, London

This is a terrific location if you want to be close to what central London has to offer. Most places can be reached by foot, but it's also well connected public-transport-wise. You'll come across something interesting whichever direction you choose to walk in.

On the edge of Covent Garden, The Hoxton is close to Holborn tube station, Oxford Street and Soho.

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

By train: Holborn tube station is a 2-minute walk away. London Euston is a 10-minute taxi ride. Book trains to London.

The hotel occupies a former British Telecom office building and despite having 220 rooms, it feels much more boutique than it is. Like the rest of the group, the signature lobby is made for food, drink and chat, while the reception is tucked away almost out of sight at the back.

Facilities include two restaurants and bars on the ground floor and in the basement, as well as private dining spaces and meeting rooms, for those that require them. Some of them are even large enough to host a small wedding. The hotel has a 24-hour reception and room service.

• Bar
• Restaurant
• Coffee house
• Free bicycles
• Pet-friendly
• Free Wi-Fi

As with all the Hoxton hotels, room categories range from the smallest 'Shoebox' to the up-to-30-square metre 'Biggy'. All rooms are comfortable and have the same amenities, while the look and feel is stripped back, with spacious black-tiled bathrooms with walk-in showers.

Room types: Shoebox, Snug, Cosy, Cosy Up, Roomy, Biggy

Key amenities: ensuite bathroom with toiletries, hairdryer, tea and coffee-making facilites, TV, radio, mini fridge, free Wi-Fi

The hotel has two bars in the lobby and two restaurants on the ground floor. The basement Rondo Le Cave specialises in natural wines and trials new restaurant concepts - expect to find anything from Peruvian cuisine to gourmet pizzas. Rondo on the ground floor serves a Modern British menu. We loved the Swaledale lamb with crispy polenta and puy lentils.

Rondo: Bistro restaurant, British cuisine. All-day menu, open daily. Main dishes from £15.