The Hoxton, Shoreditch, London

Shoreditch is a great part of London to base yourself in, and you're within walking distance of Brick Lane and Spitalfields. The area comes alive at night and it's not too far to stagger back to the hotel from one of the district's many bars and restaurants.

Close to Old Street tube and Shoreditch High Street overground stations, you can get just about anywhere in London very easily.

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

By train: Old Street tube station is a 3-minute walk. Liverpool Street is a 5-minute taxi ride. Book trains to London.

This Hoxton was (and still is) the prototype for the hotel chain's signature cool comfort and style. The location means it's very much the biggest party venue of their London hotels - the bar is busy most nights of the week, and at weekends there's a DJ.

As with other Hoxton hotels, the service is low-key and relaxed but always attentive. Facilities include the lobby bar and Hoxton Grill diner, another restaurant on the rooftop and The Apartment - a slick set of meeting rooms and private dining spaces.

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

Rooms are spread over six floors and there's not a huge amount to choose from between room sizes. As with the other Hoxtons, they all have the same amenities. The bathrooms are good sizes, with walk-in showers and the Hoxton's signature Blank toiletries.

Room types: Shoebox, Cosy, Roomy, Biggy, Concept

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

There's a choice when it comes to food - the Mexican Maya restaurant on the top floor or the casual Hoxton Grill on the ground floor, whose Mac 'n' Cheese is the stuff of legend. The lobby's coffee bar transforms at night.

Hoxton Grill: American diner, comfort food. All-day menu, open daily.

Maya: rooftop restuarant, Mexican cuisine. Open daily for lunch and dinner.