The Rookery, Farringdon, London

The Rookery is the perfect spot for either business or leisure - with the financial district to the east and London's creative quarters to the west. St Paul's Cathedral is a ten-minute walk south, and visit Postman's Park, where memorials to local heroes make for a fascinating diversion.

One of the oldest buildings on Peter's Lane in Clerkenwell, The Rookery is close to Farringdon Station, offering easy access to the Elizabeth Line and Thameslink trains.

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

By train: Farringdon station is a 2-minute walk away. Liverpool Street station is a 15-minute taxi ride. Book trains to London.

Established in 1764, The Rookery is one of the oldest houses in this area of London. The period charm flows throughout its corridors and cosy lounges - with touches including antique rugs, handmade dark wooden furniture, plush armchairs, regal marble busts and original oil paintings.

The hotel retains a relaxed, casual vibe - thanks largely to its honesty bar, where you can help yourself to drinks. There are lovely lounge areas, perfect for sitting and relaxing with a book from the library. Due to its size, there aren't many other facilities.

• Lounge
• Honesty bar
• Garden
• Free Wi-Fi

Rooms are individually-styled, but all are equally handsome with wooden four-poster beds. Antiques abound, with marble statues, sepia-toned spinning globes and gold-framed paintings hanging on the walls. Mod-cons like speakers and televisions are subtly hidden away.

Room types: Club Double, Superior Double, Junior Suite, The Rook's Nest

Key amenities: ensuite bathroom with toiletries, mini-bar, safe, flat-screen TV, free Wi-Fi

The Rookery doesn't have a restaurant or bar but there is an in-room dining menu. Breakfast can be ordered to the room, or taken in one of the public areas. The smoked salmon bagel from the famous Beigel Bake shop on Brick Lane nearby was a great touch at breakfast. At the fabulous honesty bar, help yourself to gins, whiskey, wine and beer and write down your order on the pads provided.

Breakfast room: served daily in the conservatory, or can be delivered in-room. Options include pastries, granola, bacon sandwiches and smoked salmon bagels.