South Place Hotel, City of London

There is no part of the capital more historic than the City. You are close to the Barbican arts centre in one direction and to the hip hangouts of Shoreditch and Hoxton in the other.

The hotel is in the heart of London's financial district, a couple of minutes' from Moorgate tube station.
By car: the hotel is 4 hours from Manchester, 2 hours 30 mins from Birmingham and 7 hours from Glasgow.
By train: Liverpool Street station is 5 minutes' walk away and Kings Cross station is a 15-minute taxi ride away. thetrainline.com

From the outside, the hotel may look like a perfect venue for the city suits that populate the area. But behind its contemporary façade, you'll find two excellent restaurants, a buzzy bar, big stylish rooms and a cool, relaxed vibe - which is slightly artsy. South Place doesn't just attract corporate folk, and indeed even makes dogs and their owners feel welcome.

Service is efficient throughout - from the reception desk to the restaurant. As well as two restaurants and bars, there's a quiet guest lounge on the first floor. You'll also find sauna, steam room and gym, and for those that require them, a variety of meeting and private dining rooms.

• Bar
• Restaurant
• Terrace
• Garden
• Gym
• Spa
• Pet-friendly
• Free Wi-Fi

All rooms are comfortable, bright and spacious with floor-to-ceiling windows. Most have ensuites with baths as well as showers and come with fantastic amenities, including Smart TVs, digital radios, Nespresso machines and mini-bars.

Room types: Studio, Deluxe, Family, Luxury Garden, Junior Suite, Suite, Presidential Suite

Key amenities: ensuite bathroom with St Clement's by James Heeley toiletries, Dyson hairdryer, tea and coffee-making facilities, TV, free Wi-Fi

There's an informal brasserie on the ground floor, while at the top of building, you'll find the Michelin-starred Angler Restaurant, offering spectacular views from its glass dining room and outside terrace. We recommend the langoustine with truffle pureé and parmesan gnocchi or saddle of venison with salt-baked beetroot.

South Place Chop House: British cuisine. All-day dining, open daily. Weekend brunch.

Angler Restaurant: Michelin-starred, seafood-focused. Open Tue-Sat for lunch and dinner.