The Rookery

A romantic retreat in historic Smithfields
Talk of the town: A ‘rookery’ was an 18th century nickname for a slum – an evocative but misleading name for this classy place.

Word to the wise: If you like the Georgian character of the Rookery but want to be based in the West End, check out its equally lovely sister hotel, Hazlitt’s.
Occupying a trio of Georgian houses opposite Smithfield meat market, The Rookery wears its past on its sleeve. Each of the 33 bedrooms has panelled walls, creaky wooden floorboards and antique furniture, and even the bathroom fittings are Victorian (but don’t fear, the water pressure is up to contemporary standards).

Modernity is also discreetly present in the form of free wi-fi, flat screen TVs, and good double-glazing – you’d never know that one of London’s most popular clubs, Fabric, is a few doors down. There’s no restaurant, but tons of great places to eat nearby. We recommend the buzzy Hix Oyster and Chop House.