The Zetter

Fun, affordable and much-loved Clerkenwell institution
Word to the wise: There are two hotels to choose from - the original, modernist Zetter and, nearby, the new, Georgian-style Zetter Townhouse.

Tipple of choice: Do try one of the cutting edge cocktails at the bar of the Zetter Townhouse. Inspired by historical recipes, ingredients include fig leaf and gunpowder tea tincture.
There are many boutique design hotels in London, but few have the charm of the Zetter. This patch of Clerkenwell may now be studiously cool but neither hotel nor staff take themselves seriously, and a stay here can’t fail to lift the spirits.

Décor is described as ‘quirky modern vintage’, which can be translated as ‘pretty much anything goes’. Think pink chandeliers, Union Jack-draped four posters, bright hot water bottles and Timorous Beasties wallpaper.

Technology is a feature, too - not only free broadband but music playlists are streamed through each room’s TV. Oh, and the complimentary spring water comes from the hotel’s very own borehole.