The Rookery

An imaginatively restored trio of Georgian buildings, just north of The City, with antique-furnished, wood-panelled bedrooms

How times have changed in Clerkenwell. The 'rookery' is an old nickname for the thief-and- whore-filled slums which thrived here in the 18th century. Now it's a trendy mix of Georgian townhouses and bustling offices, medieval lanes and smart restaurants, historic churches and funky nightclubs, with this buzzing hotel at its heart.

Sited on a quaint lane off Cowcross Street (where cattle were once driven to Smithfield, Europe's largest meat market), the three derelict 1760's terraces were bought by antique dealers Peter McKay and Douglas Blain, both instrumental in saving Spitalfields. They embarked on an ambitious and, one might say, obsessive restoration programme: 5 years sourcing the right furniture and ensuring exact period detail, right down (or up) to the chimney pots. A fourth building was cleverly added to the row, then a conservatory and small patio garden. All 33 rooms are named for former inhabitants, so you feel like a guest in the late Georgian home of a distinguished gentleman.

Highs

• Historic buildings sensitively restored with reclaimed wood panelling, paintings of local landmarks and atmospheric lighting
• Great location close to the City, yet with easy access to the West End
• Unconventional business travellers will love it here: free WiFi and flatscreen TVs in a cosy, evocative ambiance, plus 3 meeting rooms for up to 16
• And couples on a city break can bask in romantic four-posters and huge roll-top baths
• Professional, efficient and friendly staff

Lows

• No meals other than breakfast, which has to be taken in your room and is not included in room rate
• Occasional noise might be heard in front-facing rooms but double glazing meant we didn't hear a thing
• These are old buildings: don't expect level floors, do expect creaking floorboards
• Not the most sociable place, given the lack of communal dining room; and there's no lift