There's something stirring in East London, and I'm not talking about mop-haired trendies mid-afternoon on a Sunday. This part of the capital has been - up until now - significantly lacking in luxury hotels, but that's all changing with the arrival of upmarket designer boltholes to make any fashionista swoon.
First up is Sir Terrace Conran's Shoreditch venture, The Boundary (pictured). Opened last year, it doesn't occupy the prettiest spot in the city, but is fast becoming a destination in itself. The ground floor houses a gentrified cafe, Albion, which sells the biggest and best almond croissants I've ever had the pleasure of sampling.
Take a stroll down the (rather odd) graffitied stairwell and find yourself in a polished French restaurant, but best of all is the rooftop terrace, which challenges neighbouring Shoreditch House's as the hottest drinking spot in the East End. The 17 guestrooms are individually decorated and take inspiration from a designer or design movement beloved by Sir Terry.
Speaking of, Shoreditch House has very recently relaxed its "members only" policy and opened its doors to paying guests. Choose from 26 beautifully appointed bedrooms with rates starting from a bargain GBP 70 per night.
Finally is the brand-spanking new Town Hall Hotel, a very little further away in Bethnal Green. Once housing the council chambers, the hotel strikes a lovely balance between old and new, with retro-inspired furnishings and plenty of original features. The best bit? Right now is its "soft opening" meaning room rates are 50% off.
Inspired to visit the capital? Then do browse Travel Intelligence's collection of luxury hotels in London...
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