Hazlitt’s

Surely one of the most gorgeous hotels in the UK, Hazlitt’s provides a superb hideaway in the heart of Soho. It’s named after the writer William Hazlitt, who lived in a boarding house here when down on his luck in the early 19th century, and exudes history – and literary associations – from every nook and cranny. A warren of rooms in a row of wonky Georgian houses, this place wears its history lightly – yes, the rooms have wood-panelled walls and huge 17th-century four-posters, faded rugs, antique books and fine old paintings – but the wildly sloping floors, personally signed books and small surprises give the place a quirky feel that’s delightfully unpretentious. Three suites offer supreme opulence, with original furnishings, plus wi-fi, flatscreen TVs and luxe toiletries – the Duke of Monmouth suite even has its own little conservatory – but the smaller guest rooms are just as charming, cosy and just a tad bohemian with their standalone bathtubs and rich, luxurious colours. The welcoming reception rooms feature real fires and an honesty bar (though note you can’t get wine by the glass). And although you’re just around the corner from some fabulous patisseries and coffee houses, it’s difficult to resist the hotel’s continental breakfast, a lazy affair eaten in your room, featuring fresh warm croissants and good strong coffee.