The Hoxton, Southwark

"Why did this hotel catch your attention? What's the vibe?Is this a cool co-working space? A restaurant? A hotel? The Hoxton Southwark has got that exposed-brick, multi-use-lobby thing down to a tee. Here, freelancers nurse coffees behind MacBooks, media workers come to gossip over a bottle of wine, and tourists sling cocktails after catching whatever's on view at The Tate Modern, which is just a few blocks away. What's the backstory?The people behind The Hoxton have been busy; after a slow start—the first location opened in Shoreditch in 2006, followed by a second in Holborn in 2014—the group now has now opened nine properties. Hoxton Southwark, the newest, sits in a part of town that has, until now, badly needed stylish, affordable hotels. Like its sister properties, this location has buzzy communal spaces and chic, functional rooms at reasonable rates. Tell us all about the accommodations. Any tips on what to book?Rooms range from Shoebox to Biggy; the former is compact but not stifling. All rooms have windows and king-size beds. Décor is cool and reassuringly predictable: wood paneling, velvet headboards, mid-century-style lamps, and bathrooms with metro tiles and brass fittings. The bathrooms are small but have walk-in rain showers. Is there a charge for Wi-Fi, and how is the quality?Free and fast. Drinking and dining—what are we looking at?A swish seafood restaurant on the rooftop has a lovely outdoor terrace and London’s longest oyster list. Back on the open-plan ground floor, Albie does a mean vegan burger. A breakfast bag (piece of fruit, juice, and protein bar) is included in the rate. What type of travelers will you find here?The communal areas are filled with at least as many locals as tourists, all discussing their latest pitch and the current exhibition at the Tate. What about the neighborhood? Does the hotel fit in, make itself part of the scene?The neighborhood is business-y rather than residential, but the whole of the South Bank is your oyster, and Borough Market is minutes away. Bottom line: Worth it? Why?The new Hoxton is a total bargain in the beating heart of the South Bank." - Laura Goulden