"How did it strike you on arrival?The Old Magistrates Court is an imposing, sturdy sort of building—you can imagine it being a reassuring place to put notorious gangsters like the Kray twins, who were locked away here in the 1960s. Recently opened in 2016, the hotel is elegant inside, with lots of lovely original features—the entrance opens onto a sweeping grand staircase, terrazzo floor, and original stained-glass windows. The bar is in what used to be the courtroom and has parquet floor and rather odd art, such as paintings of the Mona Lisa and Darth Vader behind bars. Nice. What’s the crowd like?Business travellers—you’re steps from the City banks—as well as those that want to be in the thick of things but don’t want to pay premium prices or rest in a bland chain hotel. The good stuff: Tell us about your room.The rooms are spacious but a touch generic—they look cheaper than the price tag suggests, with patterned carpet and shiny scatter cushions. Please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down.Bathrooms are roomy, with greige tiles and walk-in showers. Maybe the most important topic of all: Wi-Fi. What’s the word?Free. Anything stand out about other services and features? Whether it’s childcare, gyms, spas, even parking—whatever stuck with you.The extras are what makes this place—a lovely rooftop bar, bowling alley, screening room, and spa with a 33-foot long Jacuzzi. What was most memorable—or heartbreaking—about your stay?A cocktail in what used to be the cell that once held the Kray twins. Bottom line: worth it, and why?The location and building are impressive but the decor is a little bit basic" - Laura Goulden
