Batty Langley's, Spitalfields, London, UK - Explore & Book
"It's joyous to be strolling through these residential red-brick streets which have survived 300 years of redevelopment and the Blitz. Spitalfields, renowned for its rich cultural mix, has seen constant change over centuries. Once a medieval priory, the land was developed for Huguenot weavers exiled from France in the late seventeenth-century; big windows in these handsome Georgian townhouses allowed light in for the looms. The Huguenots were followed by Jewish refugees, then Bengali immigrants who carry on the garment trade to this day. Thanks to the Spitalfields Historic Buildings Trust, this historic quarter has been preserved and revitalised. Two of those preservation pioneers went on to create this beautiful boutique hotel behind the facades of two adjacent houses behind Old Spitalfields Market. Its 29 supremely comfortable rooms and suites are named for local Georgian notables, from aristocrats to vagabonds (Batty Langley himself was an architect), and feature restored antiques, oil paintings and original four-posters. Authentic furniture has been cleverly adapted for modern living – beds were enlarged, wardrobes altered, flatscreen TVs hidden behind mirrors – and the bathrooms are excellent. There are parlours and snugs for drinks and relaxing by the fire, and an internal courtyard. Whether you're fancy-free or a family you'll fit right in at Batty Langley's. Highs The concept: a quirky and top-notch reinvention of heritage townhouses, dating from 1724 The location: slap bang in the heart of London's most dynamic district, with bars, restaurants, markets, boutiques, galleries, and good public transport links The service: welcoming unpretentious staff who are a mine of local knowledge and maintain the hotel immaculately The design detail: Georgian-style interiors cleverly incorporate modern conveniences from USB ports to power showers Lows Spitalfields is bustling and occasionally noisy, but the hotel itself is tranquil, with double glazing in all rooms No restaurant on site – breakfast is served to your room at a time of your choosing – so you'll have to eat out; there's lots of choice on your doorstep. 24-hour room service and food delivery is easily arranged No twin rooms, but the Junior Suites have good sofa-beds Parking isn't easy, but truly there's no need to bring a car into E2" - Nadine Mellor
