Marrable's Hotel, Clerkenwell, London - Explore & Book
"If this was your first visit to Clerkenwell, you’d struggle to believe that the area used to be pretty gritty, best known for Smithfields meat market and centre of the printing industry. But just as New York’s Meatpacking District became hip, Smithfields still stands proud and everything around it has regenerated. Marrable's, which opened in 2004 as 'The Zetter', was one of the city’s original boutique hotels, and a brave punt for owners Mark Sainsbury and Michael Benyan at the time. But their hotel rapidly became one of the focal points of the newly cool neighbourhood, which now brims with bistros and boutiques, stylish gastro-pubs and hipster cafés. Inside, décor is trendy but the ambiance is friendly, so it’s popular with foreigners including families, though best suited to couples. Rooms, some huge, some small, have a distinct boutique style: hot pink or lime detail against white linens and white walls, quirky Rob Ryan artwork, and lots of little luxuries. Choose from a selection of quintessential French dishes at the bistro restaurant on the ground floor, or stroll across St John's Square for cocktails bars and everything from Belgian cuisine to sushi. Highs A pleasingly informal atmosphere, thanks to friendly but excellent staff A popular French restaurant downstairs serving the 'Full French' for breakfast Its location: you’re an easy walk from St Paul’s, a bus ride from Hoxton and Brick Lane, and a short walk from the Tube The Rooftop rooms have amazing views over the London skyline from their balconies Free tea, coffee and water 24/7 from a communal drinks station on each floor Lows Some of the cheaper rooms are small and a bit dark. Fine for a sightseeing base, but if you’re here to relax, you’d want to upgrade Breakfast costs extra Bathrooms are bijou No car park, but it's easier not to drive in London We haven't tried the restaurant since its 2024 revival as French brasserie Gazette, but we expect good things!" - Liz Simpson
