Ace Hotel
Young travellers looking for somewhere edgy would do well to book a room here. The vibe is hipster and the décor is retro-cool but the best part about this place is the buzzing lobby. Most hotel lobbies or bars are usually only frequented by guests but this place is often packed with locals, working at the communal tables during the day or socialising at night. The property also has a restaurant, pressed juice bar and a club, and it often hosts art exhibitions. Given it’s so popular, don’t be surprised if people are up partying at all hours.
Location
Shoreditch is the ultimate in East London hipster-cool. Buildings are covered with impressive graffiti art; streets are frequented by pretty young things shooting scenes for music videos and indie films; and the eating, drinking and boutique shopping is all about independent owners rather than chain brands. Catch the overground train to Shoreditch High Street or, for the tube, get off at either Liverpool Street (five-minute walk) or Old Street (15-minute walk).
Images: Andrew Meredith