The Rookery

Having lived in London a few years back, on this trip I first tried to find an apart-hotel, but my last minute travel arrangements meant they were all full. So Time Out led me to The Rookery, close-ish to my old flat, and I will be forever grateful.

The hotel blends right into the active and real work-live-play neighborhood of Clerkenwell, just steps from Farringdon tube. You enter through a secure door on Peter's Lane--you must ring the buzzer to be let in, and enter what is, as intended, reminiscent of someone's grand home. The desk clerks are friendly and helpful, leading you past the lounge and honor bar, to a unique room named after one of the building or area's former inhabitants.

We opted for a double superior and were treated to a four poster bed, writing desk, flat screen tv, plush robes, a generous supply of Aveda toiletries, an iPod stereo system and velvet drapes guarding the windows looking out on Cowcross Street. And yes, free internet.

The hotel itself is quiet--more of a business hotel that is starting to see more tourists--only the weekend nights can be loud due to people walking to the tube or gathering after a night of drinking at the Castle or Fabric. Turn the air-con on and it all blends into the night.

You can order room service, breakfast in bed, or our choice on Cowcross Street, head to FARM, opened Feb 09, and get hot porridge and honey and a cup of tea, or to Smith's for a full english, or any other of the many good options nearby.

You can't help thinking that Ian Flemming would have his uber spy James Bond stay in a joint like this. The hideout is stashed away down a narrow lane behind Cowcross Street, Smithfield, a stone's throw from Farringdon Station and slap bang in the middle of London. It's also just a skip away from St John Restaurant, St Pauls, a very trendy nightclub and a pub straight out of the Clerkenwell Tales by Ackroyd. The hotel is charm and elegance and very very English from the tip of its antique weather cock on the roof to the toes of the excellent staff's highly polished shoes.

The baths are wonderful as are the Greenwood jelly babies in the mini bar. Stay here if you love history and being well cared for and don't want the hassle of having to travel too far to see the sights.