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.

My wife and I recently stayed for four nights at The Rookery. We were quite pleased with our experience at the hotel, and wanted to share those experiences with our fellow travelers.

First, the Rookery is perfectly located. Just outside the City (meaning the square mile of the City of London), it is within walking distance of some great sights, including St. Paul's. It is also a quiet area - my wife and I never felt unsafe, nor were we woken up in the night by loud noises outside the hotel. The Rookery is a very short walk to the Farringdon Underground stop on the Circle, District, and Hammersmith & City Lines. Anywhere in greater metropolitan London is well within your grasp.

Second, the staff was extremely friendly, welcoming, and accommodating. This is a deal-breaker for my wife and I when it comes to hotels, and the Rookery exceeded our expectations. We arrived early, and wanted to freshen up after our flight. The front desk staff were very kind, and brought us a pot of tea, scones, and biscuits while we sat down and prepared for the day ahead. They also had their housekeeping staff clean our room first (wow!) so that we could get in and change clothes. The staff maintained this high level of service throughout our stay - considerate, friendly, and very attentive. High marks!

Third, the room was wonderful. All of the rooms at The Rookery are furnished with beautiful antiques, to maintain a period feel. Our room was no exception. We had a beautiful three room suite (it was named Sir Walter de Manny) with wood paneling, beautiful exposed ceiling beams, and an antique four poster bed. We had fresh flowers in our room each day, and complimentary wifi and newspaper each morning. The room was very clean, and all of the features worked exactly as they should.

In all, we would not hesitate to recommend The Rookery to you, fellow traveler. For a London hotel with these amenities, it is extremely well priced - but it would be a good deal even at a higher price level.