TRAVEL TEST
WHAT: The three-star Hampton by Hilton London Old Street Hotel. Rooms from £75 a night, with complimentary wi-fi included. hilton.com
WHERE: Westland Place, a quiet side street just off the hubbub of City Road and only a few minutes’ walk from both Old Street tube station and multiple bus stops.
EXPERIENCE: This lively city location is a 10-minute walk from Shoreditch restaurants and nightlife in one direction, and 10 minutes from the Angel Islington district in the other.
However, the immediate area also has appeal. Speaking as someone who previously lived nearby, it’s virtually unrecognisable compared to a decade ago, with new pubs, bars, artwork and skyscrapers. Once a soulless business district, it’s now buzzing with regeneration.
That vibe extends to the hotel too. Friendly check-in staff guided me to an attractive room. USB charging points removed the need to carry a plug, while there was complimentary bottled water in the fridge. Downstairs, the open-plan lobby includes a restaurant and chill-out zone.
I sampled that day’s special – an all-day breakfast wrap stuffed with sausages, bacon and beans (£13.35) – followed by lemon sponge cake baked with fruit pieces and smothered in blueberry jam drizzle (£8).
Although billed as snacks, meal portions are generous enough to constitute a main course. While the restaurant – also serving pizzas, pasta, burgers and salads – closes at 10pm, a smaller snack menu is available 24/7 and in-room, while there’s a free hot breakfast the next morning. QUIBBLES: The views from the window are uninspiring. VERDICT: Few hotels are more central at such a good price. Highly recommended. 9/10.