The Bull & The Hide

A huge comfort, these days, to walk into a proper old-fashioned pub and find it heaving with office workers and city types propping up the bar. No food at all, but on each floor there is a ‘pantry’ with soft drinks, kettle for tea and coffee, biscuits and crisps. Bedrooms range from doubles to suites, one with a balcony, all well-designed with clever mirrors to give that spacious feeling, good lighting and street views.

Each room has an en suite shower, the suite has a tub, all are spotless with Arran soaps and lotions. Everywhere feels fresh and bright and cared for.

Downstairs you can join the throng (it’s quieter at weekends) for a pint of London Pride or some Balfour lager while you decide where to eat – there’s a massive choice within walking distance. The nearest tube, Liverpool Street, is a two-minute walk, Old Spitalfields Market is seven minutes, Leadenhall Market six.