Sheffield is a friendly city, an arty hub that’s full of surprises, a fact ably demonstrated by this stunning small hotel. It sits amid leafy streets, with a smart park to the front, then hills beyond that ripple over to the Peak District. Picasso stayed here when he attended the World Peace Conference in 1950, though things have changed a little since – a recent refit has turned this into a small-scale pleasure dome. Bedrooms are divine, as good as they look. Expect the best white linen, smart neutral colours, the coolest bathrooms with robes and organic oils. A vast window in one room opens to frame the view; another has a free-standing bath; all are named after birds, their colours reflected in the fabrics. Downstairs houses a simple yet beautiful Michelin plated and award-winning restaurant, offering a delicious selection of seasonally inspired small plates, elegant cocktails and wines. Dishes include crispy pork belly, apple cider sauce with apple chutney; salmon, sweet and sour carrot purée; pea and spinach velouté and sweet potato chips, and mille-feuille with fruits, soft cheese, honey and yoghurt for guests with a sweet tooth! Don’t miss the Millennium Gallery, the Winter Garden or the cool streets around you.
