The Vibe: Space may be at a premium, but beautiful reclaimed fixtures and tempting food more than make up for the lack of elbow room.

The Area: Set in four former townhouses this hip hotel is located a one-minute walk from London’s Paddington Station, which has a direct connection to Heathrow.

The DNA: The Pilgrm is an ode to old-world craftsmanship and heartfelt hospitality. A new beginning for The Royal Norfolk Hotel) from a collective of individuals (Jason Catifeoglou – formerly of the Zetter group and Andreas and Steph Thrasyvoulou of myhotel) who are simply driven by making something that was once beautiful, beautiful again. Like restoring the 200-year-old parquet flooring, the main staircase that took 300 man hours to restore, the royal blue tiles in the lobby inspired by originals found under layers of 1960s paint, lobby panelling from the mayor’s office in Derby, and brass wall lights from an old psychiatric hospital. There is a neighbourhood cafe on the ground floor cafe (where check-in takes place) for coffee and pastries, and a first floor lounge offering all-day dining and signature cocktails.

Suite-Me-Up: Spartan-chic rooms come with carefully placed original period design elements, vintage lighting vintage design, a selection of books and magazines, real plants and original artwork. Room facilities include a flat-screen TV (except the smallest “Bunk” rooms), a Marshall speaker with smartphone connectivity, organic cotton mattresses, and a a laptop safe. The utilitarian shower rooms offer fixtures and fittings that contribute in equal measure to both mood and ambiance. Some rooms overlook tranquil Norfolk Square, rooms at the front are more busy.

Accolades: Condé Nast Traveler Hot List 2017

✅ free Wi-Fi • size matters: 73 rooms (7-14m2) (75-151 sq ft) • hotel opened: November 2017 • interior design: 93ft • bathroom amenities: REN ❌ no parking available • no pets allowed • 24-hour front desk • no pets allowed