5 unique and unusual places to stay in London

Tower Bridge

When you're treating yourself to a break in the capital you really want to make sure that you choose a hotel that offers something a little bit special. Most hotels will offer a minibar, tea and coffee-making facilities, television, landline telephone and high-speed internet access, but why not add a little extra something to make the trip even more memorable? Choose from any one of the following hotels for an extra-special experience that will add to the magic of your city break.

1. The O2 arena is famous for hosting big-name concerts but its situation on the south bank at Greenwich can mean a lengthy journey from the city centre to reach the venue, not to mention the crush for public transport after the event is over. Cut through the travelling dilemma with a four-star hotel situated just a short boat journey away from the former Millennium Dome. With its own boat transfer service to the venue, beat the queues and arrive in style. Close to Greenwich Park and Docklands this premium hotel is ideally suited for business and leisure travellers in search of added value with their luxury.
    
2. A city centre hotel with its own swimming pool? With this fantastic gem also hosting its own gym and sun beds guests will have trouble exiting through the doors into the famous Square Mile at the heart of the city. Close to all major attractions including the West End theatres enjoy an after-show dinner in the fabulous on-site restaurant offering high class French and English cuisine.
    
3. If you're hankering after a break in a cool and edgy hotel then head for the achingly hip area of Maida Vale where all the fashionistas hang out. Relax in the comfiest of beds with the benefit of air-conditioning to ensure you keep your cool. Head for nearby Graffik London which celebrates the graffiti culture with a wall where you can have a go at designing your own 'tags'.
    
4. Camden Town has long held the reputation of being fun and funky and this gem of a hotel works hard to prove the point. Surrounded by the most fashionable bars, shops and restaurants this hotel offers the coolest of interior design elements to ensure that you enjoy every moment of your stay. Head for the nearby Hawley Arms Pub, famous as the local haunt of tragic pop songstress Amy Winehouse and a magnet for local celebrities. Street food abounds in the local streets, together with a thriving market scene around Camden Lock.
    
5. For something really different, why not choose a fully serviced apartment overlooking the magnificent Tower Bridge? This iconic landmark is a magnet for tourists and one of the most-photographed sights in the city. With the benefit of your own cooking facilities you can rustle up your own snacks or even a full-blown romantic dinner after a hard day shopping and visiting the sights. With a friendly team of staff waiting to attend to your every need, there is even a terrace bar for relaxing and unwinding with a tipple as you take in the stunning scenery. With the Tower of London and the famous Globe theatre, based on Shakespeare's original design within a stone's throw, an apartment gives you the freedom to explore the city on your own terms.