The Standard – King’s Cross, WC1

This is The Standard brand’s first hotel outside America – and a brilliant one. Set in a unique Brutalist building in thronging King’s Cross, its hip vibe fits right in with this cool regenerating part of London. The retro interiors sing of the Seventies: geometric shapes, colourful lighting, inviting leather armchairs and cream shagpiles. There are 266 bright rooms, from snug Cosy Cores (perfect for catching an early Eurostar) to the huge, terraced suites with outdoor bathtubs and spectacular views over St Pancras station or the city. The three restaurants are excellent. Chef Peter Sanchez-Iglesias, previously of the Michelin-starred Casamia in Bristol, serves Mexican and Spanish-inspired flavour-packed dishes such as gambas rojas, mangalitza pork and a dramatically different tortilla. Next door, Sweeties serves playful cocktails under a disco ball. Downstairs, laidback Isla triumphs with its zingy seasonal menu while hearty fare and tasty cocktails can be found at Double Standard. And don’t plan on an early night – there’s a DJ in the Library Lounge for seeing out the small hours. And if that wasn’t enough, the seasonal Summer rooftop boasts 360-views of London.

Doubles from £299

+44(0)20 3981 8888; standardhotels.com/london

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