A slice of literary history in lively Soho, this former home of English essayist William Hazlitt creaks with authenticity. Now a boutique B&B, it is much more luxurious than it was when the impoverished Hazlitt lived here. Made from three adjoining town houses with a fourth behind, it’s owned by Peter McKay and Douglas Blain, founding members of a charity that protects historic buildings. Bedrooms are opulent, their ornate carved beds dressed with rich fabrics and plush cushions; some have gilded cherubs. Spacious bathrooms have restored period fixtures and fittings, and might feature a classical statue or a lavatory concealed in a Jacobean-style love seat. It’s full of surprises: the Duke of Monmouth duplex suite has a ‘courtyard garden’ with a sliding glass roof; a wall panel in the Teresa Cornelys junior suite springs open to reveal a dressing table. In the panelled library you will find a real fire, squashy sofas, an honesty bar and plenty to read. An optional breakfast is served on a tray in your room. (The Rookery, London, is a sister – see entry.)