A short pace from the Eurostar terminal, this zany hotel is in a row of 19th-century town houses on a leafy public square. An undercurrent of Scottishness runs through the modern bedrooms: oak flooring and vintage mirrors are spruced up with Scottie dog cushions, tartan textiles and, in places, sporrans on the wall. Some rooms, in the basement, have a decadent sunken bath; others have a private balcony overlooking the inner courtyard. Complimentary hot drinks are available all day in the moss-walled lounge. Greet the day with a continental buffet of meats and cheeses, home-baked breads and pastries; at gloaming, choose among fine single malts, regional wines and craft beers. (Underground: King’s Cross, St Pancras)