The Old Ship  

In Hackney, east London — rooms above a pub right next to the Hackney Empire. A modern boutique inn with quick links into central London: about a 15-minute drive to the Tower of London and The Shard, roughly 7 km from the city centre, and just a 2-minute walk to Hackney Central.

Contemporary interiors meet classic British pub character. Ten individually designed en-suite rooms (six singles, four doubles) maximise space and nod to the building's history. Rooms come with flat-screen TVs, tea and coffee facilities, showers, hairdryers and complimentary toiletries.

Relax in the bar and restaurant or step out into the small garden area. Complimentary wireless broadband keeps you connected, while express check-out, room service (limited hours), private check-in/out and housekeeping on request keep stays easy. The vibe is boutique and welcoming without the London price tag.

Free high-speed wireless internet and excellent transport links — Hackney Central is a 2-minute walk and London Fields about 5 minutes — making trips into Stratford, Liverpool Street and central London straightforward.

On-site restaurant The Old Ship serves British cuisine and the bar/lounge is perfect for pre-show drinks. Room service is available during limited hours for late arrivals or relaxed nights in.