Leeds' newest boutique hotel is perfect for some city chic – not to mention its fantastic jazz-themed gin-packed bar.
The New Ellington
The USP: Ultra-friendly service, great cocktails and a cool jazz theme as soon as you walk in the door, all with a big dash of boutique chic. Replacing the Ellington Hotel, which closed in 2009, it's designed to be welcoming and laid-back as soon as you walk in, tempting both guests and local residents to chill out in the New Orleans-inspired bright velvet chairs of the bar. Paying tribute to Duke Ellington, who played at the city's 1958 music festival, it's funky but not pricy.
Book it now if: You like to be ahead of the crowd. The hotel opened on September 20, so you'll be one of the first guests to perch on the zebra print chairs and test the barman's cocktail knowledge. If you love your gin, you might never leave – there's a huge variety on offer.
Bedding down: There's just 35 bedrooms, including two suites, and while the decor is more minimalist than the riot of colour in the bar, it's all done with luxury in mind. The beds are huge and comfy with Egyptian cotton linen, the rain showers in the bathroom give you so many options you practically need a coffee from the Nespresso machines to master the controls and you can get pre-loaded iPods to play as you chill out, with a choice of lounge, jazz or classical music. The view from the window's not that exciting – but you'll be too busy relaxing in the gigantic fluffy bathrobes in front of the 32inch flatscreen TV to care.
Feed me: Even if you only have breakfast, the restaurant downstairs feels like you've wandered into a late-night drinking den. Funky glass lights, art deco paintings and intimate romantic booths to snuggle into as you enjoy the locally sourced menu. As well as the usual suspects – full English breakfast, room service burgers – there's quirkier choices, such as pancakes with bacon and maple syrup or kippers for breakfast. One word of warning, it's currently closed for dinner on Sundays.
Easily bored: Leeds is quite literally on your doorstep. You're five minutes from the station, and 10 minutes from the shops in the Victoria Quarter. Check out our Starter for 10 guide for more tips.
What's the damage: Prices start from £89 per night for a superior double room and £150 per night for a junior suite.
Point me in the right direction: The New Ellington, 23-25 York Place, Leeds, LS1 2EY (0844 815 9838/www.bespokehotels.com/ellingtonleeds)
The New Ellington