Authentic Italy

Authentic Italy

(April 2018)

‘AUTHENTIC Italian food at sensible prices’ ­-­ that’s the pledge to diners about to take on the Carluccio’s experience.

But, let’s be honest, this is the aim of every Italian restaurant competing for your business. So what is it that makes this venue in Stratford stand out in the crowd?

This pleasantly situated restaurant in Waterside boasts some of the best views in Bard country for a start. And on a sunny day (not that we were so blessed!) it doesn’t get much better than a satisfying meal al fresco just a few footsteps from Stratford’s famous River Avon.

‘Settling’ for the spacious and comfortable interior though was no hardship and my family and I were soon made to feel very welcome by the team.

We were quick to notice their emphasis on hospitality and our hosts were happy to chat as well as share their extensive knowledge of the Italian food on the menu.

Talking of which, there was a wide and tempting selection to suit all palates, from pasta and meat dishes to antipasti and salads. We did not feel as though we were being rushed at all (as I’ve too often experienced in a busy restaurant) being tempted instead to take our time over those all-important decisions while grazing on one of their bread baskets.

My Tomato Bruschetta starter (£5.50) was a light and tasty choice to whet my appetite for the Lamb alla Griglia (£16.50) which was to follow. These tender lamb chops were chargrilled and drizzled with mint pesto and served with roast potatoes. Beautifully cooked cuts of meat with tasty accompaniments. I did not regret my choice.

And neither did my husband whose Sicilian Arancini starter (£5.95) and Seafood Linguine (£14.75) were complimented upon as they were being polished off. Prawns, mussels and clams tossed in a rich and spicy tomato, crab and chilli sauce with baby plum tomatoes and fresh basil, was a hearty dish with a delicious combination of flavours.

My sons who always opt for pizza in Italian restaurants, were forced to expand their culinary horizons and soon never gave it a second thought. The Chicken Saltimboca (chicken escalope topped with 14-month aged prosciuitto Gran Sasso and sage with white wine sauce and served with roasted tossed potatoes in pesto and rocket – £15.50) soon became a new favourite!

There is also a new range of veggie and vegan dishes on offer plus an extensive selection of gluten-free and dairy-free options. This has to be one of the best places for those with restricted diets.

As you would expect, there is a tempting array of delicious desserts, from Chocolate Bread and Butter Pudding (I can vouch for this!) and Chocolate and Rum Fudge cake to Panna Cotta and Lemon Tart.

But for the younger – and generally fussier – diners, there’s some more familiar favourites on offer, including the chance to exercise some control (what child doesn’t want to do that!) by creating their own pasta dish – even down to the shape of the pasta! A lovely idea.

Although not something we sampled, Carluccio’s newest menu offering is its breakfast range. Take a look at the Stratford menus by visiting www.carluccios.com/menus

So, ‘authentic Italian food at sensible prices’? It’s all cooked completely fresh and has a strong reputation for its authenticity. Prices are par for the course around here. From £5.50 to £7.50 (Prawns Marinara) for a starter and £10.50 to £17.50 (Steak alla Griglia) for a main.

In my opinion, whether you would regard them as ‘sensible’ really depends on your expectations from the Carluccio’s experience. But, based on ours, I’d say it was worth every penny.

Plenty of heritage, heart and the Black Stuff. . .

Plenty of heritage, heart and the Black Stuff. . .

(March 2018)

ONCE the second city of the British empire, Dublin has always maintained a cosmopolitan outlook ­­- but around every corner there are important reminders of its past.

From medieval castles and cathedrals on display alongside Georgian architectural elegance, there is a side to the city that appeals to locals and visitors alike with its world class museums and galleries and rich vein of heritage as well as being an attractive seaside location and with the natural playgrounds of Dublin Bay and Dublin Mountains framing it on both sides.

But it’s at night when it really comes alive with its robust pub culture. The cobbled alleyways of the Temple Bar area are the epicentre of Irish revelry. If sinking a pint of the Black Stuff in an authentic Irish bar in this beating heart of the city doesn’t make you an honorary Dublinian for a while, nothing else surely will.

This excellent social scene, coupled with its wide variety of educational visitor attractions go to create a fascinating city that is an adventure in itself.

Here are some of the sights my family and I took in, starting with what has become Ireland’s number one visitor attraction. . .

Guinness Storehouse

Guinness Storehouse

Back in 1759 an enterprising brewer by the name of Arthur Guinness took out a 9,000-year lease on the brewery for an annual rent of £45. A couple of centuries later the Storehouse was born.

Built in the style of the Chicago School of Architecture in 1904, it was originally used as a fermentation house.

The Guinness Storehouse is a gleaming multi-media exhibition on everything from retro advertising to the craft of brewing, topped off with a pint of the Black stuff in the 360-degree Gravity Bar. This is also a wonderful vantage point from which to drink in the views of the city.

The building itself is even imaginatively designed in the shape of a giant pint of Guinness.

I’m not a beer drinker of any sort but, having visited the Storehouse, I would not say this is any way a prerequisite. I enjoyed every minute of this unique tour and, while the sampling room wasn’t something I was personally keen to repeat, I can certainly appreciate why many would and why this world-famous brand enjoys such phenomenal success.

Guinness Storehouse is a fitting and popular celebration of Dublin’s greatest export – and is universally at the top of every tourist’s Irish itinerary. Now I’ll drink to that!

EPIC: The Irish Emigration Museum

This relatively new museum delves into the past of Ireland’s emigration with stories of sacrifice, endurance, adventure and triumph – all retold in brilliant technical detail.

This state-of-the-art visitor experience explores the inspiring journeys of over 10 million people who left Ireland’s shores as part of 1,500 years of history.

EPIC Museum

Housed in atmospheric vaults you’re very much encouraged to be hands-on as you journey through the 20 interactive galleries, including a motion sensor quiz, interactive whispering gallery and even the chance to send digital postcards.

The world’s only fully digital museum uses the latest technological techniques to engage its visitors to fantastic effect and you should allow at least a couple of hours to appreciate all it has to offer. It is an absolute must during any visit to Dublin and was one of my personal highlights. Visit: epicchq.com

A good complement to EPIC is Jeanie Johnston Tallship, permanently docked on the nearby River Liffey.

Jeanie Johnston Tallship

Jeanie Johnston is a replica of a three masted barque that was originally built in Quebec, Canada, in 1847.

Once on board, the 50-minute guided tour will lead you through the historic ship as you’re invited to take in the detailed craftsmanship before journeying to the dimly-lit cabins below for a detailed insight into what life was like for those passengers who made the transatlantic voyage to an uncertain future in the ‘New World’.

Maintenance work on the day restricted our visit to below deck only, where the guide painted a very colourful picture of what life was like during the great famine.

Not to be substituted for EPIC, but another for your hit list if time allows for both.

Visit: www.jeaniejohnston.ie

The Little Museum of Dublin

The Little Museum of Dublin – one of the city’s most impressive cultural attractions, is housed in a splendidly stuccoed Georgian townhouse overlooking St Stephen’s Green.

The museum tells the story of 20th-century Dublin. Highlights include the often overlooked contribution of Dublin designers to twentieth-century fashion; and the U2 Room, a homage to Dublin’s rock icons – complete with Trabant car.

But it’s greatest charm is the personal touch afforded to its visitors, groups of which are treated to a private talk and tour of some of the rooms. Museums, I discovered, are eminently more interesting when accompanied by commentary and insight such as that dispensed here.

If you only have time for one guided tour museum on your short break in the city, this scores highly.

Dublinia

A good hands-on museum for the kids though can be recommended in the form of Dublina.

This historical recreation museum and visitor attraction, located in a part of Dublin’s Christ Church Cathedral, focuses on the Viking and Medieval history of the city.

Here you can meet the Vikings face to face as well as learn about life during the Medieval period in Dublin, explore the world of a History Hunter and see a Medieval view of a modern city from the Medieval tower.

Dublinia sets out to provide a new perspective of the city sending you away knowing more about its citizens throughout the ages.

Worth a visit if you have time, but does offer some crossover from The National Wax Museum Plus (see below) so probably no need to do both.

Visit: www.dublinia.ie

Irish Rock ‘n’ Roll Museum

Here, you are invited to take a walk behind the scenes of the world of Ireland’s vibrant music industry.

Son Daniel in the Irish Rock ‘n’ Roll Museum

Behind the striking Wall of Fame in the heart of Dublin’s lively Temple Bar, the museum lets you poke around backstage at the renowned Button Factory, one of the top music venues in Ireland which has hosted the likes of Sinead O’Connor and U2 and Phil Lynott and The Script.

And be sure to check out the fascinating Thin Lizzy exhibit.

You don’t have to be an ardent music lover to enjoy this. It’s a fun and interesting way to spend an hour in Temple Bar before hitting the restaurants. And who hasn’t secretly hankered after a secret session in the recording studio. My drumming skills definitely needed some work however!

If the Rock ‘n’ Roll Museum hits the right notes for your family, The National Wax Museum Plus is also likely to appeal when it comes to the fun factor.

Visit: www.irishrocknrollmuseum.com

The National Wax Museum Plus

Expect the unexpected when you set foot in here. Its promotional leaflet promises ‘an entertainment experience like no other.’ So you can’t say you haven’t been warned!

Here, you are taken on a journey through the mythology, history in culture of Ireland

And it’s certainly an eclectic mix. From the history of Ireland through Vikings, Normans, famine, rebellion, independence, onto literary and sporting heroes through to the Horror Hotel, Dublin Dungeons and Chamber of Horrors, there’s also Science and Discovery, Cinema Wall and Mirror Maze to enjoy.

While certainly entertaining, this won’t be to everyone’s taste. It was only on our hitlist by special request from the youngest member of the family. But an enjoyable way to spend an hour all the same.

Visit: www.waxmuseumplus.ie

The Natural History Museum

A stand-out among the free attractions was Dublin’s Natural History Museum.

The Natural History Museum

It’s known affectionately locally as The Dead Zoo for a reason – it has been preserved as a classic Victorian mausoleum-of-a-museum filled to the rafters with all manner of stuffed animals.

From insects and spiders, to elephants and giraffes, I reckon every species under the sun can be found here.

Pride of place goes to a giant whale skeleton, which dominates the ground floor. Impressive indeed.

It’s unendingly fascinating – if a little sinister in its intensity.

For those heading to Dublin for a short break, I would recommend investing in a Dublin Pass.

This is your ticket into over 30 top attractions, sights, landmarks and museums (including all those mentioned above) saving you both time and money and removing the hassle of queuing up to buy attraction tickets.

For further details and a full list of qualifying attractions visit: www.dublinpass.com

Belfast: A city rising from the ashes of conflict

Belfast: A city rising from the ashes of conflict

(March 2018)

THE dark side of Belfast’s history is well documented. It suffered greatly during the Troubles, and had the unenviable reputation in the 1970s and 80s as one of the world’s most dangerous cities.

But since the 21st century it has undergone a sustained period of calm, free from the intense political violence of former years, and substantial economic and commercial growth. And today, Belfast has evolved into a centre for industry, as well as the arts, higher education, business, and law, and is considered to be the economic engine of Northern Ireland.

The transformation, in fact, has been nothing short of remarkable.

It is clearly a city on the rise and, most pleasingly of all, is rightly proud of its new-found status as one of the SAFEST in the world!

Our family itinerary was as tightly packed as our suitcases for what was going to be a busy four days exploring as much of the area as possible – past and present!

It was important to build in time to learn about the city’s history and the best way to do that, we were assured, was with one of Belfast’s famous Black Cab Tours.

Signs of the political turmoils still litter the city in the form of murals, adorning the sides of buildings like old battle scars. But most enlightening of all was our visit to one of the Peace Walls, originally built to keep Nationalists and Loyalists apart.

Time for reflection at a section of Belfast’s Peace Wall

Ranging in length from a few hundred yards to over three miles, the walls are often up to 25 feet high. We were shown one of the gates which allow passage during daylight hours ­– but which are still, sadly, closed at night.

Our personal guide for the hour-and-a-half really made this a unique and poignant experience adding his own recollections of life as a young boy himself living among the Troubles. And we were humbled by the opportunity to leave our own tiny mark on Belfast’s history – literally – when we were invited to sign the wall. Amazing.

One still walks away however with a heavy heart.

Public discussions about the removal of the wall have been ongoing – despite a study in 2012 that revealed 69 per cent of residents still believe it is necessary because of continued potential for violence.

If in Belfast as a tourist book yourself a Black Cab tour – and decide for yourself.

(Visit: www.belfastblackcabtours.co.uk) It’s a must do. Only then can you have a true appreciation of the city’s transformation. The Troubles will always be entrenched in Belfast’s past – and of course they are a big part of what makes it the city it is today ­– but unfortunately they can’t yet be fully consigned to the history books. There’s still some way to go. . .

On the tourist trail, these are the places we visited. . .

THE TITANIC EXPERIENCE
More than a hundred years after the Titanic’s sinking in 1912, the legacy of this tragedy lives on.

And this is due in no small part to the ‘titanic’ efforts behind the stunning visitor attraction that so sensitively pays homage to those ill-fated passengers and crew.

The Titanic Museum

Titanic Belfast is a sympathetic monument to the city’s maritime heritage on the site of the former Harland & Wolff shipyard in the renovated dockyards’ Titanic Quarter where the RMS Titanic was built

Opened in 2012 – to mark the centenary – the visitor attraction is housed in a stunning aluminium-clad building reminiscent of a ship’s hull. It extends over nine interactive galleries drawing together special effects, innovative features and even full-scale reconstructions of the ship.

But it is not what many may be expecting. Far from a morose memorial, your visit here will actually dwell more on the making of and ceremony surrounding the ship itself.

There’s so much to learn here and the Titanic story, from exploring the shipyard through to its launch and final fate, is fully immersive thanks to its retelling through state-of-the-art technology.

You can also hear about Boomtown Belfast’s thriving industries and innovations that led to the ship’s creation.

The self-guided tour culminates in a fascinating glimpse into the actual wreck site on the big screen. But artifacts from the ship are not included in the museum for ‘ethical reasons’ so don’t expect a line up of dusty old exhibits in glass cases. That’s not what this place is about!

Titanic Belfast was voted World’s Leading Tourist Attraction in 2016 – and, having been lucky enough to visit, I can confirm it’s a title that’s fully deserved.

SS NOMADIC
Admission to Titanic Belfast can be combined with a visit onboard SS Nomadic, tender to the Titanic and the last remaining White Star Line ship in the world.

Here you’re invited to step back in time and hear about her role in the Titanic story in a journey that stretches over 100 years.

Restored to her original 1911 glory and back home in Belfast, a visit to SS Nomadic & Hamilton Dock combines the authentic heritage and atmosphere of this historic ship with the intriguing stories of her passengers and the ups and downs of her dramatic career.

Stretched over four decks, a visit to Nomadic allows you to experience first hand what it was like to be a passenger boarding Titanic on her fateful maiden voyage.

Highlights include an insight into its history as a mine sweeper war ship as well the chance to ‘meet’ some holographic hosts keen to share with you the boat’s secrets.
In addition to experiencing the authentic grandeur, the Nomadic story is conveyed through a wide variety of both interactive and traditional storytelling methods.

As such, Nomadic is the perfect way to begin – or end – your Titanic ‘journey’ in Belfast’s Titanic Quarter. For further information on SS Nomadic and Titanic Belfast visit: www.titanicbelfast.com

HMS Caroline

HMS CAROLINE
Still on the maritime theme, we concluded the second day of our Titanic Quarter experience with a tour of the area’s newest visitor attraction, HMS Caroline.
Dubbed a place ‘where new adventures begin,’ it certainly lived up to its billing. HMS Caroline, recently voted five-star visitor attraction on Tripadvisor, uses interactive technology to immerse you into its previous guise as a battleship – the last survivor of the Battle of Jutland in 1916, the only major naval action of WW1.

The fascinating self-guided tour brings history to life in innovative ways – and the audio commentary you’re offered is a must and will enhance your experience! From the impressively recreated Captain’s Quarters and Marine’s Mess through to the galley kitchen and engine rooms, there’s so much to take in.

It’s an incredibly well organised collection of small spaces, some with interactive features to keep the youngsters completely engaged. Beware the steep and narrow stairways and low ceilings (it is a war ship after all!) and don’t even contemplate it if you have restricted mobility. However, it’s another family Belfast must-see from me! Visit: www.nmrn.org.uk

ULSTER MUSEUM
But, if culture is what you seek, Belfast also has much to offer.
Our quota came in the form of Ulster Museum which is home to a rich collection of art, history and natural sciences. It tells the unique human story of the area with collections that take you on a journey to all corners of the globe. Expect the unexpected as well as the usual popular exhibits as you come face to face with dinosaurs and up close to an Egyptian mummy.

Highlight for our family though was undoubtedly the temporary Game of Thrones tapestry exhibit (we’re in Game of Thrones country here you know!) This 80-metre-long medieval-style wall-hanging is made from Irish linen and brings to life the events, characters and filming locations (many local) of all seven series of the hugely popular TV series.

Apparently, once woven, a team of 30 stitchers meticulously hand-embroidered all of the finer details working under the expert eye of the National Museums Northern Ireland textile curator.

If you’re a fan – or even if you’re not – it’s worth a visit for this alone. There is definitely something at Ulster Museum to keep all ages both amused and informed and there’s so much see you can easily while away a few hours. Free admission too so a good one if you’re looking for somewhere to fill that unanticipated gap in your schedule – without adding to the budget.
Visit: 
www.nmni.com

W5
With over 250 amazing interactive exhibits in four exhibition areas, this museum where arts meets science offers a broad and fascinating experience for curious minds of all ages.

In addition to permanent exhibits, the attraction also presents a changing programme of large and small scale temporary exhibitions and events including a daily programme of live science demonstrations and shows throughout the day.

There is much to see and do here so I would allow at least half a day to avoid becoming unpopular with the kids. A tight itinerary is often a must on a city break but they won’t thank you for dragging them off to the next attraction because you ‘have a schedule to keep’ so let them explore this place to the full.

For the younger ones, the Climbit exhibit is a particular draw. Decsribed as ‘a mixture of physical fun, exploration and art,’ it will keep them amused just long enough for you to rest up for a while with well-earned refreshments.
Visit: 
www.w5online.co.uk.

CRUMLIN ROAD GAOL
The Crumlin Road Gaol dates back to 1845 and closed its doors as a working prison in 1996. After extensive renovations the gaol has re-opened as a visitor attraction and conference centre.

Crumlin Old Gaol

We decided a visit here was too intriguing to resist so we surrendered ourselves to the tour guide and headed ‘behind bars.’
We were quickly hooked and it was fascinating to hear all about the history of the site, from when women and children were held within its walls through to the political segregation of republican and loyalist prisoners.

The experience also includes a walk through the underground tunnel that used to connect the gaol to the Crumlin Road Courthouse ­ ­­– it’s said the spirits of former prisoners can still be sensed down there! – as well as a visit to the Governor’s office, prison wings and even the condemned man’s cell, a precursor to the execution cell where the majority of the 17 men were hanged. A foreboding but exquisitely compelling climax to the tour.

Crumlin Road Gaol was one of the highlights of my Belfast stay and I would urge anyone to include it on their itinerary, even if it’s a short city break.
Visit: 
www.crumlinroadgaol.com

BELFAST CITY SIGHTSEEING HOP-ON HOP-OFF BUS TOURS
For those who don’t do the black Cab Tour, the City Sightseeing Hop-on Hop- Off bus service is certainly a good option for getting around a city like Belfast.

With a bit of careful planning, the route can be a great way to reach your destinations as well as see and learn all about the city from entertaining and informative guides. Allow yourself plenty of time to complete the route including stop-offs to explore and enjoy some of the recommended restaurants and bars.
Visit: 
www.belfastcitysightseeing.com

For those on a budget there is still plenty to keep you entertained.
Here is a list of the top free attractions in the city. Read 
here

And here are attractions that cost under £10 read here

Inclement weather meant we didn’t get to enjoy any of the numerous parks and gardens and there are many museums which competed for our attention. Do your homework before you visit as there is so much to see and do – indoors and out. Go to: www.visitbelfast.com

Like us, you’ll be bowled over by the surprising nature of a beautiful and booming Belfast that’s risen from the ashes of conflict. Do visit if you can.

Escape the norm!

Escape the norm!

(January 2018)

EVER fancied willingly being locked in a room and subjecting yourself to brainteasers and challenges in order to get out?

Funnily enough, it’s never really been a hankering of mine either. But, if you’ve never experienced the Escape Rooms concept before, I’d now definitely urge you to give it a go.

Leamington’s new Experimental Escape facility was our fifth encounter with the activity, which is designed to test specific skills, such as problem-solving, logical thinking, perception and communication.

It’s ideal for small groups of between two and five, consisting of family or friends who are encouraged to work together as a team to crack the clues and, ultimately, free themselves from the room.

In fact teamwork is essential. There are so many questions and riddles posed and time is of the essence. You’re only given 60 minutes to advance your way through the challenges and escape.

It might be a padlock combination, a numeric interpretation or clever riddle you’re tasked with solving. Each step moves you one step closer to the finish line – a bit like a metaphorical board game.

Competition is encouraged and the best times posted are recorded on a ‘leader board’ outside. Exhilarating and frustrating in equal measure for the most competitive among us!

The first room to open at Experimental Escape is called The Machine, the context being that the machine was created in an attempt to be at the forefront of Artificial Intelligence but appears to be an absolute failure.

Ever since the mysterious disappearance of the Professor – the mastermind of this creation – The Machine has remained dormant. So we are asked to try and determine what went wrong and restore communication – in under 60 minutes.

Easier, perhaps, than it sounds!

Our party consisted of two adults, a teenager and a 12-year-old and we managed to crack all the clues and escape within the hour – by the skin of our teeth.

And, without including any spoilers, the climax is very exciting.

For us the challenge level of this room was just right but for those who are still Escape Room virgins, it might prove trickier.

Don’t fear though – there is an Experimental Escape staff member watching you on camera every step of the way and chiming in with little hints and tips on a screen when required. (It wouldn’t be much fun if you spent the entire hour trying the decipher the first clue!)

There’s even a bell to ring if bigger clues are needed. We only had to resort to this once.

The Escape Rooms concept may not be for everybody – but they’re a firm favourite in our house. And there’s good reason why they are taking off across the world.

Who said central London couldn’t be tranquil?

Who said central London couldn’t be tranquil?

COMBINING tranquillity and convenience on a stay in the heart of London can be a challenging prospect ­– especially if you don’t want to break the bank.

Essential for making the most of a busy weekend in the capital is enjoying close proximity to some of the main attractions without the compromise of city centre disturbances. With that aim in mind, our hotel proved to be the perfect base for our family overnight stay this time around.

No. Ten Manchester Street is a 44-bedroom boutique hotel located in the heart of tranquil Marylebone Village, a 10-minute walk from the mainline station.

This Edwardian townhouse makes an instant impression with its many unique and period features. The guest rooms and suites here successfully blend old London charm with contemporary cool, providing a stylish sanctuary for guests to relax in.

From the Courtyard Rooms with private terraces to the sophisticated Grand Suite, each of the rooms is fitted with bespoke Christopher Guy furniture and showcase unique Edwardian characteristics.

The basic standard is high. All rooms have Hypnos beds and the full Sky TV package, including Sky Sports, Sky Movies and Sky Atlantic, a mini-bar and an en suite bathroom complete with a rain shower and robe and slippers. Perfect for recuperating after a hectic day exploring the capital. We also appreciated our Nespresso coffee making machine and tasty English breakfast in the morning! Quality over quantity was the order of the day – but it was more than enough to fuel us up for the busy hours of sightseeing ahead.

No. Ten Manchester Street is also renowned for being one of London’s finest cigar venues, offering cigar connoisseurs a unique opportunity to experience some of the world’s most exceptional brands. The hotel’s walk-in humidor contains an impressive range of meticulously maintained, hand-rolled Havana cigars, which can be enjoyed on an all-weather Cigar Terrace. Not for me as a non-smoker, but certainly seemed popular among non-residents during our visit.

The hotel is also home to a sophisticated Italian restaurant, Dieci, which boasts of ‘contemporary flavours’ in what appears to be an elegant yet informal setting.

For parents unable to leave the kids at home, but not prepared to sacrifice on luxury, No. Ten Manchester Street is a good choice.

Spacious Family Suites with interconnecting rooms that can sleep up to five people catered for our needs perfectly. And its picturesque location provides a tranquil base from which to explore, with some of the city¹s most famous attractions on its doorstep. Within easy walking distance is Oxford Street, London Zoo and Madame Tussauds, among others.

A particularly nice -­ and unusual ­- touch is the handy free-to-use smartphone in each of the rooms.

Although, it has to be said, one frustrating feature in our room was the lack of any form of dressing table, making my transformation from dishevelled tourist to smartly dressed diner somewhat more challenging than it needed to have been! That said, for the centre of London, it was a comfortable spacious room. There was even a separate sitting area in which to relax.

But, also being the centre of London, you might want to give the mini bar a swerve when you see the price list!

All in all, I had no complaints about the hospitality at No. Ten with friendly, attentive staff on hand and the sights of London just a stone’s throw from our rooms.

This is a lovely hotel which does not have to break the bank. Look out for their special package offers at: www.tenmanchesterstreethotel.com  It comes highly recommended.