The New Inn B&B

Housed in a petite white three-story building with forest-green trim and awnings emblazoned with its name, the New Inn is a cozy, homey property with a friendly atmosphere and charming ground floor pub. Black picnic tables skirt the outside of the building and span the width of the street corner location. Inside, the space blends a classic, cozy pub feel (think worn wooden floors, wood furnishings, and a large wood paneled bar, comfortable leather couches, and a fireplace) with modern art on the walls and quirky lighting fixtures. Some of the walls are covered with black-and-white damask wallpaper, and the street corner location means that there are several large windows that fill the space with natural light. The large, colorful candy-filled glass jars lining the shelves behind the bar add a sweet touch, and the resident dogs milling about the place further enhance the homey vibe, provided guests are fans of the four-legged friends.

The hotel is located on a quiet street corner in St. John’s Wood, an affluent residential neighborhood in northwest London. The area suits travelers who want a break from the hustle and bustle of central London, value the tranquility of a residential area but still want to be within reach of the city's sights. There are a couple of restaurants and bars within a five-minute walk of the property, and the lovely green oasis of Regent’s Park, which is home to a zoo, an open-air theater, and a boating lake, is two blocks away. The closest Underground station is St. John’s Wood Station, which is a 10-minute walk from the hotel. There’s also a bus stop two blocks away by the park that goes to Camden and the Camden Market in about 15 minutes. Other popular sights that can be easily reached by public transportation include Oxford Street (about 20 minutes), Buckingham Palace (25 minutes), Big Ben (20 minutes), and the London Eye (30 minutes).

The hotel’s five contemporary rooms are tastefully designed with wooden furnishings that couple with bold accent walls of purple, white, and gray horizontal stripes. Decor is simple, but the striped wall, as well as small details like black-and-white framed photographs, small waterfall chandeliers, and floral-patterned chairs lend an air of elegance and sophistication. Comfortable beds are framed in wooden headboards with built-in nightstands and lamps flanking both sides. Though rooms are a bit small, they make efficient use of space, and all have wooden work desks and wardrobes. All rooms are equipped with flat-screen TVs, tea- and coffee-making facilities, and free Wi-Fi. Bathrooms are basic but clean, with walk-in showers.

The hotel’s ground-floor gastro pub attracts both locals and guests alike with its friendly atmosphere, extensive list of craft beer, wine, and cocktails, as well as a tasty menu that features locally sourced meat, fish, and pub classics, plus Sunday roasts and themed nights like Curry Night or Chef’s Special. Continental or English breakfast is available but not included in the room rate. The pub also hosts live music acts regularly. Though there’s no free parking, the hotel offers a discounted rate at a nearby car park. Wi-Fi is free throughout.