For travelers seeking an alternative to London’s more central tourist areas, the City of London district is emerging as a recommended destination. A new hotel, The Derby London City, has recently opened in the historic financial district, also known as the Square Mile.
The Derby London City is part of Hilton’s Curio Collection and occupies a former bank. The property offers rooms at a low to mid-range price point, with a decor theme inspired by a banker’s bowler hat, featuring a leopard motif. The reception area includes a shimmering installation resembling an old vault, and the hotel’s restaurant, Rycroft’s, overlooks the St Dunstan in the East church garden, a popular spot.
A New Hotel in the Financial District
The Derby London City is a new addition to Hilton’s Curio Collection, which emphasizes hotels with unique personalities. It is located in the City of London, the historic financial district often referred to as the Square Mile. The hotel took over an old building, offering accommodations that are described as “super chic,” with some rooms providing views of London rooftops.
Exploring the Area
The City of London is well-connected to public transport, with Bank, Monument, and Tower Hill tube stations nearby. The area is described as becoming remarkably quiet on weekends when the business crowd leaves. It offers convenient access to several major attractions, including the Tower of London, St Paul’s Cathedral, and the River Thames, where Tower Bridge is located. The hotel is also close to Leadenhall Market, which was used as the entrance to Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter films.
Visiting Historic Pubs
Just a bus ride away, the Shoreditch area on the cusp of the East End offers attractions like Brick Lane, known for its Indian and Bangladeshi restaurants and vintage shops. Spitalfields Market, featuring fashion stalls, is also recommended. For those interested in historic pubs, Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese on Fleet Street is suggested, a dimly lit inn once frequented by Charles Dickens.
