Courthouse Hotel Shoreditch

At the end of Old Street, near Columbia Road, you’re in the heart of the East End‘s gritty history at this Grade II-listed former courthouse. Featuring a stained-glass dome and sweeping staircase, the hotel has seen its fair share of history, including the trials of violent gangsters the Kray twins, and author George Orwell. There’s a heated indoor pool, bowling alley and cinema screening room, and for an immersive experience, head to the Jailhouse Bar – in the old police station – or to the courtroom-turned-dining room, Judge and Jury, for brasserie-style fare.