Considering that Novotel has more than 400 hotels in 60 different countries around the world, I was taken aback at the inventive character of their spot in London Blackfriars.

Novotel London Blackfriars is a beautifully designed, chic hotel in a vibrant and well connected area of the city.

It has 182 rooms, 10 of which have been designed for people with reduced mobility.

It is located just minutes away from London’s famous Southbank, a cultural mecca, as well as being in walking distance of some of the capital’s most famous landmarks, including the London Eye, Tate Modern and St Pauls Cathedral.

They offer online check-in so that when you arrive, your key will be waiting for you, as well as a super fast check-out - as you leave, just deposit your key and you will simply receive your invoice by e-mail.

If you are very short of leisure time you will, at least, have a gorgeous room to relax in.

Mine was elegant and innovatively designed, with a modern and spacious feel. The bed was heavenly, with the perfect balance of softness to sink into while still supporting your back.

My bed was sumptuously soft and I had a view overlooking train tracks, with a small balcony that I would have enjoyed thoroughly had the typical British weather - rain - ruined the opportunity.

The bathroom was elegant with a gloriously large shower space and rainfall head.

The spa area has a luxurious swimming pool and Jacuzzi with a wall-to-wall screen to swim alongside featuring ocean scenes.

Their Jamboree hotel restaurant and bar celebrate flavours from around the world and has a spectacular atmosphere, unparalleled in comparison to many hotel bars.

Upon arriving home late in the evening I couldn’t resist going in for a night cap.

You can take your taste buds on a flavour journey with the new Jamboree Foodfest menu.

Try the Jerk burger paired with a Caribbean cocktail; the Babylon or enjoy the delicious Miso Salmon, inspired by a Japanese classic, with dinner served until 10.30pm.

Key facts: 46 Blackfriars Road SE1 8NZ 020 7660 0834 accorhotels.com Room rates: from £130

Novotel recently reopened their 4* Novotel London Stansted Airport, after an extensive refurbishment.

The new Novotel includes 250 brand new bedrooms as a result of the impressive refurbishment, an all-day dining restaurant, café, bar and a state of the art gym for all guests to enjoy ahead of their holiday.

The hotel bar has an idyllic garden terrace and a restaurant serving a variety of international dishes in a casual setting.

Guests looking to stay active can take advantage of a 24-hour fitness centre.

With new, spacious and airy bedrooms, guests can relax before or after their trip away.

Rooms include the exclusive adaptable smart pillow and eco-friendly linen ensuring unparalleled comfort.

Rooms also provide a separate work area for those flying for business and a flat screen TV for those who just want to unwind during their stay.