The Craftsmen, Amsterdam, Netherlands

The hotel is on the Singel, one of the city's main canals. Being in the historic centre, numerous restaurants, bars and attractions are nearby. Various museums and churches are a short walk, the Anne Frank House a ten minute walk, and the major museums on Museumplein a bit further.

By train: the Eurostar goes direct from London St Pancras to Amsterdam Centraal. The hotel is under a 10-minute walk from the station. Book trains to Amsterdam.

By plane: direct flights from London and Manchester take around 1 hour 15 minutes. The hotel is a 30-minute drive from Schiphol airport and a 10-minute walk from central station. Book flights to Amsterdam.

This hotel has lots of character due to its many historical and quirky items. It has original Delft tiles by the staircase in the lobby, an exposed brick in the breakfast room and also a big mosaic of clock parts and big spotlight-like lamps. The dark colour palette sets the cosy mood: dark olive green walls, leather-covered seating, and breakfast served on Pomax black bowls, plates and cutlery. The reception desk top has hundreds of cogwheels set in clear plastic resin, below it is a display of spanners and tools.

The young staff are friendly, helpful and professional. There's a breakfast room which later in the day can be used as a workspace, and in the evening is popular for drinks and snacks. Bike rental can be arranged so you can explore the city on two wheels.

• In-room breakfast
• Café
• Bike rental
• Family-friendly
• Free Wi-Fi

The rooms have great character and lots of historical features. Most have canal views, all are of different shapes and sizes and many have freestanding baths in the room. There are some odd omissions, such as nowhere to hang or store clothes but invariably the room's charm easily makes up for this.

Room types: Room, Room with a View, Deluxe Room with a View, Family Room, Signature Room, The Lofts

Key amenities: ensuite bathroom with Moulton Brown toiletries, Nespresso machine, TV, free Wi-Fi

There's a modest yet filling choice for breakfast, with meats, cheese, bread, croissant, fruit salad, boiled egg, coffee, tea and freshly squeezed orange juice offered. A moderate selection of wines, beers, spirits, hot drinks and bar snacks can be ordered, as well as ten sandwich options from the sandwich shop next door.

The Craftsmen Kitchen: takeaway store, serving coffees, juices and sandwiches. Open daily, 8am-6pm. Sandwiches from €3.