Ruby Zoe, London

BACKGROUND Germany's Ruby Hotels launched in 2013, and operates 17 properties in locations including Amsterdam, Dublin, Düsseldorf, Frankfurt, Hamburg and Zurich.

- Mark Caswell

Described as a "lean luxury" brand, the group debuted in the UK in 2020 with Ruby Lucy in London's Waterloo. Ruby Zoe in Notting Hill followed in July 2023, with a hotel in Clerkenwell opening this month, and a property in Southwark to follow.

WHERE IS IT? A couple of minutes' walk from Notting Hill Gate Underground station with links to the Central, District and Circle Lines. The hotel is within walking distance of Hyde Park and the iconic Portobello Road.

WHAT'S IT LIKE? Ruby Zoe is housed within a six-storey new-build property on Notting Hill Gate - guests arrive into the bar area that doubles up as reception.

To the left of this is a vibrant lounge/ communal workspace, with a vintage car and a feature wall with vinyl record covers.

Music is a big part of the brand, with guests able to hire electric guitars to use in their rooms. This theme continues in design elements, including an installation of trumpets hanging from the ceiling, and a wall covered in speakers of various sizes.

The brand is clearly trying to foster a community feel, with games nights and speed dating events advertised.