Scotland On Sunday Travel: Do Not Disturb, Ruby Lucy, London

The 75-room carnival-themed Ruby Lucy brings what the Munich-based hotel brand describes as its “Lean Luxury” philosophy to London’s Southbank.

Rich, dark tones meet bright brass accents and subtle stripes to create a playful environment. Check out the circus drums and juggling pins on the walls and be sure to look up, or you’ll miss the vintage boat, spaceship and car that hang suspended above the entrance. One of the grooviest hotels I’ve stayed in for some time, the Ruby Lucy is young and quirky with a wonderfully warm and fuss-free welcome.

Budget or boutique?

With rooms from just £119 per night, which includes continental breakfast for two, the feel may be boutique but the price is very definitely budget.

Room service

My room was bright and spacious and spotlessly clean with curtained-off glass shower cubicle and separate toilet. There’s even your very own private balcony with a frosted glass front to ensure a degree of privacy. A godsend for smokers.

Back inside, a sleep-inducing double-bed, state of the art TV and two Marshall amps – one a guitar amp – allow you to plug in your phone and make yourself at home with your own personal play list.

Wining and dining

A communal galley on each floor has a snack dispenser and complimentary teas and coffees, while in the café bar on the ground floor the light bites available include a selection of bruschetta, pizzas, cheese and meat platters and a daily selection of desserts.

Breakfast is also served in the café bar and, rightly proud of their organic breakfast buffet, Ruby Lucy offers carefully selected products and healthy bites, including a large selection of meats, cheeses, pastries, fruit and even porridge, to start your day.

Worth getting out of bed for

Two minutes’ walk from Waterloo Station, the West End is just three tube stops away, however, if you don’t fancy travelling even that short distance, The Old Vic is right at the end of the street.

Hungry? Don’t miss the pop-up food market that appears outside the hotel every lunchtime. Offering tastes and flavours from around the world, it’s hugely popular with locals and workers from surrounding businesses.

Finally, the bohemian Vaulty Towers bar opposite is the perfect place to soak up some jazzy vibes in a hip, laid-back atmosphere.

Little extras

A low-lit fairground theme extends from the entrance of the Ruby Lucy where the first thing to greet you on arrival is a pair of swings hanging from the ceiling – have a shot.

And if you don’t happen to have your own guitar with you, borrow one from reception to make the most of the Marshall guitar amp in your room.

You can also tune in to

Ruby Radio, the hotel group’s very own internet radio station.

Guest book comments

Ruby Lucy keeps things simple. Check in and check out are painless. Staff are friendly, the ambiance relaxed and welcoming.

It is worth noting, however, that Ruby Lucy is a cashless hotel, so make sure you have your card with you to pay at the bar, and check your bill before paying.

Nightly rates at Ruby Lucy start from £119 per night including breakfast. Ruby Lucy, 100-108, Lower Marsh, Bishop’s, London SE1 7AB (0203-475 3460, www.ruby-hotels.com)

Scotland On Sunday Travel: Do Not Disturb, Ruby Lucy, London - Feelin' Groovy