Hotel Review: The William Vale, New York

In one of the quieter quarters of Williamsburg, a rather more tranquil neighbourhood than Manhattan over the East River, the hotel is near the waterfront and just a five-minute walk from McCarren Park. Subways and the ferry to Manhattan are very near, and the increasingly emerging Greenpoint neighbourhood, with a sizeable Polish-American community, is close by to explore.

By plane: flights from London, Manchester or Edinburgh to New York take 7 hours. A taxi will take 30 minutes from JFK airport. Parking costs $50 per day. Book flights to New York.

This trendy hotel housed in the top 11 and bottom two floors of a prominent 23-storey building has a hip, relaxed vibe throughout. With a lobby decorated in neutral tones, ample groups of seating amongst contemporary artworks and big, bold windows opening to the impressive skylines, it is a popular, buzzing spot to socialise.

Service is friendly and efficient. The hotel boasts a dazzling rooftop pool and 22nd floor bar (with food), well-equipped modern gym, restaurant with two dining rooms and a private dining space, and in warmer months a food-truck too. Paid parking is available, and is considerably cheaper than in a Manhattan hotel. There is no spa or business centre.

• Restaurant
• Bar
• Terrace
• Swimming pool
• Fitness centre
• Bike rental
• On-site parking
• Free Wi-Fi

Rooms are swish although compact, with splashes of colour from contemporary artworks by local artists. Light wood floors and floor-to-ceiling windows offer Brooklyn, Queens or Manhattan views. Tiled bathrooms have large back-lit mirrors and walk-in glass showers.

Room types: King/Queen, Gotham, Double Double, One Bedroom Suite, Corner Suite, Vale Garden Residence

Key amenities: ensuite bathroom with toiletries, balcony, Lavazza coffee machine, free Wi-Fi

Eating and drinking is overseen by Michelin-starred chef Andrew Carmellini. On the ground floor is modern Italian restaurant Leuca. Food truck Mr Dips - a 1974 Airstream - is open during the summer months. Westlight on the 22nd floor has indoor seating with floor-to-ceiling windows and a good selection of drinks with light bites.

Westlight: rooftop bar, classic cocktails, small plates. Open daily (hours vary).

Leuca: Italian cuisine. Open for all-day dining and weekend brunch.