Dakota Deluxe, Leeds, Yorkshire

Leeds ticks all the boxes for shopping; from window-shopping the designer stores in the Victoria Quarter to getting lost in the riotous jumble of stalls in Kirkgate Market.

Located right in the heart of Leeds, there's culture, shops and dining from Dakota's doorstep.
By car: 1 hour from Manchester or Sheffield, 2 hours from Birmingham, just over 4 hours from Edinburgh. There is no on-site parking but a 25% discount is offered at Q Park at The Light Centre. Valet parking available on a pre-bookable basis at £30 per night.
By train: Leeds station is a five-minute walk from the hotel with direct services from Edinburgh (3 hours), Newcastle (1 hour 30 minutes), Manchester Piccadilly (1 hour) and London Kings Cross (2 hours 15 minutes) thetrainline.com

Dakota appeals to couples who want a smart city break with a a VIP feel; there's a definite private members' club vibe to it.

The bar stocks around 200 gins and watching the mixologists at work in the Salon Privé is a real treat.

• Bar
• Restaurant
• Salon Privé
• Heated terrace
• Live music
• Room service
• Valet parking

• Wheelchair accessible

​Although rooms are dark and the views from most are into other city buildings, they do feel cosy and the beds are tip-top comfortable. Two rooms on the top floor have balconies and are much lighter, with views over the city.

Classic, Executive, Deluxe and Balcony rooms, Signature Suite, Grand Deluxe Suite
Facilities include: Sky Sports and Sky Movies Package on Smart HDTV, ensuite rainfall shower, luxury toiletries, slippers, hairdryer, ironing facilities, linen bedding, tea and coffee tray, bottled water

Not having a cocktail before dinner would be a mistake. Many are inspired by iconic paintings - the Van Gogh is a corker. Desserts are beautifully presented. Treat yourself to the pear, blackberry and meadowsweet crumble with just the right sweet-to-tart balance.

Dakota Grill: classically inspired dining, comfort food favourites. Open for dinner Monday-Thursday; lunch and dinner at weekends. À la carte mains from £17.
Salon Privé: glamorous, heated terrace with views over Leeds' Greek Street, live music, exotic gins, cocktails, afternoon tea, bar food. Open Friday 3-10pm, Saturday 12-10pm. Sandwiches and cocktails both from £10.