Mrs Banks Hotel

As bank branches are retired, Australia finds itself with a surfeit of these solid, unwanted buildings. A few, like this one in Paddington, are finding a new lease of life as hotels.

Mrs Banks, which dates from 1914, retains its art deco façade, but the interior has been transformed into a warm, welcoming space.

Despite a few flashes of design flair, this boutique property is fairly sober and grown-up. Rooms are not especially large but are extremely comfortable and clean.

Paddington is a character-filled suburb, filled with streets of immaculately restored Victorian terrace houses. It’s centrally located for exploring the wider city’s sights, but away from the main city crowds.

It’s an ideal choice for anyone wanting a quieter, more atmospheric stay in a popular local neighbourhood.