Athletic-Minded Traveler

This boutique 130-room property is hidden amongst the financial district's highrises and narrow streets. Unless we had business meetings in the area, we probably would prefer to stay in another more entertaining part of town but Apex does offer an appealing accommodation for athletic-minded travelers seeking convenient access to this section of the city (Tower of London is nearby) and/or are hunting for a deal.

Apex's guest rooms are on the small side, but are impressively decorated with a splash of modern style. Free wireless internet access and local calls are nice perks and the restaurant serves tasty cuisine.

Apex's mini-gym will not wow you, but the equipment stocked inside is top-notch and may be sufficient for many cardio junkies. Technogym treadmills, ellipticals, steppers and bikes supply plenty of options for raising that heart rate. Unfortunately, strength buffs are left out in the London rain as only one multigym is available to "pump you up." Dumbbells would be an easy addition.

If you want more from your sweat and or a plausible lap swim, the nearest health club with a pool is ten minutes away by foot: Bannatyne (15BP/day). There is a waterbox at Bannatyne, but it's a 15-meter shorty. Serious lappers should head north a few miles to London Fields Lido. It's 50 meters and 8 lanes!

Runners should consider an outdoor jog along the river Thames.