Its proximity to the seat of government informs the design of the appealing bar at London’s newest InterContinental Hotel. Gerald Scarfe cartoons and satirical puppets of political big wigs are witty appendages to a well-upholstered tweedy, wood-panelled lounge that suggests a Palace of Westminster bolthole. Cocktails such as mezcal mule, aviation (based on eucalyptus-infused gin), Tequila martinez and Paddington (rum, Lillet blanc, pink grapefruit, lemon, absinthe and the eponymous bear’s beloved marmalade) get the vote – as does a beer offer that includes draught Black Isle Porter and Meantime’s Yakima Red. As well as regulation hotel bar food, visitors can also enjoy pork belly bites, deep-fill cheese baps and oysters every which way. Cosy, conspiratorial private snugs and high-end afternoon tea in twee Emmeline’s next door are further reasons to file through the lobby.