Fodor's Expert Review Esplanade Hotel

Not only is this hallowed live music venue a great place to see local bands, but the Esplanade, or "Espy," is a historic pub—built in 1878—listed with the National Trust. Following a three-year renovation, she has retained her iconic band room, and added a swag of new bar spaces and three restaurants including My Tiger for Cantonese cuisine, in vibrant, beautiful settings: grab a table on the terrace to be seen.