Think London hotels are all expensive and uninspiring? Think again. The city’s hotel scene has exploded with stylish, innovative, and surprisingly affordable options, from trendy boutique stays to quirky apartments and unique experiences.
No matter your style or budget, there’s a perfect spot waiting - whether you’re after sleek city chic, something offbeat, or a home-from-home for longer stays.
Here’s Cosmopolitan’s guide to the best places to stay in London, helping you find a room that’s as memorable as the city itself...
Radisson Blu Hotel, Bond Street
Sometimes, when booking for a city break away, you aren’t sure what you want from the trip until you get there. Which is what makes Radisson Blu Hotel, Bond Street, perfectly placed. Suddenly decide you want to go shopping? It’s smack-bang in the centre of town - opposite Selfridges, close to iconic department store Liberty and all the high street staples on Oxford Street a few minutes away. Or, fancy going a bit wild? It’s only a short meander over to the buzzy bars and restaurants of Soho, a hedonists paradise. Romantic weekend? Hit the Royal Academy for some culture, browse the charming boutiques on Marylebone High Street and pop into one of the cool eateries in Fitzrovia. Whatever you do, schedule some time at the hotel itself where the rooms have undergone a complete refurb with soft fabrics and neutral colours offering a welcome retreat from the bustling streets down below. Splash out on an airy one-bedroom suite with a terrace, freshen up in the marble shower using the Urban Apothecary products, make yourself a coffee (rooms include coffee machines) and sit looking out over the London rooftops whilst planning the next days’ adventure. Rooms from £300
Hotel Indigo Clerkenwell
Round the corner from the Barbican Centre and a short walk to hidden gem Exmouth Market, Hotel Indigo’s latest boutique hotel has popped up in Clerkenwell (their fifth in London). The area shoulders Shoreditch, one of the trendiest neighbourhoods in London, and boasts old-school cobbled streets and a Michelin-star gastro scene – *ahem* St John – whilst being central enough for typical touristy jaunts. A five-minute walk from Farringdon station makes it an ideal base for a London adventure, whether you’re travelling for work or play.
The hotel’s interiors draw inspo from the neighbourhood’s rich design heritage of clockmakers and goldsmiths with kitsch-y, but charming gear-mechanism-patterned furnishings, jewel tones and vintage dial telephones. The rooms are surprisingly spacious for the location, especially if you splash out for a premium suite, and the thick blackout curtains mean you get a decent night's sleep despite it being situated on the bustling junction of Goswell Road. You’ll wake up refreshed and pampered thanks to the powerful rainfall shower and Urban Apothecary toiletries.
There are practical workspaces for digital nomads, cushy sitting areas and fun hangouts for indulging, and this is where the hotel scores maximum points; it’s stylish communal spaces. Wilderness Kitchen is their botanical-clad all-day restaurant with a menu that sports British classics like haddock and chips, braised beef pie, and cauliflower steak, all made with local seasonal produce. The relaxed, light-flooded dining room serves up a solid, slap-up full English at the breakfast buffet, too.
Then there’s Hat and Feathers, the interconnected Grade II listed Victorian pub that the hotel is built around. It’s been gorgeously restored - all polished mahogany wood, with the walls and ceiling painted a dark crimson red. It’s your standard boozer serving Guinness and Estrella, but not a wealth of craft beers on offer. When the night turns to cocktails, we get a real kick out of leaving the pub via the back exit and finding ourselves in the hotel lobby, like a boozy London Narnia. Here you can end with a nightcap at their small but bold Sabini Bar. Overall, it's a great option for couples, mates and family holidays, plus quick business trips.
Virgin Hotel
If you're looking for a fun, stylish and unforgettable stay in London then the Virgin Hotel in Shoreditch is a perfect mix of retro-chic 70s style and modern luxury. The rooms are playful yet comfortable, complete with vinyl players and quirky touches, and breakfast can be ordered straight from the TV for a cool, effortless start to the day. Guests can book a Chamber for a cosy, well-appointed room, or a Suite if they want something bigger with more living space and additional amenities.
Dining and drinks are a highlight, from Hidden Grooves, a high-fidelity cocktail bar inspired by the golden age of vinyl, to 45th&7th, the rooftop bar and restaurant ideal for summer lounging by the pool. The newly opened 45 Curtain Road serves Japanese-inspired dishes with Mediterranean influences, using seasonal ingredients and bold flavours.
Stays can be made extra special for celebrations, with thoughtful touches such as fruits, chocolate cake, prosecco, and balloons in the room. With rooftop views, stylish rooms, and attentive service, The Virgin Hotel offers a luxurious and memorable experience for any occasion.
Members of Virgin Red - Virgin’s rewards club - can even pay with Virgin Points for Reward Stays and earn seven points for every £1 spent, which can be put towards flights, concerts, epic experiences, and more, making this a destination that’s as rewarding as it is stylish.
Zedwell
With hotels in Knightsbridge, Piccadilly, Tottenham Court Road and Greenwich, Zedwell is redefining what it means to stay in a central London location. They offer unique sanctuaries of calm, perfect for a undisturbed night's sleep at super affordable prices. They have over 1,500 'Cocoon rooms', aka windowless-by-design spaces that eliminate noise, light and distractions, perfect for when you just need to hunker down and soak up some Zzzzs. Whether a London hen-do, a well deserved staycation or the need for an inexpensive night's sleep in the centre of England's capital, Zedwell could be the hotel for you.
The Londoner
If you’re planning an all-out, special occasion sort of trip to the city, our Fashion Editor wholeheartedly recommends booking a room at The Londoner. It scores maximum points for its prime central location on Leicester Square, placing you within walking distance of the best nightlife, dining and theatre in Soho, the West End, and Embankment. Or if you fancy a shopping spree, the world-class retail offerings on Regent Street, New Bond Street, and Carnaby Street are also a walk away. Whether it’s a romantic getaway or a girls’ trip celebrating a big birthday, The Londoner makes an ideal (and very cool) base.
The hotel itself is a dazzling experience in five star luxury, but despite the 350 rooms and suites sprawling over 16 storeys, the space still manages to feel cosy and plush. Velvet upholstery, thick padded carpets, and gentle lighting set a relaxing mood.The decor is eclectic but grownup, and never stuffy or try-hard…reflective of the stylish crowd often spotted here during London Fashion Week. Wake up to the weekend in king-sized crisp white sheets, with floor-to-ceiling window views of London’s iconic skyline, and ease into the day with a delicious hot breakfast in bed.
Kick off your evening with a romantic Mediterranean dinner at Whitcomb’s, the property’s signature restaurant with a delicate seafood offering. After a day exploring the city, relax with a romantic nightcap at 8 at the Londoner, their Japanese-inspired rooftop bar with cinematic views. And before you check out, make sure to enjoy some time at The Retreat, the hotel’s tranquil subterranean wellness floor and spa. Book a poolside cabana for a morning dip, or make time for a rejuvenating facial treatment. The perfect London weekender, we say.
The Hoxton Shoreditch
If you need a base for a free-wheeling East London adventure, look no further than the OG Hoxton hotel location: the Hoxton Shoreditch. Whether you’re planning to trawl the city’s vintage shopping epicentre on Brick Lane, have a rowdy night out in Shoreditch, or explore Dalston’s queer nightlife scene, this is your spot. And did someone say brunch at Columbia Road Flower Market? It’s all on your doorstep.
The Hox Shoreditch gets a gold star for flexibility: if you book online at thehoxton.com, you can enjoy ‘Flexy Time,’ aka the option to check in and out whenever you like. Yep, no more powering through a hangover to pack up for an early morning departure; you can enjoy that lie-in as long as you like. And you can even cancel for free up until 2pm the day before your arrival. Plus, food and drinks are served round the clock at this location, from the main floor American-style grill to the rooftop Peruvian Llama Inn restaurant. So if you (or your crew) fancy more of a ‘play it by ear’ vibe for your London visit, this hotel can match your energy no problem. Plus, the sprawling lobby provides a laid-back, charming third space to hang out in during your stay.
The rooms are handsome, and well-designed with an industrial feel. The Hoxton has several boutique, ‘open-house’ style locations flung across Europe and the Americas, each as uniquely designed as the next. Pick a room size to suit your budget from “Shoebox” to “Roomy,” and let the East London exploring begin.
London Marriott Hotel Park Lane
The ideal location for shopping holidays, London Marriott Hotel Park Lane is two minutes walk away from Oxford Circus, with all the high-street shops literally on your door step. But, step inside the hotel, and the spacious, cosy rooms complete with luxe marble bathrooms, offer much needed respite from the bustle of central London.
Plus, just in time for Christmas, the hotel is offering a festive bed, breakfast and bubbles package which offers the fanciest breakfast in bed you’ll ever have. We’re talking a menu of breakfast classics, patisseries and pastries, delivered direct to your room with… wait for it… unlimited Chapel Down Vintage Reserve 2019. Yep, you get a bottle with your breakfast and if you need a top-up all you need to do is call (non-alcoholic options are also available). Had too much and eyes a little blurry? The hotel also offers personalised gift-wrapping taking the hassle out of Christmas shopping.
Taj 51 Buckingham Gate Suites and Residences
Smack bang in the centre of London, a hop, skip and a jump from Victoria Station in St James’ Court, sits Taj 51 Buckingham Gate Suites and Residences. Spread across eight redbrick townhouses in an aquamarine-tiled courtyard tucked behind the tumult of Victoria, the hotel is an unexpected spot of serenity in the city.
Rooms are spacious – ideal for squirreling yourself away for a romantic weekend without having to leave the city – or for longer corporate stays (each has its own kitchenette and separate living room so no need for interruptions.) While London’s foodie scene is unbeatable, Taj 51 Buckingham Gate Suites and Residences has two restaurants and the newer House of Ming which offers rich Sichuan and Cantonese flavours in a decadent, art deco setting, is not to be missed. Book the nook seats for a romantic meal for two.
The subterranean spa offers a small lap pool, steam and sauna and an array of treatments. We had the full body massage which left us feeling suitably pummelled. Sadly, the spa’s seating area is slightly lacking, so it’s better for a quick dip and a steam rather than a full day of lounging. And it can get a little rowdy and slippery during peak hours.
Aside from an unbeatable location, it’s the hotel's friendly staff which makes it stand out, for whom no task is too small, including offering an array of DVDs and popcorn to enjoy in your room for a romantic movie night.
art’otel Hoxton
Art'otel Hoxton is perfectly located for diving into the brilliant creative scenes of Shoreditch and Hoxton, which are stuffed full of independent shops and galleries. In collaboration with Eyal Shoan, of award-winning interior design studio Digital Space, this stylish yet playful hotel has been given a bold aesthetic by Signature Artist D*Face, through hanging art on the walls and in the halls.
As well as the hotel restaurant and bar, The Brush Grand Café, the Hoxton hotel also has a heated indoor pool and spa, as well as five different room options - from the Art Room to the One Bedroom Suite with a Skyline View.
Treehouse Hotel in Marylebone
Not only is this hotel in the best location with the dreamiest rooftop restaurant, but they’re also offering a tailored stay at the hotel, just for the Eras Tour! The tay-lored stay includes transfers to and from the concert in London, friendship bracelets, a food and beverage credit a selection of accessories to get you ready for the evening in style!
Marylebone Hotel in Marylebone Village
Ideally located for all of your shopping needs is the Marylebone Hotel, tucked away just behind Bond Street and Oxford Street station. Offering spacious rooms with a modern design, the hotel is surrounded by beautiful independent shops, cafes and restaurants, so when you're done with a day of shopping on Moxon Street or nearby, you can crawl into a luxurious bed and chill out. Plus, the hotel's restaurant, 108 Brasserie, offers a great breakfast spread, and there's a cocktail bar on site for your late night needs.
Count us in!
Soho Hotel in Soho
Based in the heart of Soho (hence the name!), the Soho Hotel is a slice of tranquil beauty in amongst the hustle and bustle of central London, perfect for laying your head after a day on Carnaby Street.
With 96 individually designed bedrooms, each room has floor-to-ceiling crittall-style windows, an eclectic mix and match of beautiful patterned furniture and a real eye for those luxury hotel style details. Whether it's a record player tucked away in a corner, a gorgeous marble walk-in shower or standalone deep bathtub, the hotel also offers the option of breakfast in bed and all those little touches you don't know you need until they're up for grabs. Lavender spray left by the bed, anyone?
South Place Hotel, Liverpool Street
If you're looking for luxury, the South Place Hotel (complete with a Michelin-starred seafood restaurant, Angler, on the ground floor) has you more than covered. From the moment you step foot in the hotel, you'll feel taken care of and at ease; the staff are beyond friendly, the general atmosphere is one of refined calm and as for the beds? Good luck with prising yourself out of them come morning. If you do manage it, we suggest checking out South Place's well-kept gym and spa to kick off your day, or, if you're lucky enough to book into one of their many rooms with ginormous glass bathtubs, start the AM by soaking your troubles away. The rooms have a simple minimalist design without feeling cold, along with all the necessary mod-cons (a decent! coffee! machine!), and the location is a stone's throw from Shoreditch and central London. A true *chef's kiss* of a stay.
Room rates start from £270
Canopy by Hilton London City, Aldgate
Heavily inspired by the local area's history, you'll be soaking up London's East End in and outside of this gem of a hotel. The smart interiors draw on the area's textile industry, while the Penny Squares restaurant serves East End-inspired dishes. After you've enjoyed your morning craft coffee at the Freedom Cafe, hop on one of the hotel's complimentary bikes to explore the city or jump on the tube at nearby Aldgate. Not in the mood for venturing far after a long day sightseeing? Head up to the hotel's rooftop terrace Florattica (due to open in early 2022) for Instagram-worthy pictures of St Paul's Cathedral and the City of London.
Room rates start from £249
The Hari, Belgravia
The Hari is one of London's "It hotels" thanks to its chic design and delicious restaurant, il Pampero. Situated just a few minutes on foot from the likes of Sloane Square and Buckingham Palace, it's the perfect place to stay if you want to do your trip in style. Make sure to pay a visit to the gorgeous garden terrace for a cocktail while you're there.
Room rates start from £246
The Resident, Covent Garden
Covent Garden is the perfect base for a short trip to London, and The Resident is a traveller favourite thanks to its chic but simple design and ideal location.
Room rates start from £96
Leman Locke, Aldgate
These self-contained apartments are one of the more affordable accommodation options, but you'd never know it at first glance. The pastel-themed interiors are clearly designed to appeal to millennials (and we have to say, it's working), while huge windows give you a good view of the city. The on-site restaurant is well worth a visit, too.
Room rates start from £78
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The Zetter Clerkenwell
Tucked off a courtyard in London's design district stepping into the Zetter Clerkenwell feels like stepping into a rich eccentric aunt's home - in the best way possible. With an eclectic mix of velvet chairs, antique ornaments and mis-matched crockery, the Parlour bar is the sort of place you immediately feel at home (and ready to spill gossip.) The cocktail menu is unique and themed around the world, with the Stonehenge cocktail flavoured around Eton Mess, banofee and apple pie or the Santorini featuring vodka, cucumber cordial and Greek yogurt (a lot nicer than it sounds, very refreshing.) The menu is casual but delicious, with a range of small-plates, perfect for the sort of catch ups where you just have so much to say and need to graze while ordering more cocktails...
As for the rooms, the quirky townhouse feel continues with mahogany beds, huge wardrobes (begging to be filled with vintage Mary Quaint dresses) and with cute touches, such as robes embroidered with moustaches. Views stretch across London, the higher up the townhouse you go, and the location is quiet but so close to the buzziest areas (hello Fabric round the corner) it's the ideal hotel for a weekend where you want to see the city, but also need some respite from it all at the same time.
Lime Tree Hotel, Belgravia
This brand new hotel underwent a complete refurbishment during lockdown, but is already gaining a reputation for its brilliant new cafe and secret garden. The hotel itself is converted from two townhouses, and rooms are spacious - with a balcony, if you're lucky. For a classic "London" experience, you'd be hard-pressed to find a better hotel.
Room rates start from £150
Novotel, London Bridge
Location-wise, it doesn't get better; you're a stone's throw away from the likes of the Shard, Borough Market, Tate Morden and St Pauls Cathedral. The best thing about this hotel, though, in our opinion is the excellent bar. Nightcap, anyone?
Room rates start from £98
The Mayfair Townhouse, Mayfair
From the people behind Cliveden House and Chewton Glen, The Mayfair Townhouse prides itself on having an "Oscar Wilde meets Alice In Wonderland" vibe, which certainly has us interested. Each room at the hotel has been thoughtfully designed, and is playful and fun - plus with added extras like 'his and hers' toiletries and in-room cocktail kits, you'll have the most fun here.
Room rates from £294
ZSL London Zoo Lodges, Regent's Park
Yep, you read that right, you can stay overnight in an actual zoo. ZSL's lodges are located next to the lion enclosure, and each one is animal themed with its own balcony to enjoy the noises of the nearby animals. The real perk is the three after-hours tours you'll get with a host who will leave you desperate to quit your job and train in zoology. An expensive getaway, but a real unique experience.
Room rates star from £378
The Boathouse, Paddington
Ok, so this is a spenny option, but it does sleep four, so it's ideal if there's a bunch of you. Plus, it's a (whisper it) barge like you've never seen before; entirely decked out in MADE furniture, it's chic, spacious and very Instagram-worthy. There's even a rowing boat available to use if you want to explore London via canal.
Rates start from £414 per night
The Hoxton, Southwark
The Hoxton is known worldwide for its hip hotels, and the newest Southwark offering is no different. Rooms come in signature Hoxton categories – ‘Shoebox’, ‘Snug’, ‘Cosy’, ‘Roomy’ and ‘Biggy’, and all have the signature Hox edge. It's cheaper than many similar hotels, and Southwark is the perfect base for exploring nearby Borough Market, Tate Modern and the South Bank.
Room rates start from £140
Assembly Hotel, Charing Cross
If you want somewhere cool, well-located, easy and above all affordable, you won't find better than this hidden gem. Located right next to Leicester Square, it's ideal for first-time visitors to the capital, but the cherry on top (literally) is its fabulous orangery-style rooftop restaurant Bourne & Hollingsworth.
Room rates start from £109
Jennifer Savin is Cosmopolitan UK's multiple award-winning Features Editor, who was crowned Digital Journalist of the Year for her work tackling the issues most important to young women. She regularly covers breaking news, cultural trends, health, the royals and more, using her esteemed connections to access the best experts along the way. She's grilled everyone from high-profile politicians to A-list celebrities, and has sensitively interviewed hundreds of people about their real life stories. In addition to this, Jennifer is widely known for her own undercover investigations and campaign work, which includes successfully petitioning the government for change around topics like abortion rights and image-based sexual abuse. Jennifer is also a published author, documentary consultant (helping to create BBC’s Deepfake Porn: Could You Be Next?) and a patron for Y.E.S. (a youth services charity). Alongside Cosmopolitan, Jennifer has written for The Times, Women’s Health, ELLE and numerous other publications, appeared on podcasts, and spoken on (and hosted) panels for the Women of the World Festival, the University of Manchester and more. In her spare time, Jennifer is a big fan of lipstick, leopard print and over-ordering at dinner. Follow Jennifer on Instagram, X or LinkedIn.
