Things to do in London

Where to Stay in London: A Guide to London Hotels

London has more hotels than almost any city in the world — but choosing the right one depends on your trip goals. Whether you're visiting for sightseeing, work, or a weekend break, this guide breaks down the Best Hotels in London, including top areas to stay, hotel styles to consider, and practical tips to help you find a place that fits your budget and plans.

Best Areas to Stay in London

London is made up of distinct neighbourhoods, each offering its own atmosphere, access to landmarks, and hotel options. Your choice of area affects not just price and convenience but also the kind of experience you’ll have — from sightseeing to food, nightlife, or quiet parks.

Central London (West End, Soho, Covent Garden)

Ideal for first-time visitors who want to walk to top attractions like Trafalgar Square, Oxford Street, and the British Museum. Hotel options range from well-known chains to boutique spots tucked behind theatres.

South Bank & Waterloo

A scenic and cultural hub along the River Thames. This area offers views of Big Ben, easy access to the London Eye and Tate Modern, and a mix of modern and mid-range hotels, many with riverside views.

Kensington & Chelsea

An elegant, quieter part of London with museums, parks, and upscale shops. Good for families and travellers who prefer calm surroundings. Expect luxury and heritage-style hotels near Hyde Park and the V&A Museum.

Shoreditch & East London

Creative, local, and full of character. Stay here for street food, galleries, nightlife, and modern boutique hotels in converted industrial buildings. Great for younger travellers and digital nomads.

King’s Cross & Camden

Strategic and budget-friendly. King's Cross is a transport hub (including Eurostar), while Camden is known for music, food, and markets. Plenty of affordable options with fast Tube access.

Types of Hotels in London

From luxury suites in historic buildings to minimalist rooms in tech-savvy hotels, London’s accommodation options are as varied as the city itself. This section outlines the main types of hotels, helping you decide which style fits your needs, budget, and expectations for comfort.

Luxury Hotels

• The Savoy – classic riverside luxury with Art Deco interiors
• The Langham – grand and central, close to Oxford Circus
• Shangri-La at The Shard – stay in London’s tallest building

Mid-Range & Boutique Hotels

• Z Hotels – small but central, good for short stays
• The Hoxton – stylish rooms in Holborn and Shoreditch
• CitizenM – tech-forward design, great for solo or business stays

Budget Hotels & Compact Rooms

• Point A Hotels – no-frills stays with great Tube access
• Premier Inn Hub – compact rooms with smart layouts
• Travelodge – consistent value across the city

Why Book These London Hotels

The hotels listed below are handpicked for quality, location, and guest satisfaction. Whether you're planning a quick city break or a longer stay, these options offer something for every budget and travel style — from riverside views to quiet local stays near the action.

Featured Hotel Picks by Theme

Choosing the right hotel often depends on more than just price or location — the occasion matters too. Whether you're travelling with family, planning a romantic escape, or looking for standout views, here are some of London’s best hotels grouped by purpose and theme.

Theme	Hotel Name	Area	Why Stay
Iconic Landmark	The Ritz	Mayfair	Classic luxury and royal connections
Family Friendly	Park Plaza Westminster Bridge	South Bank	Spacious, pool, and close to the London Eye
Romantic Getaway	The Franklin	Knightsbridge	Quiet and intimate, near museums and Hyde Park
Food-Focused	Boundary Shoreditch	Shoreditch	Rooftop dining and surrounded by local favourites
Best Views	Shangri-La The Shard	Southwark	Panoramic skyline views from every room

Traveler Voices

“I had an amazing stay at One Hundred Shoreditch. The staff was absolutely welcoming and friendly. The hotel looks amazing, with a very modern decor.” — TripAdvisor reviewer

“This London grande dame has had more than 150 years to perfect its winning formula of top-tier service, competitive drinking and dining.” — The Telegraph

Travel Tips for Booking Hotels in London

London is a walkable city with great public transport, but the area you stay in still matters. Booking early helps avoid high-season prices, and being close to a Tube stop makes exploring much easier. These tips will help you make smarter choices and avoid common pitfalls.

• Stay near a Tube station to cut down on travel time. Central Zone 1 areas offer great connectivity.
• Room sizes are small compared to other countries — especially in budget or historic hotels.
• Book early during peak seasons (summer, Christmas) as rates go up quickly.
• Look at weekday vs weekend rates, especially in business districts where prices may drop at weekends.
• Avoid renting a car. Parking is expensive and unnecessary. Public transport and walking work best.

🚌 Need help navigating the city? Visit Transport for London for maps, fares, and travel tips.

London Hotel Map

Use the interactive map below to explore where each hotel is located across London. Zoom into neighbourhoods like Soho, South Bank, and Shoreditch to find hotel listings close to top attractions, parks, and transport.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best part of London to stay in for tourists?

Central London — especially Covent Garden, Soho, or Westminster — gives you easy access to museums, landmarks, restaurants, and shops.

Are hotel rooms in London small?

Yes, especially in older buildings and budget hotels. Always check room size before booking if that’s important to you.

Can I walk to most attractions from my hotel?

If you stay in Central London or South Bank, many major attractions are walkable. Otherwise, London’s public transport system is reliable and well-connected.

Do hotels in London usually include breakfast?

Not always. Some offer it as an extra or recommend nearby cafés. Check the booking details for what's included.

Are there hotels near Heathrow or Gatwick?

Yes, but they're best for airport layovers. For sightseeing, it’s better to stay in the city and take the train or express service to the airport when needed.

Find Your Ideal London Stay

London has no shortage of hotels — but choosing the right one can shape your entire trip. Whether you’re after a luxury suite in Mayfair, a boutique stay in Shoreditch, or a budget-friendly room near the Tube, the listings below are handpicked for quality, value, and location.

Use the filters to explore hotels by area, price, and style — and if you’re still planning your visit, these resources can help:

• 📍 Top Things to Do in London
• 🎟️ Browse London Excursions & Tours
• 📅 Best Time to Visit London
• 🏠 Back to WandeGo Home