Best hotels in London

The Peninsula, London

The Peninsula London is a relatively new arrival to the Belgravia neighbourhood, but it occupies a site with a rich architectural history. Standing at the intersection of Hyde Park Corner and Wellington Arch, the building was designed by acclaimed architect Peter Marino to reflect the grandeur of the surrounding heritage buildings, featuring a central courtyard inspired by traditional British courtyards.

“There can’t be many more serenely frictionless bubbles in London. All the hallmarks of one of the world’s most iconic hotel brands are here – the pristine service, the all-encompassing tech, the Rolls-Royces in brand green, the tinkly underwater music in the pool; every lion statuette, marble surface and Japanese maple tree blessed by a hallowed feng shui master.”

Hotel The Edition, London

The London EDITION in Fitzrovia is a masterclass in blending history with modern sophistication. Housed in a series of five grand Georgian townhouses, the building was originally transformed into the Berners Hotel in 1909. It once served as a social hotspot for high society, famously hosting figures like King Edward VII and Carl Fabergé before being restored by Ian Schrager in 2013.

“Step through the glass cube entryway and into the soaring marble lobby with its frothy belle epoque ceilings. Don’t let the scenesters in the lobby put you off. The friendly, unpretentious service and beautiful public spaces make for a standout stay.”

The Savoy, London

The Savoy, which opened on the Strand in 1889, is one of London’s most legendary luxury hotels. Built by theatrical impresario Richard D’Oyly Carte with profits from his Gilbert and Sullivan opera productions, it was designed by architect Thomas Edward Collcutt. The hotel stands on the site of the former medieval Savoy Palace and has been a pioneer in hospitality innovation since its inception.

“Perfectly located for the shops of Covent Garden and the cinemas of Leicester Square, The Savoy was Marilyn Monroe’s London hotel of choice and, if you can stretch to the £400-plus nightly fee, it can to become yours.”

Charlotte Street Hotel, London

The Charlotte Street Hotel is a vibrant boutique gem tucked away in Fitzrovia, London. Designed by Kit Kemp, the hotel reflects a fearless, contemporary style that pays homage to the influential Bloomsbury Group. With original artworks by famous figures like Vanessa Bell and Duncan Grant displayed throughout the property, it feels less like a hotel and more like a curated, creative townhome.

“A beautiful boutique property in the heart of Central London, the Charlotte Street Hotel is all literary nods and artistic winks. Located on a relatively quiet side street in Fitzrovia, the hotel is a classy establishment that will appeal to the style maven.”

Featured as Fodor’s Choice in London.

The Hoxton Shoreditch, London

The Hoxton, Shoreditch, opened in 2006 as the brand's original flagship. Built on what was once a humble car park on Great Eastern Street, it played a pivotal role in the transformation of East London. Founded by Sinclair Beecham, it quickly became a neighbourhood pillar, serving as an "open house" where locals and visitors mingle in its famously buzzing, industrial-style lobby.

“This smart budget option could not be better located, bang in the middle of the capital’s most buzzing nightlife area. The Hoxton has been a big hit since it opened in 2006, not least for its famed £1 rooms, which it sells throughout the year.”

Claridge’s Hotel, London

Claridge’s, situated in the heart of London’s Mayfair, is a legendary institution that has served as a sanctuary for royalty, heads of state, and cultural icons since 1812. Often called the "extension to Buckingham Palace," the hotel is perhaps best known as London’s premier Art Deco jewel. Its iconic interior transformation in the 1920s and 1930s was led by architect Oswald Milne, who introduced the stunning geometric marble floors, chrome balustrades, and mirrored foyer that still define its glamorous aesthetic today.

“A grand dame London hotel with a history as rich as many of its guests, Claridge’s justifies its high rates with exceptional standards of luxury and service.”

Featured as Fodor’s Choice in London.

Raffles at The OWO, London

Raffles at The OWO in Whitehall is an architectural masterpiece with a storied past. Built in 1906, the building originally served as the Old War Office, a hub of power where figures like Winston Churchill and T.E. Lawrence once worked. It even inspired Ian Fleming to create the James Bond series, with the site appearing in several 007 films.

“This is the most dazzling, patrician and talked-about hotel to have opened in London this century—with great bones, spirit, heritage, and style; not to mention sybaritic restaurants, bars, and wellness spaces.”

The Chelsea Townhouse, London

The Chelsea Townhouse is a sophisticated boutique retreat set within three beautifully restored Victorian red-brick buildings. Opened in 2023, this elegant property replaced the former Draycott Hotel, reinventing the space as a residential-style sanctuary. Its interiors were carefully curated to honor the area’s eclectic heritage, featuring marble fireplaces, ornate crown moldings, and a quirky collection of "Objects of Curiosity" sourced from around the globe.

“Expect a warm welcome, neutral-on-neutral decor and upmarket comfort food at this central London hotel.”

Broadwick Soho, London

Broadwick Soho is a vibrant, independent luxury hotel situated right in the heart of London’s West End. Housed within a structure that incorporates 19th-century stock brick facades, the property is a playful tribute to the area's history. It seamlessly blends "70s disco pop" with the feel of an eccentric godmother’s townhouse, creating a space that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly modern.

“Broadwick is doing something different to the grand dames and glassy international transplants. This is a fantastically fun place to bed down, with interiors that practically demand you loosen up and settle into Soho’s rhythm – even if just for the night.”

The Connaught Hotel, London

The Connaught, situated in the heart of Mayfair, is a bastion of historic British elegance. Originally opened in 1897 as the Coburg Hotel, it was renamed during World War I to honor Prince Arthur, the Duke of Connaught. Over the decades, it has maintained a reputation for being one of London's most refined addresses, famously hosting royalty, world leaders, and cultural icons within its grand, marble-floored halls.

“With smart dining from star-spangled chefs including Jean-George Vongerichten, an ethereal Aman Spa, and quite possibly the best hotel bar in town, The Connaught is a distillation of everything that makes Mayfair tick.”

Artist Residence Hotel, London

Artist Residence London is a cozy, ten-room boutique hotel tucked away in a beautiful mid-19th-century townhouse in Pimlico. Opened in 2014 by owners Justin Salisbury and Charlotte Newey, the property represents the brand's shift from seaside charm to an "understated and polished" city aesthetic, reflecting the sophisticated character of its historic neighbourhood.

“An intimate boutique hotel in the true sense of the word — small, and loaded with charm and whimsy — with the added benefit of such cheery, personable staff that I watched one guest give a concierge member a hug upon checkout.”

The Pilgrm Hotel, London

The Pilgrm, located in London’s Paddington district, is a masterclass in sustainable restoration. Housed within a cluster of quintessential Victorian buildings, the hotel was reimagined to celebrate its heritage rather than hide it. The team painstakingly restored 200-year-old mahogany staircases and incorporated reclaimed treasures, such as parquet flooring from an old army gym and radiators salvaged from a psychiatric hospital, giving every corner a unique backstory.

“Space may be at a premium in The Pilgrm hotel, but beautiful reclaimed fixtures and tempting food more than make up for the lack of elbow room. Cocktails, comfort, great cuisine… not things a true pilgrim would expect, but I can imagine food, style and bargain lovers everywhere being happy to make a pilgrmage.”

South Place Hotel, London

South Place Hotel, located in the heart of London’s Square Mile, made history in 2012 as the first purpose-built hotel to open in the area in over a century. A project by D&D London, the property was designed with interiors by the iconic Terence Conran, who created a space that feels both polished and creatively inspired.

“A hip, design-led boutique hotel, South Place impresses at every turn. From the art-filled lobby and espionage-inspired theme to the Michelin-starred seafood restaurant and 80 beautifully laid-out rooms – every detail has been carefully considered.”

Hotel Number Sixteen, London

Hotel Number Sixteen is a beautifully converted mid-Victorian townhouse located in the heart of South Kensington. Part of the Firmdale Hotels group, the property is a masterclass in interior design by the legendary Kit Kemp. She has filled the space with an eclectic, joyful mix of bold patterns, whimsical antiques, and vibrant contemporary art, making it feel more like an elegant private home than a traditional hotel.

“The Firmdale Hotels group mostly operates boldfaced-name hotels in the West End—the kinds of places where scenesters swill designer gin and fashion magazines shoot. Here, though, husband/wife designers/owners Tim and Kit Kemp create one of the loveliest B&B experiences in the city.”

Featured as Frommer’s Exceptional Choice in London.

The Standard Hotel, London

The Standard, London is a bold, contemporary hotel housed in the former Camden Town Hall Annexe, a striking 1974 Brutalist structure in King’s Cross. Its transformation from a stark office block into a vibrant boutique hotel was a collaborative effort led by architects at Orms and interior designers Shawn Hausman and Archer Humphryes. The project is celebrated for its sustainability, retaining the original concrete frame and facade while adding three sleek, glass-encased floors to the top.

“A monumental renovation, right across Euston Road, is now home to Europe’s first Standard Hotel. It took years and many millions to turn this Brutalist former municipal structure into the luxury hotel that opened last summer.”

Featured in New York Times’ 36 Hours in King’s Cross, London.

Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park Hotel, London

The Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park is a legendary London landmark that perfectly captures the city's blend of royal heritage and modern luxury. Originally built in 1889 as an exclusive residential club called Hyde Park Court, it was converted into a grand hotel in 1902. Its striking red-brick facade and Franco-Flemish design make it one of the most recognizable buildings in Knightsbridge.

“After a fire, this local stalwart reopened in April 2019. Gone are the heavy curtains and throws. Instead, everything is lighter, fresher—even the marbled lobby. Rooms have been painted a pale gray, and had gold lampshades added.”

The Langham Hotel, London

Opened in 1865 by the Prince of Wales, The Langham, London holds the prestigious title of Europe’s first "Grand Hotel." Designed by John Giles, the property was a revolutionary marvel of its time, boasting England’s first hydraulic lifts and early electric lighting. Over its 150-year history, it has welcomed everyone from Oscar Wilde and Mark Twain to Princess Diana, cementing its status as a true London icon.

“This great big castle of a building is less than five minutes’ walk from Oxford Circus, but still far enough away for the noise of crowds to have dissipated. The Langham first opened in 1865, so it’s self-assured, yet more modern than most hotels of its age.”

The Lanesborough Hotel, London

The Lanesborough is an iconic five-star hotel situated at Hyde Park Corner, housed in a magnificent Grade II* listed neoclassical building. Originally constructed in 1719 as Lanesborough House, a private country mansion, it later served as St. George’s Hospital for over two centuries. The current structure, completed in 1827, was designed by architect William Wilkins—the same mind behind the National Gallery.

“On Hyde Park, The Lanesborough is an unashamed concoction of gilding, trompe l’oeil, and marble that has all the interior oomph of a palace hotel—and, with a butler for each room, service to match.”

St. Pancras Hotel, London

“St. Pancras first opened as the Midland Grand Hotel in 1873, it reopened in 2011 after a comprehensive renovation. Now it’s one of the grandest hotels in London. The double-height Chambers Suites offer mesmerizing views right into the station.”

Featured in New York Times’ 36 Hours in King’s Cross, London.

Bankside Hotel, London

The Bankside Hotel, part of the Autograph Collection, is a masterclass in modern, art-focused hospitality. Opened in 2018, its interiors were crafted by designer Dayna Lee of Powerstrip Studio, who drew inspiration from "art school style" and mid-century aesthetics. The result is a residential, creative space that feels more like a curated gallery than a traditional hotel.

“Despite a profanity of high-rises gobbling up the sight lines, the Bankside Hotel is appealingly succinct at just six stories behind Blackfriars Bridge, angled to catch the light. It’s been curated by Dayna Lee, the film-set designer for Dances With Wolves.”

Belmond Cadogan Hotel, London

The Belmond Cadogan Hotel, located on the border of Chelsea and Knightsbridge, is a legendary London landmark that opened in 1887. Housed within five interconnected Queen Anne-style townhouses, the property is famous for its literary and social history. It was once a favourite retreat for playwright Oscar Wilde—who was famously arrested in room 118—and socialite Lillie Langtry, who lived there for seven years.

“Following Belmond’s four-year renovation of the five adjoining Queen Anne townhouses—one the old home of socialite Lillie Langtry—now the vibe is understated, marbled elegance but with Saatchi-worthy art and a crystal-encrusted peacock.”

Hotel Intercontinental The O2, London

The InterContinental London – The O2, which opened in 2016, is a striking landmark on the Greenwich Peninsula. Purpose-built as a luxury hotel and conference centre, it revitalized a former industrial site, turning it into a premier destination for business and leisure. Its architecture is notable for being designed to BREEAM "Excellent" sustainability standards, featuring an impressive green roof and a focus on energy efficiency.

“For riverside luxury, try the InterContinental London – The O2, which opened in Greenwich in 2015.”

Featured in New York Times’ 36 Hours in Southeast London.

Great Northern Hotel, London

The Kaya Great Northern Hotel is a historic landmark located right in the heart of King’s Cross. Originally opened in 1854, it holds the distinction of being London's first railway hotel. It was designed by the renowned Victorian architect Lewis Cubitt, who was also the mastermind behind the adjacent King’s Cross station.

“With an air of history and quick access to the Underground, this stylish hotel provides a great base for exploring London. The theme of rail travel is present in the hotel’s stylish décor: ‘Do not disturb’ signs bear antique illustrations of railway signals, and ‘Couchette’ rooms, with built-in beds, take their design cues from sleeper cars.”

The Laslett Hotel, London

The Laslett in Notting Hill is a sophisticated boutique hotel spread across five beautifully restored Victorian townhouses. It is named after Rhaune Laslett, the community activist who founded the original Notting Hill Carnival. Designed by Tom Bartlett of Waldo Works, the hotel aims to feel more like a stylish, lived-in home than a traditional hotel, perfectly capturing the creative, slightly eccentric spirit of West London.

“With its fine style, comfort and friendly staff, the Laslett fills a gap in a neighborhood with surprisingly few boutique hotels.”

Hotel The Rookery, London

Hotel The Rookery in Clerkenwell is a hidden gem that feels more like an exclusive private club than a typical city hotel. Tucked away on Peter’s Lane, this boutique property is housed within a collection of beautifully restored Georgian townhouses, with some sections dating back to the 18th century. It captures the essence of old-world London with its polished wood panelling, stone-flagged floors, and roaring open fires.

“Located in a quiet area a short distance from the Barbican, St. Paul’s, Holborn and the City, the Rookery is characterized by open fires, Georgian detailing, wonky floors and bulging bookshelves.”

The Henrietta Hotel, London

The Henrietta Hotel is a chic boutique hideaway tucked into two restored 19th-century townhouses in the heart of London’s Covent Garden. Created by the Experimental Group, this intimate 18-room property feels like a stylish, private pied-à-terre. Its name is a nod to Henrietta Maria, the Queen of England in the 17th century, lending a sense of regal heritage to its vibrant, modern personality.

“In the heart of the West End, with nightlife literally on your doorstep, this is a great first-time stay. Is it a bar or a hotel? The discreet entrance right in the middle of rather hotel-less Covent Garden makes you do a double take.”

The Ned Hotel, London

The Ned is a show-stopping hotel located in the heart of London’s financial district. It occupies the former Midland Bank headquarters, a Grade I listed masterpiece designed by Sir Edwin "Ned" Lutyens in 1924. The hotel’s name is a playful nod to the architect himself, and its grand, neoclassic architecture makes it one of the most recognizable buildings in the City.

“Dreamed up by Soho House founder Nick Jones, The Ned has nine restaurants, 15 bars, a spa, two pools and a members’ club. The imposing hulk of a building used to be the headquarters of the Midland Bank.”

NoMad Hotel, London

The NoMad London is a stunning transformation of the historic Bow Street Magistrates' Court and Police Station. Built in the late 19th century, the building once held famous figures like Oscar Wilde and the Suffragettes. The hotel’s design, led by the renowned firm Roman and Williams, masterfully preserves the grand Edwardian architecture while layering in rich, moody interiors that pay homage to the site's legal heritage.

“Covent Garden has been more or less fashionable for centuries, but NoMad will pin a new centre of gravity here. This is a big-thinking, blockbuster hotel in London that knows how to have fun. It seems to crystallize the renewed optimism and energy of the capital. Maybe the Roaring Twenties can begin again here.”

Rosewood Hotel, London

Rosewood London, located on High Holborn, is a stunning transformation of a 1914 Edwardian building that once served as the headquarters for the Pearl Assurance Company. The property retains its grand historical character, featuring a magnificent Grade II-listed street frontage and a breathtaking Pavonazzo marble staircase that leads guests into the heart of the hotel beneath a 166-foot cupola.

“The Rosewood London brought a neglected Edwardian pile back to life—the Mirror Room is fabulous—but it’s also helped put Holborn back on the map for Londoners.”

Featured in CN Traveler’s Gold List.

Ham Yard Hotel, London

In a quiet, purpose-built urban village just off Piccadilly Circus, the Ham Yard Hotel is a masterclass in eclectic design. It was created by the renowned Firmdale Hotels founder, Kit Kemp, who is famous for her bold, colorful, and highly textural interiors. Completed in 2014, the building transformed a previously derelict site into a vibrant hub that feels worlds away from the surrounding city bustle.

“Snug within its own Soho enclave, Ham Yard still feels as fresh as when it opened in 2014, with its procession of fabrics, textures, and fizzy commotion that rebooted the whole concept of the boutique hotel.”

The Zetter Townhouse Clerkenwell, London

The Zetter Townhouse Clerkenwell is a masterclass in eccentric British charm. Located on a historic, cobbled square, this boutique hotel occupies a pair of Georgian townhouses that feel less like a hotel and more like the private home of an imaginative, well-travelled relative. Opened in 2011, it was designed by Russell Sage, who famously rejected modern minimalism in favor of "curated clutter," filling the space with antiques, curiosities, and Victorian-inspired maximalism.

“The maximalist Zetter Townhouse taps a rich vein of Victorian eccentricity to create an urban den with genuine warmth—a theme hotel without the cheese. It’s a lovely, under-the-radar hotel that’s for real London lovers.”

The Beaumont Hotel, London

The Beaumont, located in London’s prestigious Mayfair, is a stunning example of 1930s neo-Art Deco glamour. Originally designed by architects Wimperis & Simpson in 1926 as a garage, the building was later transformed into a luxury hotel by iconic restaurateurs Chris Corbin and Jeremy King. The hotel opened in 2014, successfully blending nostalgic 1930s elegance with modern-day comfort.

“This was the first hotel by celebrated restaurateurs Corbin and King, of the Wolseley fame, and is perhaps best known for the enormous pixelated steel figure jutting out of the elegant façade: Room, Gormley’s sculpture, which you can sleep inside.”

Wombat’s CITY Hostel, London

Wombat’s City Hostel is a fascinating blend of history and modern hospitality. Located in the Tower Hamlets district, the building originally served as a mission for seamen in the 1860s, offering a safe haven for merchant sailors docked in London. Today, it has been beautifully restored into a top-rated hostel, preserving its historic Victorian brickwork while adding stylish, contemporary comforts.

“Stylish décor and spacious rooms in London’s East End make this a great option for those looking to capture the capital via their Instagram feed, while still keeping to an affordable budget.”

Park Villa Boutique Hostel, London

Park Villa Boutique Hostel offers a unique twist on the typical London stay. Housed in a beautifully restored Georgian Regency villa with an attached coach house, it blends historic architectural charm with modern, boutique-style comfort. Located in the heart of the old East End, it feels like a peaceful, character-filled retreat rather than a standard hostel.

“Having survived being bombed in the Second World War, this 300-year-old restored Georgian Regency villa and coach house is now an award-winning modern boutique hostel in East London. With comfortable beds and an abundance of thoughtful extras, it’s considered among the best of its kind in the country.”

Hazlitt’s Boutique Hotel, London

Hazlitt's Hotel is a hidden gem in London’s bustling Soho. Occupying four conjoined Georgian townhouses that date back to 1718, the hotel offers an escape into the past. It is named after the famous essayist William Hazlitt, who spent his final days in the building in 1830. Today, a blue plaque marks the spot where he lived, and the hotel remains a sanctuary for writers, artists, and those seeking a quiet, historic retreat.

“Built in 1718 and comprising four original Georgian houses, this Soho gem was the one-time home of essayist William Hazlitt. The 30 guest rooms have been furnished with original antiques from the appropriate era and boast a profusion of seductive details.”

citizenM Hotel Tower of London

The citizenM Tower of London is a marvel of modern construction, standing out as one of the UK’s largest modular buildings. Designed by Concrete Architectural Associates and built on a steel podium directly above the Tower Hill Underground station, the hotel was completed in record time using prefabricated room modules. This innovative approach allowed the hotel to sit harmoniously within its historic surroundings, including the nearby Roman city wall and the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Tower of London.

“Downstairs it looks like a rich hipster’s living room, with well-stocked bookshelves, kooky art, Beefeater knick-knacks and lots of work space. Rooms are compact but well-designed.”

The Bloomsbury Hotel, London

The Bloomsbury Hotel is a stunning piece of architectural history, originally designed in 1928 by the legendary Sir Edwin Lutyens. Once the YWCA Central Club, the Grade II listed building was a sanctuary for women, featuring a swimming pool that remains hidden beneath the hotel’s floorboards to this day. Its elegant neo-Georgian façade and thoughtful details, like the yin-yang metalwork on the staircases, reflect Lutyens’ status as a master architect.

“The Bloomsbury is bringing the Grand Dame back to London. Even if you are not staying there, you have to make time for a cocktail or two at its fabulously designed Coral Room. But the location, in central-west London, walking distance to major sites and train lines that can get you anywhere in town, is unbeatable in this city.”