With a city the size of London, some areas can be better than others depending on what you're looking to do while here, and picking the right one can save you a lot of time and money on travel. Unfortunately, it can be hard to know where to find lodging if you're unfamiliar with the city, which is why we've put together this guide to accommodation in London areas according to what they're best for. Of course, you can find great spots for the highlighted interests elsewhere in the capital as well, but our selection should give you a solid starting point, especially if you haven't been here before.
Find the best London area for your stay
- Westminster – best for sightseeing
- Soho – best for nightlife
- Mayfair – best for fine dining
- Covent Garden – best for theatre-goers
- Shoreditch – best for creative inspiration
- Camden – best for live music
- Kensington – best for visiting museums
- Richmond – best for nature lovers
- Notting Hill – for romantic getaways
- King's Cross – best for travel and trips
- Fitzrovia – best for shopping
- Waterloo & Southbank – best for riverside walks
- London Bridge – best for cheap eats
- Hackney – best for hanging with other cool people
Jump to
Westminster – best for sightseeing
With major London sights such as Buckingham Palace, Palace of Westminster, and London Eye all within walking distance, Westminster is ideal for ticking off a few must-visits.
Live like a duke
Dukes London is a well-established luxury hotel located near Buckingham Palace, offering spacious rooms and suites with classic British design and modern amenities. The hotel boasts a range of facilities for dining and drinking, including the Drawing Room, Dukes Bar, and a restaurant serving all-day British cuisine. They can also pack you a picnic hamper with a blanket to go and relax in one of the nearby parks.
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35 St James's Place, Westminster
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Dukes London
020-749 148 40 - Read more on Thatsup
For all sorts of travellers
St Ermin's Hotel provides convenient access to all of London's top attractions. The hotel offers a range of rooms and suites suitable for different types of guests, including accessible rooms. In addition to elegant and comfortable accommodations, St Ermin's boasts various drinking and dining options that feature produce sourced from the hotel's rooftop kitchen garden. You can also enjoy afternoon tea in the hotel's Tea Lounge.
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2 Caxton Street, Westminster
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St Ermin's Hotel
020-722 278 88 - Read more on Thatsup
Rest your weary feet
After a long day of walking around and taking in the sights, a little spa relaxation is just what the doctor ordered. Nestled in the heart of the city, The Londoner is a vibrant boutique hotel offering a range of smart and contemporary suites and rooms, each with their own unique character. Guests can enjoy exclusive access to various socializing, relaxing, and dining spaces within the hotel, as well as The Retreat, a modern wellbeing space featuring a gym and spa.
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38 Leicester Square, Westminster
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The Londoner Hotel
020-745 101 01 - Read more on Thatsup
Soho – best for nightlife
In London's notorious hive of debauchery and revelry, no two nights are ever the same. If you're looking to paint the town red, stay in Soho and make the late-night stumble to your bed a bit easier.
Go ham on luxury
The Ham Yard Hotel is an exquisitely designed boutique hotel situated on the edge of London's West End, only a few minutes' walk from various shopping and entertainment destinations. The hotel is built around a tree-filled garden that showcases a bronze centrepiece by award-winning sculptor Sir Tony Cragg, and it even offers art tours for enthusiasts. The bedrooms and suites, designed by renowned British interior designer Kit Kemp, feature floor-to-ceiling windows with views of the London skyline or the courtyard below.
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1 Ham Yard, Soho
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Ham Yard Hotel
020-364 220 00 - Read more on Thatsup
Cure your hangover with proper British food
Dean Street Townhouse is a sophisticated and historically rich venue in central London, offering all-day dining with classic British menus. The interior features an art collection by renowned artists and a private dining area for 14 people. Breakfast includes British favourites, while the all-day menu features meat, fish, and plant-based options, along with afternoon tea and weekend brunch. In addition to dining, the venue offers boutique accommodation.
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69-71 Dean Street, Soho
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Dean Street Townhouse
020-743 417 75 - Read more on Thatsup
Budget-friendly place to crash
YHA London Oxford Street is a contemporary hostel that provides affordable accommodation for backpackers in London's West End. A variety of amenities such as cafés, pubs, cinemas, quirky boutiques, and nightlife options are within a short five-minute walk of the hostel. The hostel offers both shared and private rooms, as well as a self-catering kitchen. Breakfast is served too.
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14 Noel St, Soho
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YHA London Oxford Street
020-773 416 18 - Read more on Thatsup
Mayfair – best for fine dining
With a high concentration of luxury restaurants, opulent new openings, and Michelin-starred eateries, Mayfair is the place to go when you want a meal to remember.
A global icon
Located in the heart of London on Piccadilly Street, The Ritz is a renowned hotel that offers luxurious suites and rooms with stunning views of the busy street or peaceful Green Park. Guests can enjoy an array of dining options, including bars and restaurants, as well as book private dining experiences or traditional afternoon tea. In addition, the hotel offers hair and beauty treatments, special services for children, and other amenities to make your stay as comfortable as possible.
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150 Piccadilly, Mayfair
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The Ritz
020-749 381 81 - Read more on Thatsup
Cue Bond theme
Located in the upscale Mayfair district, The Dorchester is a prestigious five-star hotel with a notable association to James Bond, as the author Ian Fleming was a frequent visitor. The opulent suites feature marble bathrooms and picturesque views of Hyde Park, while the spa offers a range of indulgent treatments. The hotel is also renowned for its exceptional dining, including the three Michelin-starred restaurant run by chef Alain Ducasse.
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53 Park Ln, Mayfair
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The Dorchester
020-762 988 88 - Read more on Thatsup
Celeb hotspot
JW Marriott Grosvenor House is a prestigious hotel near designer shops, fine-dining restaurants, and famous landmarks. The hotel offers guest rooms and suites with comfortable bedding, modern amenities, and elegant marble bathrooms. A popular choice among celebrities and other upmarket clientele, the hotel also includes multiple restaurants and bars.
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86-90 Park Ln, Mayfair
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JW Marriott Grosvenor House
020-749 963 63 - Read more on Thatsup
Covent Garden – best for theatre-goers
Situated right next to the West End and boasting its own unique charm, Covent Garden is an excellent area if you're planning on seeing a show or two.
Gaze out at the city with a drink in hand
Assembly London has 139 sound-proofed bedrooms that are simple, tasteful and contemporary, equipped with Egyptian cotton sheets, power showers and temperature control. The rooftop bar with impressive city views is a big attraction, serving Italian-influenced food and a wide variety of classic and signature cocktails. The hotel is perfect for urban explorers who want to discover all that the city has to offer.
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27-31 Charing Cross Road, Covent Garden
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Assembly London
020-395 343 00 - Read more on Thatsup
Designer elegance
Henrietta Hotel is a stylish, design-led boutique hotel in Covent Garden with 40 uniquely designed guest rooms. The rooms come in various types, from standard to luxurious suites with a private terrace. The restaurant serves classic Italian dishes and cocktails all day, with the mezzanine bar available for hire. The hotel's central location makes it an ideal base for exploring London.
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14-15 Henrietta Street, Covent Garden
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Henrietta Hotel
020-379 453 13 - Read more on Thatsup
Ideal for longer stays
For those looking for a homey stay in London, Wilde Aparthotels in Covent Garden offer convenient apartments that can accommodate up to three people. Each apartment is furnished with bespoke furniture and Irish crafts, and equipped with a fully-fitted kitchen and a rainfall shower. Guests can also access the 24-hour reception. These modern apartments are both stylish and straightforward.
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11 Adam Street, Covent Garden
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Wilde Aparthotels Covent Garden
020-374 475 20 - Read more on Thatsup
Shoreditch – best for creative inspiration
Home to numerous creative communities and full of street art, Shoreditch is a popular hub for London's artists and art lovers. Stay here to soak up the artistic vibes.
As close to the pub as it gets
The Culpeper is a well-known East London pub with hotel rooms, but it also boasts a fantastic rooftop that should not be missed. The rooftop is used for events and features a vegetable garden where the staff grows their own produce to use in the food and drinks served. Visitors can savour the rooftop lunch menu, which includes vegetarian options, while enjoying cocktails made with freshly harvested ingredients grown just a few steps away from their seat.
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40 Commercial St, Shoreditch/Tower Hamlets
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The Culpeper
020-724 753 71 - Read more on Thatsup
Local artist showcase
Located in the heart of London's creative district, The Hoxton offers guests affordable luxury accommodation. With 210 industrial-style rooms and nine uniquely designed rooms by local artists, The Hoxton provides a unique city experience. Each room features large mirrors and local area guides for added convenience. Guests can enjoy two on-site eateries as well as meeting and party spaces during their stay.
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81 Great Eastern Street, Shoreditch
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The Hoxton Shoreditch
020-755 010 00 - Read more on Thatsup
One of the best hotels in the whole city
Batty Langley's offers luxurious and uniquely decorated bedrooms at an affordable price, furnished with a mix of carefully restored antiques and modern amenities. The hotel also has meeting rooms and serves breakfast in-room or in the beautiful public areas. Located in the vibrant Shoreditch area, the hotel is close to Spitalfields Market and various landmarks. A stay here will have you feeling like an art-loving aristocrat in no time.
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12 Folgate St, Shoreditch
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Batty Langley's Hotel
020-737 743 90 - Read more on Thatsup
Camden – best for live music
A famed hotbed of alternative culture and live music, Camden is suffused in contemporary music history and boasts numerous legendary concert venues.
Female-only hostel
For solo female travellers who feel uncomfortable staying in mixed accommodation, this female-only hostel provides a secure and comfortable space in the centre of the city. Situated near the primary shopping street in the borough of Camden, the Mornington is specifically designed with female safety and comfort as top priorities.
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2 Hurdwick Pl, Camden Town
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The Mornington Camden
074-876 597 44 - Read more on Thatsup
In the heart of the action
The Smart Camden Inn is an ideal choice for travellers seeking both fun and security, situated in the centre of Camden Town's pub and club district and close to Camden Markets. The hostel is conveniently located just a five-minute walk away from Camden Town underground station, offering easy access to the city's attractions. The hostel also provides an outdoor seating area for relaxation and organises walking tours.
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55-57 Bayham St, Camden Town
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Smart Camden Inn Hostel
020-738 889 00 - Read more on Thatsup
Kensington – best for visiting museums
With some of London's best museums within walking distance – and the remaining best ones just a short tube ride away – Kensington is where you'll want to set up shop for some serious museum-crawling.
Elegant relaxation
The Montana is a chic hotel with 55 rooms and an authentic Indian restaurant located on the premises. Each room has its distinct style, featuring rich colours and unique details that add character to the space. The rooms are elegant and equipped with various amenities, such as international TV channels, ensuring a comfortable stay for guests. Room service, a bar, and a lounge are also available, allowing guests to relax and enjoy their stay without any worries.
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67/69 Gloucester Road, Kensington
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Montana Hotel
020-758 476 54 - Read more on Thatsup
* & * & * & * & *
The Ampersand Hotel in South Kensington offers a five-star luxurious experience with a variety of room options, ranging from singles and doubles to spacious studios and suites. The hotel showcases a whimsical and loveable British design in every space. Additionally, it features a 24-hour fitness centre, event and meeting facilities with catering, and original dining options, such as afternoon tea.
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10 Harrington Road, Kensington
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The Ampersand Hotel
020-758 958 95 - Read more on Thatsup
Quieter than the usual hostel mayhem
For those seeking a quieter stay in the city, this intimate hostel is an ideal option as it accommodates only 48 guests. The atmosphere is more relaxed as there is no bar on the premises. Additionally, if you are a dog lover, you'll be pleased to know that the hostel has two resident dogs that come and go during the week. The hostel's location is convenient as it's just around the corner from Earls Court Tube Station and within walking distance of various restaurants, cafes, and pubs.
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17 Longridge Rd, Kensington
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Barmy Badger Backpackers
020-737 052 13 - Read more on Thatsup
Richmond – best for nature lovers
Getting in touch with nature can be a challenge in a massive city such as London, but with its vast parkland and riverside location, Richmond is just the place for some fresh air.
A Victorian retreat
The Petersham is a four-star Victorian hotel located on Richmond Hill, with stunning views of the Thames and surrounding woodland. The hotel has 61 rooms and suites, all elegantly decorated in a traditional style. The award-winning restaurant serves contemporary European cuisine and offers romantic river views. The hotel also has business facilities and is a popular wedding venue. Private dining and events can be arranged.
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Nightingale Lane, Richmond, Richmond
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The Petersham Hotel
020-894 074 71 - Read more on Thatsup
Vintage charm
The Bingham Riverhouse is a highly regarded hotel, restaurant and private club, located alongside the Thames with picturesque views of the surroundings. The hotel boasts individually furnished rooms that exude retro elegance, in a restored Georgian townhouse originally constructed in 1740. The on-site restaurant has received numerous awards, adding to the overall appeal of this exceptional establishment.
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61 Petersham Rd, Richmond
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Bingham Riverhouse
020-894 009 02 - Read more on Thatsup
Countryside leisure
The Kew Gardens Hotel, located in Kew Village, provides a tranquil retreat from the city's hustle and bustle, while remaining conveniently close to Central London's cultural attractions as well as the Royal Botanic Gardens. The hotel offers 20 uniquely decorated rooms in different sizes, along with a gastropub that serves delectable British cuisine made from fresh seasonal ingredients. The hotel also boasts a sunny beer garden that serves refreshing drinks.
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292 Sandycombe Rd, Richmond
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Kew Gardens Hotel
020-894 022 20 - Read more on Thatsup
Notting Hill – for romantic getaways
Browsing Portobello Road Market, stopping off at boutiques and cafés, wandering among the charming houses – there's a good reason Notting Hill provided the title and setting of the hit 1999 romcom.
Timeless accommodation
The Garden Court Hotel in Notting Hill provides visitors with a comfortable and welcoming home base. The hotel is situated in a charming Victorian building that has been designated as a historical landmark, and it embraces its rich heritage. Although the rooms are unpretentious, they offer a soothing and serene atmosphere with ample amenities that ensure convenience and relaxation. The decor is simple yet tasteful, exuding understated elegance.
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30-31 Kensington Gardens Square
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Garden Court Hotel
020-722 925 53 - Read more on Thatsup
A snog at the pub
Nestled in the heart of Notting Hill, The Hayden is a beautifully furnished pub that provides both boutique lodging and a wide selection of food and drinks. The menu boasts a diverse range of global favourites, from juicy burgers to savoury quesadillas, succulent steaks, and flavourful tacos. Additionally, guests can indulge in classic brunch fare or indulge in a delicious Sunday roast complete with all the trimmings.
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65 Westbourne Grove
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The Hayden
020-722 922 33 - Read more on Thatsup
A range of options
Phoenix Hotel offers modern accommodation in the heart of Notting Hill, catering to a diverse range of guests, from solo travellers to family groups. The hotel features an array of room options, each elegantly decorated in a timeless and comfortable style, ensuring a pleasant and relaxing stay. Its prime location and welcoming ambiance make it a popular choice for both business and leisure travellers seeking homey comforts.
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1-8 Kensington Gardens Square
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Phoenix Hotel
020-722 924 94 - Read more on Thatsup
King's Cross – best for travel and trips
Though it has its own pleasant character, King's Cross is especially convenient if you plan to add a day trip to your visit, or just generally be around London a lot. Not only does the area include the famous railway station, it also has good underground connections and even the Eurostar terminal.
Right by the station
The Pullman hotel boasts a prime location adjacent to St Pancras International, excellent tube connections, and an attractively redesigned bar and restaurant serving well-balanced cuisine. The contemporary accommodations are stylishly decorated with both work and relaxation in mind, offering guests a range of amenities such as free WiFi and flatscreen TVs. For those looking to stay active, the hotel also offers a fully-equipped gym and a relaxing sauna.
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100-110 Euston Rd, Camden Town
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Pullman London St Pancras
020-766 690 00 - Read more on Thatsup
Right next to the "other" station
The Great Northern hotel is an excellent option for those arriving in London via Eurostar. The hotel features exquisitely designed and restored rooms within an iconic building, complete with flatscreen TVs, handmade furniture, and restful Hypnos beds. Guests can enjoy a lovely view of the surrounding area while dining on the first floor. Come evening, the hotel transforms into a vibrant venue for cocktails and lively nights out, perfect for those seeking a fun and engaging atmosphere.
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Pancras Road, King's Cross
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Great Northern Hotel
020-338 808 00 - Read more on Thatsup
Fitzrovia – best for shopping
If you're arriving with empty suitcases, aiming to stuff them to the brim for your return, Fitzrovia is a good area to stay in thanks to its proximity to London's shopping meccas such as Oxford Street, Regent Street, and the Liberty department store.
Contemporary luxury
The London Edition is a luxurious modern hotel in a historic building. With 173 rooms designed for cosy comfort, the hotel offers a range of accommodation options featuring neutral tones, modern shapes and design, and an intimate feel. The hotel also has excellent dining and drinking facilities including contemporary British cuisine at Berners Tavern and speciality punch at Punch Room.
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10 Berners Street, Fitzrovia
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The London Edition
020-778 100 00 - Read more on Thatsup
Opulence with character and creativity
The Mandrake hotel in Fitzrovia offers a luxurious and artistic stay in the heart of London. The independent arts hotel boasts creatively designed rooms and public areas adorned with inspiring art collections, including works by Salvador Dali. The hotel hosts cultural events and live music performances, as well as an artist residency programme. Guests can also enjoy on-site eateries and a spiritual concierge service offering yoga classes, massage, and gong baths.
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20-21 Newman Street, Fitzrovia
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The Mandrake
020-314 677 70 - Read more on Thatsup
Waterloo & Southbank – best for riverside walks
Based in Waterloo or Southbank, you can stroll along the Thames to London Bridge and beyond, taking in major landmarks, stopping at galleries, recharging with a pint in historic pubs, and more. Once you're done, you can take advantage of the excellent transport connections to explore even further afield.
Enjoy the view
Sea Containers hotel is a stylish hotel situated on the Thames riverbank, offering stunning views of the river from many of its rooms. The hotel is designed by renowned designer Tom Dixon and located near popular landmarks such as Tate Modern, Borough Market, London Eye, and the Sea Life Aquarium. The hotel also features an in-house cinema and several food and drink venues that offer panoramic views. Guests can relax in the hotel's spa or gym facilities.
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20 Upper Ground, South Bank/Southwark
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Sea Containers London
020-374 710 00 - Read more on Thatsup
Cheap and convenient
The Walrus Bar & Hostel is the ideal location for those who want to be at the centre of everything. It's only a stone's throw away from major landmarks such as Westminster Abbey, the Houses of Parliament, and the London Eye. In addition, guests can enjoy a complimentary breakfast during their stay, and there's a bar downstairs where they can socialize with other travellers.
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172 Westminster Bridge Rd, South Bank/Lambeth/Southwark
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The Walrus Bar & Hostel
020-792 843 68 - Read more on Thatsup
Reliable midrange option
The affordable Point A hotel in Westminster is a favourite for those seeking a comfortable stay without breaking the bank. Located in close proximity to major landmarks such as the London Eye and the Houses of Parliament, this hotel offers modern and clean rooms with comfortable beds, power showers, and flatscreen TVs. Free WiFi is available throughout the hotel.
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118-120 Westminster Bridge Road, South Bank/Lambeth/Southwark
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Point A Westminster
020-763 393 17 - Read more on Thatsup
London Bridge – best for cheap eats
The thriving dining scene in London Bridge, in large part thanks to the famous Borough Market, makes it a great choice for those who enjoy stuffing themselves with flavourful, exciting food without breaking the bank.
Part pub, part hostel
The Rose & Crown in London Bridge seamlessly blends a pub and backpackers' hostel into a single venue. It exudes a lively vibe that appeals to a young, international audience. Along with traditional beverages, the in-house Burger Craft kitchen is a skilled purveyor of delicious burgers, including the renowned Juicy Bastard featuring double beef patties, double cheese, BBQ sauce, tomato, and lettuce.
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65 Union Street, Southwark
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Rose & Crown London Bridge
020-740 770 90 - Read more on Thatsup
Voted one of the world's best party hostels
St Christopher's Inn at The Village in London Bridge is the ultimate destination for those seeking a lively party atmosphere. It's also London's pioneer capsule-style hostel, emphasising privacy. The private rooms offer stunning views of iconic landmarks such as The Shard and the London Eye. Additionally, the hostel's location is ideal for exploring nearby attractions like Borough Market and Tower Bridge, which are within walking distance.
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161-165 Borough High St, Southwark
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St Christopher's Village
020-793 997 00 - Read more on Thatsup
Respected hotel group
If you're seeking a cosy and convenient base close to London's top attractions, look no further than Novotel London Bridge. This hotel's strategic location places you just moments away from Borough Market, and an 11-minute walk from the impressive Shard. While the rooms are fairly simple, they offer all the necessary amenities for a comfortable night's rest after a day spent exploring the city, including a luxurious rainfall shower.
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53-61 Southwark Bridge Rd, Southwark
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Novotel London Bridge
020-708 904 00 - Read more on Thatsup
Hackney – best for hanging with other cool people
Full of trendy bars, cosy cafés, and hip young crowds, Hackney has been London's trendiest area for several years now. Other up-and-coming areas might be breathing down its neck, but this is still the place to be.
For a good night's sleep
The Kip hotel in Hackney provides affordable accommodation for visitors to East London. Its stylish and comfortable setting boasts monochrome colour schemes and smart TVs in each room. Guests can select from a range of guestrooms, including single rooms for individuals, family suites, and friends rooms with bunk beds. For those seeking ultimate comfort, a cosy penthouse is also available.
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2 Aspland Grove, Hackney/Dalston
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Kip
020-862 978 84 - Read more on Thatsup
Quaint family-run pub
A charming pub located on the famous Church Street in Stoke Newington has been under the ownership and management of a single family since 1985. The pub is well-known for its delightful Sunday roasts, which include all the traditional trimmings and offer great value for money. A top recommendation is the cauliflower cheese, an absolute must-try for anyone who loves this cruciferous vegetable.
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199 Stoke Newington Church Street, Stoke Newington
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The Rose & Crown Stoke Newington
020-725 474 97 - Read more on Thatsup
A stylish Hackney flat of your own
The Locke aparthotels provide fully serviced apartments that are thoughtfully designed with stylish decor, private kitchens, and comfortable living spaces to ensure a pleasant and flexible stay. The Kingsland Locke location offers a variety of apartments with modern amenities such as flatscreen TVs and complimentary toiletries. Additionally, guests can enjoy the on-site restaurant, hotel brewery, gym, and meeting spaces.
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130 Kingsland High Street, Dalston
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Kingsland Locke
020-452 961 60 - Read more on Thatsup
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