This bustling metropolis is home to some of the world’s most iconic landmarks, from Buckingham Palace to Big Ben. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious escape or a comfortable base to explore the city, Central London has a hotel for every taste and budget. Get ready to discover the hidden gems and iconic spots that make Central London a truly unforgettable destination.
Luxe Accommodations
Central London is a haven for discerning travelers, offering a wide array of luxurious hotels that cater to the most refined tastes. Stepping into these opulent havens is like stepping back in time, with their rich history and elegant decor.
Hazlitt’s Hotel: A Soho Retreat
Named after the renowned 18th-century writer, Hazlitt’s is a literary sanctuary tucked away in the heart of Soho, a vibrant neighborhood known for its bohemian charm. You’d be forgiven for thinking you’ve stumbled upon a peaceful retreat, far from the city’s hustle and bustle. The hotel’s library and bedrooms provide a sense of tranquility, while its elegant decor pays homage to the building’s heritage. Don’t miss the chance to cozy up by the fire with a book from the hotel’s impressive collection of signed first editions, in the company of the resident cat, Sir Godfrey. And for an added touch of luxury, enjoy a drink from the honesty bar, which is open to all guests.
Hotel Café Royal: A Piccadilly Paradise
Right in the heart of Piccadilly Circus, a bustling hub of activity, Hotel Café Royal stands as a testament to grandeur. Renowned for its opulent French decor, this iconic hotel is a true gem. Indulge in the ultimate escape at Akasha, one of the city’s finest spas, offering a range of treatments, from hammam to hydrotherapy. Take a dip in the spacious swimming pool, a refreshing oasis in the midst of the city. The rooms are a fusion of modern minimalism and classic elegance, featuring Carrara marble bathrooms, crisp color palettes, and integrated Bang & Olufsen sound systems. For an unforgettable experience, book the champagne afternoon tea, served in the Oscar Wilde Lounge to the enchanting sounds of live classical piano music.
Assembly Hotel: A Millennial Haven
Located between Leicester Square and Trafalgar Square, two of London’s most vibrant squares, Assembly Hotel offers a unique blend of central location and tranquility. Each room is soundproofed, ensuring a peaceful retreat despite the bustling city outside. The hotel’s contemporary decor, with its neon signs, oversized cushions, and playful sculptures, is sure to appeal to millennial travelers. With superfast Wi-Fi, it’s also a perfect haven for digital nomads.
Boutique Charm
Central London is a hub for boutique hotels, each with a unique character and story to tell. From tropical retreats to urban rainforests, these hotels offer a truly personalized experience.
The Mandrake: An Urban Oasis
The Mandrake, named after a hallucinogenic plant, is a unique and captivating hotel that transports you to a tropical paradise. From the moment you step into the lobby, with its living wall and jasmine-filled courtyard, you’ll feel as if you’ve entered a different world. This boutique hotel has quickly become a favorite among discerning travelers, thanks to its attention to detail and immersive experience. Artwork is prominently displayed throughout the hotel, while the uniquely styled rooms allow guests to choose a decor that suits their preferences. Whether you crave the womb-like comfort of the Mandrake rooms or the breezy chic of the Newman rooms, you’ll find a space that feels like home.
Affordable Luxury
Luxury doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. Central London offers a selection of hotels that provide comfortable accommodations and essential amenities at affordable prices.
The Z Hotel: Accessible Luxury
The Z Hotel embraces the concept of accessible luxury, offering cozy rooms with all the necessary amenities at a lower price point. Located near iconic landmarks such as Trafalgar Square and The National Gallery, this hotel is a great base for exploring the city’s highlights. The rooms are cleverly designed, maximizing space with enormous beds, full-size en-suite bathrooms, and hidden storage alcoves. With its comfortable beds and convenient location, The Z Hotel makes it easy to experience the best of Central London without breaking the bank.
Historical Charm
Central London is steeped in history, with many hotels housed in buildings with fascinating pasts. These hotels offer a glimpse into London’s rich heritage, blending historical charm with modern amenities.
Royal Horseguards: A Royal Residence
Royal Horseguards has a history as intriguing as its location. Formerly the site of the MI6 headquarters and the National Liberal Club, a favorite of Winston Churchill, the hotel’s interiors pay homage to its past. Admire historical paintings of London and prominent figures, distinctive headboards, and heavy Edwardian drapes. For breathtaking views of the Thames, opt for a room with a view, especially the Riverview Royal Horseguards Suite, which offers stunning panoramic views of the London Eye.
DUKES: A Classic Reborn
Opened in 1908, DUKES has long been considered one of Central London’s finest hotels. Recently renovated, this iconic hotel seamlessly blends its historical charm with modern conveniences. The elegant interiors, featuring mahogany wood furnishings, gilded picture frames, velvet textiles, and an original wood-panelled lift, transport you back in time. Yet, DUKES feels modern and fresh, thanks to features like free Wi-Fi, state-of-the-art TVs, and marble en-suite bathrooms with designer toiletries. Nestled behind St James’s Palace, the hotel offers easy access to the surrounding area, from the renowned wine merchant Berry Bros. & Rudd to the iconic Buckingham Palace, where you can witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony.
Unique Experiences
Central London is home to hotels that offer unique experiences, blending history, culture, and modern amenities to create unforgettable stays.
The Courthouse Hotel: A Tale of Two Cities
Built on the site of an old Scottish castle, The Courthouse Hotel has a history as fascinating as its architecture. It started life as the Metropolitan Police HQ before being transformed into a hotel. Today, this unique hotel pays homage to its intriguing past with an eclectic blend of art, design, and historical references. Discover artwork by prisoners involved in the Koestler Arts program, motifs of police uniforms and badges, and bedrooms featuring cupboards disguised as bookcases. Guests can also browse a selection of books inspired by the building’s policing past, including its connection to the Jack the Ripper case. The hotel’s dining and drinking options are just as eclectic, featuring modern British fare at The Yard and strong cocktails at Sibin, a hidden whisky bar inspired by the illicit speakeasies of Ireland.
Taj 51 Buckingham Gate: An Indian Oasis
Blending elements of East and West, Taj 51 Buckingham Gate offers a unique experience, seamlessly merging Indian hospitality with Victorian-Edwardian architecture. Each luxury suite features plush bedding, mid-century-style leather sofas, and high-tech TVs, creating a sophisticated and modern ambiance. Located just a short walk from Buckingham Palace, the hotel offers easy access to the royal guards’ daily ceremony and the vibrant shopping scene of Central London. The hotel’s dining options are as diverse as its surroundings, with Quilon, a Michelin-star restaurant, serving up a delicious and spicy South Indian menu.
Glamorous Stays
Central London boasts a selection of glamorous hotels that offer luxurious accommodations, impeccable service, and a touch of old-world charm.
The Dorchester: A Jazz Age Gem
Housed in a building with a long and storied past, The Dorchester once served as the entrance to Hyde Park Corner station, as evident in the distinctive Tube arches above the main entrance. The building later transitioned into a jazz venue, hosting legendary performers like John Dankworth and Amy Winehouse. Today, guests can experience the magic of jazz in the aptly named Jazz Lounge, which hosts live music during dinner. The hotel’s interiors reflect its rich history, with a strong Art Deco focus and a distinct sense of opulence. Many of the marble-clad bathrooms feature enormous roll-top silver baths and Hermes-branded toiletries. For the ultimate touch of glamour, the hotel offers a complimentary Rolls-Royce chauffeur service, providing a luxurious and stylish way to explore the city.
Modern Living
Central London also offers a selection of modern hotels that cater to the needs of today’s travelers, blending contemporary design with innovative amenities and convenient locations.
Locke at Broken Wharf: A Scandi Haven
Locke at Broken Wharf offers a sleek and Scandinavian aesthetic, housed in a former 1970s office block located on the banks of the River Thames. The hotel seamlessly blends modern design with vintage charm, creating a unique and inviting atmosphere. The common spaces feature blond-wood furniture, butter-yellow sofas, and inviting communal areas, while the rooms are decorated in soothing sage green, with fully equipped kitchens and quirky touches like ceramic roosters. With its convenient location near Borough Market, guests can easily stock up on fresh produce and enjoy a cozy night in, cooking up a feast in their private kitchen.
