Ready to experience the coolest side of London? Forget the usual tourist traps and dive into a world of unique design, craft brews, and vintage vibes. I’m talking about hipster hotels – those places that embody the creative spirit of the city.
These aren’t just any hotels; they’re carefully curated havens that offer something special, something you’ll want to tell your friends about.
Hipster Havens: Where Creativity Reigns Supreme
The One Hundred Shoreditch: A Modern Masterpiece
Remember the Ace Hotel? Well, it’s back, revamped and reimagined as One Hundred Shoreditch. This trendy spot has retained its cool factor, with 258 rooms and suites adorned with neutral colors and custom artwork. Whether you want to chill in your stylish retreat or mingle at the bar, One Hundred Shoreditch has you covered.
The Hoxton: A Shoreditch Icon
Just around the corner, The Hoxton is a classic hipster haven. This hotel draws in creative types who flock to its cozy lobby, complete with fireside armchairs, making it a popular “pseudo office” during the day.
I’ve spent many an afternoon working here, so I was excited to finally spend the night. The rooms, inspired by East London’s punk rock scene, are quirky and stylish. My favorite feature? The comfy “booth bed” that makes you feel like you’re in a cozy nook.
Leman Locke: A Hipster Home Away From Home
Leman Locke isn’t just a hotel; it’s an entire tower block of beautifully designed apartments. Picture this: stylish pink sofas, high-end kitchens, and floor-to-ceiling windows with panoramic city views. It’s like living the life of a well-off London hipster.
But the best part? The Leman Locke is more than just chic spaces. It’s a hub of activity with a cool cafe, a restaurant, a gym, yoga spaces, and a vibrant cultural program. You could easily spend weeks here and never get bored.
The Corner London City: A Quirky Gem
Formerly known as the Qbic hotel, The Corner London City is a sight to behold. Think lampshades made of colorful crates, cow-shaped shelves, bright yellow sofas, and a floating head – just in the restaurant/lobby!
The rooms are equally quirky, with a “Qbi” pod concept featuring a bed, bathroom, TV, and light all attached to a central frame. It’s futuristic, cozy, and one of the most unique hotel designs I’ve ever seen.
The Artist Residence: Hipster Luxury in Pimlico
Not all hipster hotels are in East London. The Artist Residence in Pimlico offers a dose of hipster luxury on the south side of the river.
Think vintage furnishings, reclaimed wooden floors, exposed brickwork, and cozy designs. This boutique hotel is full of personality and features a great restaurant, a trendy cocktail bar, a ping pong room, and plenty of cozy spots to relax.
The Zetter Townhouse: British Eccentricity at its Finest
The Zetter Townhouse is one of the coolest hotels in London, with a quirky British flair. My favorite room features a Union Jack-emblazoned four-poster bed. Others are decked out with fairground carousel designs.
But the real highlight is the cocktail bar downstairs. It’s like stepping into an eccentric collector’s living room, with unusual taxidermy and Renaissance art. The cocktails are expertly prepared, and it’s worth a visit even if you’re not staying at the hotel.
AMANO: Modern Glamour in the Heart of London
AMANO is a newer addition to the London boutique hotel scene, located right in the heart of the city. The rooms feature neutral tones with pops of gold and even offer gold claw-foot tubs with city views.
But the real treasure is the rooftop bar, which boasts stunning views of the Shard and Houses of Parliament.
The Adria: A Five-Star Splurge in a Historic Setting
The Adria is perhaps the fanciest hotel on this list, offering a luxurious 5-star experience. Stepping into this hotel is like stepping back in time to a 19th-century townhouse.
The rooms are named after English places and events and feature plush furnishings, heated floors, and Italian marble. It’s a perfect place to enjoy a traditional afternoon tea by the fire.
The Soho Hotel: Urban Chic in the Heart of Soho
The Soho Hotel, part of the Firmdale Hotels brand, blends urban style with quirky details. Located in the heart of Soho, it puts you right in the center of London’s cultural scene without being a party hotel.
The rooms feature bespoke bedding and linens, floor-to-ceiling windows, and a perfect mix of neutral colors and bright patterns. Other highlights include a private screening room, afternoon tea, and a beauty treatment room.
Find Your Hipster Haven
So, whether you’re looking for a quirky retreat, a design-led apartment, or a luxurious experience, London’s hipster hotels have something for everyone. Get ready to explore the coolest side of London and discover a world of unique design, creative energy, and unforgettable experiences.
