Prepare to be captivated by my insider’s guide to London hotels. As a seasoned travel writer, I’ve navigated the city’s diverse landscape, from budget-friendly escapes to opulent five-star havens. My experiences have been a mix of unforgettable moments and less-than-ideal encounters, and I’m ready to share my honest perspective on the gems and the duds.
The London Hotel Faux Pas
London’s hotel scene isn’t always glamorous. Some establishments are so bad, they’re almost good. Let’s dive into the tales of disappointment:
Rough Luxe, a converted Georgian townhouse hotel in King’s Cross, boasted a unique design philosophy: “beauty being subjective” and “the material being irrelevant.” However, for me, it translated to crumbling walls, chipped paint, and inadequate soundproofing. This was long before the area became trendy, but even now, revisiting the photos, it feels like a setting for a horror film.
The Rookery, a historic five-star residence in Clerkenwell, offered another disheartening experience. After my wedding, the noise from the nearby Fabric nightclub ensured zero sleep. The cobblestone street outside became a hub for revelers, and our paths crossed at dawn – me on my honeymoon, them on their way home, looking like they’d survived a zombie apocalypse.
The Hempel, a supposedly immaculate five-star boutique hotel near Bayswater, offered another bizarre encounter. While the interior design was minimalist and chic, the hotel’s strict rules didn’t seem to apply to room service. Dirty trays were left untouched. When I mentioned this to the porter, he seemed oblivious and proceeded to tell me about a celebrity breakfast—a major security breach, considering Chelsea Clinton’s father was the former president of the United States! Both Rough Luxe and the Hempel have now closed their doors.
Where London Hotels Shine: From Family Fun to Afternoon Tea Extravaganzas
Not every London hotel experience is a disaster. I’ve also encountered truly remarkable stays.
The Haymarket Hotel is my absolute favorite for families. It’s a haven for kids, offering a swimming pool with a cinema screen, a snack bar, inflatables, and even milk and cookies at bedtime. It’s also within walking distance of Leicester Square and Piccadilly Circus.
Park Plaza Riverbank, south of Lambeth Bridge, offers incredible value for families on a budget. Rooms with Thames views are available for less than £200, and the family suites come equipped with bunk beds, chalkboard walls, and tepees.
For traditional London charm and a world-class bar, look no further than Claridge’s. Yes, it’s expensive—rooms start at £800 per night—but it’s worth every penny. I’ve stayed in many London grand hotels, including the Dorchester, the Lanesborough, the Savoy, the Berkeley, and Brown’s, but Claridge’s is the best of the bunch.
My favorite hotel for design? Hotel Café Royal. It’s famous for its grade II listed Grill Room, adorned with gold and mirrors, where Princess Diana and Oscar Wilde once sought refuge.
If you’re seeking a hotel that feels like your holiday has already begun, Sofitel London Heathrow is the place. It’s the perfect airport hotel, offering a relaxing and luxurious atmosphere.
For a hip and stylish stay, I recommend the Town Hall Hotel in Bethnal Green. It’s Instagram-worthy yet unpretentious and boasts a unique and vibrant personality.
Finally, if you’re looking for an unforgettable afternoon tea experience, head to One Aldwych. It’s a Willy Wonka-inspired extravaganza, complete with candy floss and “fizzy-lifting drink” champagne.
London’s Crown Jewel: Shangri-La The Shard
And my absolute favorite London hotel? It’s the Shangri-La The Shard, located on the top floors of the tallest building in the United Kingdom. It’s not cool or understated, and it’s not a celebrity hot spot, but it’s as close to magic as you’ll get from a London hotel.
I love swimming in the pool, so high up that clouds dance below me. I love the unsolicited upgrades to rooms with even more spectacular views. I love sleeping in one of London’s most iconic buildings, and I love watching the city unfold from the 52nd-floor Gong bar.
The staff at the Shangri-La are exceptional. They’re recruited from diverse backgrounds, including disability and homeless charities, local schools, and disadvantaged London communities. Every new employee gets to experience the Shard phenomenon by spending a night in a room.
The Shangri-La embodies the spirit of London. It’s dynamic, diverse, and endlessly surprising.
What’s your favorite London hotel? And your least favorite? Share your experiences in the comments below.
