Welcome to my world, where hotels are more than just places to sleep. As a seasoned travel writer, I’ve experienced the luxury, the quirk, and the downright bizarre. I’ve seen it all: from budget-friendly family escapes to glamorous nights in five-star havens. My adventures have been filled with both unforgettable moments and a few less-than-ideal experiences. Today, I’m sharing my honest perspective on the London hotel scene, revealing the gems and the flops.
London’s Hotel Hits and Misses
Some hotels are so bad, they’re almost good. Let’s start with the duds:
Rough Luxe — a converted Georgian townhouse hotel in King’s Cross — boasted a unique design philosophy. They called it “beauty being subjective” and the “material being irrelevant.” But, for me, it equated to crumbling walls, chipped paint, and barely adequate soundproofing. This was long before the area became trendy, but even now, when I revisit the photos, it feels like a setting for a horror movie.
The Rookery, a historic five-star residence in Clerkenwell, presented another disappointing experience. I stayed there after my wedding, but the noise from the nearby Fabric nightclub ensured zero sleep. The cobblestone street outside became a popular spot for revelers, and our paths crossed at dawn — me on the way to 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 strange 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
But not every London hotel experience is a disaster. I’ve also had some truly remarkable stays.
The Haymarket Hotel is my absolute favorite for families. It has everything you need: 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 all the attractions in 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 looking for 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.
My Favorite London Hotel: 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.
So, what’s your favorite London hotel? And your least favorite? Share your experiences in the comments below.
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