citizenM, the boutique hotel chain renowned for its contemporary art and trendy hostel-like atmosphere, recently opened its fourth London location in Victoria. This stylish hotel, just a short walk from Buckingham Palace, joins other citizenM hotels that opened in Miami, Seattle, Chicago, and Washington DC in 2023.
The secret to citizenM’s success? Simple yet luxurious experiences. Gone are the days of unnecessary in-room amenities like tiny kettles and cluttered work desks. Instead, you’ll find everything you need for a relaxing stay after a day of exploring: contactless check-in, a comfortable king-size bed, blackout blinds, and even nachos delivered right to your room with just a QR code.
Simple Yet Stylish Rooms
Each of the 226 rooms prioritizes functionality over individual style. The rooms are identical, spacious enough for two guests, and decorated in a sleek and modern palette of crisp white with black and red accents. You’ll find quirky coffee table books like “Why You Will Marry the Wrong Person” and “On Confidence” adding a touch of personality. Every room features a large bed positioned beneath a panoramic window, perfect for enjoying the city views (book an upper floor to avoid street-level distractions). Opposite the bed is a wide-screen TV for movie nights, while a futuristic glass pod serves as the bathroom, complete with a refreshing rain shower, dedicated AM and PM toiletries, and mood lighting that changes color from vibrant yellow to soft pink via the in-room iPad. While the rooms are modern and sleek, they lack privacy due to the open-concept design.
Casual Dining and Quirky Art
Forget stuffy hotel restaurants; at citizenM Victoria, you’ll find canteenM, a casual dining space open 24 hours a day. Order from a QR code menu and enjoy global dishes like chicken dim sum, Goan fish curry, and tonkotsu ramen in a relaxed and vibrant setting. Choose your spot – grab a bar stool, settle into a scalloped red sofa, or enjoy the lively atmosphere of the bar. While the food is delicious, service can sometimes be inconsistent, with occasional delays and missing items. However, the extensive breakfast buffet the next morning more than makes up for any hiccups. From smashed avocado and gluten-free bagels to bottomless barista-made coffee, the buffet offers something for everyone, providing an excellent opportunity for people-watching.
Adding to the hotel’s unique atmosphere are over 400 quirky artworks displayed throughout the hotel. These pieces range from bright neon signs and golden corgis in the lobby, dubbed the “living room,” to pop-art rhino statues and a gift shop filled with unique trinkets and snacks like Hackney Gelato and chorizo thins. The hotel’s playful design, while perhaps a little over the top for some, creates a fun and memorable experience.
Exploring the Best of West London
citizenM Victoria provides an ideal base for exploring the best of West London. You’re within walking distance of St James’s Park, the Elizabeth Tower, Tate Britain, and Westminster Abbey. Explore the trendy restaurants of Soho and Mayfair just a short distance away. This central location puts you in the heart of all that London has to offer.
With its affordable luxury, trendy design, and convenient location, citizenM Victoria offers a unique and memorable experience for those seeking a stylish and comfortable stay in London.
