Say goodbye to the tired, drab image of airport hotels. Forget the lackluster atmosphere and the feeling of being trapped in a generic, soulless space. Instead, consider the genius of these convenient havens – your gateway to a stress-free start or a relaxed end to your travels.
Imagine: arriving the day before your flight, taking a leisurely dip in the pool, enjoying a delicious dinner, and then sinking into a comfortable bed for a peaceful night’s sleep. Wake up refreshed and energized, ready to stroll effortlessly to the terminal. It’s a vacation-worthy beginning, or the perfect way to extend your trip without the hassle of packing and unpacking.
Let’s explore some of London’s best airport hotels, from luxurious retreats to budget-friendly havens, each offering its unique blend of comfort and convenience.
Gatwick Airport: A Modern Take on Comfort
For travellers in and out of Gatwick’s South Terminal, Bloc Hotel is a game-changer. This converted office block sits directly above the terminal, making it a quick and convenient hop from the departure lounge. Compact yet modern, the rooms are inspired by the Japanese capsule hotel concept, with tech-savvy amenities like bedside tablets controlling lights, blinds, air conditioning, and even checkout. This makes them perfect for those rushing to catch early flights.
While the hotel doesn’t offer a restaurant or room service, you have the entire terminal at your fingertips, with a wide array of dining options just downstairs.
If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, the Hampton by Hilton is a solid choice. Located near the North Terminal, with a covered walkway and a free shuttle from the South Terminal, this hotel offers the same high quality service with fewer luxuries. The reception area is sleek and stylish, featuring a cool white bar with high stools. Rooms are basic yet comfortable, with comfy beds, a choice of pillows, TVs, and workspace.
The hotel boasts a free hot breakfast, a 24-hour reception, perfect for those catching those early morning flights, and a 24/7 fitness centre for those looking to wake up or banish jetlag.
Heathrow Airport: Luxury and Convenience Combine
For travelers flying out of Terminal 5, the Sofitel
Heathrow
is the ultimate choice. This luxurious hotel is the only on-site hotel with direct access to the terminal through a covered walkway. The unique design is a futuristic blend of glass atriums, Japanese potted trees, and wood paneling, creating a holiday-inspired atmosphere.
The Sofitel is all about pampering. The hotel boasts a modern spa, a 24-hour gym, a champagne bar, and two restaurants. Being French-run, the hotel places a strong emphasis on food, offering seriously delicious cuisine in the Belle Époque restaurant, set under a stunning glass atrium.
If you’re flying out of Terminal 4, the Hilton is a great option, being the only hotel with pedestrian access to the terminal. The airy, serene feel is centred around a light-flooded atrium housing the reception, open-plan restaurants, and a bar. Facilities are top-notch for an airport hotel, including a business centre, a pool, a sauna, and a steam room.
The Hilton offers a wide array of dining options, including Chinese and Italian cuisine. A plentiful continental buffet breakfast is served from 5am, ensuring you’re fuelled and ready for your flight.
Luton Airport: Country Estate Charm
Forget the typical airport hotel experience. The Luton Hoo Hotel, Golf & Spa is a sprawling country estate that will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a luxurious historical setting. Located just 10 minutes by car from Luton Airport, it’s the perfect choice for a luxurious start or a relaxing end to your trip.
The hotel’s historic suites are named after famous guests like Queen Mary and Winston Churchill, offering country house charm with Molton Brown toiletries and views of the stunning Capability Brown-designed gardens. Breakfast is a grand affair, featuring smoked kippers, eggs benedict, and other delightful treats. Take a stroll through the grounds, admire the resident peacocks, or indulge in post-flight pampering at the spa.
London City Airport: Yachts, Luxury, and Convenience
The UK’s first super yacht hotel, the Royal Docks, is permanently moored in Royal Victoria Docks, right next to London City Airport. Why not start your holiday early with a touch of boat life luxury or extend your trip after landing?
The ‘cabin’ rooms are spacious and luxurious, featuring in-room tablets, Lavazza coffee machines, and White Company products. Enjoy delicious meals at the Lands End restaurant, sip cocktails at the Sundown Bar with stunning London skyline views, or rejuvenate at the Decleor and Carita Spa.
London City Airport is just a mile away, accessible in a 7-minute taxi ride or a 10-minute DLR journey.
From modern capsule hotels to luxurious country estates, airport hotels offer a convenient and comfortable way to start or end your travels. So ditch the airport stress and embrace the bliss of airport hotel living!
