London, a city brimming with history and charm, offers an overwhelming array of accommodation choices. While finding a list of the “best” hotels is easy, discovering the ideal hotel that resonates with your personal travel style and interests can be a real challenge. This curated list of London hotels dives deeper than the usual rankings, showcasing unique experiences and enriching your exploration of the city’s vibrant neighborhoods.
Dive into the Buzz of Piccadilly at The Dilly
The Dilly, a haven in the heart of Piccadilly, is a vibrant destination for families and those seeking a touch of London’s iconic energy. The hotel’s 40-foot indoor pool, a rarity in central London, is a star attraction, especially for kids eager for a pre-breakfast swim. The Dilly’s pancake machine at the breakfast buffet will surely delight little ones.
Enjoy panoramic views of Piccadilly while indulging in a delightful London-themed afternoon tea, complete with a chocolate Big Ben filled with raspberry ganache. Afterward, let the hotel’s legendary doorman, Rushy, guide you to the best “Harry Potter” filming locations. Just a short walk away, you’ll find the iconic seven-story Hamleys toy store, a paradise for children of all ages, and Supernova, serving delicious smash burgers. Piccadilly Circus, with its dazzling lights and electric atmosphere, will leave you spellbound, especially at night.
Tip: For pint-sized bibliophiles, cross the street and explore the expansive children’s section at Waterstones bookstore, London’s largest.
Embrace the Literary Charm of Bloomsbury at The Fitzroy
The Fitzroy, an IHG hotel adorned in the warm hues of thé au lait terracotta, transports you to a world of Parisian elegance and mystical charm. Inspired by a Parisian château destroyed during the French Revolution, the hotel’s design is a testament to pure fantasy.
Upon entering the lobby, you’ll be greeted by a mesmerizing zodiac mosaic, leading you up the marble staircase to a bronze dragon, a symbol of good fortune. Architect Charles Fitzroy Doll, who also designed an identical sculpture for the ill-fated Titanic, envisioned this captivating centerpiece. Enjoy a nightcap at Fitz’s, the hotel’s bar, with its dark, velvet décor and discreet back entrance.
Tip: The Fitzroy’s location in Bloomsbury is steeped in literary history. The Bloomsbury Group, comprised of writers, philosophers, and artists, frequented nearby Gordon Square in the early 20th century. English writer Virginia Woolf resided at no. 46, which was later rented to renowned economist John Maynard Keynes.
Experience Royalty at The Goring
The Goring, an Edwardian five-star hotel, exudes an air of regal sophistication. Its Royal Suite was redesigned for Kate Middleton’s royal wedding entourage, a testament to its royal connections. During this time, CEO Jeremy Goring commissioned a humorous painting, depicting a Tudor courtier kissing the hand of Elizabeth I, a breach of royal protocol. This playful artwork, hung by the bathroom’s original toilet, is a testament to the hotel’s lighthearted spirit, despite its royal lineage.
The hotel’s standard rooms are no less grand, draped in Gainsborough silks, reminiscent of the fabrics used at Buckingham Palace, just around the corner.
Tip: Enjoy a leisurely afternoon on The Goring’s croquet lawn and gardens, rumored to be larger than Wimbledon’s Centre Court.
Embrace Bohemian Chic at The Portobello Hotel
The Portobello Hotel in Notting Hill, renowned for its bohemian flair, has been a favorite among celebrities and trendsetters. Kate Moss’s penchant for vintage shopping and champagne helped solidify the hotel’s unique character.
Rumor has it that Moss and Johnny Depp enjoyed a champagne bath in Room 16, a testament to the hotel’s uninhibited spirit. While the surrounding houses have skyrocketed in value, the hotel’s atmosphere evokes the free-spirited energy of the Swinging Sixties and the louche ’90s. This bohemian spirit is reflected in the hotel’s décor: lush wallpaper, Moroccan tiles, plush velvet, and spacious rolltop baths fit for two.
Tip: For a more tranquil alternative to bustling Portobello Road, explore Golborne Road and visit Rellik, one of Kate Moss’s preferred vintage boutiques.
Experience Sustainable Innovation at CitizenM
CitizenM, a hotel known for its innovative approach to hospitality, made a bold choice by establishing a location south of the Thames in 2012. The hotel has become a hub for creatives in the Bankside area, thanks to its proximity to new restaurants and retail spaces.
Annalise Tyrie, the hotel’s environmental, social, and governance director, spearheaded the implementation of an in-house app to minimize food waste and streamline operations in the hotel’s busy cafe and co-working space. The app also partners with Too Good To Go, a surplus-food marketplace, ensuring that uneaten breakfast items find a home. CitizenM’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its BREEAM-certified building and its dedication to reducing food waste.
Tip: Guests will appreciate the hotel’s proximity to free attractions like the Tate Modern, Borough Market, and the Thames Path.
Relive the Glamour of the 1940s at The Ned
The Ned, a dazzling art deco gem housed in a former bank, transforms into a Gatsby-esque event space in the evenings. Its nine vibrant restaurants and bars attract Londoners from across the city, eager to savor Electric Diner’s lobster roll or indulge in the 44-day-aged prime rib at Lutyens Grill, named after the architect of the former bank, Edwin ‘Ned’ Lutyen.
The Ned’s Sunday feast, a true feast for the senses, features a majestic pyramid of lobsters, perfect for a TikTok-worthy moment. The lively jazz music and swing dancers transport you back to the 1940s, creating an immersive and nostalgic experience.
Tip: Don’t miss the new in-house ice cream parlor, where you can indulge in a decadent jelly “fronut,” a donut with ice cream nestled in the center.
Escape to Jane Austen’s World at The Zetter Clerkenwell
The Zetter Clerkenwell, a charming 13-room townhouse furnished with antique Chesterfields, evokes the elegance of a Jane Austen novel. Its cobblestone square entrance transports you to a bygone era. For those seeking a cozy night in, the hotel’s candlelit Parlour, helmed by mixologist Anas El Bahhaj, offers a tranquil retreat.
Indulge in the signature Nettle Gimlet, a refreshing blend of East London Gin and foraged herbs, and savor the unique character of Clerkenwell.
Tip: Explore the neighborhood’s beautiful buildings, now home to trendy bistros and bars. Visit Sessions Arts Club or enjoy a pint at Mikkeler Brewpub in bustling Exmouth Market.
Immerse Yourself in Shoreditch’s Artistic Soul at The Hoxton
The Hoxton, a vibrant hub for artists and creatives, transformed a derelict parking lot in Shoreditch into a dynamic art house. The hotel’s exposed-brick lounge, open pantry, and stylish bedrooms have attracted artists, curators, and musicians for years, creating a buzzing creative community.
The Hoxton’s dedication to the arts is evident in its partnership with Haricot Gallery, a graffiti-adorned warehouse space founded by Harry Raikes. The gallery feeds off the neighborhood’s artistic energy and strong sense of community.
Tip: Head to the Llama Inn, the hotel’s Peruvian rooftop bar, where you can enjoy three types of pisco sours and breathtaking views of Shoreditch’s vibrant outdoor art and murals.
Discover the Vibrant Energy of Dalston at The Luxury Inn
The Luxury Inn, a popular crash pad in Dalston, embraces the neighborhood’s unique charm and artistic flair. This former printing factory, now adorned with vintage furniture and moody lighting, is a short walk from Brilliant Corners, a bar that has replaced West Indian haunts like the Four Aces, now serving as a community library.
The Afro-Caribbean Ridley Road Market Bar, another local gem, captures the chaotic yet welcoming spirit of the market, offering fun and flavorful drinks. Dalston’s strong community spirit is evident in its diverse residents, local businesses, and vibrant cultural scene.
Tip: LGBTQ+ guests staying at The Luxury Inn should consider visiting Dalston Superstore, a hub for all things LGBTQ+, featuring a Queer club, café, and community space.
Conclusion
From the vibrant energy of Piccadilly to the artistic soul of Shoreditch, London’s diverse neighborhoods offer a unique hotel experience for every traveler. Whether you’re seeking a luxurious retreat, a bohemian escape, or a sustainable stay, this list of London hotels will inspire you to explore beyond the typical tourist attractions and discover the true character of England’s captivating capital.
