Traveling can be stressful, especially when faced with long check-in lines and demanding passport controls. Why not de-stress before your trip? Airport hotels aren’t just for emergency stays – they can be a fantastic way to start your journey relaxed and refreshed. Imagine arriving the day before your flight, enjoying a swim, indulging in a delicious meal, and getting a restful night’s sleep. You’ll wake up feeling energized and ready for any adventure. Or, extend your vacation by staying at an airport hotel before heading home and treat yourself to a rejuvenating massage. Let’s explore some of the best airport hotel options in London, from luxurious to budget-friendly.
A Convenient Gatwick Getaway
If you’re flying out of Gatwick Airport’s South Terminal, Bloc Hotel is a convenient choice. Located directly above the terminal, this modern hotel is inspired by the Japanese capsule-hotel concept, offering compact yet stylish rooms. Each room is equipped with a bedside tablet that controls lights, blinds, air conditioning, and even allows you to check out, making it ideal for early-morning flights. While there’s no restaurant or room service, the terminal’s various dining options are right downstairs.
Hampton by Hilton: Quality Without the Premium Price
For travelers seeking a comfortable and affordable stay, Hampton by Hilton is an excellent option at Gatwick Airport. Connected to the North Terminal by a covered walkway and offering a free shuttle from the South Terminal, this hotel provides high-quality service with fewer frills. The sleek and modern common areas feature a stylish white bar with high stools, while rooms are basic but comfortable, with comfortable beds, a selection of pillows, TVs, and workspace. A complimentary hot breakfast is served daily, and a 24-hour reception ensures convenience for those with late-night or early-morning flights. The 24-hour fitness center is a great way to combat jetlag or simply get a quick workout.
YOTELAir: Smart Design, Smart Prices
Need a quick refresh before your flight? YOTELAir, new in 2022, offers hourly rates for travelers with long transits, unexpected layovers, or flight delays. Located in Gatwick’s South Terminal, this hotel is just a short walk from departures and arrivals. The smart design and smart prices are reflected in the compact cabin-style rooms, which, despite their size, offer all the essentials. Press a button to transform your sofa into a SmartBed, Jetsons style! For those needing to work, there’s superfast Wi-Fi, wireless charging, and cabin workstations. Enjoy a refreshing rain shower with Urban Jungle amenities and complimentary hot drinks.
Sofitel Heathrow: Parisian Elegance at Terminal 5
If you’re flying out of Terminal 5, Sofitel Heathrow is the only on-site hotel with direct access via a covered walkway. This unique hotel features a futuristic design with rectangular glass atriums, Japanese potted trees, and wood paneling, creating a relaxing and stylish ambiance. Enjoy first-class facilities, including a modern spa, 24-hour gym, a champagne bar, and two restaurants. As a French-run hotel, Sofitel Heathrow takes its cuisine seriously. The Belle Époque restaurant serves exquisite meals in a contemporary setting under one of the hotel’s atriums.
Hilton Heathrow: A Serene Escape at Terminal 4
The Hilton Heathrow is the only hotel with direct pedestrian access to Terminal 4, making it a convenient choice for travelers. With a huge wall of glass, this hotel has a light and airy feel, centred around a spacious atrium that houses the reception, open-plan restaurants, and a bar. Facilities are exceptional, including a business centre for printing boarding passes, a pool, sauna, and steam room. Choose from a variety of dining options, including Chinese and Italian cuisine, and enjoy a generous continental breakfast served from 5 am.
Ibis Heathrow: Affordable Fun with a Touch of Aviation
Looking for a budget-friendly option with a touch of personality? The Ibis Heathrow, located near Heathrow Airport on Bath Road, is a chain hotel with a unique aviation theme. Expect playful design elements, such as hot-air-balloon lamps, cloud-motif wallpaper, and mini-bars resembling air stewards’ trolleys. Enjoy essential amenities, including a restaurant serving crowd-pleasing dishes, printers for boarding passes, departures screens, and a long-stay car park. The breakfast buffet is included in the room rate, and you can take a shuttle bus directly to Terminals 2-5 within 30 minutes.
The Luton Hoo Hotel, Golf & Spa: A Country Escape
This is no ordinary airport hotel! Luton Hoo Hotel, Golf & Spa is a sprawling country estate that will transport you to another era. Located just 10 minutes from Luton Airport, this grand hotel is perfect for starting your holiday in style or winding down after a flight. Stay in historic suites named after famous guests, including Queen Mary and Winston Churchill, and enjoy country house-style amenities, Molton Brown toiletries, and breathtaking views of the Capability Brown-designed gardens. Indulge in a luxurious breakfast featuring smoked kippers and eggs benedict, and explore the grounds with the resident peacocks. Relax and rejuvenate in the hotel’s spa.
The Yacht Hotel: Luxury on the Water
Experience the ultimate in unique airport hotel accommodations! The UK’s first super yacht hotel is permanently moored in Royal Victoria Docks, adjacent to London City Airport. Indulge in the high life of a luxury yacht before or after your flight. The spacious cabins are equipped with in-room tablets, Lavazza coffee machines, and White Company products. Enjoy fine dining in the Lands End restaurant or unwind with cocktails in the Sundown Bar, overlooking the London skyline. Pamper yourself at the Decleor and Carita Spa. When it’s time to depart, London City Airport is just a mile away, a short taxi ride or DLR journey.
