Looking for more than just a comfortable bed in London? Forget generic hotel lists! We’re diving into the heart of nine distinct London neighborhoods, revealing hotels that embody their unique character and offer immersive experiences.
Piccadilly: A Family-Friendly Playground
The Dilly isn’t your typical London hotel. It boasts a 40-foot indoor pool, a rare find in central London! Imagine mornings with kids splashing around before breakfast, followed by pancake-making fun at the buffet. Afternoons are all about classic London charm with afternoon tea, complete with a chocolate Big Ben filled with raspberry ganache. Don’t miss the legendary doorman, Rushy, who’ll point you towards “Harry Potter” filming locations. And for a dose of pure fun, you’re steps away from Hamleys toy store, Supernova for smash burgers, and the dazzling lights of Piccadilly Circus.
Insider tip: Take the little ones across the street to Waterstones bookstore, boasting London’s largest children’s section.
Bloomsbury: A Literary and Artistic Haven
The Fitzroy is a haven for those seeking a touch of the past. This Parisian-inspired hotel transports you to another era, its interiors conjuring mystical vibes that defy its Bloomsbury location. A zodiac mosaic discovered during renovations leads up a marble staircase to a bronze dragon – rub it for good luck! This hotel pays homage to architect Charles Fitzroy Doll, who designed an identical dragon for the ill-fated Titanic. Enjoy a drink at the hotel’s Fitz’s bar, with its dark, velvet décor and discreet back entrance.
Insider tip: Explore Gordon Square, where writers, philosophers, and artists of the Bloomsbury group gathered in the early 20th century. Virginia Woolf lived at no. 46, later rented by renowned economist John Maynard Keynes.
Belgravia: A Royal Escape
The Goring is steeped in royal history. Its Royal Suite was redesigned for Kate Middleton’s royal wedding entourage, and a humorous painting depicting a Tudor courtier kissing Elizabeth I’s hand hangs in the bathroom. (It’s a cheeky nod to royal protocol!) Even standard rooms exude elegance with their Gainsborough silks, mirroring those found at Buckingham Palace.
Insider tip: Enjoy a leisurely stroll through The Goring’s croquet lawn and gardens, said to be larger than Wimbledon’s Centre Court.
Notting Hill: Bohemian Chic and Vintage Charm
The Portobello Hotel embodies the free spirit of Notting Hill. Kate Moss’s love for the neighborhood and vintage shopping put Portobello Road Market on the map, and her taste for champagne elevated the hotel’s bohemian charm. Legend has it that she and Johnny Depp took a champagne bath in Room 16! The hotel’s lush wallpaper, Moroccan tiles, miles of velvet, and oversized rolltop baths all evoke a sense of the Swinging Sixties and louche ’90s.
Insider tip: For a quieter alternative to the bustling Portobello Road, explore Golborne Road and visit Rellik, one of Moss’s favorite vintage boutiques.
Bankside: Sustainable and Creative
CitizenM embraced a south-of-Thames location in 2012, becoming a creative hub thanks to the area’s thriving restaurant and retail scene. The hotel’s BREEAM-certified building incorporates sustainability into its design, including an in-house app to minimize food waste. They’ve partnered with Too Good To Go, ensuring uneaten breakfast finds a home.
Insider tip: Take advantage of free diversions like the Tate Modern, Borough Market, and the Thames Path.
The City: Gatsby Glamour and Retro Vibes
The Ned, housed in a former bank, transforms into a Gatsby-esque wonderland in the evening. Nine vibrant restaurants and bars offer a variety of culinary delights, including Electric Diner’s lobster roll and Lutyens Grill’s 44-day-aged prime rib. Sunday feasts feature a pyramid of lobsters, perfect for a TikTok moment.
Insider tip: Indulge in a jelly “fronut” (donut with ice cream) at the hotel’s in-house ice cream parlor.
Clerkenwell: A Literary Retreat
The Zetter Clerkenwell is a 13-room townhouse that feels straight out of a Jane Austen novel. Enjoy a cozy evening in the candlelit Parlour, where mixologist Anas El Bahhaj crafts signature cocktails, like the Nettle Gimlet.
Insider tip: Explore the area’s chic bistros and bars, such as Sessions Arts Club or Mikkeler Brewpub on Exmouth Market.
Shoreditch: Art, Creativity, and Community
The Hoxton transformed a derelict parking lot into a vibrant art house, attracting artists, curators, and musicians. The hotel’s open pantry and cozy bedrooms create a sense of community.
Insider tip: Visit the Llama Inn, the hotel’s new Peruvian rooftop bar, offering three types of pisco sours and stunning views of the neighborhood’s outdoor art and murals.
Dalston: A Blend of Vintage and Modern
The Luxury Inn is a haven for those seeking a unique and authentic Dalston experience. This former printing factory is now furnished with vintage finds and moody lighting.
Insider tip: Explore Dalston Superstore, a hub for all things LGBTQ+, with a club, café, and community space.
From family-friendly fun to artistic havens, each of these London hotels offers a unique window into the city’s vibrant neighborhoods. So, pick your style, pack your bags, and get ready to experience London like never before!
