Let’s get real: I’m a travel writer, and sometimes, I get to stay in hotels for free. But I’ve also shelled out my own cash for a good (and bad) stay in my fair share of London hotels. This means I’ve experienced the city’s lodging scene from various perspectives, from a luxurious suite to a budget-friendly bunk bed, and I’m here to share my honest thoughts.
From Glamour to Grunge: London’s Hit-and-Miss Hotels
While London boasts some of the world’s most opulent hotels, not every experience is a fairytale. Some stays left me feeling anything but glamorous. Rough Luxe, a once-hip hotel in King’s Cross, embraced the “beauty is subjective” motto a bit too literally, leaving behind peeling wallpaper, chipped paint, and drafty windows. It felt more like a set for a horror film than a luxurious retreat.
The Rookery in Clerkenwell, a historic five-star hotel, proved to be anything but restful after my wedding. Our room faced Fabric nightclub, and the charming cobblestone street outside became a raver’s haven, making sleep an impossibility. The next morning, bumping into the remnants of the night’s festivities on our way to the airport, I felt like I was in a scene from a zombie movie.
The Hempel, a chic boutique hotel near Bayswater, offered meticulous minimalism, but the hotel staff seemingly didn’t extend this same standard to cleaning. My experience at The Hempel was memorable for the wrong reasons, particularly when a porter, misunderstanding my complaint about a dirty room service tray, “accidentally” revealed that Chelsea Clinton, the former President’s daughter, was staying there. I’m sure the Secret Service wasn’t too happy about that one!
Family-Friendly Fun and Old-World Charm: Finding the Perfect London Stay
Not all hotel experiences are nightmares, though. For a family-friendly getaway, The Haymarket Hotel is a clear winner. With a subterranean pool, a snack bar, and all the kid-friendly touches imaginable, it’s a haven for children and parents alike. If you’re on a budget, Park Plaza Riverbank, with its Thames-view rooms and family suites, is a great option.
For a taste of old-school London luxury, Claridge’s is unbeatable. Yes, it’s pricey, but if you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, this iconic hotel is worth the splurge. It’s my personal pick over other London grande dames like the Dorchester, the Lanesborough, the Savoy, the Berkeley, and Brown’s.
Unique and Insta-worthy: Exploring London’s Hidden Gems
Beyond the classics, London offers a wealth of unique and quirky hotels. Hotel Café Royal, with its historic Grill Room, is a design lover’s dream. Sofitel London Heathrow is a great pre-holiday option, while Town Hall Hotel in Bethnal Green is Insta-gorgeous without being pretentious. For an unforgettable afternoon tea, One Aldwych offers a Willy Wonka-inspired extravaganza with candy floss and “fizzy-lifting drink” champagne.
My Top Pick: Shangri-La The Shard, Where London Magic Happens
But my absolute favorite London hotel? It’s Shangri-La The Shard. This hotel, situated on the top floors of the tallest building in the UK, is not about coolness or understated elegance. It’s about experiencing the magic of London from an extraordinary perspective.
Swimming in the pool, so high that clouds dance below, is an unforgettable experience. The hotel’s upgrade policy ensures guests enjoy the best possible view, even though every room offers spectacular vistas. Waking up in one of London’s most iconic buildings, I feel like I’ve already done my sightseeing, freeing me to indulge in leisurely baths with panoramic views.
Watching red double-decker buses from the 52nd floor Gong bar, where you can barely make out their identity code numbers, is a surreal experience. Afternoon tea guests aren’t relegated to a corner like unwanted relatives, but are treated like royalty. I love photographing the sprawling views, from the Wembley Stadium arch to the bustling commuters crossing London Bridge.
What makes Shangri-La The Shard truly special is its dedication to inclusivity. The hotel employs staff from diverse backgrounds, including individuals from disability and homeless charities, local schools, and disadvantaged London communities. Each new employee is given the opportunity to experience the Shard’s magic by spending a night in the hotel with a guest.
Shangri-La The Shard is more than just a hotel; it’s a symbol of London’s spirit, a place where dreams take flight and memories are made.
Tell Me Your London Hotel Stories!
What are your favorite (and least favorite) London hotels? Share your experiences in the comments below!
