As a popular tourist destination, London is certainly not short of places to stay. Since the 19th century, this city has been producing wonderful hotels with big reputations. Today, the hotel industry in London has gone from strength to strength with a growing number of innovative themes and styles. As a result of this accommodation boom, visitors will find world-class hotels scattered throughout the city along with a fantastic range of affordable B&Bs and hostels. Here are some of the best places to stay, no matter the budget.

 

Hotels

Photo: Derby Hotels Collection/Facebook

Caesar Hotel — The Caesar Hotel is located in a gorgeous Victorian townhouse, just a short walk from Hyde Park. In keeping with its name, this hotel features traditional Roman mosaics combined with contemporary minimalist designs. Many rooms offer tranquil views across Queens Gardens, and there is also an onsite gym and sauna. XO Bar is the hotel’s ground floor restaurant offering traditional Spanish delicacies served tapas-style.

Photo: Good Hotel London/Facebook

Good Hotel — Situated in the Royal Victoria Docks, the Good Hotel provides an exceptional level of hospitality with a strong focus on giving back to the community. Training unemployed locals, collaborating with London-based charities, and donating five British pounds per night of every stay to low-income families in Guatemala and Antigua are just some of the hotel’s commitments. When it comes to the accommodation, guests can expect gorgeous rooms with waterfront views. For a delicious cup of coffee, head to its venue the Living Room, which is a hip hangout with shared working spaces, great food, and chilled out vibes.

The Exhibitionist Hotel — For comfy accommodation with a twist, The Exhibitionist Hotel is a trendy design hotel just a short walk from the Natural History Museum, Royal Albert Hall, and Harrods. The public spaces are taken over by a local artist every month, and each bedroom has a very distinct theme. If you’re looking for something a little romantic, the Drop Dead Gorgeous Splash Suite features its very own jacuzzi with two television screens. Those who prefer thought-provoking art pieces will appreciate the Trash City suite, which takes a look at society’s relationship with luxury items.

 

Luxury Hotels

Photo: The Ritz London/Facebook

The Ritz London — More than just a hotel, The Ritz London is a landmark destination located just minutes from Buckingham Palace and Piccadilly Circus. Upon opening in 1906, The Ritz London soon became a prestigious hotel with clientele that regularly included the Royal Family. Today it continues to impress the world’s rich and famous with Michelin starred dining and an exclusive cigar bar. The hotel is also famous for its extravagant afternoon tea and monthly dinner dances. If that’s not enough, treat yourself to a private butler service followed by a ride around the city in a Rolls Royce Phantom.

Photo: Batty Langley’s/Facebook

Batty Langley’s — Batty Langley’s is a small hotel with opulent Georgian designs and a quirky charisma reflected in its name. The vibrant neighborhood of Shoreditch, with its daring street art and innovative foodie scene, is just 10 minutes away. With only 29 bedrooms, this intimate five-star hotel has plenty of space to relax with a drawing room, library, parlor, courtyard garden, and an honesty bar where you can make your very own cocktails. The Earl of Bolingbroke suite is split across two levels and features a luggage lift, an antique marble bathtub from Tuscany, and a concealed flat-screen TV.

Photo: Claridge’s/Facebook

Claridges — Regularly regarded as one of the best hotels in the world, Claridges offers magnificent five-star accommodation in London’s elegant Mayfair. Ideal for those looking to really treat themselves, this Art Deco hotel opened in 1856 and became a go-to destination for Hollywood superstars, including Cary Grant and Audrey Hepburn. Inside the hotel, The Foyer is a grand restaurant with fine dining and soothing piano music. When it comes to the rooms, every effort has gone into providing guests with the most relaxing and stylish accommodation. The Grand Piano Suite is designed by Diane Von Furstenberg and features two king bedrooms, a marble fireplace, a stunning entrance hall, 24-hour butler service, complimentary airport transfers in a Mercedes S Class vehicle, and, of course, a grand piano.

Photo: Shangri-La

Shangri La at the Shard — Located at the top of The Shard, the tallest building in Western Europe, this hotel provides luxury accommodation with unrivaled views. Beginning on the 34th floor, every room at this hotel has floor to ceiling windows with fantastic views across the entire city. You can rest and unwind at the hotel’s remarkable infinity pool and enjoy views of St Paul’s Cathedral while you swim. Or indulge in a luxury spa treatment, or keep fit at the state of the art gym before trying a creative cocktail at Gong Bar, the highest bar in London.

Photo: The Savoy/Facebook

The Savoy — Another historic hotel making the list, The Savoy is located in London’s theaterland just minutes from Covent Garden. Welcoming guests since 1889, this five-star hotel boasts three elegant bars and four renowned restaurants. A famous chess club since 1828, Simpson’s at the Strand has now been recently restored by the hotel into a gorgeous restaurant serving traditional British cuisine. Along with exceptional service and fabulous rooms, guests will also find a tea shop, bakery, and large indoor swimming pool complete with a sauna and steam room.

 

Hostels

Photo: Wombat’s City Hostels/Facebook

Wombats City — Located in East London’s historic docklands area, this contemporary hostel was once used as the residence for sailors and seamen. Today, it is a social hub for backpackers with excellent facilities including a bar, pool tables, daily drinks deals, and free bags of pasta in the kitchen. There is also WiFi, a laundry service, hammocks, USB outlets, and shared bathroom facilities. The communal areas at this hostel are very trendy in design, with plenty of seating areas to kick back, meet fellow travelers, and plan your journey.

Photo: Clink Hostels/Facebook

Clink78 Hostel — When it comes to cool hostel locations, Clink78 is definitely a winner. It is situated within a former courthouse where punk rock band The Clash once stood trial. In keeping with the building’s notorious history, guests can choose to stay in a heritage-listed custody cell with quirky artwork and contemporary design features. There are also a number of private rooms and dorms with shared bathroom facilities. Clink78 Hostel is a vibrant place to stay with regular DJ nights, live music, and laid-back communal areas. If you’ve just arrived in the city, make the most of the hostel’s free guided walking tour departing at 10:10 AM every morning.

Photo: St Christopher’s Inns/Facebook

St Christopher’s Inns  — St Christopher’s Inns, located throughout the city, tick all the boxes when it comes to style, comfort, and affordability. Inspired by Japanese capsule accommodation, each pod is equipped with a bed, USB ports, mood lighting, and privacy curtains. If sleeping in a small pod is not your thing, there are also a number of private rooms offering city views. Whether you’re going on a pub crawl, enjoying resident DJs at the onsite nightclub, or making the most of the 25 percent discount in the downstairs bar, this hostel is all about the social life. Fill up each morning with a complimentary continental breakfast.