London is a city I can visit time and time again. Each visit, my fifth included, leaves me discovering more. The bustling streets, serene parks, lively stores, and vibrant people create an unmatched atmosphere. However, finding the right place to stay can be a challenge. In London, location is key. I personally opt for centrally located hotels, even if they’re a bit pricier. This saves both money and time otherwise spent on public transport.
Returning to a well-situated hotel to drop off your shopping bags before heading out to explore some more is part of the London experience. So, after my latest trip, I’ve compiled a list of hotels I love and those highly recommended by friends, focusing primarily on those in central locations where public transport is barely needed.
A heads-up for travelers: most London hotels offer compact rooms. A room spacious enough to open a suitcase is considered a luxury. But don’t fret, you’ll likely spend most of your time outside the hotel, soaking up what the city has to offer. What matters most is finding a hotel with a great location, cleanliness, reasonable pricing, and well-designed rooms. There are, of course, hotels with larger, luxurious rooms, but as you might expect, the prices match the luxury. 😊
So here are 10 Great Hotels in London for Every Budget:
The Soho Hotel, Firmdale Hotels
The Soho Hotel is a perfect pick for those looking to dive into the vibrant energy of London. It’s more than just a place to stay; it’s a part of your city experience. Situated in the bustling Soho district, this hotel puts you within easy walking distance of Covent Garden, Leicester Square, the British Museum, and the famous Oxford Street. The rooms, varying from basic to luxurious suites, are uniquely decorated with colorful accents, offering more space than typically found in London accommodations. The neighborhood is bustling with trendy cafes, unique bakeries, and great spots for evening outings. The hotel itself boasts one of the best bars and restaurants in London, making it unnecessary to travel far for quality dining and entertainment.
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Ham Yard Hotel, Firmdale Hotels
For a stay that combines luxury with a burst of color, the Ham Yard Hotel is an excellent choice. Located near Piccadilly Square and Trafalgar Square, this 5-star hotel offers more than just a prime location. Each room is individually and vibrantly designed, turning your stay into a feast for the eyes. Across the street, you’ll find a popular Asian restaurant, while the hotel’s own restaurant is a hot spot in the evenings, always buzzing with activity. The hotel’s common areas are inviting and lively, providing a comfortable space to relax. While it is on the pricier side, the Ham Yard Hotel promises an unforgettable stay filled with colorful visuals and top-notch amenities.
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The Resident Soho
For those prioritizing location, cleanliness, and the convenience of a fridge, The Resident Soho is a standout choice. Just a 2-minute walk from Oxford Street and a short distance from Covent Garden, major train stations, and less than 2 km from the London Eye, it’s perfectly positioned for travelers who plan to spend most of their time out and about. The rooms may be small, but the trade-off is worth it for the location and affordability. This hotel offers excellent value for money, especially considering its central location. The prices are surprisingly reasonable, making it a great option for budget-conscious travelers seeking a prime spot in London.
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The Lincoln Suites
The Lincoln Suites comes highly recommended, especially for its spacious rooms – a rarity in London. The cleanliness, pricing, and location are all top-notch. What sets it apart is the inclusion of a kitchenette in the rooms, complete with a microwave, refrigerator, and coffee machine. This feature is particularly beneficial for longer stays, allowing you to store drinks and reheat food. Having stayed in several London hotels without a fridge, I can attest to the convenience it offers, especially during warmer days. The location is ideal, just a 5-minute walk from Covent Garden and 1.2 km from the London Eye and Big Ben. Most major attractions, including Soho and Chinatown, are within walking distance, as are numerous restaurants and bars. The room prices are fair, reflecting the value offered by this comfortable and convenient apartment hotel.
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Radisson Blu Edwardian
The Radisson Blu Edwardian is a well-regarded, mid-priced hotel in the heart of London’s most sought-after areas. Located less than 10 minutes’ walk from Soho and Trafalgar Square, and only 5 minutes from Covent Garden and close to Oxford Street, it’s surrounded by a variety of dining and entertainment options. The hotel offers a range of room types, with the smallest being ideal for solo travelers or couples. Like many hotels in London, the rooms are relatively compact, designed primarily for sleeping and brief rests. While the hotel serves a good breakfast, I personally recommend exploring the local cafes and bakeries nearby for a more authentic London dining experience.
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AMANO Covent Garden
Located in the heart of Covent Garden, one of London’s most lively areas, the Amano Hotel stands out for its combination of affordable prices and excellent location. A highlight is the beautiful balcony, perfect for enjoying views of the city. The rooms are on the smaller side, which is reflected in the price, but I recommend upgrading to a larger room or one with a balcony for added space, light, and fresh air. The cost of upgrading is reasonable and definitely worth it for the enhanced experience.
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St Martins Lane
St Martins Lane, with its incredible location next to Covent Garden and just 5 minutes from Trafalgar Square, is a top pick. Close to Soho and Chinatown and a short walk from Piccadilly Square, its location is unbeatable. The hotel is known for its vibrant, colorful lights that add to its charm. While the standard rooms are small, upgrading to a garden room is a good choice for extra space. The hotel offers breakfast, but I always recommend exploring the local cafes and bakeries for a true taste of the city. Another plus is the on-site gym, a feature not always available in hotels of this size.
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NYX Hotel London Holborn by Leonardo Hotels
The NYX Hotel London Holborn is a young, colorful, and innovative choice in the heart of London’s attractions. A short walk from Oxford Street, Covent Garden, Chinatown, and Leicester Square, its location is ideal. The hotel features a spa and a pool, adding a fun bonus to your stay. The rooms are reasonably sized compared to other central London hotels. The hotel offers a good breakfast, and the prices are fair considering the location, cleanliness, and room size. Due to its popularity, it’s best to book well in advance to secure the best prices and preferred rooms.
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The Londoner
The Londoner boasts probably the most central location in London, situated right inside Leicester Square, and minutes from Soho, Oxford Street, Covent Garden, and Chinatown. The hotel area is bustling with restaurants and bars. Inside, you’ll find 6 restaurants and a spa with a pool. The rooms are relatively small but spacious compared to other hotels at similar prices. It’s recommended to upgrade to a deluxe room for more space. Note that due to its central location, the area can be busy and sometimes noisy.
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ME London by Melia
Just a bit closer to the Thames and still in the heart of the action is the ME London by Melia, boasting stunning views of the city. The hotel is a 5-minute walk from Covent Garden and an 8-minute walk from Soho. It features a gym, and the rooms are relatively large with a sleek, modern design. The smaller rooms are pricier due to the city view, but you can enjoy similar views from the hotel’s observation deck without the extra cost. For those looking to indulge, the hotel offers a spacious duplex suite. Additionally, a special unit accommodating up to 6 people is available, ideal for families or a group of friends. This option is cost-effective when the expense is shared, especially for a central London location.
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