The 10 Best Hotels in London

By Santorini Dave

My Favorite London Hotels

• 5-Star: The Connaught • The Savoy
• 4-Star: The Marylebone • Resident Covent Garden
• Boutique: Ham Yard • Batty Langley’s
• Budget: Motel One – Tower Hill • Z Soho
• For Families: Park Plaza Westminster Bridge
• For Couples: The Soho Hotel
• King’s Cross: St. Pancras
• Victoria Station: DoubleTree Victoria
• Paddington: Hilton Paddington
• Airports: Sofitel Heathrow • Sofitel Gatwick

London Hotels: My Advice

• Best area for first-time visitors: Covent Garden. It’s my favorite base for a first visit. You can walk to Soho, Trafalgar Square, the Thames, and most West End theaters. There are excellent restaurants in every direction. Hotels are expensive, but the location is worth paying for. The Savoy is my luxury pick; Strand Palace is a more affordable option.
• Best area for restaurants and nightlife: Soho. Fantastic restaurants, pubs, cocktail bars, and theaters, all within a compact, walkable neighborhood. It can be noisy at night, especially on weekends. Ham Yard is my favorite hotel here.
• Best area for luxury hotels: Mayfair. Home to some of London’s finest hotels, upscale restaurants, and designer shopping. The Connaught is my top choice. Marylebone, immediately north, is a little less formal, with excellent restaurants and neighborhood shops.
• Best area for families: South Bank. Easy walks along the Thames, the London Eye, Westminster, and plenty to keep kids entertained. Park Plaza Westminster Bridge has family-friendly room options and an indoor pool. South Kensington is another excellent choice, especially for the Natural History Museum and Science Museum.
• Best hotels with swimming pools: Shangri-La at the Shard (spectacular views) • Marriott County Hall (excellent for families) • The Berkeley (rooftop pool) • The Marylebone (large indoor pool) • One Aldwych (central location).
• Best hotels with kitchens: Taj 51 Buckingham Gate • The Athenaeum (book an apartment or residence) • Cheval Knightsbridge • Cheval Harrington Court • Staybridge Suites Vauxhall. These are particularly good for families and longer stays.
• London hotel rooms are often small. This is especially true of budget hotels. Check the room’s square footage and bed configuration before booking. Families should also check maximum occupancy. Many hotels don’t allow four people in a standard double room, even with young children.
• Choose a central location over a cheaper hotel far outside London. You’ll spend less time on the Underground and more time exploring. Covent Garden, Soho, South Bank, Mayfair, Marylebone, and South Kensington are all good bases. I would not stay near Heathrow, in Canary Wharf, or far out in the suburbs just to save a little money.
• Airport connections matter, but don’t choose your entire stay around them. The Elizabeth line connects Heathrow with Paddington, Bond Street, Tottenham Court Road, and Liverpool Street. The Piccadilly line serves South Kensington, Piccadilly Circus, and Covent Garden. Gatwick has direct trains to Victoria and London Bridge. Paddington is particularly convenient for Heathrow; Victoria and London Bridge are good for Gatwick; St. Pancras is best for Eurostar.
• Book early for popular dates. London is busy throughout the year, but summer, Christmas, major events, and school holidays are particularly expensive. For the best selection of family rooms, suites, and reasonably priced central hotels, book several months ahead when possible.
• Don’t rent a car for sightseeing in London. The Underground, Elizabeth line, buses, and walking are much easier. Parking is expensive, and driving in central London will involve Congestion Charge and ULEZ fees.

The 10 Best Hotels in London

• London Hotel Map

1. The Connaught – Mayfair

Great hotel in the heart of Mayfair, a short walk from Bond Street shopping and excellent restaurants. Rooms in the original building have a traditional English style, while those in the newer wing are more contemporary. Service is exceptional without feeling overly formal. The Aman Spa has an indoor pool, and Hélène Darroze at The Connaught holds three Michelin stars. The Connaught Bar is one of London’s best cocktail bars, legendary for its tableside Martini Trolley. A great choice for couples who want traditional five-star luxury in a central location.

2. The Savoy – Covent Garden

The Savoy is one of London’s great historic hotels, with an excellent location on the Strand between Covent Garden and the Thames. Rooms are decorated in either Edwardian or Art Deco style, and the best have wonderful river views. If a Thames view matters, book a river-view room specifically. The hotel has an indoor pool, excellent restaurants, and two famous bars, including the American Bar. Afternoon tea is a highlight and should be reserved well ahead. I love the location for walking to West End theaters, Soho, Trafalgar Square, and the South Bank. One of the best luxury hotels for a first visit to London.

3. Ham Yard – Soho

Ham Yard is my favorite luxury hotel in Soho, located around its own courtyard just steps from the restaurants, shops, and theaters of the West End. Rooms are spacious for central London, with large windows, bold colors, and Kit Kemp’s distinctive interiors. The hotel has a rooftop garden, bowling alley, screening room, and excellent restaurant and bar. Despite the central location, the courtyard setting makes it feel a little removed from Soho’s busiest streets. A fantastic hotel for couples who want great restaurants and nightlife within walking distance.

4. The Ritz – St. James’s

The Ritz is the place to stay if you want formal, traditional London luxury. Overlooking Green Park on Piccadilly, it’s within walking distance of Buckingham Palace, Mayfair shopping, and the West End. Rooms have high ceilings, antique furnishings, and elaborate Louis XVI-style decor. The Ritz Restaurant is one of London’s finest dining rooms, and afternoon tea in the Palm Court is an institution. Book tea well ahead and check the dress code for the restaurant or dining experience you’ve reserved. This is a more formal hotel than The Savoy or The Connaught, which is part of its appeal.

5. Shangri-La at the Shard – London Bridge

For spectacular views, nothing beats Shangri-La at the Shard. The hotel occupies the upper floors of The Shard, with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking London. Rooms are contemporary and spacious, with marble bathrooms and views that are particularly impressive after dark. The infinity pool on the 52nd floor is one of the most memorable hotel pools in London. TĪNG serves breakfast, afternoon tea, and dinner, while GŎNG is a popular cocktail bar. London Bridge Station is directly below, and Borough Market is a short walk away. The location is excellent for exploring the Thames and the City, though less convenient for walking to West End theaters.

6. The Soho Hotel – Soho

The Soho Hotel is an excellent boutique hotel surrounded by some of London’s best restaurants, bars, and nightlife. Rooms are individually decorated in Kit Kemp’s colorful style, with comfortable beds and generous bathrooms. Larger rooms and connecting options make it a good choice for families as well as couples. The hotel has a gym, screening rooms, and the popular Refuel restaurant. Despite its busy Soho location, the hotel feels private and comfortable. Request a quieter room if you’re sensitive to street noise. A great choice for travelers who want to walk everywhere and enjoy London after dark.

7. Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park – Knightsbridge

One of London’s finest luxury hotels, with Hyde Park on one side and Knightsbridge shopping on the other. Rooms and suites combine contemporary luxury with Art Deco details, and some overlook the park. The hotel has an excellent indoor pool, spa, and fitness facilities. Dinner by Heston Blumenthal is a major attraction for food lovers. Harrods and Harvey Nichols are just steps away, and the Victoria and Albert Museum is within walking distance. I particularly like this hotel for couples who want a quieter luxury base with easy access to shopping and Hyde Park.

8. Claridge’s – Mayfair

Claridge’s is one of London’s most famous luxury hotels, known for its Art Deco interiors, excellent service, and Mayfair location. Rooms range from traditional to contemporary, with beautifully designed suites and spacious bathrooms. The hotel has an indoor swimming pool and spa, and afternoon tea in the Foyer & Reading Room is among London’s best. The location is excellent for Bond Street shopping, restaurants, and walking to Hyde Park. A wonderful alternative to The Connaught, particularly if you prefer Art Deco design.

9. Montague on the Gardens – Bloomsbury

A charming boutique hotel in a Georgian townhouse beside the British Museum. Rooms are individually decorated in a traditional English style, with patterned fabrics, antique furnishings, and comfortable beds. The hotel has a lovely conservatory for afternoon tea and a garden terrace that hosts seasonal events. The location is quieter than Soho or Covent Garden but still convenient for sightseeing, restaurants, and the West End. A good choice for couples who prefer a smaller, more personal hotel.

10. Four Seasons at Ten Trinity Square – The City

Fantastic luxury hotel near the Tower of London and Tower Bridge. Rooms are spacious and elegant, and there’s an excellent spa and indoor swimming pool. The one-, two-, and three-bedroom residences are particularly good for families and groups, with full kitchens, dining areas, and plenty of space. Tower Hill Underground Station is just steps away. The location is ideal for exploring the Tower of London and the City, though less central for West End sightseeing. One of my favorite luxury hotels for families who want an apartment rather than standard hotel rooms.

Hotels in Mayfair & Marylebone

Mayfair is one of London’s most expensive neighborhoods, with outstanding luxury hotels, fine dining, and designer shopping along Bond Street and nearby streets. It’s a great choice if you want a traditional five-star hotel and easy access to Hyde Park, Piccadilly, and central London.

Marylebone, immediately north of Mayfair, is a little quieter and less formal. Marylebone High Street has excellent independent shops, cafes, and restaurants, while Regent’s Park and Baker Street are nearby. I particularly like Marylebone for couples who want an upscale neighborhood that feels less touristy than Covent Garden or Soho.

Best Hotels in Mayfair & Marylebone

• The Connaught (my favorite luxury hotel in London)
• Claridge’s (Art Deco luxury, indoor pool, excellent afternoon tea)
• Four Seasons at Park Lane (modern luxury near Hyde Park, excellent spa)
• The Dorchester (traditional five-star luxury overlooking Hyde Park)
• The Landmark London (grand Victorian hotel with an indoor pool near Marylebone Station)
• The Athenaeum Hotel & Residences (excellent for families, with apartments and residences overlooking Green Park)
• The Marylebone (stylish hotel with an indoor pool near Marylebone High Street)
• The Langham (historic luxury hotel near Oxford Circus, with excellent dining and an indoor pool)
• Chiltern Firehouse (exclusive boutique hotel in a former fire station, with a popular restaurant)

Hotels in South Bank, Bankside & London Bridge

The South Bank is one of my favorite areas for families and first-time visitors. The riverside walk connects the London Eye, Westminster Bridge, Tate Modern, Shakespeare’s Globe, and Borough Market. It’s easy to spend an entire day exploring on foot, and the views across the Thames are fantastic.

The western end near Westminster Bridge is best for families and major sightseeing attractions. Bankside, around Tate Modern, is a little quieter, while London Bridge has excellent restaurants, Borough Market, and convenient train connections. The main drawback is that the West End’s theaters and nightlife are across the river, though many are still within walking distance or a short Tube ride.

Best Hotels in South Bank, Bankside & London Bridge

• Shangri-La at the Shard (spectacular city views, infinity pool, excellent dining)
• Sea Containers London (riverside hotel with contemporary rooms and excellent bars)
• Marriott County Hall (luxury hotel beside the London Eye, indoor pool, excellent for families)
• Park Plaza Westminster Bridge (spacious family room options, indoor pool, excellent location near Westminster)

Hotels in Soho & Leicester Square

Soho is one of London’s best neighborhoods for restaurants, bars, nightlife, and theater. The streets around Old Compton Street, Greek Street, and Dean Street are packed with places to eat and drink, and Covent Garden, Chinatown, and Oxford Street are all within walking distance.

I love staying in Soho, but it can be noisy, particularly on Friday and Saturday nights. Leicester Square is even busier and more touristy. I would choose a hotel on a quieter Soho side street rather than directly on Leicester Square. The location is hard to beat for travelers who want to spend their evenings exploring restaurants, pubs, and theaters without relying on taxis or the Underground.

Best Hotels in Soho & Leicester Square

• The Soho Hotel (luxury boutique hotel with spacious rooms, excellent for couples)
• Ham Yard (my favorite Soho hotel, with a courtyard setting and excellent amenities)
• W London (contemporary luxury hotel on Leicester Square, best for nightlife)
• Z Soho (excellent central location and affordable rates, but very small rooms; some have no windows)

Hotels in Covent Garden

Covent Garden is my favorite neighborhood for first-time visitors to London. It’s central, walkable, and filled with restaurants, shops, theaters, and historic streets. Soho, Trafalgar Square, Leicester Square, and the Thames are all a short walk away. The Royal Opera House and Covent Garden Market are right in the neighborhood, and there are excellent restaurants along the surrounding streets.

The main drawbacks are crowds and high hotel prices. The area around Covent Garden Piazza can be busy during the day and evening, but quieter streets are only a few minutes away. I particularly like staying near the Strand or on the streets between Covent Garden and Seven Dials. If your budget allows, this is one of the best places to stay in London without needing public transportation for much of your sightseeing.

Best Hotels in Covent Garden

• The Savoy (historic five-star hotel with Thames views and excellent dining)
• ME London (contemporary luxury hotel on the Strand with a rooftop bar)
• One Aldwych (excellent luxury hotel with an indoor pool, close to theaters and restaurants)
• Strand Palace (good value for such a central location, though some rooms are small)

Hotels in the City of London

The City of London is the historic financial district, centered around Bank, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and Liverpool Street. It’s a good base for business travelers and visitors who want to explore the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, and the eastern end of central London. Liverpool Street also has excellent transport connections, including the Elizabeth line to Heathrow.

The City is busy during the working week but much quieter on weekends, when some restaurants and pubs close. Weekend hotel rates can be attractive, particularly at business-oriented hotels. I like the area around St. Paul’s and Liverpool Street, but for a first visit focused on West End theaters, restaurants, and nightlife, I would stay farther west in Covent Garden or Soho.

Best Hotels in (or near) the City

• The Rookery in Clerkenwell (romantic boutique hotel with antique furnishings, near excellent restaurants)
• Four Seasons at Ten Trinity Square (luxury hotel with a pool and family residences near the Tower of London)
• Andaz London Liverpool Street (historic railway hotel with excellent transport connections)
• Threadneedles (boutique hotel in a former bank building, close to Bank Station)

Hotels in South Kensington, Knightsbridge & Chelsea

South Kensington is one of London’s best neighborhoods for families. The Natural History Museum, Science Museum, and Victoria and Albert Museum are all close together, and Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens are nearby. The streets are attractive and residential, with plenty of cafes and restaurants. South Kensington Station has direct Piccadilly line service to Heathrow, making airport transfers straightforward.

Knightsbridge, immediately to the east, is better for luxury hotels and designer shopping, particularly around Harrods, Harvey Nichols, and Sloane Street. Chelsea, farther south, is quieter and more residential, with excellent restaurants and boutiques along King’s Road and around Sloane Square. I prefer South Kensington for families and museum visits, Knightsbridge for luxury shopping, and Chelsea for a longer stay with a neighborhood feel.

Best Hotels in South Kensington, Knightsbridge & Chelsea

• Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park (five-star luxury with an indoor pool, spa, and excellent dining)
• The Milestone Kensington (traditional luxury hotel opposite Kensington Gardens, with a pool and excellent afternoon tea)
• The Berkeley (luxury hotel in Knightsbridge with a rooftop pool and spa)
• Egerton House (traditional boutique hotel near the V&A Museum, excellent afternoon tea, dog-friendly)

Hotels in Westminster & St. James’s

Westminster is one of London’s best areas for major sightseeing attractions. Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, Buckingham Palace, and St. James’s Park are all within walking distance. It’s particularly convenient for visitors who want to explore London’s historic landmarks without spending much time on public transportation.

The area immediately around Parliament is busy during the day but has fewer good restaurants and nightlife options than Covent Garden or Soho. St. James’s, to the northwest, is more appealing for luxury hotels, traditional pubs, and upscale restaurants. Green Park and St. James’s Park provide excellent walking routes, and Piccadilly Circus and Mayfair are nearby. I like this area for travelers who want traditional London luxury and easy access to the main sights.

Best Hotels in Westminster & St. James’s

• The Ritz (formal five-star luxury overlooking Green Park, famous afternoon tea)
• Taj 51 Buckingham Gate (luxury suites and residences with kitchens, excellent for families)
• The Goring (traditional luxury hotel near Buckingham Palace, with a beautiful private garden and excellent afternoon tea)