Best Hotels in London: Where to Stay for a Memorable Visit

London isn’t short on places to stay, but finding the right one can make all the difference. From historic landmarks to modern skyscrapers, the city offers a wide range of hotel experiences. Whether you're planning a cultural getaway, a shopping spree, or a romantic weekend, choosing from the best hotels in London can set the tone for your entire trip.

With so many options spread across neighborhoods like Mayfair, Soho, and South Bank, it’s important to think about what kind of experience you want. Some travelers prioritize luxury and world-class service, while others prefer boutique charm or proximity to London’s iconic sights. Budget, style, and purpose of the trip all come into play and luckily, London caters to every taste without compromising on quality.

In this guide, we’re highlighting the best hotels in London that truly stand out, not just for their reputation but also for their amenities, service, and unique atmosphere. Each hotel on this list offers something special, whether it's sweeping city views, Michelin-starred dining, or a hidden garden in the middle of the bustling capital. Let’s explore the places that could make your next London stay unforgettable.

The Savoy

Few hotels in London carry the same legendary status as The Savoy. Opened in 1889, this iconic hotel on the Strand has hosted everyone from Winston Churchill to Marilyn Monroe. Today, it remains a symbol of classic British luxury with an updated twist.

The Savoy's rooms and suites offer a blend of Edwardian and Art Deco styles, many with breathtaking views over the River Thames. Guests are treated to personalized service, world-renowned dining at restaurants like Savoy Grill by Gordon Ramsay, and one of the most elegant afternoon teas in the city.

• 📍 Location: The Strand, central London. Walking distance to Covent Garden and the West End
• 💵 Price Range: Starting from around $750 per night, with suites reaching several thousand dollars
• 👥 Best For: Luxury travelers, couples, theater enthusiasts
• 🏆 Highlights: Butler service, indoor swimming pool, historic American Bar

The Savoy also excels at creating a sense of occasion. Whether you're celebrating a special event or simply indulging, the experience feels intentionally grand yet never overwhelming. Plus, its prime location means you're never far from London's most famous attractions.

The Ritz London

When it comes to timeless elegance, The Ritz London stands in a class of its own. Opened in 1906, the hotel has long been associated with British high society and refined luxury. A stay here feels like stepping into another era but with all the comforts modern travelers expect.

The rooms and suites at The Ritz are decorated in classic Louis XVI style, with rich fabrics, gold leaf detailing, and stunning antique furnishings. Many rooms overlook the lush Green Park, offering a rare sense of tranquility right in the middle of the bustling city. From the moment you enter the famous revolving doors, every detail from the flower arrangements to the attentive concierge servicebe is meticulously curated.

• 📍 Location: Piccadilly, adjacent to Green Park, a short stroll to Buckingham Palace and Mayfair
• 💵 Price Range: Rooms typically start from $1,200 per night; suites can exceed $5,000
• 👥 Best For: Couples, honeymooners, travelers seeking traditional British luxury
• 🏆 Highlights: Michelin-starred Ritz Restaurant, world-famous afternoon tea, private dining rooms, 24-hour room service

Another standout feature is the Ritz's legendary Afternoon Tea, served daily in the opulent Palm Court with live piano music a must-do experience whether you're staying at the hotel or just visiting. Thanks to its central location, it's also an excellent base for exploring London's West End theaters, Bond Street shopping, and the Royal Parks.

For those searching for the best hotels in London that truly embody traditional glamour, The Ritz offers a quintessential experience that's hard to replicate elsewhere.

Claridge's

In the heart of Mayfair, Claridge's shines as one of London's most beloved luxury hotels, known for its art deco interiors and discreet five-star service. For over a century, it has attracted royalty, celebrities, and discerning travelers who appreciate a quieter, more understated form of opulence.

The rooms and suites at Claridge's strike a balance between timeless glamour and contemporary comfort. Recently renovated spaces feature marble bathrooms, bespoke furnishings, and subtle technological upgrades, ensuring a stay that feels both historic and modern. The hotel's attention to detail from the fresh flowers in every room to the handwritten welcome notes creates an atmosphere that feels both personal and polished.

• 📍 Location: Brook Street, Mayfair. Ideal for luxury shopping (Bond Street) and Hyde Park walks
• 💵 Price Range: Nightly rates start around $1,100; larger suites and penthouses can exceed $7,000
• 👥 Best For: Stylish couples, business travelers, luxury seekers who prefer a quieter vibe
• 🏆 Highlights: Michelin-starred Davies and Brook restaurant, famed afternoon tea, private art deco ballroom, personalized butler service

Claridge's is especially popular for its festive atmosphere during Christmas and its legendary afternoon teas year-round. Guests can also enjoy spa treatments, a new subterranean pool, and exclusive access to some of London's most prestigious events.

For those looking for the best hotels in London that blend tradition with a touch of modernity, Claridge's offers a world-class experience that remains remarkably personal and relaxed.

The Connaught

Tucked into the leafy streets of Mayfair, The Connaught combines traditional British charm with sleek, contemporary luxury. It's the kind of hotel that feels both intimate and grand, offering a rare blend of history and cutting-edge service.

Inside, the rooms and suites are elegantly styled, many with original artwork, marble bathrooms, and personal butler service. The atmosphere is calm and private, ideal for guests who appreciate discretion. The Connaught Bar, often ranked among the best cocktail bars in the world, is reason enough to visit with its artful drinks and glamorous setting.

• 📍 Location: Carlos Place, Mayfair. Close to Mount Street boutiques and Hyde Park
• 💵 Price Range: From approximately $1,200 per night; signature suites upwards of $6,000
• 👥 Best For: Art lovers, foodies, privacy-seeking travelers
• 🏆 Highlights: 2-Michelin-starred Helene Darroze restaurant, Aman Spa, world-famous Connaught Bar

The Connaught is also perfect for travelers seeking relaxation. Its spa, operated by Aman, offers some of the best treatments in the city, while the quiet neighborhood vibe makes it feel more like a private residence than a busy hotel. If you're hunting for the best hotels in London where every corner feels curated and personal, The Connaught is a flawless choice.

The Langham London

Stepping into The Langham London feels like entering a grand, light-filled palace where old-world luxury meets contemporary flair. Opened in 1865, this hotel has the distinction of being one of Europe's first grand hotels and it continues to set the standard even today.

Each room and suite reflects elegant British design with soft color palettes, marble bathrooms, and oversized windows. Signature suites offer fireplaces and private terraces. The Langham is also home to the award-winning Artesian bar, known for its creative cocktails, and Roux at The Landau, a celebrated dining destination.

• 📍 Location: Regent Street, a short walk from Oxford Circus and Soho
• 💵 Price Range: Starting from around $750 per night; signature suites much higher
• 👥 Best For: Families, shopping enthusiasts, history lovers
• 🏆 Highlights: Chuan Body + Soul Spa, afternoon tea at Palm Court, indoor pool

What sets The Langham apart is its family-friendly approach, offering special kids' programs and spacious family rooms. A rare find among the best hotels in London. It's equally perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in the city's retail heart while enjoying world-class service.

London's Hotel Scene: A Blend of Tradition and Trend

One of the reasons London's hospitality scene is so captivating is the sheer variety it offers. From heritage landmarks with crystal chandeliers to hip new properties designed for digital nomads, the city caters to every mood and budget. So far, we've focused on some of the most iconic luxury addresses but London's hotel map doesn't end there.

Next, we'll explore a few boutique gems and more affordable options that still deliver an unforgettable stay in the heart of the capital.

The Hoxton, Holborn

For travelers who want to be in the middle of it all without breaking the bank, The Hoxton, Holborn is a smart, stylish choice. This hotel brings an effortless cool factor, mixing industrial-chic interiors with a laid-back vibe that appeals to both business travelers and tourists alike.

Rooms, known as "Shoebox", "Cosy", or "Roomy", are thoughtfully designed. Compact but comfortable, featuring vintage-inspired furniture, raw brick walls, and modern amenities like rainfall showers and stocked mini-fridges. The hotel's lobby doubles as a vibrant co-working space during the day and a lively social hub at night.

• 📍 Location: Holborn, close to the British Museum, Covent Garden, and Soho
• 💵 Price Range: From approximately $250 to $450 per night depending on room size and season
• 👥 Best For: Young travelers, solo adventurers, creative professionals
• 🏆 Highlights: Lively lobby bar, all-day restaurant Rondo, free breakfast bags

Unlike many other hotels, The Hoxton leans into a "no hidden fees" model. Wi-Fi, international calls, and breakfast bags are all included. The central location is unbeatable for those looking to explore London's cultural heart on foot. Among the best hotels in London for design-conscious travelers on a moderate budget, The Hoxton, Holborn earns its spot easily.

citizenM Tower of London

If you're looking for comfort, style, and tech-savvy convenience all without the hefty London price tag, citizenM Tower of London checks every box. Designed for modern travelers, this hotel offers smart luxury with an emphasis on efficiency and fun rather than over-the-top opulence.

Rooms are compact but cleverly designed: expect wall-to-wall windows with city views, mood lighting, a huge king-size bed, and a tablet that controls everything from temperature to TV channels. Public spaces are colorful, playful, and designed for mingling, making the hotel feel more like a social club than a traditional stay.

• 📍 Location: Tower Hill, literally above the Tower Hill Underground Station, steps from Tower of London and Tower Bridge
• 💵 Price Range: Around $220–$350 per night depending on season and availability
• 👥 Best For: Solo travelers, young couples, digital nomads
• 🏆 Highlights: Self-check-in kiosks, rooftop bar with skyline views, 24/7 canteenM dining

One of citizenM's biggest selling points is how simple they make everything: fast check-in, friendly service, no unnecessary frills. You're perfectly positioned for sightseeing on foot or hopping on the Underground. For those scouting the best hotels in London that offer great value without sacrificing style, citizenM Tower of London is a brilliant pick.

Boutique, Budget, and Beyond: London's Hotel Diversity

As you can see, London's hotel scene isn't just about heritage luxury. Boutique hotels and new-generation budget stays are redefining what comfort means in the city. Whether you want a grand, historic experience or a smart, design-driven room close to all the action, the best hotels in London deliver quality across every price range.

Next, we're diving back into the world of high-end indulgence with one of the city's most buzzed-about hotels, The Ned London.

The Ned London

Few hotels have made as big a splash on London's hospitality scene in recent years as The Ned. Housed in a former 1920s bank building near St Paul's Cathedral, The Ned isn't just a hotel. It's practically its own micro-city.

Inside, you'll find 250 rooms, nine restaurants, a members-only club, a spa, rooftop pools, and even a barbershop and nail salon. The interiors are rich with vintage glamour: think velvet sofas, retro radios, marble columns, and an endless sense of space and opulence. Yet despite its size, The Ned manages to feel both exclusive and lively.

• 📍 Location: Poultry, City of London. Walking distance to St Paul's Cathedral and the Bank of England
• 💵 Price Range: Rooms from about $500 per night; club access rooms and suites much higher
• 👥 Best For: Young luxury travelers, food lovers, event-goers
• 🏆 Highlights: Rooftop pool with London skyline views, Cowshed Spa, multiple dining and drinking options

Because of its vibrant atmosphere and sheer range of amenities, The Ned feels perfect for travelers who like their hotels to be destinations in themselves. It's a place where you can spend a full day without ever leaving a rare feature even among the best hotels in London.

The Berkeley

Elegance at The Berkeley feels understated, effortless. A refreshing contrast to the sometimes heavy-handed opulence of London's classic hotels. Tucked quietly between Knightsbridge and Belgravia, The Berkeley is a favorite for travelers who value style, tranquility, and personalized attention.

Rooms and suites are decorated with a contemporary flair, featuring muted colors, fine materials, and thoughtful touches like curated libraries and Nespresso machines. The rooftop pool, surrounded by sun loungers and city views, is one of London's best-kept secrets. And of course, the culinary offerings are nothing short of exceptional, including the celebrated Marcus restaurant, helmed by Michelin-starred chef Marcus Wareing.

• 📍 Location: Wilton Place, Knightsbridge — steps from Hyde Park and Harrods
• 💵 Price Range: Starting from around $950 per night; signature suites upwards of $4,500
• 👥 Best For: Sophisticated couples, art and fashion lovers, serene city stays
• 🏆 Highlights: Rooftop pool, Bamford Wellness Spa, renowned Pret-à-Portea fashion afternoon tea

The Berkeley is especially known for Pret-à-Portea — a whimsical afternoon tea inspired by the fashion world, where pastries resemble designer collections. If you're seeking the best hotels in London with a modern sense of luxury and a calm, polished environment, The Berkeley is a standout.

Ham Yard Hotel

Tucked away in the bustling heart of Soho, Ham Yard Hotel feels like a hidden sanctuary full of color, character, and creativity. Part of the celebrated Firmdale Hotels group, this property offers a completely different take on London luxury. Vibrant, playful, and unmistakably stylish.

Each room is individually designed by Kit Kemp, featuring bold prints, handcrafted furniture, and art pieces curated from around the world. Despite being in one of the busiest parts of London, the hotel surrounds a leafy courtyard, offering a rare pocket of calm. Plus, with an on-site theater, a bowling alley, and a rooftop garden, Ham Yard isn't just a place to sleep. It's a place to live.

• 📍 Location: Soho, moments away from Piccadilly Circus, Regent Street, and Carnaby Street
• 💵 Price Range: Rates usually start around $700 per night; higher for suites
• 👥 Best For: Creative travelers, art lovers, boutique hotel enthusiasts
• 🏆 Highlights: Private screening room, original art collections, rooftop garden with bee hives

Unlike traditional grand hotels, Ham Yard feels intimate yet full of energy. If you're drawn to boutique experiences that are both luxurious and bursting with personality, this is easily one of the best hotels in London to consider.

London's Best Hotels: Hidden Gems and Affordable Surprises Ahead

By now, it's clear that London is packed with legendary hotels that deliver on luxury, style, and service. But the beauty of this city's hospitality scene is that it's not just about big names. Beyond the well-known icons, there are hidden gems and surprisingly affordable options that offer equally memorable stays.

Whether you're after a boutique retreat tucked away in a charming neighborhood or a stylish hotel that won't overwhelm your budget, the next part of our journey into the best hotels in London uncovers places that feel fresh, distinctive, and sometimes delightfully unexpected.

The Z Hotel Soho

If your London trip is more about hitting the streets than lounging in a room, The Z Hotel Soho delivers everything you need — and nothing you don't. Perfectly located in the heart of the West End, this compact, affordable hotel is ideal for travelers who prioritize location and value.

Rooms here are smartly designed to make the most of small spaces. Expect crisp bedding, under-bed storage, en-suite bathrooms, and tech touches like HD TVs and free Wi-Fi. While rooms are smaller than average London standards, the location more than compensates: you're mere steps from theaters, Chinatown, Leicester Square, and endless dining options.

• 📍 Location: Old Compton Street, Soho. Surrounded by restaurants, bars, and theaters
• 💵 Price Range: Starting around $150 to $250 per night
• 👥 Best For: Budget-conscious travelers, theater lovers, short city breaks
• 🏆 Highlights: Complimentary cheese and wine evenings, super-central location, compact but efficient rooms

What makes The Z Hotel Soho stand out is its no-fuss approach: clean rooms, friendly service, and unbeatable proximity to London's nightlife and attractions. For budget travelers looking to stay right in the middle of the action, it's easily one of the best hotels in London in its category.

Sea Containers London

If you want a hotel that feels as vibrant and inspiring as London itself, Sea Containers London should be high on your list. Nestled right along the Thames on the South Bank, this hotel blurs the line between luxury and creativity, with interiors inspired by the golden age of 1920s transatlantic travel.

Rooms and suites feature sleek lines, floor-to-ceiling windows (many with river views), rainfall showers, and plush, modern furnishings. Throughout the hotel, bold art installations and design elements make it feel more like a curated experience than just a place to stay. The rooftop bar, 12th Knot, offers some of the best sunset views in London, while the Sea Containers Restaurant brings farm-to-table elegance to the table.

• 📍 Location: South Bank. Minutes from Tate Modern, Shakespeare's Globe, and Borough Market
• 💵 Price Range: From about $400 to $650 per night, depending on view and room type
• 👥 Best For: Trendy couples, creative professionals, design lovers
• 🏆 Highlights: Riverside spa, rooftop bar with panoramic views, on-site Curzon cinema

With its buzzing atmosphere, prime riverfront position, and impeccable style, Sea Containers London manages to offer both comfort and excitement. It's perfect for travelers seeking one of the best hotels in London that feels dynamic, young, and unmistakably urban.

Corinthia London

Set within a stunning Victorian building near the Thames, Corinthia London embodies a quiet grandeur that never feels forced. Combining old-world architecture with contemporary interiors, this hotel offers a stay defined by understated elegance and world-class service.

Rooms and suites here are exceptionally spacious by London standards, many featuring marble bathrooms, oversized bathtubs, and breathtaking city or river views. The hotel's crown jewel is the ESPA Life spa. a four-floor sanctuary with a thermal floor, swimming pool, and private treatment rooms, often considered one of the best wellness spaces in the city.

• 📍 Location: Whitehall Place. Steps from Trafalgar Square, Embankment, and Westminster
• 💵 Price Range: Starting from about $1,000 per night; suites significantly higher
• 👥 Best For: Luxury travelers, wellness seekers, business executives
• 🏆 Highlights: ESPA Life Spa, fine dining at Kerridge's Bar & Grill, sweeping river views

Corinthia London is especially beloved by travelers who value both discretion and access. While it offers some of the finest luxury in the city, it never feels showy. Instead, it's all about serene, tailored experiences. For anyone seeking the best hotels in London where relaxation and refinement go hand in hand, Corinthia is an essential choice.

The Goring Hotel

Tucked away on a quiet street in Belgravia, just a stone's throw from Buckingham Palace, The Goring Hotel is a true London institution. Family-owned since it opened in 1910, it's the only hotel in London to hold a Royal Warrant from the Queen. A testament to its impeccable service and enduring charm.

The Goring embraces traditional British hospitality at its finest. Think: handwoven wallpapers, plush armchairs, and staff who seem to genuinely love what they do. Rooms vary from classic English country house style to more contemporary, freshly renovated spaces. The hotel's private garden, a rare luxury in central London offers a peaceful escape from the city's energy.

• 📍 Location: Beeston Place, Belgravia — moments from Victoria Station and Buckingham Palace
• 💵 Price Range: From approximately $800 per night; royal suites can go much higher
• 👥 Best For: Traditionalists, royal fans, quiet luxury seekers
• 🏆 Highlights: Private garden, Michelin-starred Dining Room, impeccable personal service

The Goring manages to feel grand without ever being intimidating. It's warm, personal, and unmistakably British, offering a type of luxury that's more about comfort and heritage than showy displays. For travelers searching for the best hotels in London with a deep connection to the city's aristocratic heart, The Goring is simply unbeatable.

The Standard, London

If you're looking for a hotel that feels fresh, fun, and unapologetically bold, The Standard, London is impossible to ignore. Set in a Brutalist building across from St. Pancras International, this hotel redefines luxury with a playful twist — think colorful interiors, mid-century design, and a buzzy, youthful energy.

The rooms range from cozy singles to extravagant suites with private terraces and outdoor bathtubs overlooking the city. Every detail, from the retro radios to the plush velvet seating, feels thoughtfully curated to create a space that's both nostalgic and forward-looking. And the public areas? Always alive with music, art, and some of the best people-watching in the city.

• 📍 Location: King's Cross. Perfectly positioned for travel across London and Europe
• 💵 Price Range: Rooms start around $300 per night; terrace suites can reach over $1,200
• 👥 Best For: Young travelers, creatives, urban explorers
• 🏆 Highlights: Rooftop bar Decimo, Double Standard pub, 24-hour library lounge

The Standard thrives on breaking the mold of traditional five-star hotels. It's dynamic without being chaotic, luxurious without being pretentious. For those seeking the best hotels in London where the vibe is just as important as the amenities, The Standard delivers an unforgettable experience.

Choosing the Best Hotels in London for Your Trip

No matter what kind of traveler you are. Whether you dream of historic glamour, modern design, or a boutique hideaway London offers a hotel that fits. From the grand halls of The Savoy and Claridge's to the vibrant energy of The Standard and citizenM, the options are as diverse as the city itself.

When picking among the best hotels in London, it helps to think about what matters most: location, atmosphere, budget, or that little extra something that makes a stay unforgettable. Thankfully, London makes it easy to find a place where you can feel both inspired and at home.

Wherever you decide to check in, one thing's certain: London's spirit of hospitality, history, and creativity will stay with you long after you've checked out.