London is home to some of the world’s best five-star hotels, so if it is luxury you are after, then this is the place for you! There are also many family-oriented hotels which are perfect for when travelling with children and plenty of friendly bed and breakfasts, self-catering and budget accommodation options available too.
Here’s an overview of the different types of hotels you can find in London, catering to various preferences, budgets, and travel styles:
5-Star Hotels: Offering world-class service, lavish amenities, and prime locations, these hotels often feature fine dining, spas, concierge services, and opulent décor. They are usually situated in iconic areas like Mayfair, Knightsbridge, and Westminster.
Boutique Luxury Hotels: Smaller, design-focused hotels with personalized service and a unique, often stylish aesthetic. These are perfect for travellers looking for a more intimate, high-end experience without sacrificing luxury.
Corporate Hotels: Tailored to business travellers, these hotels offer amenities like meeting rooms, high-speed Wi-Fi, business centres, and easy access to transport hubs like The City, Canary Wharf, and near Heathrow or Gatwick.
Airport Hotels: Located close to major airports like Heathrow, Gatwick, or London City Airport, these hotels are designed for business travellers or layovers, providing shuttle services, early check-in/late check-out, and efficient facilities for quick stays.
Chain Hotels: Well-known brands offering consistent quality at affordable prices, often located in central areas or near public transport. These hotels cater to both leisure and business travellers who seek comfort without excessive spending.
Bed and Breakfasts (B&Bs): Offering a more homely experience, B&Bs provide affordable, comfortable accommodations with breakfast included. They are often located in quieter neighbourhoods or residential areas like Bloomsbury or South Kensington.
Design-Centric Hotels: These hotels are independently owned and known for their distinctive décor, intimate size, and unique character. Each boutique hotel often has its own theme or focus, catering to travellers seeking a personalized and stylish stay.
Lifestyle Hotels: A subset of boutique hotels focused on combining luxury with contemporary culture and experiences, often offering trend-setting restaurants, bars, and nightlife. They are popular in areas like Shoreditch, Soho, and Covent Garden.
Converted Palaces and Mansions: Some hotels occupy historic buildings, offering a glimpse into London’s rich heritage. These hotels often retain period features like grand staircases, chandeliers, and traditional English gardens, combined with modern comforts.
Classic British Hotels: These hotels provide quintessential British charm with traditional interiors, afternoon tea services, and stately rooms. Many are housed in historic buildings in central areas like Westminster or near Hyde Park.
Family Hotels: Catering specifically to families, these hotels offer larger rooms, child-friendly amenities, and services such as babysitting, children’s menus, and play areas. They are often located in areas like South Kensington, close to major family attractions.
Aparthotels: Offering the convenience of a hotel with the space and amenities of an apartment, these accommodations are perfect for longer stays or families. Guests can enjoy kitchen facilities, separate living areas, and access to hotel services like housekeeping. Also popular with families, these provide additional space and kitchen facilities, making them ideal for longer stays or self-catering holidays.
Extended Stay Hotels: Similar to serviced apartments, these hotels cater to long-term travellers or business professionals, providing fully furnished suites with home-like conveniences, often located in business districts or residential areas.
Eco-Friendly Hotels: Focused on sustainability, these hotels implement environmentally conscious practices like energy efficiency, waste reduction, and locally sourced food. They cater to travellers who prioritize eco-friendly travel in areas like Notting Hill or Hampstead.
Green Boutique Hotels: Combining luxury with sustainable practices, these hotels offer a boutique experience with organic amenities, eco-friendly design, and a focus on wellness.
Pet-Friendly Boutique Hotels: These hotels offer specialized amenities for pets, including dog beds, pet-sitting services, and outdoor spaces for walks. Ideal for travellers who want to bring their furry companions along.
Pet-Friendly Chains: Larger hotel chains that offer pet-friendly accommodations at no extra charge or for a small fee, ensuring comfort for both you and your pets during your stay.
Youth Hostels: Affordable and social, offering shared dormitory-style accommodation and communal kitchens. Popular with solo travellers, students, and backpackers. Hostels offer shared dorms or private rooms, with communal areas for socializing. They are typically found in lively areas like Camden, Shoreditch, or King's Cross.
Co-Living Spaces: A modern trend that combines accommodation with communal living, offering private rooms or studios along with shared working and social spaces. They appeal to digital nomads and long-term visitors looking for a balance between work and leisure.
Art Hotels: Hotels that integrate art and design into their spaces, often collaborating with artists for immersive experiences. They cater to art lovers and are often found in creative hubs like Shoreditch and Soho.
Unusual Hotels: London also offers quirky stays, such as rooms in houseboats, converted prisons, or former fire stations, appealing to adventurous travellers looking for a one-of-a-kind experience.
London’s diverse hotel scene ensures that no matter what your preferences or budget, there’s a perfect place for everyone—from luxury seekers to backpackers, business travellers to families, and eco-conscious tourists to design enthusiasts.