London is one of my favorite cities in the world. I have been there regularly since 2008 and I never get tired of exploring the city. There are tons of awesome (and free) museums, a vibrant pub culture, and an awesome food scene that makes me come back for seconds.
But as much as I love the city, it is very spacious. The neighborhood where you are staying (and which hotel you choose) will greatly affect your trip. And as one of the most visited cities in Europe, there are a great number of hotels to choose from. It’s almost overwhelming.
To make sure you choose a great hotel, here is my list of the best hotels in London. These are the places I live when I visit them so they know they are worth their money!
1. Citadines Barbican London, United Kingdom
Located near the railway station in the heart of the city, this four-star hotel, in my opinion, offers excellent value for money for its location. The hotel has both classic rooms and apartment-style rooms with a kitchen, which are perfect for groups or families. The rooms are bright and warm, with soft tones, wooden floors, wooden furniture and comfortable beds. They also have a flat-screen TV, an electric kettle, a desk, reliable Wi-Fi and a lot of sockets near the bed, so you can easily rerate your things. They have excellent sound insulation, so you can also sleep decently. The bathrooms are spacious and have excellent water pressure (a big plus for me) and free toiletries.
There is no breakfast, but there is free coffee in the lobby and there are plenty of restaurants nearby (the hotel is located right in the center of the city, after all). There is also a gym on site. This is one of the best affordable options on the square mile.
2. Office
Counting House is an iconic English pub with 15 luxurious rooms above it. While the pub is opulent and historically furnished, the spacious rooms are all stylish and modern, with a mix of bright colors and woodwork. The simple but chic rooms have a flat-screen TV, an iPhone docking station, a Nespresso coffee machine, Wi-Fi, air conditioning and super king-size beds. The bathrooms are also well equipped, with lots of light and excellent rain showers. The best thing about it, however, are the great beds. They have the most comfortable beds you will ever sleep in here, thanks to Egyptian cotton reality check and pocket spring mattresses with 1800 pockets.
I also like the breakfast here (and the food in general). A full English breakfast is included in the price and they have a delicious seasonal menu at the pub, including classic handmade cakes to die for. If you want a unique and chic stay in the center of the city, stay here.
3. London Stansted Airport
A large hotel room resembling a B&B with vintage decor at the London Lodge Hotel in London, England
This bright Victorian townhouse is located in Kensington. A three-star hotel, you will feel like in a historic B&B. It has rooms, each uniquely decorated with bright colors, patterned carpets and vintage furniture. Each room has a small flat-screen TV, a desk, a minibar and an electric kettle. The bathrooms are bright and have a much more modern design than the bedrooms, including features such as mirrors with built-in lighting and great rain shower heads.
A full English or continental breakfast can be included, and although there are no other amenities here (no gym, no spa), there is a private parking. You are also just a 15-minute walk from famous attractions such as Hyde Park and the Natural History Museum.
