How to find the best hotel deal in London
You've got your ideal flight locked in. Now let the same smart search engine find you the sharpest rates on London hotels. These tips will get you one step closer to packing your bags.
Save on your London hotel and unlock a wider selection of stays when you book early. You'll also have extra time to weigh up your options and choose the ideal place.
That being said, booking at the last minute can pay off. Some places cut their rates a day or two before arrival to keep rooms from sitting empty.
Another secret to finding cheaper hotels? Being flexible. If your itinerary isn't written in stone, check prices across different dates and discover how much you can save.
Explore the range of stays with free cancellation. Lock in a great offer today and easily cancel later if your plans change.
Where to stay in London
Central London
Choose the city centre and you'll never be far from your next adventure. Take your pick of these stays that keep you near the main attractions in central London.
The Suites – St Pancras Hotel Group sets you up to explore with ease. Around 2 kilometres away, this 4-star stay is one of the most sought-after hotels near The British Museum. It's a top choice for families in particular.
When it comes to hotels near Westminster Abbey, Royal Lancaster London wins points for comfort and convenience. Make yourself at home at this 5-star hotel in London and you'll be roughly 3 kilometres away. While it's a great fit for most travellers, it especially appeals to business travellers.
Hotels near Big Ben are also worth checking out. The Emory, Maybourne is 2 kilometres or so from this top sight and has a steady following among couples. It has a 5-star rating and is a great starting point for discovering the city.
Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea
If you'd like more suggestions on where to stay, consider Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea. Here are a few places where you can lay your head near some leading sights.
Among the best hotels near Royal Albert Hall, The Milestone Hotel - London makes it easy to get to this attraction. From its facilities (which guests especially love) to all its little extras, this 5-star hotel in London is a solid choice for your visit.
Royal Lancaster London, one of the hotels near Natural History Museum, has your key waiting at the front desk. In addition to being a handy base for exploring this highlight, this 5-star London hotel gets rave reviews for its cleanliness.
You'll also find some inviting choices among the hotels near Science Museum. Rated 5 stars and getting favourable feedback for its rooms, The Emory, Maybourne is one of the go-tos around Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea.
There's more where that came from. Browse the full lineup of hotels in Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea and find a stay that brings the whole trip together.
When to go to London
Tourism hits a high point in July. If you like to keep your itinerary full and your days busy, this is the ideal time to book a hotel in London.
Enjoy a slower pace by locking in a London hotel in March. It's the quietest time to visit and it's often easier on the budget too.
Planning your getaway means factoring in the weather forecast. July brings the warmest conditions, with maximum temperatures of 26ºC (79ºF).
The coolest month is January. Expect lows of 0ºC (32ºF).
Don't want to pack a raincoat? Search for London hotels in September. It's the driest time to visit, with five days of rain on average.
Rain is more common in January, which gets around eight days of wet weather.
Best hotels in London
Best budget hotels
Just need a place to sleep? Budget London hotels come with the basics so you can save your cash for the real highlights: having adventures and buying too many souvenirs. Often equipped with money-saving amenities like mini-fridges and microwaves, you'll find at least 590 of these affordable stays across the city.
The Stay Club North Acton is a 3-star option in London Borough of Ealing that keeps things fuss-free and easy on the wallet. A fitness centre and a lift are among its many amenities.
A straightforward choice for city stays, Adria Hotel is equipped with conveniences like Wi-Fi and hair dryers. This 3-star London hotel is in the London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham area.
Another great match for budget trips is Parkwood Hotel. This 3-star option in City of Westminster features internet access and a safe deposit box.
Best 4-star hotels in London
When you're craving a little extra from your stay, the 4-star hotels in London deliver. With around 400 choices, they generally feature well-designed rooms, attentive service, and extras such as restaurants, bars, and guest lounges. These hotels feel elevated without feeling extravagant.
Room service and a restaurant are the start of the things that help make your stay more comfortable at The Old Farmhouse Pub and Rooms. This 4-star accommodation option is located in Kentish Town.
A restaurant and concierge assistance are just some of the amenities on offer at The Resident Covent Garden. You'll find this inviting London hotel in The West End.
Lost Property St Pauls London, Curio Collection by Hilton is one more to keep on your radar. It's located in City of London and comes with room service and a restaurant, among other things.
Best luxury 5-star hotels
When nothing but the best will do, you'll find around 160 5-star hotels in London ready to make every moment about you. These types of stays generally come with perks like gourmet dining, curated spa treatments, and designer toiletries. City of Westminster is home to most of the city's luxury hotels.
Yorkshire Grey Pub & Rooms doesn't just meet expectations — it beats them. There's a whole lot to love about this Bloomsbury accommodation option, including a restaurant and bathrobes.
Fulham Pier Hotel also delivers 5-star fabulousness at every turn. Located in Fulham, this London hotel features room service, concierge assistance and loads more.
If you haven't been to The Milestone Residences in Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea yet, you're going to enjoy every minute. Get the most out of your visit with perks like room service and a restaurant.
Best hotels in London for families
Finding the right hotel can be a game changer when travelling with kids. With things like playgrounds, activity programmes, and large suites, family-friendly hotels in London come packed with perks that make the trip easier. Choose from around 270 of these stays that come both adult- and kid-approved.
Beaconsfield Hotel is where you can enjoy family time without stretching your budget. This affordable 2-star option comes with amenities like baby-sitting, a first aid room and plenty more.
If you'd like a more luxurious experience, treat everyone to a getaway at The Soho Hotel, Firmdale Hotels. This 5-star London hotel features Wi-Fi in designated areas and a games room and is located in Soho.
You could also check out Holiday Inn Express London - Wimbledon South by IHG. It often draws great feedback for its cleanliness and comes with room service and a lounge. You'll find this 3-star option in London Borough of Merton.
Best hotels with a spa
Discover your zen at one of the 180 or so London hotels with a spa. Located mostly in City of Westminster, they feature anything from saunas and hot tubs, to fitness centres and treatment rooms. Toss in meditation spaces, manicures, and massages and get set for serious relaxation.
Check in to The Newman and take a break from it all. Room service, a spa and other added comforts await you at this 5-star option in Central London.
You'll also find peace and quiet at Royal Lancaster London. This 5-star hotel in London offers a squash court, a spa and much more. It's located in City of Westminster.
Aethos Hotel London Shoreditch balances busy days of sightseeing with the bliss of a pamper session or two. This 5-star option in the Shoreditch area offers bathrobes and concierge assistance.
Best hotels with a pool
A pool adds another element of fun to a trip. Book a resort and you'll usually find large outdoor setups and maybe even lazy rivers and water slides. At city hotels, rooftop and indoor pools are more typical. Choose from at least 80 pool hotels in London and get set to dive right in.
Located in The West End, Haymarket Hotel, Firmdale Hotels comes with an indoor swimming pool, luggage storage and ironing services. You'll have the right mix of features for a memorable stay at this 5-star London hotel.
The Chesterfield Mayfair will also have you reaching for your swimsuit and goggles. You'll find an indoor swimming pool, air conditioning and express check-in at this 4-star stay in Mayfair.
Or add a playful twist to your getaway at Lincoln Plaza Hotel London, Curio Collection By Hilton. You'll have access to an indoor swimming pool, internet access and a fitness centre at this 4-star hotel in Isle of Dogs.
Best pet-friendly hotels
Why go it alone when your pet can join the fun? From cosy beds and grooming stations to dedicated dog-walking trails, pet-friendly hotels are set up to help you and your best buddy feel at home. There are around 400 London hotels that are happy to host your furry friend.
Roseberry Apartments is a 4-star option in Clerkenwell. Wi-Fi and a 24-hour front desk are some amenities available at this pet-friendly hotel in London.
Inviting 3-bed Apartment in London is another place that'll treat your little buddy like family. This 3-star accommodation option in Spitalfields comes with room service and Wi-Fi.
Charles Hope Apartment Canary Wharf in Isle of Dogs will get everyone settled in no time. It has a 3-star rating and amenities including luggage storage and a 24-hour front desk.
Flying to London
London Heathrow Airport (LHR)
London Heathrow Airport (LHR) is this city's main airport. After your flight to London lands, it's around 26 kilometres to the centre.
It takes around 45 minutes to reach central London by taxi or ride-share. The journey by public transport is roughly 25 minutes.
London Heathrow Marriott Hotel is a convenient choice if you're flying in late. Close to the airport and with a 4-star rating, guests regularly mention its value as a top reason to stay.
Also close to LHR, Crowne Plaza London Heathrow T4 by IHG has become a go-to for visitors. This 4-star stay holds an impressive overall rating of 4-plus out of 5 based on traveller feedback.
Need another recommendation? Hilton Garden Inn London Heathrow Terminal 2 and 3 turns transit time into something you'll actually enjoy. Plenty of families make this 4-star hotel their stay of choice.
London Gatwick Airport (LGW)
Fly into London through London Gatwick Airport (LGW). Around 40 kilometres from the centre, the city's it's another key airport for the city.
Travelling by public transport into the city will take roughly 45 minutes. The journey by car is usually 1 hour, depending on traffic.
Searching for a London hotel near LGW? Sofitel London Gatwick makes flying in or out just a little easier. Amenities like luggage storage and a lobby bar add to the convenience of this 4-star stay.
Or find a room at Ibis Styles London Gatwick Airport. A go-to choice for business travellers in particular, this 3-star option will get your trip off to a smooth start.
With overall guest ratings that often exceed 4 out of 5, Langshott Manor - Luxury Hotel Gatwick was made for frequent flyers. You'll also be near LGW if you book this 4-star stay.
London Stansted Airport (STN)
Flights to London are available through London Stansted Airport (STN) as well. STN is roughly 48 kilometres from the city centre.
You can reach central London on public transport from here in about 45 minutes. The drive from the airport, whether by ride-share or taxi, takes around 1 hour.
Enjoy a relaxing night at Hampton by Hilton London Stansted Airport before heading into the city. Within easy reach of STN, this London hotel has a 3-star rating. Guest reviews often point to its location as a highlight of the experience.
You might also like Novotel London Stansted Airport. It has a 4-star rating and an overall guest score of 4-plus out of 5.
Room service and Wi-Fi are just two of the amenities on offer at The Gem Stansted. It makes convenience a focus and comes with a 3-star rating.
