London, a city bursting with originality, quirkiness, and unmistakable English eccentricity, also happens to be my home. I might be a little biased, but I genuinely think some of the hotels here are spectacular! From striking modern landmarks to intimate boutique gems, these are my favorite stylish stays that capture the city’s flair for the extraordinary and love of impeccable design…
1. Treehouse Hotel, Marylebone
I was head over heels for this playful, eco-conscious boutique hotel in Marylebone! I thought it was just such a unique place with its nostalgic, nature-meets-urban design and inside the eclectic, nature-inspired decor blew me away – I saw reclaimed wood, vintage furnishings, leafy accents, and whimsical childhood nods such as tree-branch lighting and cute little teddy bears! It felt fun, cozy, and very imaginative!
My guest room (a Superior Queen Room) was of a good size and featured a comfy queen-size bed, wooden accents, a cosy window nook where I gazed at city views, a lush rainfall shower, air con, a Nespresso machine, and flat-screen TV. I particularly loved the quirky vintage stuffed toys!
I also made use out of The Nest rooftop bar which had superb city views, the romantic upscale Madera Mexican restaurant and the excellent upscale location – I was within walking distance of fine restaurants, Oxford Circus, West End theatres, and popular central attractions.
- To book, check prices or dates for Treehouse Hotel
My personal highlights…
- Sipping on a potent Homemade Blue Raspberry Tequila while gazing at the London Eye and The Shard from the Nest Rooftop Bar!
2. nHow Hotel, Shoreditch
I really enjoyed staying at this bold 4-star lifestyle hotel in funky Shoreditch! It stood out as a vibrant fusion of edgy British pop culture, street art, and playful design touches – like a punk-themed lobby, graffiti walls, and a DJ booth that brought a fun, creative energy I haven’t seen anywhere else in London before!
Inside, I found bold industrial interiors with bright pops of color, punk-inspired graphics, and quirky British references. The vibe was youthful and rebellious – perfect for design lovers, digital nomads, and trendsetters who I saw hanging abou the place!
My Superior Room was spacious and full of personality, with graphic wall murals, pop-art touches, a plush king-size bed, a rainfall shower, air con, flat-screen TV, and a Nespresso machine. I especially loved the large windows and the immersive art vibe!
My other favourite highlights included the open-plan lobby with a live DJ booth, stylish co-working areas, a 24-hour gym, a peaceful zen-like garden, pet-friendly services, and the Guilty restaurant serving indulgent comfort food with plenty of meat-free options.
I also thought the location in Shoreditch was ideal – I was just a short walk from Old Street Station, cool street art, indie boutiques, trendy bars, and eclectic dining spots.
- To book, check prices or dates for nHow Hotel
My favourite highlights…
- Trying their “Tea Time” cocktail which was an incredible blend of Earl Grey-infused gin and botanical flavors in their trendy Bell & Whistle Bar and Restaurant!
3. Mama Shelter, Shoreditch
As soon as I stayed at this Insta-worthy, design-led 4-star hotel in East London, I knew it deserved a spot on this list! It felt more like a creative clubhouse than a typical hotel – irresistibly fun, quirky, and full of bold personality.
Inside, I found eclectic urban-chic decor with playful graffiti, industrial accents, vintage furnishings, and offbeat touches like metal dog sculptures and bejewelled Darth Vader masks. The whole vibe was youthful, cool, and a little rebellious – like a laid-back artist hangout with serious style.
My Large Mama Double Room was spacious and filled with character, featuring a super-comfy king-size bed, quirky bold-colored decor, a smart TV with free movies, mood lighting, a desk, and an en-suite with a rainfall shower and organic bath products. I especially loved the ceiling-mounted chalkboard covered in handwritten messages and doodles – it made the space feel very personal!
I also made the most of staying in the creative district of Shoreditch as well as all fun extras, including retro arcade games, Japanese-style private karaoke rooms, corridors that were scented with notes of vanilla and musk, a buzzing restaurant serving hearty comfort food with a twist, and a show-stopping greenhouse-style bar. I especially loved their own craft-brewed blond ale and hot espelette pepper grown on-site!
- To book, check prices or dates for Mama Shelter
My personal highlights…
- All the entertainment – I found fun arcade games, foosball tables, retro board games like Connect Four and it was great to belt out a slightly off tone version of “Shake It Off” by Taylor Swift in their private karaoke room!
4. The Exhibitionist
This stylish boutique 5-star art-hotel in South Kensington felt like communal art gallery, filled with rotating installations and permanent art pieces! It stood out to me for its bold contemporary artworks, rotating exhibitions, and wildly creative themed suites!
I was greeted with bold, maximalist decor with striking contemporary art, vibrant color palettes, avant-garde furnishings, and playful, gallery-like interiors – I particularly loved the gigantic marble bull standing guard at the entrance and the striking mannequin-lamp in the bar. The vibe felt artistic, edgy, and fashion-forward and I saw that it attracted creative souls and design lovers.
My guest room featured a plush bed with high-thread-count linens, mood lighting, bold contemporary art, a sleek en-suite bathroom, and luxury amenities for a chic, gallery-style retreat. I really loved the bold, statement free-standing bathtub!
More of my favourite highlights included it hosting rotating contemporary art exhibitions, its trendy cocktail bar, and curated collaborations with up-and-coming artists that turn the entire stay into a creative experience.
This was such an upscale and posh central location – based here, I found myself within a short strolling distance from the Natural History Museum), V&A Museum, and Hyde Park.
- To book, check prices or dates for The Exhibitionist Hotel
My highlights…
- All the high end touches such as the underfloor heating, the Kit&Kin eco-friendly designer toiletries, and the exceptionally silky high-thread-count Egyptian cotton sheets!
5. Yotel, Clerkenwell
I had a real soft spot for this sleek, tech-savvy 4-star hotel! Its unique selling point was its futuristic, space-saving design with smart features that make for a high-tech, streamlined stay right in the heart of London.
Inside, I found sleek, minimalist decor with clean lines, glossy surfaces, neon accents, and a futuristic vibe inspired by airline cabins and smart urban living. The whole place felt modern, efficient, and geared toward digital nomads, solo travelers, and city explorers.
My standard guest room featured an adjustable SmartBed™, a smart TV, mood lighting, ultra-fast Wi-Fi, a compact en-suite with a rainfall shower, and clever storage – all wrapped in crisp white, minimalist design. I especially loved playing with the bed- it transformed from a sofa to a bed at the touch of a button!
I also found self-check-in kiosks, 24/7 gym, funky co-working spaces, and Komyuniti—the hotel’s stylish bar and restaurant which served up creative street food-inspired dishes, cocktails, craft beers, and a great breakfast buffet.
I also really enjoyed the location in Clerkenwell – I was just a short walk from Farringdon Station, the City, Exmouth Market, the Barbican, and plenty of trendy restaurants and historic pubs.
- To book, check prices or dates for Yotel Clerkenwell
My personal highlights…
- Their futuristic “Mission Control” station (aka the reception!) which had glowing purple lights, touchscreen kiosks, and instant key card pickup – I loved how it was both super quick and very sci-fi!
6. The Standard Hotel, King’s Cross
I found this hip, design-driven boutique hotel in King’s Cross to be dream-like – in a trippy, ultra-Insta-worthy kind of way! What really stood out to me, was how boldly it reinvented a 1970s brutalist building into a playful, retro-futuristic space packed with surprises and some of London’s coolest, most design-forward rooms.
I saw that the interiors were a creative mash-up of 1970s nostalgia and futuristic flair, with bold colours, curved lines, velvet upholstery, statement furniture, space-age lighting, and custom artwork. The vibe felt effortlessly cool, imaginative, and a little rebellious – attracting a stylish crowd of artists, trendsetters, and creatives.
My guest room featured a plush bed with retro-style bedding, Bang & Olufsen Bluetooth speakers, a sleek rain shower, mood lighting, and even a retro control panel to adjust the room’s vibe. I especially loved the private outdoor bathtub on the balcony and the mini-fridge stocked with vegan protein balls and truffle crisps!
My other favourite amenities included the chic rooftop bar, a hidden recording studio, a moody “deep listening” room, live DJ sets, a 24-hour gym, and its many dining venues – including Decimo, the buzzy restaurant by Michelin-starred chef Peter Sanchez-Iglesias.
The location in buzzy King’s Cross was another huge bonus for me – it was right across from St Pancras Station with easy access to major tube lines, dining spots, galleries, and nightlife.
- To book, check prices or dates for The Standard Hotel
My highlights…
- Taking a ride on the Insta-worthy iconic exterior red capsule elevator which transported me up to the cool rooftop bar!
7. Sunborn Yacht Hotel
Staying on this floating 4-star “superyacht” hotel was a truly unique and elegant experience. Moored on the Thames, here I experienced a one-of-a-kind stay with luxury yacht-style interiors and peaceful riverside views – very far removed from the feel of a typical London hotel!
I was genuinely wowed by the classic, yacht-inspired decor with a hint of Art Deco flair – there were gleaming brass railings, polished teak finishes, a dramatic spiral staircase, and sparkling chandeliers. I loved how the atmosphere felt refined, tranquil, and just a little indulgent, drawing in all kinds of guests seeking a serene waterfront escape.
My cabin-style room featured a plush queen-size bed, polished wood furnishings, a marble-accented en-suite bathroom, flat-screen TV, minibar, Wi-Fi, touchpad room controls, and air con. I particularly loved the round, nautical portholes where I could gaze out at the Thames from bed!
I also enjoyed the stylish riverside bar and restaurant with panoramic dock views, as well as the onboard Elemis spa offering indulgent treatments and peaceful Royal Victoria Dock location. It was a little off beaten path, but I was only steps away from the ExCeL Centre and a short DLR ride from Canary Wharf and the O2 Arena.
- To book, check prices or dates for Sunborn Yacht Hotel
My favorite highlights…
- Enjoying a mushroom arancini and spring vegetable risotto in their The Lands End Restaurant while gazing the Thames – the gentle movements of the lapping waves added to the whole dining on a yacht experience!
8. Sea Containers
My short video of outside the SeaContainers Hotel…
I thought this stylish 5-star large design hotel on the South Bank was an Instagrammer’s dream! Its glamorous ocean-liner-inspired design, paired with a sought-after riverside setting, made it feel truly one of a kind!
The interiors were seriously wow-inducing – sleek and sophisticated, with art deco touches, brass accents, curved walls, velvet furnishings, and nautical elements that blended vintage glamour with modern flair. I loved how the vibe felt effortlessly chic and cosmopolitan, attracting a well-dressed mix of creatives, influencers, and design lovers.
My guest room featured custom-designed furnishings, a plush queen-size bed, a large rainfall shower, smart TV, mood lighting, bespoke artwork, a Nespresso machine, and partial river views. I especially loved the ship-style porthole mirrors and metallic curved walls, which gave the room real personality.
Beyond the room, I discovered a glamorous spa, a 24-hour high-tech gym, a boutique Curzon cinema, a buzzing cocktail bar, an award-winning restaurant, and a rooftop lounge with spectacular river views and live DJ sets on weekends.
I was completely won over by the location too – it was set right on the river with direct access to the Thames Path, and just a short stroll from the Tate Modern, Shakespeare’s Globe, and all the awesome energy of London’s South Bank.
- To book, check prices or dates for Sea Containers Hotel
My personal highlights…
- Indulging in their innovative signature Reparative Facial treatment which used the patented skin-care complex the NAC Y2 formula at their cocoon-like Luxury Spa by Agua!
9. The Hoxton, Shoreditch
My short video of inside the Hoxton Hotel…
I was a big fan of this trendy, design-forward boutique hotel because it effortlessly blended industrial-chic interiors, creative Shoreditch energy, and a lively lobby culture – so to me, it always felt more like a stylish local hangout than a typical hotel!
The industrial-chic decor featured open fireplaces, leather armchairs, squashy sofas, exposed brick walls, retro lighting, and mid-century furnishings. The vibe was relaxed, creative, and social, and I noticed it attracted a fun mix of trend-savvy guests, freelancers, and locals who treated the lobby like their living room.
My guest room included a comfy bed with high-thread-count linens, a walk-in rainfall shower, industrial-style finishes, a retro rotary phone, a smart TV, and a mini fridge stocked with local treats. I especially loved the Shoreditch-inspired artwork on the walls.
I also made use out of the buzzing all-day lobby with its bar-meets-workspace vibe, rotating art installations, complimentary daily breakfast bags, and the onsite restaurant serving modern comfort food with East London flair.
Shoreditch is one of my favorite areas in London, and being based on Great Eastern Street put me just steps from buzzing bars, indie boutiques, award-winning restaurants, and eye-catching street art.
- To book, check prices or dates for The Hoxton Hotel
My highlights…
- I thought the complimentary ‘Lite Breakfast Bag’ which consisted of granola, fruit, and orange juice which was delivered to my room in the morning was a great personal touch!
10. NYX Hotel Holborn by Leonardo
I was completely won over by this sleek, artfully designed 4-star lifestyle hotel thanks to its bold, street art-inspired interiors and party-style vibe set in one of the most central locations in London!
Inside, I found it had a trendy, nightlife-meets-gallery feel. The decor was a complete riot of colour with pop art, neon lighting, rainbow glass panels, quirky sculptures, and retro-modern furniture. To me, it felt youthful, creative, and high-energy, and I saw it attracted a style-conscious crowd.
My funky guest room featured a comfy bed with high-thread-count linens, wooden parquet flooring, trendy retro decor, a Smeg fridge, floor-to-ceiling windows, eco-friendly toiletries, a Nespresso machine, mood lighting, soundproofing, and a rainfall shower. I especially loved the neon slogan sign above the bed and the in-room arcade gaming console!
I also enjoyed the vibrant rooftop bar with city views and live DJ sets, the large art-covered indoor pool and spa with a Romanesque twist, a trendy but relaxed lounge for afternoon tea, and a modern gym.
The location was unbeatable – nestled between Covent Garden and the West End, I was within easy walking distance of London’s top theatres, shops, museums, and nightlife, with quick access to the Central and Piccadilly lines.
- To book, check prices or dates for NYX Hotel Holborn by Leonardo
My personal highlights…
- Indulging in a fragrant Aromatherapy Massage which used a mix of sweet almond, jojoba and thistle oil in their Insta-worthy Rena Spa!
11. Zedwell, Piccadilly Circus
Staying at this budget-conscious, sleep-focused hotel housed in the iconic Trocadero building was a truly zen-like experience! It felt unlike any other hotel I’ve stayed in – its unique selling point was its minimalist, tech-free “cocoon” rooms designed purely for deep rest and relaxation.
Inside, I found calming, clutter-free interiors with natural wood finishes, soft lighting, and an atmosphere focused entirely on wellness and sleep (which is very unusual these days)! I loved how it felt peaceful, grounded with an eco-friendly focus.
My standard guest room – called a “cocoon” – featured a comfy futon-style bed, blackout curtains, purified air, soundproofing, and minimalist furnishings with zero tech – there was no TV, no phone, no distractions (which I loved!). The bed frame wrapped around the mattress, creating a quiet, nest-like sleeping pod that felt incredibly soothing.
My other highlights included a holistic wellness studio with yoga and meditation classes, a modern gym, and a minimalist lounge serving affordable, health-focused food and drinks. The central Piccadilly Circus location was just incredible too – I was based right in the heart of the buzzy West End!
- To book, check prices or dates for Zedwell Piccadilly
My highlights…
- The wellness features – I loved the hypoallergenic bedding, soundproofing, blackout curtains, an ergonomic mattress, the dedicated air purification system!
12. Ruby Lucy, South Bank
I was genuinely impressed by this vibrant 4-star boutique hotel just steps from Waterloo Station! It was cool and unique for its playful carnival-themed interiors, relaxed “lean luxury” concept, and fun in-room details.
I loved how they’d gone all out on the carnival-inspired interiors – I saw playful pops of rich colour, vintage fairground lighting, circus drums, juggling pins, mismatched velvet chairs, and musical elements such as guitars. It felt artistic, and effortlessly cool.
My guest room featured a luxe queen-size bed with crips white linens, retro furniture a large rainfall shower, mood lighting, a flatscreen TV, in-room tablet. I particularly liked the quirky extras such as the Marshall amp which I actually plug into.
During my stay, I also enjoyed the lively 24/7 bar which served up locally sourced drinks, the vintage-style co-working space, and the fun curated in-room playlists and guitars for guests! The whole place was a vibe!
The location was a bonus too – I found myself very near South Bank’s top attractions, including the London Eye, National Theatre, and riverside walks along the Thames.
- To book, check prices or dates for Ruby Lucy Hotel
My highlights…
- Trying their innovative sleep-inducing “Lucy’s Lullaby” cocktail which was infused with chamomile and agave and helped me unwind before bed!
13. CitizenM, Tower Bridge
I’ve been a long-time fan of this sleek, tech-forward boutique hotel in Tower Hill. To me it always stands out for its ultra-modern smart rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows and direct views of the Tower of London.
I also love its striking decor which consisted of modern, minimalist decor with bold pops of colour, designer Vitra furniture, wall-to-wall art, and sleek wood finishes. It felt sleek, energetic, and tech-savvy and I saw that it attracted a crowd of solo city explorers, and digital nomads.
My funky but compact guest room featured a comfy modern bed, mood lighting, blackout blinds, a powerful rain shower, smart tablet controls, streaming TV, and awesome views of the Tower of London. I particularly loved how a floor-to-ceiling window was positioned right behind my bed!
I also found a trendy “cloudM” rooftop bar which had panoramic skyline views, a stylish 24/7 canteenM which offered food and drinks, co-working spaces, and ultra-fast free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel. Being just about close as I could get to the Tower of London and Tower Bridge was also a big bonus!
- To book, check prices or dates for CitizenM, Tower Bridge
My personal highlights…
- Sipping on the light, elegant, and floral gin cocktail the London Rose in their rooftop bar while gazing at views of the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, The Shard, and Trinity Square.
14. The Good Hotel
A short video of my trip to the Good Hotel…
This socially conscious, floating 4-star hotel moored at Royal Victoria Dock was good by name, good by nature! I really admired how it combined stylish, industrial-chic design with waterfront views and a powerful social mission – reinvesting profits into education projects and training unemployed locals.
What stood out to me the most was how different it felt from the bland chain hotels located nearby. Inside, I found minimalist, industrial-inspired interiors with raw concrete walls, exposed pipes, reclaimed wood accents, and cozy, functional furnishings. The vibe was laid-back, community-driven, and quietly cool, I saw that it attracted a mix remote workers, creatives, and socially aware travellers.
My guest room featured a comfy bed with crisp white linens, minimalist furnishings, a private en-suite shower, free Wi-Fi, and a square porthole-style window with views of the dock – it felt like a cozy cabin on a stylish urban ship!
I also loved the open-plan communal spaces that brought together a mix of locals and guests, the relaxed bar serving local drinks, the rooftop terrace with deck chairs and dockside views, and the buzzing communal lounge which was ideal for working or unwinding.
The peaceful Royal Victoria Dock setting was another highlight for me – I was just minutes from the ExCeL Centre and a quick DLR ride from Canary Wharf, the O2 Arena, and the Emirates Cable Car crossing the Thames.
- To book, check prices or dates for Good Hotel
My personal highlights…
- I loved learning that the friendly staff at the desk were actually former unemployed locals, trained as part of the hotel’s commitment to hire 15 new people every three months!
15. The Pilgrm
I absolutely adored this stylish boutique hotel in Paddington, set across beautifully restored Victorian townhouses! It earned its place on this list for its elegant heritage features, minimalist design, and cozy, character-filled atmosphere – honestly, I thought it was perfect antidote to large, impersonal city hotels!
Inside, I found a warm and creative space that paired original Victorian details like mosaic floors and cast iron radiators with modern minimalist touches, vintage furniture, and curated artwork. It felt welcoming and lived-in – ideal for design lovers, solo travellers, and anyone seeking a more personal stay.
My pet-friendly guest room was compact but thoughtfully designed, with crisp white linens, hardwood parquet floors, exposed brick walls, original windows, a rainfall shower, flat-screen TV, and free Wi-Fi. I especially loved the genuine plug in Marshall Bluetooth speakers!
I also really enjoyed the cozy café with its exposed stone walls and artisan coffee, the stylish lounge bar which served up craft cocktails and fresh juices, the thoughtful extras such as free loaner bikes and the Paddington location – I was within easy walking distance of Hyde Park, Marylebone, and other central London attractions.
- To book, check prices or dates for The Pilgrm Hotel
My highlights…
- The warm, social vibe – it was very easy to strike up a conversation with the friendly staff and fellow guests. My breakfast was also fantastic, especially the French toast which came drenched in Nutella and orange blossom honey!
Wow, I love the look of all these hotels especially the nHow hotel!
Love this post, some of the designs of these hotels are seriously beautiful! I love 3 and 6 best!
Wow some of these hotels are seriously stunning, I love the look of the Hoxton and nHow hotel!
What a beautiful collection of hotels. Thanks Becky for the article.I would like the Urban country Lodge. 🙂
The Hoxton is fantastic, good choice Marc we loved our stay there and such a cool area too!
I’d like to visit soho hotel because it looks more comfortable, includes more services and of course is more modern.
These hotels have really touched on everything that I would expect from a hotel in London. They are very sleek, yet have an air of romance and of course many of them also feature Victorian architecture. When people go to London, I am sure many of them (especially tourists) want to feel like a king or queen; and of course they can get that if they choose the right place to stay. I myself really like the Rough Luxe. It just seems sort of grungy, but also Victorian in many respects.
Good choice – it’s a very unique hotel!
An impressive list of places-have stayed at Hoxton and even if you can’t grab one of their £1 hotel offers you can get rooms for £29 or £59 booking in advance.
Zetter is the other place I have stayed and reviewed-beautiful hotel with lots of nice features especially their own bottled water, bit of a miracle given how poor water quality is in London…..
Have to bookmark your site and have a gander later…
Hello from Kash aka @budgettraveller
Great thanks!
interesting collection of hotels I’ll hopefully try one of them out when I visit London next.:))
Wow Becky, what a fantastic post!
I love the Hoxton Hotel and have been lucky enough to snag a £1 room again this round. Looking so forward to my stay!
Thanks for great ideas from all around town!
Kathryn @Travelfusion
Hey thanks Kathryn glad you like it! I’m impressed you managed to get a room in the Hoxton room sale. I’ve signed up now and hoping for the best!
Good luck to you! Our stay was this past Saturday and couldn’t have been better. It’s a great spot and it doesn’t hurt that the prices are so reasonable and the rooms so nicely decorated!
Fingers crossed you get a room in the next round!
Kathryn @Travelfusion
Thanks Kathryn I’m going to keep trying!