Once a place of industry and entertainment in Shakespeare’s time, today’s Bankside is home to some of the capital’s most iconic attractions, including the Tate Modern, Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, and the historic Borough Market. This eclectic area offers visitors a unique blend of the old and new, where centuries-old architecture stands alongside contemporary art spaces and bustling food stalls. With its stunning riverside views, a plethora of dining options, and a calendar packed with events and exhibitions, Bankside is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the heart of London’s cultural scene. Here are our favourite 5-star and luxury hotels in the area.
Hilton London Bankside (5 star)
Hilton London Bankside is at the forefront of Hilton Hotels’ innovative, design-focused evolution. Every element of the hotel has been meticulously thought out to echo the rich history and vibrant atmosphere of the area, merging raw urban elements with sleek, modern aesthetics. A stone’s throw from iconic London attractions like the Tate Modern, Borough Market, and Shakespeare’s Globe, The property boasts 292 guest rooms, including 25 suites that offer stunning cityscape views, along with a rooftop penthouse, peloton guest rooms, a vegan suite, and a heated indoor pool and gym. Two dining experiences are onsite too OXBO Bankside and The Distillery. Read our review of the Hilton London Bankside here.
Sea Containers London (5 star)
This is a place to stay with that wow factor. Sea Containers London is designed with more than a nod to those elegant cruise liners of the 1920s yet firmly anchored on the South Bank of the Thames. There are 359 guest rooms and suites to choose from, ideal for couples or families, some with amazing river views, all featuring bespoke furniture and en suite marble bathrooms. One suite even has its own fitness equipment. Located just around the corner from Blackfriars Bridge, guests can find the National Theatre, Tate Modern and Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre nearby. The five-star hotel, part of the Lore Group, offers three in-house venues. At 12th Knot’s rooftop lounge, there are panoramic Thames views to go with the refreshment, opt for award-winning cocktails at Lyaness, or savour delicious seasonal food at Sea Containers Restaurant. And when it’s time to unwind, treat your senses to a treatment at the Agua Spa London, blow off steam in the hotel gym, or see a movie at its Curzon cinema.
CitizenM London, Bankside (4 star)
CitizenM graces South Bank with a luxury hotel experience at an affordable price handily placed in the bustling cultural area near Tate Modern and the Borough Market. The open-plan ground floor offers great space to relax, work or play with comfortable furniture, communal desks and private conference rooms. Bright décor includes world-class art and books to browse and the four-star hotel’s 192 guest rooms are cleverly designed for two adults with floor-to-ceiling windows, pod-style bathrooms and extra-large beds. The Dutch chain, which is increasing its number of popular city outposts, provides super-fast free Wi-Fi and iMacs for guests to use, while the canteenM restaurant and bar offers food and drinks 24/7 and a buffet breakfast in a five-hour window. Southwark and London Bridge stations are nearby, providing easy access to the rest of the city.
The Hoxton, Southwark (4 star)
Staying at the Hoxton puts you in easy reach of the River Thames and South Bank’s best galleries and food markets as well as easy access to central London’s other attractions. Arrived to work, rest or play? Relax for this four-star hotel has 192 creatively designed guest rooms with comfy beds, concrete ceilings and marble surfaces. There’s a choice of restaurants as Seabird offers panoramic views from the rooftop with a menu presenting Portuguese and Spanish influence from sea to table. Or opt for oysters with fizz, martinis or your choice of cocktail. Then there is Albie, an all-day lobby spot offering proper breakfasts, modern dishes and a killer wine and cocktail list. For parties, the ideal spot is the hotel’s Apartment, a fresh and airy space with a wraparound balcony. It has six useful rooms available separately for team away days and brainstorming sessions or combined for a network event or product launch. It also has The Pantry, an open plan kitchen providing a communal help-yourself space stocked with tea, coffee, snacks and fruit that can flip to a private bar in the evening.
Bankside Hotel, Autograph Collection (5 star)
Bankside Hotel is a brilliant base to explore all the attractions that the culturally rich South Bank area presents. Just around the corner from Blackfriars Bridge, and part of Marriott International, there is five-star luxury in its 161 bedrooms, including seven suites, all thoughtfully designed with hand-picked furnishings, specially commissioned artwork and superior service. Equally suited to those arriving in the capital to enjoy themselves or who need to fit in some working hours during their stay, there is Art Yard Bar & Kitchen, a library and an outside terrace as well as four meeting and event spaces. There is also a fitness centre. Nearby attractions include Tate Modern, Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, The National Theatre, while Southwark and Blackfriars stations are only a few minutes walk away, promising tube links to the rest of London. The hotel is both family-friendly and ideal for romantic breaks, with special offers during 2024.