Best Urban Hotels in United Kingdom

People who have a love for the finer things in life are sure to appreciate the style and decadence of this former County Hall for Northumberland. The Vermont is situated right next to the Castle Keep and offers stunning river views as well as a very convenient location for those who want to see the sights. Everything has been created on a grand scale in this neo-classic building, from the huge reception area with its magnificent chandeliers to the mirrored pillars and tables in the large and plush bar room. Guests can be sure that they will be treated to plenty of modern amenities such as a fully loaded fitness centre and sauna. There are 101 guestrooms to choose from with the best options providing enchanting views of the river from their huge picture windows. Guests who are celebrating a special occasion also have the opportunity to hire the hotel’s Rolls Royce so that they can explore Newcastle in style.

Set in a former commercial building, this luxurious hotel features a dark red brick façade that is especially striking. Two wings have been added to the original building that perfectly mimic the original style while also incorporating modern touches. There are several different styles of guestrooms to choose from and even the most basic feel especially decadent. The bathrooms are particularly impressive as they come with huge showers and roll-top baths, while enchanting river views are just waiting to be enjoyed in the guestrooms that are set in the original wing of the building. Lovers of French cuisine will want to make sure that they indulge in a meal at the onsite bistro, where there is an extensive menu of classic dishes that are served with plenty of flare and paired with French wine to help set the tone for a very decadent evening.

Boasting a stunning location on the Quayside and overlooking the River Tyne, the Malmaison Newcastle features a romantic and contemporary atmosphere. Couples are sure to appreciate the dark décor and low lighting, which will set the scene for a romantic getaway. Those who want to indulge in a little pampering are provided by a range of luxurious treatments in the underground spa, while the brasserie offers fine dining experiences in a sumptuous setting. Each of the 122 guestrooms features lavish touches such as dark velvet curtains and dark red carpets. Lovers of luxury will want to make sure that they secure one of the fourteen spacious suites that can be found on the seventh floor.

Breathing new life into a restored Victorian landmark, The Marcus Portrush marks Hilton’s Tapestry Collection debut in Northern Ireland. Overlooking the Atlantic in the charming seaside town of Portrush, this 80-room hotel blends local storytelling with a playful spirit, offering guests a stay steeped in creativity and coastal character. Inspired by the fictional explorer Marcus, interiors are filled with bold illustrations, maritime curiosities and rich textures. The result is an immersive space where history, whimsy and design come together. Younger guests receive a complimentary copy of The Adventures of Marcus, encouraging exploration from the moment they arrive.

The building, which once served as a hotel and artisan bakery for nearly a century, has undergone an £11 million renovation that carefully preserves period features such as original floor mosaics and the tiled façade. Bedrooms are bright and contemporary with nods to the nautical setting, while bathrooms feature elegant green tiling and walk-in showers. Dining is centred around Nemesis, the hotel’s Asian fusion restaurant, where classic dishes are reimagined with a twist. The Heritage Cocktail Bar channels the atmosphere of a harbour tavern with cosy corners, local spirits and inventive signature drinks like the Orra Margarita.

A fashionable address and celebrity haunt, The Lowry has an Elemis spa with eight treatment rooms, a relaxation area and a sauna, plus a hair salon. Rooms also have the wellness brand’s toiletries, along with huge windows, walk-in wardrobes, baths and fine artwork. The Hotel is named after one of Manchester’s most famed artists and hosts revolving art and photography exhibitions. Head to the first floor River Restaurant and Bar for hearty a la carte dishes, or lighter bites – kids can select from a mini gourmet menu (toddlers eat for free, with those under 12 at half price).

Enjoy a bayside city break at voco. Rooms come with Antipodes toiletries and are dog-friendly for those travelling with a pooch in tow, while higher-grade suites offer one (or two) bay view balconies and comfy seating areas. Kids are made welcome too, with larger rooms to suit and menus for younger diners. The Admiral is the hotel’s all-day dining venue, serving exquisite courses such as Welsh rarebit crumpets, torched mackerel with pickled kohlrabi salad and kabocha pumpkin massaman curry. Those preferring something a little simpler can order a burger, sandwich or salad. A spa and pool area includes swan-neck fountains, a bubbling water bed and a hot tub.

Said to be Cardiff’s finest new luxury hotel, the Parkgate Hotel exudes elegance and glamour. Located near to the Principality Stadium, Wales national sports and events stadium and just a short walk from the central railway station makes it a convenient base from which to enjoy all that Cardiff offers. As part of the exclusive Celtic Collection, the hotel offers guests a refined experience. Each bedroom and suite is individually designed seamlessly combine a chic blend of classic-meets- contemporary luxury whilst respecting the hotel’s historic architecture. What was once the old Post Office now sits The Sorting Room, the hotel’s refined restaurant. With twinkling chandeliers, plush furniture, this grand and glamorous space is the social spot to enjoy delicious dining, creative cocktails, Afternoon Tea or champagne at any o’clock.  The spa and wellness centre is the ultimate place to unwind and the fitness centre comprises state of the art-equipment with exclusive use for hotel guests. If grandeur and glamour are on your wish-list this is the place for you.

The Grand Jersey Hotel overlooks St Aubin’s Bay. Dating back to the late 1800s, it’s one of the oldest hotels on the island, keeping watch over Elizabeth castle from its vantage point. The original staircase rising from the lobby has been maintained, while an internal staircase is complemented by an enormous 30ft light installation. Inside are two restaurants, the more formal Tassili and a bistro, Victoria’s Brasserie, as well as a champagne bar and an Elemis spa. Outside is a terrace grill. The hotel has five stars and 123 bedrooms.

A room at the Radisson Blu will bring you right to the city’s riverside. The contemporary hotel has 207 rooms ranging from standard doubles through to a Presidential Suite complete with a separate living and dining area. It’s a family-friendly choice — cots can be requested and there are children’s menus available in the restaurant, Collage. The eatery serves mainly British dishes, with the breakfast buffet becoming a more international affair. Radisson Blu also has a gym, a spa and an indoor pool with a poolside jacuzzi, sauna and steam room.

Stay in the centre of town on your Durham mini-break. The four-star Hotel Indigo is housed in a four-storey former civic building. Its original Victorian architecture is contrasted by the brand’s signature contemporary style. What was once a council chamber is now a Marco Pierre White Steakhouse with high ceilings and stained glass windows. And if you want a quick snack, you can visit the in-house Tinderbox cafe. 83 bedrooms pay homage to the city’s history, including academic and ecclesiastical design elements and vintage artefacts. Hotel Indigo places you close to the city’s attractions, ensuring you can visit the highlights on foot.

Overlooking the 18th hole and clubhouse of the world-famous Old Course in St Andrews, the 5-star Seaton House provides the famous Scottish golfing town with its most refined hospitality experience to date. Formerly The Scores Hotel, the property has reclaimed its original name, following a sensitive restoration of its two Georgian townhouses which date back to 1864. The Luxury Editor spent a weekend at Seaton House, so read on to discover why this is, without doubt, St Andrews’ most sophisticated new address. Positioned on ‘The Scores’, St Andrews’ most iconic road, Seaton House offers 42 luxurious guest quarters, including expansive garden and terrace suites, destination dining by celebrated Edinburgh’s seafood restaurant Ondine Oyster & Grill, Bar and outdoor alfresco dining terrace and a further all-day dining experience, The Board Room.

There is so much to entice the weary traveller at this luxury 5-star boutique hotel with a private members club, nestled in the heart of St James’s. The hotel oozes Victorian charm blended with contemporary style. The eye for detail, visible in every piece of high-end furniture, upholstery and general décor is a thing to behold. In addition to the usual accommodation options, St James’s offers terrace suites and a Penthouse with its own private lift. There is a range of food options which include, Michelin-starred 7 Park Place under the watchful eye of William Drabble. There is also a Bar and Bistro.