Best Urban Hotels in United Kingdom

Housed in an ivy-clad Georgian Mansion surrounded by wrought iron railings, Hotel du Vin enjoys a prime setting on the quaint Town Quay. The property is a former merchant’s house, turned chic modern boutique hotel. It provides a comfortable familiarity for those already au fait with the chain and is large enough to provide facilities such as a courtyard for alfresco drinks, a bar and a bistro (serving French and British-inspired cuisine), alongside a sense of exclusivity (there are just 38 individually styled bedrooms).

Opt for modern accommodation in the city centre, right on the banks of the River Ness (some rooms have views directly over the fast-flowing water). Handy for the railway station, shops and nightlife, this serves as a great base for those wishing to tour the Highlands, but with plenty of places to go and things to do by day and after dark. There are 191 bedrooms spread over four floors, a kitchen for all-day dining and a lounge area, to relax with a beverage. AC Hotel caters equally well for families (including four-legged friends) and business travellers.

Love the ambience of a boutique hotel but prefer the freedom of your own luxury apartment when you’re away? Imagine your ideal space in a magnificent historic building in Leeds. Now set it within the distinctive soundscape of the cathedral, and you’ve discovered The Bells Serviced Apartments. Luxuriate in the super kingsize bedrooms of the Big Ben penthouse, with its panoramic views over the city. Alternatively, indulge your inner introvert in the snug library-like atmosphere of the Old Tom apartment with its private balcony. For the ultimate in indulgence, both the Gothic-inspired Emmanuel, and oak-panelled Great George apartments have private balconies with hot tubs.

The Scott Hotel provides a sophisticated retreat located within the historic Pollock Estate next to Holyrood Park and is approx. 20-minutes’ walk from Edinburgh’s Old Town. A former 18th-century baronial mansion originally built in the 1750s for merchant Alexander Scott has been meticulously restored to a beautiful boutique hotel within tranquil landscaped grounds. The hotel features 36 individually styled bedrooms and junior suites with striking marble-tiled bathrooms and contemporary furnishings. For guests who desire extra space and privacy, the Gatehouse offers a standalone cottage experience complete with a fully equipped kitchen and lounge.

Dining at the Scott Hotel is a must – the Bonnar’s Restaurant, led by Head Chef Pier Berretta, serves modern Scottish cuisine from an a la carte or tasting menu. Set in a stunning rococo-style ballroom guests can expect a warm and welcoming ambience and the Velvet Lounge is the perfect place for a relaxed drink, where a carefully selected menu of whiskies, wines and cocktails awaits.

An old station hotel dating back to the Victorian era, The Milner York has been transformed into an elegant, yet modern establishment ideally placed for exploring the city. York Minster is a ten-minute walk away and the National Railway Museum is just five minutes. As would be expected from a luxury hotel the facilities are excellent with hotel concierge, and porters who will meet you at the station if you’re arriving by train. While enjoying the sights and sounds of York don’t miss out on afternoon tea in the hotel’s fabulous Garden Rooms. In the evening make use of the hotel’s pool and gymnasium, before enjoying a gourmet evening meal prepared with Yorkshire’s finest products.

Situated in the historic Queen’s Quarter of Belfast – filled with tranquil parks and gardens – is the five-star boutique hotel that aims to redefine hospitality, Regency House. Providing a personalised experience, it makes for the perfect location for your next stay. With each of their suites and rooms being individually designed to provide the utmost privacy and exclusivity, you’ll have a hard time picking your favourite. While the luxurious rooms are located within the main house, with easy access to the culinary facilities and wellness suite, the Suites offer a private kitchen, dining area, and living space to create your perfect “home away from home”. Yet the Regency doesn’t shy away from its vibrant Northern Irish culture, hosting events for both guests and the public to enjoy regularly, including Barking Dog Sundays – a selection of beloved Sunday dishes and soothing background music – and Jazz Bruch, where you can be serenaded by the saxophone while together with your loved one. Embrace the history and deep culture of Belfast without leaving luxury at the door by staying at the Regency.

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.

Taking the aparthotel to another level, Cheval Old Town Chambers takes advantage of all of the 15th-century charm found within its tenement homes across three buildings. But this is offset by clean contemporary lines and modern Scandi-inspired furnishings. Choose a studio, an apartment with a mezzanine, a private outdoor terrace, or a four-bedroom townhouse. You’ll have access to a concierge to assist you around the clock, a gym and a lobby with comfortable seating for a little fireside reading, as well as Luckenbooths restaurant for a touch of trad. Cheval Old Town Chambers welcomes pets and families and has several accessible apartments.

If you prefer to have your own cooking and dining facilities while staying in London, Leman Locke in Aldgate is a great choice. The self-contained studios and apartments are well placed in the super-cool east, with good transport links into the rest of the city. Each has good views, its own bespoke furnishings, a kitchenette, washing machine, minibar, Apple TV Box and Samsung smart TV. Neutral palettes with pale pastels provide a soothing ambience in the airy, light-filled rooms. For guests wanting to make use of the aparthotel’s shared facilities, there’s also a fitness centre, cafe and bar onsite.

Haar Rooms, situated in the heart of St. Andrews, offer an exquisite blend of modern luxury and traditional Scottish charm. The six individually designed rooms are equipped with king-size beds, Smart TVs, and ensuite bathrooms featuring indulgent rain showers. Each room boasts stunning views of the iconic Old Course, West Sands, and the North Sea, providing a serene and picturesque setting. Guests at Haar can start their day with a delightful breakfast at the acclaimed Haar Restaurant, which is renowned for its innovative culinary creations. For a truly memorable dining experience, guests can opt for the Michelin-recommended tasting menu, showcasing the best of local and seasonal produce. The hotel’s proximity to the Old Course, just 50 metres away, makes it a perfect retreat for golf enthusiasts, offering easy access to one of the world’s most famous golf courses.

Cheval Abbey Strand Apartments at Holyrood, located at the foot of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern luxury. These nine boutique apartments, designed with inspiration from their historical past, range from open-plan studios to two-bedroom units, all featuring fully equipped kitchens, free WiFi, and access to a complimentary gym. Guests enjoy the independence of self-check-in with a four-digit access code, while support is available 24/7 from the nearby Cheval Old Town Chambers. Pets are welcome, and nearby attractions include the Palace of Holyroodhouse and Holyrood Park.

Staybridge Suites Liverpool, located in the Royal Albert Docks area, offers comfortable and fully-equipped studio and one-bedroom suites. It is conveniently close to Liverpool Lime Street Station and Liverpool John Lennon Airport. The property provides a 24-hour fitness centre, complimentary Wi-Fi, and a business centre with meeting facilities. Guests can enjoy a complimentary breakfast and attend social events with free drinks and appetizers three times a week. The property is pet-friendly and provides parking for a daily rate. Notable nearby attractions include the M&S Bank Arena, The Beatles Story Museum, and the Tate Liverpool.