Best Luxury Hotels in London
London, a city where history and modernity intertwine like the threads of a royal tapestry, offers an unparalleled experience for the luxury traveller. From the regal splendour of Buckingham Palace to the sophisticated charm of Mayfair, every corner of this illustrious city whispers tales of opulence and grandeur. As you stroll along the Thames, the iconic skyline — punctuated by the Shard’s glassy spire and the timeless clock face of Big Ben — serves as a reminder of the city’s ability to gracefully blend centuries-old tradition with cutting-edge innovation. Indulge in world-class cuisine at the best fine dining restaurants, explore the treasures in its world-class museums, or shop at the luxurious boutiques lining Knightsbridge. Here are our favourite 5-star and luxury hotels to stay at in the UK capital.
England, Greater London, London, Shoreditch
Montcalm East, Autograph Collection
Found on the city side of London’s trendy Shoreditch, this diamond-shaped hotel makes for a dazzling landmark. The 288 rooms are a minimum of 25 square metres with Sky TV, mood-lighting and electronic curtains, while bathrooms have underfloor heating, rainfall showers and products by Soap Co. The hotel’s restaurant, Moor + Mead, serves seasonal British food in a casual environment and the bar is found on the mezzanine. A spa incorporates an indoor pool with a hydromassage feature, a sauna, a jacuzzi and treatment rooms. Montcalm East is part of Marriott’s Autograph Collection.
England, Greater London, London, Kings Cross
The Standard, London
A contemporary landmark in King’s Cross, combining bold design with a vibrant social scene. This 266-room hotel occupies a former Brutalist building overlooking St Pancras Station, providing an energetic base for exploring the capital. Inside, eclectic interiors feature retro-futuristic furnishings and playful details, creating a lively yet stylish atmosphere.
Enjoy a diverse dining experience with Double Standard, an all-day bar and restaurant; Isla, a relaxed indoor-outdoor space with seasonal dishes; and Decimo, a high-rise restaurant offering Spanish-Mexican flavours alongside panoramic city views. The rooftop bar provides a lively setting for evening drinks with sweeping vistas.
A well-equipped gym caters to fitness needs, while various event spaces host cultural and social happenings. The hotel is within walking distance of major transport links, Regent’s Canal, and vibrant neighbourhoods filled with galleries, boutiques, and nightlife, making it an ideal choice for modern urban explorers.
England, Greater London, London, Aldgate
Leman Locke, Aldgate
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.
England, Greater London, London, Soho
Courthouse Hotel
So named as it was once a Magistrates’ and police court, this Grade II listed hotel is found just off Regent Street. Many of the original features have been preserved in the privately-owned property. But now it includes 116 bedrooms, a huge pool, the Sanook spa and a 100 seater cinema. Upgrade to stay in Magistrate’s Suites (previously judge’s chambers) or the two-bedroom Lalique suite. The court’s cell block has been transformed into a bar, with artwork depicting its famous real-life defendants Mick Jagger and John Lennon. An alfresco shisha bar strewn with rugs and kept cosy with heaters, is located on the rooftop.
England, Greater London, London, Newham
The Gantry Stratford, Curio Collection by Hilton
Conveniently located just a five-minute walk from Stratford train station with easy connections to central London, Westfield Shops, Hackney Wick and Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park all on its doorstep – this hotel is a great base for those who want to explore East London. Guest rooms and suites are modern and minimalistic in design and offer all the in-room amenities a modern-day traveller would expect from the Hilton name. A relaxed vibe flows through the hotel which offers guests the choice of three restaurants; the All-Day Lounge Bar and Terrace serves breakfast through to dinner, whilst light bites and creative concoctions can be enjoyed at the Cocktail Bar and the Rooftop Bar, located on the 18th floor really is a premier vantage point. Secured and self-parking is also available for guests choosing to travel by car.
England, Greater London, London, Embankment
The Royal Horseguards
The Royal Horseguards is one of London’s most iconic and historic hotels partially due to it hosting the National Library club whose members included Churchill and Gladstone. The Royal HorseGuards sits right on the Thames in a prime area of central London. The hotel’s rooms and suites are exceedingly luxurious, and guests can choose between river, garden and city views. The rooms are equipped with air conditioning, underfloor heating and English spa skincare and beauty products. Every detail has been thought of to ensure the comfort of guests. The Royal Horseguards has its own gym and dedicated concierge service, it also serves an exquisite afternoon tea service every afternoon. The hotel is home to One Twenty-One Two, an exceptional fine-dining restaurant which serves delicious seasonal dishes. The Royal Horseguards is also owns Equus, a sophisticated and quiet bar as well as The Terrace, a relaxed restaurant and bar which serves light bites and refreshing drinks.
England, Greater London, London, St. James's
The Trafalgar St. James London, Curio Collection by Hilton
One of London’s most iconic hotels in London, The Trafalgar rises out of the eponymous square and is a beacon of luxury and sophistication. The hotel’s rooms and suites are the definition of cool Britannia as they have flair and character. The rooms and suites have glorious views of Trafalgar Square and are equipped with walk-in showers, minibars and many other amenities. The Trafalgar is home to its own state-of-the-art fitness centre and a business centre which has meeting rooms and workspaces. The hotel’s rooftop bar and restaurant has arguably one of the best views in London. The Rooftop serves a range of drinks and cocktails and a variety of sharing plates and light bites. The hotel is also home to an exceptional cocktail bar called Rockwell, which serves 11 bespoke cocktails which tell stories of London and its heritage.
The Trafalgar St. James London, Curio Collection by Hilton
SAVE FOR LATEREngland, Greater London, London, Kensington
San Domenico House Hotel
This boutique hotel is five minutes away from Sloane Square if you are going by foot. The luxurious bedrooms have marble bathrooms, and you get access to free Wi-Fi so that you stay connected to the rest of the world. The interior design of this hotel leaves a lasting impression on anyone that stays. For interior décor, the hotel has been furnished with antiques collected from all over the world, paintings, as well as classical furniture. All the rooms are air-conditioned to ensure you enjoy comfort and excellent air quality. The Penhaligon’s toiletries and bathrobes provided in every room make you feel at home.
England, Greater London, London, Kensington
The Cadogan, A Belmond Hotel, London
Primely positioned midway between Chelsea and Knightsbridge, The Cadogan is an iconic destination where quintessential British charm effortlessly imbues a modern elegance. An intimate ‘home’ in the heart of the city, where the past and present are intertwined with every detail, the hotel overlooks the private Cadogan Palace Gardens, a botanical haven to which guests have exclusive access. Steeped in history, The Cadogan has an illustrious list of past residents, including Lillie Langtry and Oscar Wilde – the room in which Oscar Wilde was arrested is now the noble Royal Suite. In the 54 individually designed rooms, two-thirds of which are suites, white-on-white linens are offset with vibrant pops of colour, silk and velvet, with captivating artwork and design details honouring the hotel’s rich heritage.
England, Greater London, London, Kensington
11 Cadogan Gardens
This luxury hotel is in the heart of Chelsea and was originally built by Lord Chelsea as four separate townhouses in the 19th century, this hotel has a rich heritage and an elegant design. The Victorian-style establishment is part of the historical Cadogan Estate, and it offers 56 rooms, 25 of which are individually designed suites. The design seamlessly incorporates contemporary and classic warm tones to bring out elegance and class. The stylish bar offers classic cocktails, and the innovative menu has a variety of foods you can choose from. The top-notch chefs use local produce and fresh ingredients to prepare food. The boutique bedrooms have marble bathrooms as well as Ormonde Jayne toiletries. Quality Italian linen, as well as the fluffy bathrobes, are comfortable and warm. You get access to complimentary Wi-Fi and a gym that is always open.
England, Greater London, London, Chelsea
The Apartments by Sloane Club
The excellent service you get at The Apartments by Sloane Club ensures you have an unforgettable stay. Consider staying to experience the best of Chelsea living. You get to choose from 18 luxury serviced apartments;
• Studio apartments • One bedroom houses; small and large • Two bedroom houses; small and large
The Apartments by Sloane Club are found in the heart of Chelsea, and they offer excellent customer service. Sloan Club is a prestigious private membership club that has a rich history and seamless service.
England, Greater London, London, Westminster
The Guardsman
The Guardsman Hotel, tucked near Buckingham Palace in Westminster, London, is a 5-star boutique establishment known for its luxury and personalised guest experiences. Offering exclusive services akin to a members’ club, the hotel boasts bespoke dining without fixed hours, uniquely designed rooms with high-end amenities, and a prime location conducive to exploring London’s landmarks and transport options. The hotel’s dining experience is tailored, featuring no standard menus and uses fresh, seasonal produce. The Dining Room and Bar, open only to residents and their guests, offer a vast selection of dishes, over 250 whiskies, and an extensive wine list. Afternoon tea can be enjoyed in the hotel or with an option for a picnic basket to take away whilst exploring the city. Room offerings are diverse, including executive, single, deluxe, and superior double and each are modern and uniquely designed for comfort and luxury, complete with amenities such as bespoke toiletries, and personalised minibars. The friendly team is on hand 24-hours a day highlighting the hotel’s commitment to personalised service and memorable stays.