London is one of the world’s most enticing capital cities, a place of royalty, centuries-old British and European culture, award-winning dining and high-street shopping. The city on the Thames is renowned for its diverse array of attractions, from the soaring heights of the London Eye and spectacle of Buckingham Palace to the peaceful expanse of Hyde Park and bustling market in Camden Town.
With more than 400 million annual visitors to HotelsCombined, we’ve put our tea and crumpets aside to bring you an in-depth guide to the best London neighbourhoods and hotels. These areas allow you to immerse yourself in London’s top cultural attractions while enjoying the luxury and comfort of the city’s most popular hotels.
Why You Should Stay in Mayfair
Nestled on the eastern edge of Hyde Park, Mayfair is an affluent neighbourhood where suit tailors, whiskey bars and international designer boutiques sit alongside art galleries and theatres. This upscale area appeals to visitors looking to fill their suitcases with high-quality fashion, their stomachs with gourmet fare and their days exploring charming squares, gardens and alleyways.
Must-Do Mayfair Experiences
- Browse the international shops along Old Bond Street, including Cartier, Gucci and Tiffany & Co.
- Admire world-class art exhibitions at the Royal Academy of Arts.
- Cycle through Hyde Park and rent a boat to cruise along The Serpentine.
Top Hotels in Mayfair
Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane
Boasting an almost perfect rating on HotelsCombined, the 5-star Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane is one of the world’s best contemporary hotels. The dog-friendly hotel promises unbridled service, from valet parking and an in-house florist to limousines and a multilingual concierge. The on-site day spa offers signature rituals and facial treatments, while the Amaranto Restaurant, Lounge and Bar provides gourmet dining.
The opulent suites include exclusive access to the House of Garrard’s jeweller, including the Mayfair Suite with floor-to-ceiling windows and Park Lane views. Stay in the Westminster Suite for contemporary living and sleeping areas or the Presidential Suite for a fireplace, Hyde Park views and six-seater dining table.
Nearby Attractions
- Hyde Park (350 metres)
- Royal Academy of Arts (1.1 kilometres)
- The Palm Beach Casino (800 metres)
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 583 – USD 1,528
Guest Rating: 9.9
Address: Hamilton Place, Park Lane, Mayfair, London, United Kingdom
The Beaumont
The Beaumont is a grand, independent hotel where classic elegance meets modern comfort in the rooms, studios and suites. The Classic Rooms boast king-size beds and courtyard views, while the Studios include large seating areas and work desks. Opt for a Mayfair Suite to enjoy a mosaic bathroom with a TV or splurge on the 1920s-inspired Roosevelt Suite for a fireplace, dining table, stocked kitchen and hand-made mattress.
On-site dining is highlighted by the classic cocktails at The American Bar, high tea in the lobby and classic European dishes in the 1920s-style Colony Grill. Don’t forget to unwind with a hammam treatment at the Beaumont Spa or by working out in the gym.
Nearby Attractions
- Oxford Street shops (150 metres)
- Grosvenor Square (300 metres)
- Hyde Park (600 metres)
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 594 – USD 2,879
Guest Rating: 9.9
Address: 8 Balderton St, Brown Hart Gardens, Mayfair, London, United Kingdom
Hotel Location
Why You Should Stay in Camden Town
Soak up the bohemian vibe of Camden Town, a historic London neighbourhood dating back to the late-1800s. The famed Camden Market takes centre stage, while long strolls beside Regent’s Canal and dining at chic restaurants and bars keep you entertained far into the evening. Along with informative museums and iconic monuments, you’ll find live music venues and the alluring Regent’s Park nearby.
Must-Do Camden Town Experiences
- Explore the eclectic artisan, clothing and food stalls within the Camden Market.
- Catch live jazz, reggae and soul music at Jazz Cafe.
- Learn about the Holocaust while seeing historical artefacts at the Jewish Museum London.
Top Hotels in Camden Town
Holiday Inn London – Camden Lock
Holiday Inn London – Camden Lock places you in the heart of Camden Town next to Regent’s Canal. This 4-star hotel lives up to the Holiday Inn standard of service, comfort and luxury, providing an open lobby spread over two levels with high-speed Wi-Fi, cosy seating, a TV lounge and bar. The hotel’s all-day dining menu extends to the award-winning breakfast and to-go cafe.
Save money on the Standard Room, which features an LCD TV, pillow menu, workstation, comfortable bed and complimentary use of a Handy mobile phone. Families will enjoy the extra space in the Family Friendly Room, while those seeking luxury can book the Penthouse Suite for a private terrace and Camden Market views.
Nearby Attractions
- Camden Market (240 metres)
- Amy Winehouse Statue (450 metres)
- Jazz Cafe (300 metres)
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 130 – USD 328
Guest Rating: 9
Address: 30 Jamestown Road, Camden Town, London, United Kingdom
St Christopher’s Inn Camden
An excellent option for travellers looking for budget-friendly London accommodation, St Christopher’s Inn Camden offers a social and welcoming environment at the southern end of Camden. The popular hostel is a hipster playground with a pub crawl every night, breakfast every morning and its own bar with bar games.
The mixed and female-only dorms are the cheapest option and provide comfortable bunk beds with individual power sockets and lockable chests. If you prefer more privacy, then stay in one of the private dorms with an ensuite or splurge on a private twin ensuite.
Nearby Attractions
- Jazz Cafe (450 metres)
- Jewish Museum London (500 metres)
- BrewDog Camden (350 metres)
Star Rating: 3*
Price: USD 16 – USD 42
Guest Rating: 7.3
Address: 48-50 Camden High Street, Regent’s Park, Westminster, England, London, United Kingdom
Hotel Location
Why You Should Stay in Marylebone
Marylebone has long been a fashionable London neighbourhood and welcomes you with its village atmosphere, independent retailers, Georgian houses and fascinating museums. The Marylebone High Street is one of the city’s best spots for luxury brands, while Baker Street captures the stories and magic of Sherlock Holmes. Don’t forget to travel north to the peaceful Regent’s Park or south for Oxford Street shopping.
Must-Do Marylebone Experiences
- Visit the home of the famous fictional detective at The Sherlock Holmes Museum.
- Admire antiques, sculpture, art and armour from around the world within the palatial Wallace Collection.
- Shop for luxury brands along Oxford Street, such as Dior, Arabian Oud and Adidas.
Top Hotels in Marylebone
The Prince Akatoki London
The Prince Akatoki London exudes boutique style and sophistication just minutes from the high street shopping on Oxford, Regent and Bond streets. While it’s surrounded by numerous enticing restaurants, the hotel offers its own gourmet dining experience in Hunter 486 Restaurant and Bar, which has a Martini Library and Champagne Lounge. The award-winning hotel also has an on-site art gallery, gym and family-focused packages.
Choose from a range of rooms and one, two or three-bedroom suites, such as the Standard Room with a rain shower and bespoke wallpaper or the Junior Suite with a bath and writing desk. Soak up the opulence in the Chancer Suite, which has a kitchenette and Egyptian cotton bedding, or go all out on the Westminster Suite to enjoy bathroom TVs and waterfall showers.
Nearby Attractions
- The Wallace Collection (700 metres)
- Selfridges London department store (600 metres)
- Manchester Square (700 metres)
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 260 – USD 559
Guest Rating: 9.9
Address: 50 Great Cumberland Place, Marylebone, London, United Kingdom
The Montcalm Marble Arch
You’ll quickly realise upon arrival why The Montcalm Marble Arch has won numerous awards for luxury and service. This grand hotel boasts magnificent decor and style within its 153 guest rooms and suites, which all feature LCD TVs, a pillow menu and in-room aroma choices. Certain rooms and all the suites also feature access to the Executive Club, which offers complimentary breakfast and evening canapes.
Take advantage of the on-site wellness facilities, such as the fitness centre and exclusive spa packages. Certain spa treatments are also complimentary to guests staying in a suite. The Crescent Restaurant & Lounge offers high tea and a gourmet dinner menu, while Nirvana Bar features a range of whiskey, beer and wine.
Nearby Attractions
- Hyde Park (500 metres)
- The Wallace Collection (750 metres)
- Grosvenor Casino The Victoria London (600 metres)
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 86 – USD 673
Guest Rating: 9.5
Address: 2 Wallenberg Place W1H 7TN, Marylebone, London, United Kingdom
Hotel Location
Why You Should Stay in South Bank
Looking for art, entertainment and fine dining? Look no further than London’s South Bank, where the London Aquarium, London Dungeon, London Eye and National Theatre all sit along the River Thames. Sunny days see locals and visitors strolling, dining and browsing open-air markets along the river, while nights call forth boutique bars, live music, theatrical performances and waterfront dining.
Must-Do South Bank Experiences
- Catch a world-famous play, musical or Shakespeare production at the National Theatre.
- Meet thousands of sea creatures from around the world at the London Aquarium.
- Grab a drink Mulberry Bush or The Thirsty Bear before strolling through the Bernie Spain Gardens.
Top Hotels in South Bank
Sea Containers London
Nestled on the River Thames, the 5-star Sea Containers London has amazed HotelsCombined visitors with its incredible London vistas and excellent on-site dining. The latter is evident at the Sea Containers restaurant, which serves locally-sourced ingredients, and the Dandelyan bar, which overlooks the Thames. Don’t forget to visit the rooftop bar, Rumpus Room, for drinks on the outdoor terrace or agua Spa for a personalised treatments.
Want to soak up views of the River Thames? Book the River View Deluxe room, which also comes with a king-size bed and marble bathroom. Alternatively, stay in one of the luxe suites, such as the River View Loft Suite with a rain shower and separate living area or the River View Apartment with a wet bar, cloakroom and dining table.
Nearby Attractions
- Shakespeare’s Globe (750 metres)
- Tate Modern (500 metres)
- National Theatre (450 metres)
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 160 – USD 3,064
Guest Rating: 9.4
Address: 20 Upper Ground, South Bank, London, United Kingdom
Corinthia London
Just across the Hungerford Bridge from South Bank, Corinthia London is a staple of luxury in England’s capital city. It boasts seven exquisite penthouses, including The Actor’s Penthouse with fireplaces and cocktail cabinet and The Musician’s Penthouse with a Steinway Model O piano and private elevator. Alternatively, save money by staying in the contemporary rooms or suites with king-size beds and marble bathrooms.
Treat yourself to afternoon tea in the hotel’s Crystal Moon Lounge, peruse the extensive cocktail menu at Bassoon Bar or dine at Michelin-starred chef Tom Kerridge’s restaurant, Kerridge’s Bar & Grill. You also have access to the four-floor ESPA Life spa with a vitality pool, swimming pool, amphitheatre sauna and ice fountain.
Nearby Attractions
- Coca-Cola London Eye (700 metres)
- The London Dungeon (800 metres)
- Jubilee Gardens (550 metres)
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 480 – USD 3,039
Guest Rating: 9.7
Address: Whitehall Place, St James, London, United Kingdom
Hotel Location
Why You Should Stay in Soho
You instantly feel the buzzing energy of Soho, a lively West End neighbourhood renowned for its live music venues and theatres around Shaftesbury Avenue. Seek out retail therapy along Carnaby, Oxford and Regent streets or sip on Pimm’s in Soho Square Gardens or Golden Square. Soho attracted Mozart and the Sex Pistols back in the day and still retains its artsy and exclusive draw.
Must-Do Soho Experiences
- Watch one of London’s long-running musicals at the Palace Theatre or Queen’s Theatre.
- Stroll down Carnaby Street while browsing local boutiques or ducking into charming coffee shops.
- Admire international photography showcased across three floors in The Photographers’ Gallery.
Top Hotels in Soho
The Soho Hotel Firmdale Hotels
The Soho Hotel Firmdale Hotels London boasts almost 100 individually designed rooms and suites, all of which feature floor-to-ceiling windows, flat-screen TVs and complimentary Wi-Fi. The Two Bedroom Terrace Suite is a London dream with its drawing room, two-person shower and wraparound terrace, while the Superior Rooms offer queen-size beds and granite bathrooms.
Refuel Bar & Restaurant serves contemporary European cuisine and high tea, while the Film Club offers weekly screenings of hit movies. Indulge in a body or beauty treatments at Temple Spa, work out in the on-site gym or treat the kids to DVDs and popcorn or a Nintendo Wii.
Nearby Attractions
- Prince Edward Theatre (350 metres)
- The Photographers’ Gallery (700 metres)
- Soho Square Gardens (240 metres)
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 429 – USD 4,207
Guest Rating: 9.8
Address: 4 Richmond Mews, Soho, London, United Kingdom
Hotel Cafe Royal
Ideally located for high street shopping on Regent Street, the extravagant Hotel Cafe Royal has been welcoming famous faces for more than 150 years, including David Bowie, Oscar Wilde and Muhammad Ali. As a guest, you have access to fresh sushi at Laurent restaurant, award-winning afternoon tea at Oscar Wilde Lounge and unique cocktails at Green Bar and Ziggy’s.
Don’t forget to book a signature treatment at the Akasha wellness centre, which also features a gym and lounge bar. The guest rooms, suites and signature suites offer varying levels of luxury amenities, such as marble bathrooms, designer kitchens and an original Tudor fireplace. However, the pinnacle of luxury is the Royal Wing with its private butler, 13 bedrooms and Bang and Olufsen entertainment systems.
Nearby Attractions
- Golden Square (280 metres)
- Carnaby Street (550 metres)
- Apollo Theatre (210 metres)
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 500 – USD 1,651
Guest Rating: 9.2
Address: 68 Regent Street, West End – Mayfair, Soho, London, United Kingdom
Hotel Location
Why You Should Stay in South Kensington
History and art lovers are spoilt in South Kensington, where you’ll find most of the city’s free-to-enter museums and galleries. South Kensington packs a lot into its small area, from high street shopping and tranquil gardens to live concerts and performances at the Royal Albert Hall. Just north of South Kensington you’ll find the walking trails, grassy areas and magnificent Serpentine of Hyde Park.
Must-Do South Kensington Experiences
- Admire a wealth of history and innovation at the free-to-enter Natural History Museum, Science Museum and Victoria and Albert Museum.
- Witness a classical music performance at the Royal Albert Hall.
- Relax under the sun with a picnic or drinks at Prince Gardens or Ennismore Gardens.
Top Hotels in South Kensington
The Milestone Hotel
Old-world elegance, pristine artwork and rich luxury abound throughout The Milestone Hotel, one of London’s most revered boutique accommodations. You can rent your own private residence on site to enjoy a separate lounge, kitchen and a chauffeur. Alternatively, stay in one of the vintage-inspired rooms or suites, such as the Deluxe King with a mini bar and bathrobes or the Viscount Suite with Kensington Gardens views and a four-poster king-size bed.
The hotel showcases exceptional food and drinks in its on-site restaurants, including modern British cuisine at Cheneston’s Restaurant and private dining at The Oratory. Relax with a rejuvenating spa treatment or get the most out of your workout with a yoga coach.
Nearby Attractions
- Kensington Palace (450 metres)
- Natural History Museum (1 kilometre)
- Royal Albert Hall (750 metres)
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 446 – USD 736
Guest Rating: 9.8
Address: 1 Kensington Court, South Kensington, London, United Kingdom
Number Sixteen Firmdale Hotels
Nestled in the heart of South Kensington, Number Sixteen Firmdale Hotels features individually designed and decorated rooms. This includes the Single Rooms and Queen Rooms, while Luxury Rooms also come with garden views and work desks. Alternatively, stay in the Sumner Room for a king-size bed, walk-in wardrobe and Sumner Place views.
The hotel boasts an on-site orangery and garden, perfect for breakfast or high tea, along with a drawing room, library and DVD collection. Right outside you’ll find the South Kensington tube station and a wealth of bars and restaurants.
Nearby Attractions
- Victoria and Albert Museum (500 metres)
- Science Museum (600 metres)
- Kensington Gardens (1.2 kilometres)
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 411 – USD 619
Guest Rating: 9.5
Address: 16 Sumner Place, South Kensington, London, United Kingdom
Hotel Location
Live Like Royalty in London’s Best Hotels & Neighbourhoods
London has a penchant for charming its visitors with its regal history, entertaining theatre culture, stunning gardens and riverside dining and markets. The highlighted neighbourhoods above showcase some of London’s best areas to explore and offer easy access to the rest of the city. The most popular hotels in each neighbourhood typically boast on-site restaurants, luxurious rooms and suites and wellness facilities.
Where will you stay in London? Let us know in the comments below.
