The 10 Best Hotels in Central London (2026) — from a London Travel Blogger
Looking for the best hotels in Central London? Here’s the best hotels to call home while you explore the busiest part of the capital — from a Londoner and London Travel Blogger!
LOOKING FOR THE BEST HOTELS IN CENTRAL LONDON?
Deciding where to stay for the night amidst the hustle and bustle of London can get quite overwhelming — there’s just too many choices!
But don’t sweat it. I’ve put together a list of the absolute best handpicked hotels right in the heart of Central London. Ideal for sightseeing and effortless travel in the capital.
Don’t have to read the whole article? The best hotel near London’s tourist attractions is the citizenM Bankside.
This 4 Star ⭐️ hotel is minutes away of the famous Tate Modern, the iconic Borough Market and the London Bridge, with smart rooms for an extra comfy stay.
You’ll have all the cool sights from the historic Tower of London to the lively vibes of Piccadilly Circus at the foot of your (hotel) doorstep. As well as a thriving restaurant scene, exciting theatre performances in the West End, cultural hubs like the National Gallery, and endless shopping opportunities on Oxford Street.
So whether you fancy a posh pampering or a quirky boutique tucked away on a cute little street (London has plenty), here’s a list of the best Central London hotels to consider.
Top 3 Picks: Best Hotels in Central London
#1 TOP PICK
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
citizenM Bankside
✔️ 2-minute walk from the Tate Modern, near Borough Market
✔️ Smart trendy bedrooms
✔️ 3 restaurants, with breakfast buffet available
#2 PICK
Treehouse Hotel London
✔️ 500 metres from Oxford Circus
✔️ Terrace, restaurant and bar with amazing views of London
#3 PICK
Park Plaza County Hall London
✔️ 5-minute walk from the London Eye
✔️ Restaurant & Bar with Mediterranean cuisine
Best Hotels in Central London
1. citizenM London Bankside
If you’re looking for a modern and comfortable stay within walking distance of London’s top attractions, this is the one to book.
⭐️ Rated: 4 out of 5 Stars | 📍Location: Southwark (2-minute walk from the Tate Modern) | Check rates & availability
Situated in the heart of London, citizenM London Bankside is a stylish contemporary hotel that’ll show you what comfort, smart and convenience is.
The modern and trendy rooms are not only beautifully decorated and extra comfortable. They’re also controlled with the room iPad (or the free app you can download to your phone) to set the lights, blinds, curtains and temperature to your preference; as well as Chromecast your own streaming services to the TV.
“Compact and efficient room, loved the different light function. Excellent blinds made for a great night sleep with no disruption.”
– SÍOFRA (SEE MORE REVIEWS)
The hotel has three different restaurants, shared living areas, and free iMacs available to all guests. Plus, you have the option to enjoy a breakfast buffet ahead of your activity-packed day.
Rooms at the citizenM Bankside go from £110 per night, and it’s the perfect option for those wanting to explore both East and West London. As it’s situated kind of midway, around London Bridge.
2. Treehouse London
If you’re looking for a stay near the most bustling part of Central London, this is the one to book.
⭐️ Rated: 4 out of 5 Stars | 📍Location: Langham Place (500 metres from Oxford Circus) | Check rates & availability
The Treehouse Hotel London is the definition of Central, as it’s conveniently located near Oxford Street, Tottenham Court Road and Piccadilly Circus.
This comfortable stay is super popular not only due to its location, but for the incredible views from both the rooms and the terrace, the excellent concierge service, and the delicious restaurants on site.
“The hotel was a hidden gem that lived up to all expectations. It was quirky and cosy with an atmosphere of complete relaxation.”
– TINA (SEE MORE REVIEWS)
Their rooms go from £287 per night, and it’s perfect for those that want to really have it all within a few quick steps *cue shopping options, great food, entertainment and, of course, London tourist attractions*.
3. Park Plaza County Hall London
If you’re looking for the accommodation closest to the London Eye and Big Ben, this is the one to book.
⭐️ Rated: 4 out of 5 Stars | 📍Location: Lambeth (5 minutes from the London Eye) | Check rates & availability
The Park Plaza County Hall London places you in the best spot of Central London, near the London Eye and the stunning Big Ben.
As it’s near to South Bank, you’ll be able to absorb the best food and entertainment London has to offer, with gorgeous views to the River Thames and convenient connections to every single part of the city.
“The room & its facilities were great & the view was just stunning! A completely uninterrupted view of the London Eye, Big Ben & the Houses of Parliament.”
– VANESSA (SEE MORE REVIEWS)
Rooms go from £154 per night and they’re perfect for those that want convenience, but don’t want to compromise on comfort.
You’ll have everything here: a gym with a sauna, an onsite restaurant with yummy English breakfasts every morning, and a stylish bar. What more could you want?
4. The Westminster London, Curio Collection by Hilton
If you’re looking for an award-winning premium experience near everything, this is the one to book.
⭐️ Rated: 4 out of 5 Stars | 📍Location: Westminster (a few minutes from Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament) | Check rates & availability
Modern and stylish decoration throughout, a stylish cocktail bar, an all-day restaurant and the newest fitness centre is just a glimpse of what this award-winning hotel offers to its guests.
The Westminster London, Curio Collection by Hilton, located near the imposing Big Ben, is the Central London hotel of your dreams.
“The beauty of this hotel is its location. It is so close to everything, you don’t need to use the tube/ metro. You are a walking distance from everything you want to see when visiting London.”
– MATISS (SEE MORE REVIEWS)
This is the ultimate premium experience when it comes to Central London hotels, fit with most comfortable beds and impressive views. Book yours from £153 per night.
5. Park Grand London Hyde Park
If you’re looking for easy access to the biggest and most central park in London, this is the one to book.
⭐️ Rated: 4 out of 5 Stars | 📍Location: West End (400 metres from Paddington Station) | Check rates & availability
Having the biggest and most popular park in London, Hyde Park, less than 10 minutes from where you’re staying? Yes please…
The Park Grand London Hyde Park is a great option for a Central London hotel, as you’ll have all the big museums at your disposal immediately after your stroll on the green lung of London. Along with the tourist checklist: Buckingham Palace, Trafalgar Square and more.
“Great location for Paddington station and not far from Kensington Gardens. Staff were friendly and breakfast was good.”
– RHIAN (SEE MORE REVIEWS)
If you’re eager to explore the rest of the city (which I highly recommend), the busy and efficient Paddington Station is right next to you. This station offers the most convenient way to get to Heathrow, securing comfort even at the end of your trip.
You can book one of their modern rooms from £173 per night, with some options including a rich breakfast.
6. Park Grand Paddington Court
If you’re looking for maximum comfort near the fashionable districts, this is the one to book.
⭐️ Rated: 4 out of 5 Stars | 📍Location: Paddington Court | Check rates & availability
With easy access to Hyde Park, the fashionable Mayfair and the popular Oxford Street, the elegant Park Grand Paddington Court London provides a stylish option to sleep like royalty in Central London.
You’ll be near 4 different tube stations to take you anywhere in the city, including Heathrow in a quick 20-minute journey with the newest Express from Paddington.
“I lucked out getting a Black Friday sale and was able to upgrade to this fine hotel. Just a short walk through Hyde Park to Royal Albert Hall and the museums.”
– NEIL (SEE MORE REVIEWS)
The sleek hotel is set in a Victorian building, mixing the old-world feeling with comfortable modern rooms, a cool bar and a delicious restaurant that serves a buffet breakfast daily.
Find your cosy premium room from £134 per person.
7. Park Plaza Westminster
If you’re looking for a stay where you can start your activities as soon as you wake up, this is the one to book.
⭐️ Rated: 4 out of 5 Stars | 📍Location: South Bank (opposite Big Ben) | Check rates & availability
Another gorgeous Park Plaza, this time in Westminster. It’s set opposite the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, on the South Bank. So in less than 5 minutes you’ll get to the London Eye and the hottest restaurants and theatres.
This gorgeous hotel in Central London is the definition of luxury, as it has a swimming pool with a sauna and steam room, an award-winning sushi and sashimi restaurant, an Italian cafe and even live evening entertainment every night.
“Room was exceptionally quiet and spacious. Bed was super comfy. Nice views. Tasty breakfast. Friendly staff. All was great.”
– SANDRA (SEE MORE REVIEWS)
The connections to other parts of the city are guaranteed by having Westminster and Waterloo tube stations within a short walk. Needless to say the views are among the best in the city.
Book your outstanding room from £169 per night.
8. Z Hotel Covent Garden
If you’re looking for a beautiful hotel in the central and picturesque Covent Garden, this is the one to book.
⭐️ Rated: 4 out of 5 Stars | 📍Location: Covent Garden | Check rates & availability
Staying in Central London doesn’t mean you have to go way out of your budget. This small chain is living proof with their cosy and beautiful Z Covent Garden.
Being right next to the famous Piazza, you’ll have the benefit of jumping onto the comfortable big bed right after you finish exploring the heart of London’s West End. Here’s the best things to do in Covent Garden to get a taste!
“Small, but has everything you expect from a top-end hotel.”
– SIMON (SEE MORE REVIEWS)
If the endless options of restaurant, bars, museums and shops outside of your room (not even exaggerating there) aren’t enough, you’ll have not one but three tube stations to go explore anywhere you want in the city — Covent Garden, Leicester Square and Charing Cross.
Rooms go from £70 per night, so rush before they run out!
9. Artist Residence London
If you’re looking for a boutique stay in the lovely neighbourhood of Pimlico, this is the one to book.
⭐️ Rated: 4 out of 5 Stars | 📍Location: Pimlico (10 minutes from Victoria Station) | Check rates & availability
The Artist Residence London is a chic boutique hotel in Central London with just 10 bedrooms, offering a stylish and award winning stay in the gorgeous neighbourhood of Pimlico, around a 20-minute walk to the famous Big Ben.
This hotel with smart design in its rooms and quirky vintage furniture will make you experience London like a main character, as you’ll have the cutest streets to explore with some of the best brunch spots in the city.
“A wonderfully relaxed & chilled stay at a gem of a hotel in the heart of London. Such attention to detail in the furnishing & a lovely atmosphere.”
– LUCY (SEE MORE REVIEWS)
The hotel also has its own all-day café, restaurant and bar offering a seasonal menu for breakfast, lunch and dinner. And, of course, cool signature cocktails.
Find your room from £325 per night and enjoy the trip of your dreams.
10. Shangri-La Hotel
If you’re looking for a rockstar stay in an iconic London landmark, this is the one to book.
⭐️ Rated: Perfect 5 Stars | 📍Location: The Shard | Check rates & availability
Let’s finish the list of the best hotels in Central London with a bang, adding the world-famous Shangri-La The Shard with the most breathtaking views of London (and beyond!).
This hotel, occupying levels 34-52 of the tallest building in the UK, will make you feel like a celebrity as you enjoy an exquisite meal or a cocktail in the highest bar in London.
“Definitely a bucket list stay – The view of course was sensational. The room was beautiful and luxurious. The staff were very attentive.”
– KATHY (SEE MORE REVIEWS)
Regarding connections, well you’re a short walk away from anything: Tower Bridge, the London Eye, Big Ben and more. Or you’ll have London Bridge station right next to you.
The elegant Oriental rooms are not cheap, but they’re definitely worth it. They go from £570 per night and featuring floor-to-ceiling windows for spectacular views of the city.
Hotels in Central London FAQ
💭 When is the best time to book a hotel in London?
The best time to book a hotel in London is typically a few months before your trip, during off-peak seasons when you’re more likely to get good rates and secure the room of your dreams. Or during Black Friday!
💭 How much does it cost to stay in a hotel in London?
The cost of a hotel in London varies widely based on the hotel’s star rating, location, and the time of year. But it typically ranges from budget options around £40 to luxury stays (definitely) over £300.
💭 Which area should I choose for my hotel in London?
For a quintessential London experience, the West End, Covent Garden, or Mayfair are ideal areas to choose for your hotel in London. All in Central London!
💭 Are there any hidden charges I should be aware of when booking a hotel in London?
Yes, just be aware as some hotels in London might have additional charges like service fees or taxes not included in the advertised room rate.
💭 Do London hotels offer airport transfer services?
Many hotels in London do offer airport transfers, but you should check each hotel’s amenities or contact the hotel directly to confirm. Most people use public transport anyway, as it’s cheap and extremely convenient. Here’s how to get around London.
💭 Are London hotels family-friendly?
Of course! Many London hotels offer amenities such as adjoining rooms, baby cots, and family-friendly activities.
Thanks for reading my Best Hotels in Central London Guide. If you enjoyed it, let me know on Instagram!
CHECK OUT MORE LONDON GUIDES:
- Top 10 Attractions to Visit in London
- 10 Best Hotels in London Near Tourist Attractions – from a London Travel Blogger
- The Best London Hotels with Swimming Pools
- How to Get from Gatwick Airport to Central London: A Quick Guide
- How to Get from Stansted Airport to Central London
- How to Get to Central London from London City Airport
- How to Get Around London: Your Ultimate Transport Guide
- Oyster vs Contactless: Which Should I Use?
- 10 Unique Experiences in London to Try
- 10 Tourist Mistakes Not to Make in London
- London Neighbourhood Guides
Happy Londoning,
