13 best affordable hotels in London that don't sacrifice on style
Even when you're on the hunt for the best affordable hotels in London, style and comfort don’t have to take a backseat. You can still enjoy a room that feels chic, a bed that invites a proper lie-in, and little touches that make your stay feel special.
While there are loads of incredibly boujee hotels in London – from family friendly London hotels to romantic escapes – we appreciate that sometimes, affordability is key. Luckily, finding a place to stay that is both chic and fits your budget are not mutually exclusive, and we've found 13 of them.
Whether you're in town for work, and want a fab co-working space or place to meet other people, or you're travelling as part of a hen group and need a central base to get ready at and for the breakfast debrief, we've got you covered with these affordable hotels in London.
Best budget hotels in London at a glance
- Best for couples: The Mitre Hotel, Hampton Court
- Best for tourists: Lime Tree Hotel, Belgravia
- Best for business: Pullman, St Pancras
- Best for foodies: The Hoxton, Shepherds Bush
- Best for a home-from-home: Buckle Street Studios by Locke, Aldgate
Other places to stay in London:
- The best hotels in London overall
- Best family friendly hotels in London
- The most romantic hotels in London
- The best Airbnbs in London
What are you waiting for? Scroll for our full edit of the most affordable hotels in London and get planning that city break now…
The Hoxton, Southwark
Why we love it: Located aside London's Blackfrairs Bridge and within walking distance of Waterloo, Southbank, The London Eye and St. Paul's cathedral, this might just be our favourite Hoxton property in the city. The 192 independently designed rooms – each decked out with comfy beds, Crittall-style windows and marble surfaces – make for a chic base for exploring the city. But it's the communal areas that actually make this place so special. The relaxed, all-day Albie restaurant serves breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner – and is a buzzy place from which to work or meet – while the rooftop Seabird restaurant is worth a visit in its own right. Just perfect as the sun sets in the summer, it serves up panoramic views of the city and seafood dishes of Portuguese and Spanish influence.
- Star rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
- Best for: Rooftop restaurant.
Price per night: from £190 per night. - Nearest tube: Southwark
Address: 40 Blackfriars Road, Southwark, London, SE1 8PB, United Kingdom.
Hilton Bankside, Southwark
Why we love it: Booking a hotel in London south of the river might not seem like the obvious idea, but it’s actually one of the best spots to stay in if you like a calmer vibe – you won't be caught up in the more chaotic hot spots like Leicester Square or Soho.
Situated near Southwark tube station, Hilton Bankside is only a three-minute walk away from the Tate Modern, a 10-minute walk away from Borough Market and only a 19 minute walk away from the London Eye for the obligatory photo op. I could go on!
The design-led Hilton hotel has a smart, elegant feel – with dark woods, unique lamps and luxurious leather to really make you feel like you’re travelling first class. The room itself is spacious with colourful touches – and bathrobes that are some of the softest we’ve ever felt in a hotel. As for the restaurant, it goes above and beyond of what is expected of a hotel chain. The pool and gym is a welcome addition, too.
- Star rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
- Best for: A stylish spot close to the river.
- Price per night: from £219 per night.
- Nearest tube: Southwark
- Address: 2-8 Great Suffolk Street London SE1 0UG United Kingdom
@ STEFAN ZANDERNYX Hotel London Holborn
Why we love it: Just a stone’s throw away from Holborn station, the spray-paint mural on the building's facade is hard to miss for all the right reasons. Inside, you're welcomed by friendly staff and vibrant contemporary art motifs that set the tone for an energetic atmosphere, this definitely feels like a haven for the Gen-Z traveller. With only a quick stroll to Oxford Circus, Covent Garden, and The Strand, it's a great central spot for a city break or staycation. The Midtown restaurant reminds us of Williamsburg, Brooklyn, offering laid-back dining with a menu that's cherry-picked from America and the Middle East. Where else can you order a Vietnamese Banh Mi sandwich, Za'atar roasted cauliflower, and a surf-and-turf? Their playful twist on classic cocktails is seriously upmarket not to mention delicious - the Spicy Watermelon Quilt Tini was a repeat order.
The rooms have a tonne of character, intentional mood lighting work well with moody textures and fabrics, accented by retro neon lights. What impressed me were the fully stocked amenities available to guests, including Nespresso machines, professional hair dryers, and gorgeous Gilchrist & Soames toiletries in full-sized dispensers, so all you really need to pack is your toothbrush! Before your evening kicks off, slip into your robe and slippers and make your way to the Rena Spa. Whether you prefer a workout, sauna/steam room, or a dip in the 13m heated pool, the well-equipped gym and yoga/pilates classes has something for everyone according to your relaxation style. We highly recommend booking their signature "Marine Experience" treatment to experience the full indulgence. If you are a frequent solo traveller, this is the perfect city oasis.
- Star rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
- Best for: Value & Solo travel
- Price per night: From £181
- Nearest Tube: Holborn
- Address: 50-60 Southampton Row, London
Sea Containers, Waterloo
Why we love it: Located on the banks of the River Thames – and therefore one of the best hotels in London for river views – Sea Containers is inspired by the design of a 1920s/Edwardian transatlantic cruise liner. Attractions like The Tate and Shakespeare's Globe Theatre are within a 10 minute walk, but if you're just too comfortable to leave, you'll find a riverside restaurant, cocktail bar, Agua Spa and rooftop terrace on site. As for the decor? It has been designed by award-winning interior mastermind Tom Dixon – with features like marble bathrooms and rainfall showers making an appearance.
- Star rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
- Best for: river walks.
- Price per night: from £200.
- Nearest tube: Southwark
- Address: 20 Upper Ground, Southwark, London, SE1 9PD.
Buckle Street Studios by Locke, Aldgate
Why we love it: These gorgeous apartments come with a fully equipped kitchen and living area with a large dining table and are both modern yet homey. The interiors are exceptional: the designers used a lot of curved furniture and smooth arches to create that serene aesthetic. The location is chef's kiss, tucked away a few minutes' walk from the hustle and bustle of East London with plenty of transport nearby. There’s also super-fast Wi-Fi, a smart HD TV for those late-night Netflix sessions, and plenty of USB sockets which is always a bonus. This is the perfect stay for business travellers, or people that want to explore the city but will likely spend a bit of time in the hotel.
- Star rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
- Best for: For real life living with a bit of added luxury.
- Price per night: from £172.
- Nearest tube: Aldgate.
- Address: 21 Buckle St, London E1 8DB.
The Rookery, Clerkenwell
Why we love it: Set in central London's fashionable Clerkenwell area, The Rookery offers charming rooms with elegant period furnishings. Indeed, stepping inside is like travelling back in time, (albeit without the unpleasant smells), with flagstone floors, wood panelling and genuine antique furniture - plus a lovely wood fireplace, ideal on a soggy London day. With a home-away-from-home atmosphere, it prides itself on its members' club feel, with an honesty bar, 24-hour room service, dry cleaning, laundry and a concierge who can get you tickets to anything.
- Star rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
- Best for: Winter staycays.
- Price per night: from £189.
- Closest tube: Farringdon
- Address: 12 Peter's Ln, Cowcross St, London EC1M 6DS.
Mark WeeksPullman, St Pancras
Why we love it: Appearances can be deceiving: from the outside, we were expecting a really basic businessman's bed-for-the-night, but inside, it's so much more! With floor to ceiling glass windows and vibrant decor, plus modern furnishings, its a perfectly chic spot to prop yourself up with your laptop or a cocktail. Rooms are no frills, with everything you need but nothing fancy. The best bits, in this order, is the 50-gin menu in the GA Bar and the stained glass elevator. Both are giving Willy Wonka vibes.
- Star rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
- Best for: Business.
- Price per night: from £185.
- Nearest tube: Kings Cross
- Address: 100 - 110 Euston Rd, London NW1 2AJ.
Broken Wharf by Locke Living
Why we love it: With an interior design vibe that will most definitely remind you of a certain Soho members club, Locke's Broken Wharf branch comes complete with everything you'd need for a working stay or, equally, a short stay in the Big Smoke. Perfectly located in the financial district for professionals and a stone's throw from the East London nightlife for casual travellers (with Queen of Hoxton and Crispin restaurant just a 20 minute walk away) Locke BW is a no brainer for city stays. The coffee bar downstairs serves artisan barista made brews, while the Solstice x Locke restaurant serves up Mediterranean-inspired food and cocktails with a gorgeous view of the Thames.
- Star rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
- Best for: City breaks and remote working
- Price per night: From £143 per night.
- Nearest tube: Mansion House
- Address: 2 Broken Wharf Broken Quay House, City of London, EC4V 3DT
The Hoxton, Shepherds Bush
Why we love it: The Hoxton is arguably the coolest hotel chain in the capital: the brains behind the Seabird-topped Southwark edition and the OG Shoreditch property. So, when news dropped that The Hoxton were opening a new spot in West London's Shepherd's Bush, we couldn't have been more excited. Almost guaranteed to put the Notting Hill and Hammersmith-sandwiched neighbourhood on the map – which, up until now, has been known for Westfield and little else – this new opening feels better suited to a side street in Brooklyn than Shepherd's Bush Green. The glass exterior is splashed with theatre-style signage, and inside, you'll find 237 cosy rooms complete with abstract headboards, original artworks, vintage radios that sound on your arrival and ambient lighting. Downstairs, after bypassing the lounging locals who have come to work or catch up with colleagues over a cocktail, you'll find Chet's. The on-site Thai-American diner which might just be the star of the show. Behind it? Kris Yenbamroong, of James Beard-nominated NIGHT + MARKET in LA, who has injected tantalising Thai flavours into American classics. Think: wings, steak topped with chimichurri and chilli and lemongrass-infused bodega breakfast sandwiches. So, so good. Sure, the location of this swish hotel is a little questionable - but the central line will have you in central London in a matter of minutes, and we're certain that the on-the-beat Hoxton team know a little something about Shepherd's Bush' future desirability that we've not yet cottoned onto.
- Star rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
- Best for: Having a chic West London go-to up your sleeve.
- Price per night: from £174.
- Nearest tube: Shepherd's Bush Market
- Address: The Hoxton, 65 Shepherd's Bush Green, London W12 8QE.
Kingsland by Locke, Dalston
Why we love it: The ‘Superb’ rating on Booking.com speaks for itself with this hotel, but we think you'll agree with its rave reviews. It's not as central as others, being located in eclectic Dalston, but we think that makes exploring the city that little bit more fun. The stylish interiors reflect the colours and vibrancy of the surrounding neighbourhood, think: recycled materials, luscious plants and contrasting textures. Downstairs, there are lots of spaces to work, eat and sip coffee – plus a microbrewery and co-working space.
- Star rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
- Best for: Exploring East London.
- Price per night: from £88.
- Closest Tube: Dalston Kingsland
- Address: 130 Kingsland High St, London E8 2LQ.
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The Mitre Hotel, Hampton Court
Why we love it: Sitting right on the banks of the Thames and with Hampton Court Palace a stone’s throw away, The Mitre Hotel - built in 1665 - is a true piece of London history and you can feel it. After a revamp just before the pandemic, the interiors are what really make The Mitre feel unique. Gorgeous bespoke wallpapers, accents of colour and quirky styling notes make for sumptuous rooms and cosy nooks - check out the Library room with jukebox for a post-dinner tipple. Summer nights see the Whispering Angel Bar - a GLAMOUR team favourite - come to life on the outdoor terrace where you could spend hours on the decking, watching river life go by. Dinner in the rotunda, twin-deck brasserie is worth a visit alone - try the cauliflower popcorn. They also do gorgeous afternoon teas and brunches if you are just passing by or visiting the palace. For a really special stay make sure you book the Catherine Parr Suite with a huge in-room bronze bath or the King Henry VIII suite, for a view of the river. With room treats like homemade shortbread and a bottle of King’s Ginger, the team at The Mitre really look after you. With easy access into and out of London it is perfect for a home from home getaway.
- Star rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
- Best for: Boutique hotel vibes and visiting Hampton Court Palace.
- Price per night: from £150 B&B.
- Closest tube station: Hampton Court national rail station
- Address: Hampton Ct Rd, Molesey, East Molesey KT8 9BN.
Jake EasthamLime Tree Hotel, Belgravia
Why we love it: A 26-bedroom hotel nestled in the heart of Belgravia, Lime Tree Hotel is perfectly positioned for exploring one of London's classiest neighbourhoods, as well as attractions including Buckingham Palace, Sloane Square, Westminster and Piccadilly. Rooms are supremely comfy with classic Farrow & Ball hues, printed wallpaper and modern art (plus Bramley goodies in the bathroom). The hotel's new restaurant, The Buttery, is not to be missed for a delicious brunch and top-quality cup of coffee before your day of exploring. The hotel also has a secret garden oasis at the back, perfect for sipping a cocktail in the summer. Plus, don't miss cupcakes from Insta-famous, head-to-toe pink café Peggy Porschen just opposite the hotel.
- Star rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
- Best for: An affordable stay in boujee Belgravia.
- Price per night: from £135.
- Nearest tube: Victoria
- Address: 135-137 Ebury St, SW1W 9QU
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The Bedford, Balham
Why we love it: The Bedford in Balham – iconic and a cornerstone of the community, for those who live close – is best known for being a bustle-filled pub and live music menu with circus-themed interiors. But it also has 15 rooms upstairs, each individually designed (not in the same circus theme, worry not) and utterly charming. Sure to be adored by the London-visiting maximalist, The Bedford's colours and prints are characteristically bold – with photogenic bath tubs, sweeping velvet armchairs and impressive chandeliers. The likes of Paolo Nutini and Ed Sheeran have been known to stay, so you'll be in good company if you do check in. Best of all, you won't have far to roll after your night downstairs at one of five bars.
- Star rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
- Best for: A live music venue with rooms.
- Price per night: from £119 per night for a double room.
- Nearest tube: Balham.
- Address: 77 Bedford Hill, Wandsworth, London.
