London Calling: Our Editors Name the Top 32 Hotels in the UK's Cosmopolitan Capital

London Calling: Our Editors Name the Top 32 Hotels in the UK's Cosmopolitan Capital - Historic Hotels Offer Royal Treatment

With a history stretching back more than 2,000 years, London offers no shortage of historic hotels that transport guests back to the city's royal past. Staying in one of these storied properties provides a uniquely British experience you simply can't find anywhere else.

Properties like The Savoy and Claridge's ooze old world elegance and charm. Their lobbies and common areas resemble the stately homes of English nobility, with lavish furnishings and opulent decor. Many rooms feature canopied beds fit for royalty. Historic architectural details abound, from coffered ceilings to marble fireplaces. The Savoy occupies a prime spot on the Strand, offering views of the River Thames. Claridge's rose to fame hosting royalty and A-list celebs. Both hotels pamper guests with impeccable service and indulgent amenities like afternoon tea, Michelin-starred dining, and luxury spa treatments.

Corinthia London overlooks Trafalgar Square and houses the city’s largest spa. This grand Victorian property once served as governmental offices before its transformation into a hotel. Corinthia proudly displays artifacts and furnishings from its days hosting British politicians and diplomats. Stay in a suite named for a former prime minister or dine like a royal in the grand ballroom.

For a quintessential English countryside retreat, head just outside London to Hartwell House. This stately Jacobean manor provides a relaxing escape from the bustling city. Sip tea by the fireplace, play croquet on lush lawns, or stroll through formal English gardens. With a history dating back to the 12th century, Hartwell House offers old world ambiance combined with modern luxuries like a spa and fine dining.

London also boasts small boutique hotels packed with history and charm. The Zetter Townhouse takes you back to 1840s London with quirky themed rooms and a cozy lounge. Enjoy old fashioneds in the parlor or afternoon tea in the atrium. The Goring Hotel hosted Kate Middleton before her wedding to Prince William. This family-owned property drips with British sophistication, from its perfumed hallways to the impeccable garden.

London Calling: Our Editors Name the Top 32 Hotels in the UK's Cosmopolitan Capital - Boutique Hotels Provide Intimate Luxury

While London certainly doesn’t lack for luxury hotels, discerning travelers seeking a more intimate, bespoke experience flock to the city’s crop of boutique properties. These smaller, design-focused hotels deliver personalized service and charm you simply won’t find at larger chain hotels.

One standout is The Ned, set in a former 1920s bank building in the Financial District. With just 252 rooms and suites housed within the maze of the old banking halls, The Ned feels like your own private club in the heart of the City. Dining options abound, from a New York-style deli to rooftop poolside cocktails. Book a treatment at the old-school barber shop or unwind in the spa set in the bank’s original vault.

Over in Kensington, the 11-room The Gore Hotel provides a cozy home away from home on a quiet tree-lined street. 8000 handmade ceramic stars twinkle across the ceiling in the lively bar, where guests mingle nightly for complimentary champagne and oysters. Sink into a plush chair by the working fireplace in your room or suite after enjoying candlelit meals showcasing seasonal British cuisine.

For understated bohemian chic with a rock n’ roll edge, check out The Curtain in Shoreditch. This 120-room newbuild forgoes stuffy formality in favor of laid back sophistication. Think down pillows, organic cotton sheets, and rainfall showers, plus a rooftop pool and stunning city views. Stop by the expansive lobby bar any time of day or night for craft cocktails and live music.

Over in South Kensington, the 49-room The Pelham balances contemporary styling with quintessential English touches like tiger-print carpets and floral porcelain sinks. Work up an appetite boxing with your personal trainer, then indulge in a relaxing spa treatment. Satisfy your sweet tooth with pastries at the tearoom or handcrafted chocolate from the in-house chocolatier.

For tranquility and pampering just steps from bustling Covent Garden, look no further than the Covent Garden Hotel. This 58-room refuge feels like an elegant private home, adorned with eclectic art and antiques. Unwind with a massage before heading to the oak-paneled Brasserie Max restaurant, focusing on stellar seasonal British cuisine.

Of course, discerning visitors need not sacrifice modern conveniences and amenities just for old-world ambiance. Boutique hotels like Haymarket Hotel and The Beaumont deftly blend historic architectural details with contemporary styling and cutting-edge technology.

At the Haymarket Hotel, an opulent belle epoque property in the Theater District, guests control in-room entertainment and lighting via iPads. The Beaumont channels 1920s Art Deco flair with its swanky American-style bar and grill, elegant spa, and private cinema.

London Calling: Our Editors Name the Top 32 Hotels in the UK's Cosmopolitan Capital - Quirky Themed Rooms Give Personality

Looking to add some whimsy and personality to your London visit? Skip the staid chain hotels and book one of the city’s uniquely themed suites or guest rooms. Quirky, imaginative themes transport you to fantastical realms and satisfy your inner child.

At The Curtain’s Timber Room, it’s always Christmas in London. Decked out floor to ceiling in faux evergreens, the rustic chic space features wood-beam ceilings, log cabin beds, and plaid everything. Guests recline beside the (faux) fireplace and enjoy miles of glittering lights. It’s an Alpine winter wonderland smack dab in Shoreditch. A stay in the Timber Room includes Christmas-themed cocktails and cookies. Fa la la indeed!

Or channel your inner Alice with a stay at Sanderson London’s Alice in Wonderland themed suite. Enter through a tiny secret door into a world of giant mushrooms, intricate murals, and the Cheshire cat’s lingering smile. Curl up on an oversized storybook chair and feel like you’ve fallen down the rabbit hole. Expect the unexpected here – the Mad Hatter may just pop by for tea.

Film and literature buffs adore The Wellesley Hotel’s glamorous 1920s literary-themed suites. The F. Scott Fitzgerald suite transports guests back to the lavish Jazz Age with intricate crown moldings, vintage furnishings, and

gold accents worthy of Jay Gatsby. The suite even includes a writing desk for channeling your inner novelist. Or stay in the hotel’s Oscar Wilde suite, resplendent in green and gold velvet, for serious Dorian Gray vibes.

Gordon Ramsay brings his trademark flair for drama and theatrics to the aptly named Nightmare Suite at his London hotel. Bloody handprints, eerie hospital beds, and “crime scene” cordons set the stage for this gloriously gory Halloween fever dream. Horror movie fans can drift off to frightful slumber surrounded by sinister medical equipment and screamed warnings scrawled on the walls. Sweet dreams!

Kimpton Fitzroy London delights bookworms with literary-inspired suites pulling design elements and themes from classic novels. The Secret Garden suite blooms with floral wallpaper and life-sized faux plants and trees. Curl up with a book on the charming window seat. Or climb the ladder to the cozy sleeping loft in the Alice suite, where curiosities and playing cards abound. Bibliophiles sleep soundly surrounded by their favorite tales brought to life.

London Calling: Our Editors Name the Top 32 Hotels in the UK's Cosmopolitan Capital - Neighborhood Hotels Capture Local Flavor

Beyond the glittering landmarks and famous attractions, London’s spirit resides in its distinctive neighborhoods. For visitors seeking authentic local experiences, neighborhood hotels unlock each area’s unique vibe. By staying in locally-owned boutique hotels instead of big chains, guests meaningfully engage with communities.

Neighborhood hotels spotlight nearby indie shops, cafes, markets, and art galleries that shape the area’s culture. The staff act as guides, sharing insider tips on their stomping grounds. They’ll suggest the pub with the best quiz night, hidden garden squares, open air markets selling handmade wares, and more.

At The Laslett in Notting Hill, midcentury modern design honors the neighborhood’s artistic, free-spirited roots. Relax in a hanging chair in your room before wandering Portobello Road Market. Stop at Hummingbird Bakery for irresistible red velvet cupcakes. Just down the road, The Pilgrm offers a lively gastropub and chic rooms celebrating Paddington’s history as an immigrant hub.

Over in East London’s electric Shoreditch, The Curtain places you in the heart of the action. Street art tours stop right outside, surrounded by indie boutiques and buzzing nightlife. Down the road, Ace Hotel Shoreditch channels East London’s gritty creative spirit. Its expertly curated shops and DJ nights spotlight the best of the local scene.

South Kensington gem The Pelham gives guests exclusive access to lesser-known gems near the museums. Explore meandering laneways lined with independent shops before relaxing in the stately Holland Park. Treat yourself to ethically-sourced English sparkling wine at neighborhood favorite The Little Yellow Door.

By staying at neighborhood-centric hotels like The Zetter Townhouse, Henrietta Hotel, or Ham Yard Hotel in Soho, you’ll experience the soul of an ever-changing, vibrant arts and entertainment district. Dive into late night jazz bars, fringe theatre shows, and the city’s best LGBTQ+ nightlife.

Over in literary Bloomsbury, check out The Academy for a true taste of this leafy intellectual enclave near the British Museum. Browse the hotel’s extensive library showcasing Bloomsbury’s cultural contributions before people-watching in historic Russell Square. Stop for freshly baked pastries and coffee at local favorite Ottolenghi.

Neighborhood hotels like The Hoxton Southwark across the river immerse you in South Bank’s energetic creative scene. Guests mingle with locals in the bustling lobby restaurant, then see an edgy play at the National Theatre next door. Stroll the vibrant riverside path to the Tate Modern and Borough Market.

London Calling: Our Editors Name the Top 32 Hotels in the UK's Cosmopolitan Capital - Business Travelers Choose Top Amenities

While leisure travelers prioritize location, amenities like free breakfast, and maybe an on-site spa, business travelers have an entirely different set of needs and priorities when choosing a hotel. For frequent business travelers, amenities that enhance productivity and efficiency are key. Of course, amenities like reliable high-speed Wi-Fi, 24/7 room service, concierge services, and free airport transfers rank high on the list. But business hotels really go above and beyond to make life easier for road warriors.

Many top business hotels offer state-of-the-art business centers with computers, printers, copiers, and video conferencing capabilities. For executives and freelancers alike, this means maximizing work time from the convenience of the hotel. Conduct video conferences, print important documents, and get work done without having to venture out.

For ultimate productivity, upgraded rooms at hotels like the JW Marriott Singapore South Beach feature integrated work desks with power outlets, USB ports, and thoughtful task lighting. Comfortable desk chairs, noise cancelling headphones, and blackout blinds minimize distractions. Other amenities include easily accessible charging ports on nightstands, so cell phones and other devices stay powered up.

To help globetrotting business travelers overcome jet lag, many properties provide guests with sleep-inducing amenities. Place an order with the pillow menu for options like memory foam or specialized ergonomic pillows. Other hotels like the Ritz-Carlton Dubai International Financial Center offer relaxing LED dawn simulation alarm clocks. These gradually brighten to gently wake guests up. Some properties even employ sleep concierges to consult on your sleep habits.

Fitness also ranks high for road warriors hoping to counter the stresses of frequent travel. Top business hotels offer 24/7 gyms with high-end equipment and amenities like Peloton bikes with streaming classes. Others provide yoga mats and guided meditation videos in rooms. Some urban hotels offer running maps of nearby routes. And business-focused spa treatments target travel-related aches and pains.

Of course, frequent business travelers want efficiency when dining, with flexible options that suit quick working meals or client meetings. On-site restaurants cater to power breakfasts and lunches on the go. Room service and grab-and-go markets offer easy ways to eat in rooms or in busy lobbies and lounges equipped with plenty of outlets.

Business class hotels understand that small touches add up for busy executives. Complimentary shoe shine services tidy up travel-worn footwear. Pressing services refresh wrinkled shirts and suits. Some hotels offer to completely unpack your luggage and neatly store clothes on arrival. Others even provide individualized mini bars stocked with your preferred snacks and beverages.

London Calling: Our Editors Name the Top 32 Hotels in the UK's Cosmopolitan Capital - Families Flock To Kid-Friendly Options

When planning a family vacation to London, finding accommodations that cater to kids is a top priority for parents. Thankfully, the city offers a plethora of kid-friendly hotels ready to charm children while providing weary parents with a much-needed break. These family-focused hotels entice kids with in-demand amenities while also offering parents a comfortable and relaxing stay.

At The Athenaeum Hotel & Residences, kids receive colorful backpacks stuffed with crayons, books, and toys upon check-in. Parents enjoy a peaceful meal at the on-site Michelin-starred restaurant while kids play games and make crafts during complimentary activity hours. The Ritz London arranges half-hour kids’ fitness classes and provides child-sized bathrobes and slippers. Kids slumber party-style in bunk beds in connecting rooms while parents unwind in luxurious peace and quiet.

Premier Inn London County Hall features an indoor playground to tire out energetic kids. Parents sip cocktails in the lounge before picking up perfectly fried fish and chips from the on-site restaurant to enjoy in their spacious family rooms. Novotel London Canary Wharf earns rave reviews for its indoor pool with a twisty waterslide, plus Lego play areas and video game consoles in rooms. A travel-themed kids club keeps children entertained with activities while parents take a break.

The London Marriott Hotel County Hall delights families with its prime location right next to the London Eye. Kids love spotting iconic sites like Big Ben during rides on the giant Ferris wheel. Parents take advantage of the hotel’s babysitting services for a romantic river cruise dinner. Everyone enjoys views of the London Eye from the hotel’s restaurant and many of its spacious rooms and suites.

London family favorite The Chesterfield Mayfair charms kids with child-friendly amenities like storybooks, cookies and milk, and cartoon channels on the in-room TVs. Parents delight in the property's relaxed vibe, full English breakfasts, and evening wine and cheeses. The hotel’s location near Hyde Park gives families easy access to pedal boat rides, playgrounds, and carousel rides to delight children of all ages.

Of course, families hoping to maximize time sightseeing and minimize time spent in hotel rooms appreciate key amenities that make frequent returns with tired, hungry kids easier. Top family hotels offer stroller storage, laundry services, microwaves, and mini-fridges in rooms for snacks and easy meals. Children’s menus and high chairs in on-site restaurants simplify dining with picky palates.

London Calling: Our Editors Name the Top 32 Hotels in the UK's Cosmopolitan Capital - Budget-Friendly Picks Still Impress

Savvy travelers know that an unforgettable London vacation doesn’t require breaking the bank on pricey hotels. The city overflows with affordable accommodation options that deliver comfort, convenience, and charm without the steep price tags. Forget cramped, dreary dorms – London’s budget-friendly hotels provide impeccably clean, thoughtfully designed rooms and lively social atmospheres.

Take The Dictionary Hostel in Shoreditch. This cheeky hostel channels a love of words and books with dictionary-themed rooms and clever literary nods throughout. Guests mingle and swap travel tales over free breakfast in the on-site cafe. The Dictionary also offers private double rooms with chic, minimalist decor, ensuite bathrooms, and indulgent rainshowers.

Over in South Kensington, B+B Belgravia surprises budget travelers with its swanky townhouse ambiance. This contemporary guesthouse pampers travelers with complimentary refreshments, modern bathrooms, and comfy Hypnos beds. Guests enjoy fresh croissants at breakfast before strolling to nearby Hyde Park or world-class museums. Belgravia’s fantastic value in an upscale neighborhood can’t be beat.

In pricey Mayfair, The Walrus Hostel delights visitors with its social atmosphere and handy location near top sites like Buckingham Palace and Piccadilly Circus. Guests relax with a pint in the lively Art Deco-style bar or grab discounted tickets to a West End show from the knowledgeable staff. Upgrade to a private double or quad with stylish urban design.

Over in King’s Cross, the Dictionary Hostel keeps budget travelers well connected with friendly service and walkable proximity to Platform 93⁄4 and transport links. After a hearty free breakfast, take your pick from lively bars and eateries next door or jumping on the quick train to central London.

Hostel chain Generator excels at delivering upscale, boutique style lodging on a budget. Their London locations in Bloomsbury and King’s Cross impress with chic, contemporary communal spaces to mingle and refuel around the clock. Guests choose from stylish private rooms or social dorms then enjoy complimentary walking tours.

Euro Hostel London Kensington provides a prime base for exploring Royal Albert Hall, Hyde Park and the museums on a budget. Relax with new friends over a game of pool in the lounge before turning in to your sleek single or double room. Enjoy convenience at this social spot near the Gloucester Road Tube station.

Of course, budget digs need not be limited to hostels. Premier Inn Southwark Borough High Street offers quintessential English comfort close to the Tate Modern, Borough Market, and The Globe. Their clean, modern rooms provide wallet-friendly rates for families. Travelers appreciate the hearty included breakfast, central location, and neighboring pubs.

London Calling: Our Editors Name the Top 32 Hotels in the UK's Cosmopolitan Capital - Hotel Restaurants Dish Up Gourmet Fare

Beyond impeccable service and lavish rooms, London’s finest hotels entice guests with award-winning culinary experiences right onsite. These gourmet restaurants showcase the UK’s extraordinary culinary creativity through market-driven tasting menus, innovative fusions, and locally-sourced seasonal ingredients.

For thoroughly modern British fine dining, Claude Bosi at The Langham London earns 2 Michelin stars. Bosi artfully blends French techniques with British flavors like Lancashire lamb and Scottish venison in dishes like citrus-cured salmon with horseradish cream. Sip English sparkling wines and soak up sleek art deco glamour in this upscale Mayfair restaurant.

Similarly, Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester wows guests with contemporary French cuisine crafted from British ingredients. Ducasse’s artful plates like Cornish turbot with braised leeks and vin jaune consistently earn 3 Michelin stars. An opulent dining room overlooking Hyde Park provides a fitting backdrop for the stellar wine list’s vintages.

Over at The Berkeley, Marcus Wareing applies his sharp skills honed under Gordon Ramsay to seasonally inspired modern British plates like Gressingham duck with cherries and cereal. Dishes seamlessly fuse contrasting textures and flavors in an elegant setting with 2 Michelin stars.

For an inventive spin on luxury hospitality dining, stop by Dubai Park Hyatt’s The Restaurant. Talented Chef Michele Lazzarini pioneers Dubai-inspired dishes incorporating local ingredients, like masala spiced foie gras with date puree. Global techniques fuse with Arabic spices and flavors beneath the majestic restaurant’s stained glass ceiling.

Travelers seeking exceptional hotel fare closer to home can dine on locally-sourced seafood prepared with Mediterranean flair at Sant Ambroeus Ristorante Milano. Dining overlooking the property's tranquil garden in central Milan, diners savor rich pastas and vibrant salads packed with peak seasonal flavor. Classic Italian hospitality shines through in the attentive service and vibrancy of this Slow Food pioneer.

Over in Singapore, Shangri-La Hotel’s Shang Palace transports diners to 1930s Shanghai with creative Cantonese classics served in an opulent setting. Dishes like wok-fried lobster in truffle sauce grace tables beside the restaurant’s striking silk painting centerpiece. Shang Palace consistently ranks among the world’s top Cantonese restaurants thanks to its impeccable service and masterful cuisine.