England’s capital city is one of the most visited cities globally, given its rich history and vibrant present. Visitors from all over the world flock here to visit iconic landmarks or soak in the vibe. Not surprisingly, you’ll find a wide range of hotels that cater to all tastes and budgets. That being said, hotel stays in London don’t have to be over the top or expensive. In fact, you can find some awe-inspiring cheap hotels in London United Kingdom, that don’t cut corners on quality. Priced at less than 150 pounds per night, some cheap hotels in London city center and other areas offer excellent amenities.
You can always choose to stay in a luxury hotel in London or one with the best hotel pools in London if that’s your style. However, if you’re going to be spending more time outside the hotel than in it, you may want to consider a budget-friendly option. With some of the best cheap hotels in London United Kingdom, offering everything from exotic pubs to rooftop restaurants and classy guestrooms, you won’t miss out on much.
Where to Stay in London
London is a big city so where you decide to stay can be quite confusing. With attractions spread far and wide, you can’t really zero in on the best neighborhood as such. That being said, many visitors to the city prefer a central location. The area referred to as The Square Mile is popular with families. It’s where the Romans set up a military outpost in 43 CE and where you’ll find most of London’s heavy-weight attractions. Some of the top things to do in London are here.
Also centrally located is The West End, which includes Covent Garden, Soho, Leicester Square, and Oxford Street. You’ll find plenty to do here with most London’s theatres, art galleries, and dining venues in the area. There are quite a few cheap hotels in the London city center that range from expansive aparthotels to cozier B&Bs.
Southwest of West End, you’ll find Kensington. Some of London’s top attractions, such as Kensington Palace, Harrods, and Harvey Nichols, are in the area. It’s also where the top museums are. Apart from the cultural attractions, there are plenty of green spaces here ideal for pet owners. It’s also where you’ll find some of the best pet-friendly hotels in London. You won’t find many cheap hotels in London United Kingdom, but cheaper accommodation is available in Bloomsbury and Fitzrovia, just north of the West End.
Other popular budget-friendly neighborhoods are South Bank and Bank Side, across the Thames. London’s most iconic modern building, The Shard, stands out prominently in the area. It’s a good place to catch a boat ride to see the sights. Shoreditch, the up-and-coming neighborhood in East London, has some impressive cheap hotels in London United Kingdom. You’ll find plenty of outdoor markets, vintage clothing stores, and some of the best nightlife in town in the area.
citizenM London Bankside
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Cheap hotels in London United Kingdom don’t come any more stylish than citizenM London Bankside. The colorful interiors and unique feel of this hotel beautifully combine affordability and style, making you feel like you’ve stepped into a high-end hotel. The hotel is ideal for those looking for affordable hotels in South Bank. It sits in the heart of the bustling Bankside district close to the River Thames. Borough Market, the Millenium Bridge, and Tate Modern are all within easy walking distance from here.
Enter the hotel, and you’ll find yourself in a bright, airy space with plenty of eye-catching extras to seduce you to stay. The main floor and lounge are the standouts of the hotel. Guest rooms are clean and comfortable, with large king-sized beds and floor-to-ceiling windows that bathe the room in natural light. They have wide-screen TVs where you can watch a selection of movies and super fast free WiFi.
Downstairs on the ground floor, you’ll find CanteenM, where you can grab a bite 24/7. It’s a buzzing space where you get a chance to meet like-minded travelers. In the evening, the restaurant doubles up as a bar. Breakfast is not included in the rate, but you can enjoy a decent buffet for an extra charge. However, there are quite a few dining options outside the hotel if you prefer dining out.
The Zetter Hotel
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Those who think cheap hotels in London United Kingdom are probably basic and boring have probably not stepped into the stylish, The Zetter Hotel in East London. The hotel is conveniently placed between East London & the West End in creative Clerkenwell. This location makes it one of the best-connected hotels in London. It’s under five minutes walk to Farringdon train and underground station. Besides the easy connectivity, you’ll also find many important landmarks such as Exmouth Market, St Pauls, and the British Museum within easy walking distance from the hotel.
The eco-conscious hotel uses energy-saving technology and eco-friendly materials wherever possible. A small, smart lobby with a huge mural of plants and wildlife welcomes you to the hotel. Rooms are individually styled with in-room entertainment, comfortable beds, big fluffy bathrobes, REN bath products, and a host of other extras. Families can choose interconnecting rooms or rooms that can accommodate extra beds for children. If you don’t mind digging a little deeper into your pockets, choose one of the stylish rooftop studios. Each of the newly renovated studios has its own private terrace that provides excellent views of the city.
Currently, the restaurant on the ground floor is only open for breakfast. However, the sister property across the square, Zetter Townhouse, has a bar where you can pop in for a cocktail or a quick bite. That being said, the Clerkenwell area where the hotel sits is renowned for its amazing food scene. You’ll be pretty spoiled for dining options in the area.
Assembly Hotel
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Boasting an enviable location just behind Leicester Square, the Assembly Hotel stands out as one of the best cheap hotels in London city center. Sitting in one of the busiest areas of West End, it’s the perfect location for someone wanting to be close to all the action. Take your pick from some of the best restaurants in the city, or take in a show at West End at a leisurely pace. If it’s the culture you seek, you’ll find it in abundance with attractions and museums within minutes of the hotel.
Aimed at ‘everyday explorers and urban adventurers,’ the hotel’s design draws a fine line between a budget hotel and an upmarket hostel. Guest rooms are fun, sophisticated, and playful, drawing inspiration from British fashion icons Alexander McQueen, Stella McCartney, and Gareth Pugh. Rooms come in four categories, Snug, Nest, Pad, and Den, with rooms featuring more or less the same design. Pink bunnies with collars, great soundproofing, clever storage spaces, and super comfy beds make for a comfortable stay. Since this is a budget property, don’t expect too many extras in the rooms.
The Garden Room, the rooftop restaurant, and the bar on the 10th floor are great spaces to unwind. With its assortment of plants combined with spectacular views, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely meal or cocktails.
The Z Hotel Gloucester Place
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Spread over six townhouses, the Z Hotel Gloucester Place puts you in proximity to Oxford Street and genteel Marylebone. From here, it’s a short walk to some of London’s most famous attractions, such as Madame Tussauds London and Selfridges. The location also puts you close to London Zoo and Royal Parks. Given its budget-friendly rates and top-notch service, the hotel easily ranks as one of the best cheap hotels in London United Kingdom.
You can look forward to plenty of light and space in the high-ceilinged guest rooms. Additionally, comfortable beds with beautiful linen, ensuite bathrooms with complimentary toiletries, and other modern comforts make for a good stay.
Breakfast is included in the rate and served in the cafe at house number 23. It’s a good spread of fruit, pastries, cereals, and other breakfast items. For an additional fee, guests can also indulge in cheese and wine served between 5 pm to 8 pm every day.
The East London Hotel
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If you’re headed to East London on a budget, an excellent place to base yourself is The East London Hotel. Modern and comfortable, the hotel easily falls into the list of the best cheap hotels in London United Kingdom, at an affordable rate. The hotel’s location places you at a convenient distance from trendy Shoreditch and Bethnal Green. In fact, it’s only 13 minutes to Central London by tube with the tube station a stone’s throw from the hotel.
Being a hands-off service hotel, check-in is online. A self-service machine helps generate your room key so checking yourself in is a smooth process. However, if you’re not all that tech-savvy, don’t despair, as someone is always at hand to help you. Other requests are addressed via Whatsapp. Not surprisingly, the rooms are pretty compact and serve as sleeping spaces rather than a place for lounging around. That being said, large windows allow enough natural light into the room. Also, the clever use of space helps make the room feel larger than it really is. All rooms have enough modern comforts to enhance your stay.
Given the current scenario, a grab-and-go breakfast is available for guests. You can choose to include breakfast in the rate when booking or decide and pay later. In better times, the buffet breakfast is pretty good. The bar and restaurant also serve lunch and a good variety of drinks.
Mama Shelter London
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Mama Shelter is renowned for its funky, affordable spaces, and Mama Shelter London is no different. What makes this stand out among the cheap hotels in London United Kingdom, is its playful vibe. Japanese-style karaoke rooms, lampshades with cartoon characters, and Mexican sombreros, plus a courtyard with a retractable roof add to the novelty of staying here.
Public spaces downstairs are all about going a little overboard with decor, but guest rooms are a bit toned down. Monochrome carpets, wooden furniture, and peach walls combine with comfy beds to make this a relaxing space. Ensuite bathrooms have powerful showers and organic toiletries. You can choose from Small, Medium and Large rooms to suit your needs.
To grab a good, affordable bite, head to the hotel’s all-day restaurant. Serving family-style plates for lunch and dinner, the menu takes inspiration from the hotel’s French heritage and includes local produce. The bar has an extensive wine and cocktail list, plus beers on tap. When you’ve downed a few drinks, you may pluck up enough courage to head to the karaoke room to belt out a few songs. There are two soundproof karaoke rooms complete with neon lighting and 1950s style microphones. However, if you prefer to step out for a bite, you’ll find plenty of good restaurants and bars on Hackney Road, where the hotel sits.
Leman Locke
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Complete with a kitchen and living space, the Leman Locke aparthotel is one of the more spacious cheap hotels in London United Kingdom. With the style and feel of a boutique hotel, these serviced apartments are an excellent option for families looking for affordable accommodation in East London’s Aldgate area. The apartments are a short stroll from the city and around the corner from Shoreditch and Liverpool Street. It’s also a few steps away from Aldgate East Underground station.
Tastefully designed apartments offer a good range of modern comforts. You can choose from studios or one-bedroom apartments that come with a smart kitchen, a signature L-shaped pink sofa, and other small touches to enhance comfort.
Shaman, the all-day cafe, serves seasonal produce and specialty coffee with a large focus on wellness. Vegans will love the restaurant Alter hosted by Shaman. Here chef Andy Hogben strives to challenge the common perceptions of vegan food. By drawing inspiration from the street foods of Asian countries, the menu is interesting, to say the least. Featuring globally influenced small plates and an adventurous drinks menu gives a whole new twist to veganism. Other amenities at the aparthotel include a gym, meeting rooms, and terrace.
Strand Palace Hotel
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Just a stone’s throw from Trafalgar Square in the heart of London, you’ll find the historic Strand Palace Hotel. It may not be one of the cheapest hotels in the area, but it won’t burn a hole in your pocket either. The newly refurbished hotel is a good option if you’re looking for cheap hotels in the London city center. With its convenient location on the Strand, the hotel is a good choice for business and leisure travelers.
Original Art Deco touches hark back to the hotel’s long history. Opened in 1909, the hotel has been an important landmark on the Strand for over a century. Vintage photographs and artifacts from the hotel’s past are displayed at the hotel and the V&A museum. Walk into the guest rooms, and the hotel’s history seems like a story. Generously sized guest rooms have moved with the times. They’re comfortable and modern with a good range of amenities such as large HD TVs and Nespresso coffee machines, among other things.
Haxells Restaurant & Bar has a good range of appetizing dishes on its menu to tease your tastebuds. Enjoy a cocktail or two within an art deco-inspired atmosphere of the bar, or relax in the opulent afternoon tea room with a range of delicacies.
Alternatively, you can also choose to dine privately. Joe Allen, the New York-style brasserie, is another popular spot at the hotel. More commonly known as the West End’s Canteen, it’s a good place to enjoy a classic American brunch. Other facilities you can look forward to at the hotel are a small gym on the ground floor, a concierge service, and good security.
Dog and Fox
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Nestled in the heart of leafy Wimbledon Village, just five minutes from the All England Lawn Tennis, the Dog and Fox boutique hotel puts you in proximity to London’s best attractions. Wimbledon train station is also a short walk from here so if you want to explore other parts of the city that’s easy too.
The surrounding heritage of Wimbledon is clearly visible in the hotel’s interiors, as is the nod to hunting. Tartan bed heads, fur throws, and rooms with names like Hound Suite and Fox Suite point to the hunting theme. Large, multiple windows in rooms allow plenty of natural light while modern comforts ensure you’ll enjoy your stay. Some bedrooms are dog-friendly, so you won’t have to worry about leaving your furry friend behind.
The Dog & Fox enjoys a reputation of being an iconic pub in South West London. So you can enjoy all-day dining with plenty of cozy seating. Whether it’s a traditional pub classic, a scrumptious roast, or a colorful vegan dish, you’re sure to have a lip-smacking meal here. Menus reflect the season, so the ingredients are fresh and healthy. You can also choose a desk at the pub and continue your business if you’re too busy to move out. Two outside terraces are great for lingering in the warm weather.
The Balham Bedford
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The Balham Bedford hotel is a multi-functional space with a pub, club, restaurant, and live music entertainment venue. It’s an excellent option if you’re in the city to catch a concert and look for cheap hotels in London. It may not be among the cheapest, but it’s affordable nonetheless. What draws people to the hotel is the location. It’s in proximity to quite a few happening venues as well as some of the best brunch spots. Balham station is a two-minute walk away so getting to other parts of the city is easy.
Multi-million-pound refurbishment of a Grade II-listed space has given the hotel a much-needed facelift. It’s now a slick space that blends Art Deco elements and theatrical stylings seamlessly with modern touches. 15 stylish guest rooms stand out for their charm and character. From cozy, welcoming bedrooms to more luxurious super-king sizes, the attention to detail is unrivaled. You’ll find a good number of amenities in each room that includes a Nespresso machine and mini-fridge. In addition to this, guests also receive complimentary in-room breakfast on weekdays and a substantial discount off food in the Saloon Bar throughout their stay. On weekends you can order brunch downstairs. Since this is also a live music venue, some music and noise may filter in lower-level rooms.
You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to drinking and dining with five beautiful bars. The Ballroom and Cocktail Bar is where all the action is, while the Club Room is where you get to enjoy the upcoming talent. It’s where the likes of Ed Sheeran, Sam Smith, and Eddie Izzard have had their gigs in the past. Expect big portions and club classics if you decide to have a meal here.
The Windmill Clapham
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If you’re looking for cheap hotels in London city center, you may want to consider The Windmill Clapham. While the hotel is not located directly in the center, you can easily get to Central London by tube from Clapham Common. The station is a few minutes walk from the hotel. Pubs, bars, and restaurants are easily accessible from here, while the Clapham Common offers year-round festivals and walking paths.
42 country-style boutique hotel rooms offer a comfortable respite after a busy day. They feature king-sized beds and other standard amenities. Each room has its own unique character, with several rooms featuring a quirky bathtub near the bed. Dark-hued wallpaper and interesting lighting choices make the rooms cozy and inviting.
Outside the rooms, the refurbished pub is a good place to hang out. Here you can dig into modern-day classics and the best of British nostalgia. Enjoy a burger at the Burger Shack in the garden, or kickstart your day with breakfast at the sunny conservatory. At the end of the day, you can unwind with a cocktail at the pub or restaurant. If you’re in town on the weekend, don’t forget to sample the Sunday roast, touted as one of the best around.
Recommended Restaurants / Bars in London:
- Ave Mario – For a novel dining experience head to this restaurant from the Big Mamma group in Covent Garden. Recently opened, the Italian restaurant spread over three floors on Henrietta Street, will not just tantalise your tastebuds but will assail your senses with its decor. Be warned that this restaurant is not for light eaters as there’s plenty of rich food to dig into along with excellent cocktails.
- Afternoon Tea Cruise on the River Thames – When in England what’s the best thing to have in the afternoon? Afternoon tea of course! Have it in style though on this leisurely cruise along the River Thames. Indulge in delicous sandwiches, cakes and traditional scones with cream and jam as you take in the historic sights of the city.
- Kerridge’s Bar & Grill – The first London restaurant by celebrated chef Tom Kerridge at Corinthia London is sure to satiate your cravings. Enjoy Kerridge’s twist on British classics or try one of his specials from the menu. You definitely won’t be disappointed.
Recommended Activities in London:
- London Rock Music Tour – If you love music you’re definitely going to enjoy this tour that gives you an insight into London’s rock music history. You could either choose the morning tour or a full day tour.
- River Thames Speedboat RIB Tour – See the sights from a different angle as you speed along the River Thames aboard a high-speed RIB boat. Take in the sights on a 50-minute adrenaline rush on this round trip from Embankment Pier to Tower Bridge.
- London Eye – If you have the stomach for it, why not see London from the top. London’s most popular paid tourist attraction is also one of the largest ferris wheels in the world. You get to take in breathtaking, 360 degree views of the surroundings from an airconditioned vantage point.
