Hotels in London with Character
Finding an affordable and half way decent bolthole in London has always been like looking for a needle in a haystack, and many visitors resort in desperation to the serried ranks of uninspiring hotels around Bayswater and Victoria just in order to have enough money left over for the price of an entrance ticket to the Tower of London or a ride on the London Eye. But recently, prices have steadied somewhat, and now a room in a characterful London hotel can be little more expensive than in a similar establishment in the countryside. Our recommendations include two traditional luxury hotels and a clutch of little places with heaps more charm and character than the norm. The order of the hotels in this list bears no reflection on our preference.
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The Goring Hotel
London
Sumptuous, family-run country-house style hotel in the heart of London, close to Buckingham Palace. Plush carpets, antiques, designer fabrics and fine dining set the tone.
71 rooms from $660Sights nearby - Great for Buckingham Palace, Westminster and the London EyeRomantic - Good for couples. -
The Stafford London by Kempinski
London (Mayfair)
Kempinski luxury and Edwardian townhouse styling in a Mayfair cul-de-sac, with quiet rooms and seamless services. Well positioned for shopping, the Parks and landmark sights.
107 rooms from $467Four poster beds - For romantics.Sights nearby - Well located for major sights. -
The Portobello
West London
Legendary, laid-back shabby-chic bolthole for an eclectic clientele, with varied and funky room styles. In the heart of trendy Notting Hill, for boutiques and restaurants.
24 rooms from $314Lively area - In the thick of the action.Romantic - Good for couples.Four poster beds - For romantics.Quirky - An experience! -
Hazlitt's
London (West End)
Character, charm and literary associations, Georgian style, this townhouse hotel is a gem in Soho, close to nightlife, top restaurants and easy to see the sights from. Real style.
27 rooms from $346Exclusive offerClose to nightlifeSights nearby - Well located for major sights.Four poster beds - For romantics.Lively area - In the thick of the action. -
The Gore
West London
Quirky, intimate and laid back townhouse hotel in Kensington, steps from Hyde Park, well positioned for the sights. Full of art, with a lively bistro. Enchanting.
50 rooms from $306Sights nearby - Great for the Royal Albert Hall and Hyde ParkQuirky - An experience!Full of characterRecommended by - Tablet, Travel Intelligence -
The Rookery
London (The City)
Jewel-like and intimate City bolthole in a very fashionable, buzzy area, full of character, roll top baths etc. Faithful restoration of three 18th century houses, with a rooftop suite.
33 rooms from $234Exclusive offerRomantic - Good for couples.Quirky - An experience!Four poster beds - For romantics.Lively area - In the thick of the action. -
Twenty Nevern Square
London (South West)
Tranquil and chic, colonial-style townhouse hotel in West London - good value and near transport hubs, quick to get downtown. No restaurant.
20 rooms from $185Exclusive offer - Sunday SpecialSights nearby - Walking distance to Albert Hall, Kensington Palace Gardens and the South Ken museumsFour poster beds - For romantics. -
Claridge's
London (Mayfair)
One of London's great hotels: an Art Deco masterpiece in the heart of prime Mayfair - seamless professional service, understated luxury, gourmet food, the perfect treat.
203 rooms from $546Designer Shopping5* Luxury - Very high service standards.Landmark - Comes with a reputation. -
Church Street Hotel
London
Funky 'theme hotel' in off-beat south London, a one-off sanctuary and eclectic mix of Mexican style and sumptuous colours. Full of character and divine tapas.
27 rooms from $145Exclusive offer - London bargainRestaurant - Great tapasQuirky - An experience!Full of character -
The Connaught Hotel
London (Mayfair)
Super discreet and understated ‘grande dame’, the epitome of old world Britishness. Impeccable service, numerous repeat guests, the ultimate in traditional comforts.
122 rooms from $6445* Luxury - Very high service standards.SpaRecommended by - Mr & Mrs Smith, Tablet, Fodors, Frommers, Johansens, Kiwi Collection, Travel Intelligence, Michelin Travel -
The Petersham
London (Surrey)
Country house feel by the river in leafy Richmond village. Award-winning restaurant, traditional bedrooms, fine views and a sit out terrace. Good wedding and business venue.
58 rooms from $266Restaurant - Recommended.Sights nearby - Great for Richmond Park, Royal Botanic Gardens and Twickenham StadiumViews - Over the River ThamesLocal markets - Good for local colour. -
No 11 Cadogan Gardens
London (South West)
Located just behind Sloane Square a stone's throw from Knightsbridge, No 11 Cadogan Gardens is a hidden gem. Eclectic style with lavish decor including Murano chandeliers, sumptuous fabrics and gilt edged mirrors. Ideal if you're looking for a Central London location, yet away from the crowds.
54 rooms from $266Sights nearby - Walking distance to Buckingham Palace or Houses of ParliamentFour poster beds - For romantics.OpulentRecommended by - Tablet, Small Luxury Hotels
Fiona Duncan,
posted Friday, 12th February 2010
