When you're looking for a city break, location is everything. If you're hoping to visit England's capital city, central London hotels are a huge bonus, to be able to see the sights such as Buckingham Palace and Big Ben, visit the West End, museums and galleries, without missing your train home.
A central London hotel, be it based in the vibrant West End, or the exclusive City, means you have access to all London has to offer, the food, the fashion, the shopping, the plays and musicals, the nightlife and bars, even seasonal fun like Christmas markets, whether for a UK staycation or as a longer trip we certainly recommend at least spending a night.
Of course, there are the icons of the London hotel scene, like Claridge's and The Ritz, but there may be some on this list you haven't heard of, yet that have a brilliant London location for a brilliant price.
We've tested out these central London hotels, from luxury hotels to boutique stays, and great value options too.
TRIBE Canary Wharf
Offering design-led hotels that are smart, functional and comfy, Tribe Canary Wharf offers modern travellers a place where guests are "given everything they need and nothing they don't" meaning there are no necessary fussy frills like scatter cushions and expensive mini-fridges.
Location: Canary Wharf
Reviewed by Features & Reviews Editor Emily Gilbert: "I was instantly wowed by TRIBE as we stepped through the doors. The design and decor are modern and stylish and they really do make you want to take a seat in the ground floor social hub. Our room was simple and compact but had everything we needed with a city view to boot. There was nothing we felt we were missing out on and we had more than enough space. The bed was insanely comfortable and the rainfall shower in the bathroom was bliss after a long day of shopping.
For dinner, we stopped by the in-house eatery Feels Like June which offers Californian-inspired cuisine. We tucked into generous 'small' plates of grilled halloumi, buttermilk chicken wings and bruschetta followed by ancho chicken tacos and a juicy FLJ burger. Our meal was accompanied by expertly made cocktails from the extensive menu that particularly delighted my husband. Breakfast the next morning was an organised buffet affair with a wide selection of food items that were hot and constantly restocked.
Every member of staff we encounter at TRIBE and Feels Like June was friendly and attentive and the location of the hotel was ideal with less than a 10-minute walk from the tube station."
Room price: Rooms start from £150
Canopy by Hilton London City
Describing itself as a vibrant hotel with an East London vibe, Canopy by Hilton London City is a great central location to see the sights.
Location: East End
Review: The brilliant location makes this hotel - I’d definitely stay again, it’s ideal for a night at the theatre. I’d love to return when the rooftop bar is open, it’s going to be a fantastic addition to this hotel. Read our full review of Canopy London City.
Room price: Queen rooms available from £201
Park Plaza County Hall
Within walking distance of London’s most famous attractions, Park Plaza County Hall is a great location just south of Westminster Bridge, overlooking the River Thames.
Location: Westminster
Review: We stayed in a corner junior suite with an impressive three huge windows with views over the city and Waterloo station and, most importantly for our stay during a summer heatwave, air con! The staff were lovely and friendly, and the location was great for exploring the city. Read our full review of the Park Plaza County Hall here.
Room price: Superior double room available from £299
The Strand Palace
Having first opened in 1909 in Edwardian London, the Strand Palace has seen its fair share of history including three monarchs, two world wars and throughout it all, the hotel has stood the test of time.
Location: Covent Garden
Review: If you're looking for a comfy stay in a great location, which still feels a little 'posh', then I'd highly recommend The Stand. Everything you could want for a trip to London is literally on your doorstep or a short walk away. If you don't want to venture out for food, the hotel's restaurant offers high-quality dishes and drinks, so you'll never feel as if you're missing out. Read our full review of the Strand Palace here.
Room price: Cosy double available from £240
Royal Lancaster London
The hotel first opened in 1667 and has enjoyed royal and celebrity guests alike as well as being one of the filming locations for the 60s movie The Italian Job.
Paying tribute to the bee hives on the roof, the hotel's crest features a honey bee along with a crown and rose, synonymous with the name Lancaster since the War of the Roses.
Location: Hyde Park
Review: If you're after a luxury experience right in the heart of the city, the Royal Lancaster London will tick every box - and you won't want to leave. The hotel's motto is ‘We Always Care’ and this was certainly the case throughout our stay. From start to finish we received impeccable service from every member of staff we encountered. The care and attention that has been given to everything from the design to the food to the rooms really shows and is what makes the hotel so worthy of its 5 stars. We already can't wait to go back and will be wholeheartedly encouraging everyone else to do the same. Read our full review of Royal Lancaster London.
Room price: Classic room available from £299 (Trivago)
Other London hotels
The Mitre at Hampton Court
History buffs will love The Mitre at Hampton Court, sitting on the banks of the River Thames and boasting a most prestigious next-door neighbour, Hampton Court Palace, once home to several sovereigns, including King Henry VIII, back in Tudor times.
Location: Hampton Court
Review: The Mitre is an outstanding historic property, the rooms combine elegant luxury with a touch of authentic quirkiness. It couldn’t be handier for visiting Hampton Court Palace – it is literally just over the road from the royal palace’s impressive entrance. Whether or not you plan to pop round to the palace next door, it makes an ideal choice for a characterful break. Read our full review of The Mitre.
Price: Heritage room available from £199 (Trivago)