Image courtesy of Charlotte Street Hotel
From Prince Akatoki to Flemings Mayfair, the best hotels in London celebrate the city’s dazzling mix of history, style and culture while pampering guests with high-end amenities in coveted locations. Below, we break down 10 of our favorite London hotels — each one vetted and recommended by Fora travel advisors.
If a property catches your eye, or if you want a tailored rec with more options, book with a Fora Advisor. They’ll work with you to understand your travel style, and matchmake you to the perfect property — plus unlock VIP perks along the way.
10 of the best hotels in London, from Prince Akatoki to The Rubens at the Palace
Read on for an overview of a few of our favorite London hotels. But keep in mind that there are many additional (and stellar) options across the city. Think of this breakdown as an appetizer to whet your London appetite.
The Prince Akatoki London (Marylebone)
Image courtesy of The Prince Akatoki London
The Prince Akatoki feels like a contemporary Japanese hotel dropped in the heart of London. That may sound unusual, but trust us: it works. The property, which opened in 2019, is made up of 82 rooms spread across five townhouses. Accommodations showcase the best of modern Japanese design, with spacious, tranquil and chic spaces to unwind after days exploring the city. There’s also an excellent restaurant on site that serves a mix of international and authentic Japanese dishes.
The Prince Akatoki is located in the Marylebone neighborhood of London, an upscale residential area with artisanal boutiques, restaurants and great access to nearby neighborhoods such as SoHo and Mayfair.
Fora Perks at The Prince Akatoki London:
$100 food / beverage credit, breakfast daily, upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever available.
Charlotte Street Hotel, Firmdale Hotels (Bloomsbury)
Image courtesy of Charlotte Street Hotel
Charlotte Street epitomizes Firmdale’s delightful design, courtesy of the brand's talented designer and founder, Kit Kemp.
“Kit Kemp’s design is bold and playful, and the Firmdale properties embody her eclectic taste,” Henley Vazquez, Fora’s Co-Founder, said. “Expect vibrant patterns, art sourced from around the globe and of course, her signature upholstered headboards.”
The rooms feature vintage furniture and décor, with a funky and unique spin. Plus, Charlotte Street features original art pieces courtesy of The Bloomsbury Group. You’ll find this boutique London hotel in the bustling neighborhood of Bloomsbury, a relatively short walk from The British Museum and other notable attractions. Charlotte Street is one of eight Firmdale properties in the British capital. If you’re interested in seeing other hotels from the brand, check out our guide to Firmdale hotels in London.
Fora Perks at Charlotte Street Hotel, Firmdale Hotels:
Welcome amenity, breakfast daily, upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever available.
Flemings Mayfair
Image courtesy of Flemings Mayfair
Flemings Mayfair first opened its doors in 1851, and continues to be an icon in London’s Mayfair neighborhood. The hotel features a luxe, 1930s-inspired style. It even served as the inspiration for an Agatha Christie novel.
Flemings Mayfair is also a community favorite: It was Fora’s second most-booked London hotel in 2023. The hotel’s allure begins with its bespoke rooms and suites, replete with plush amenities and elevated décor. A slate of fine dining options — including the Michelin-Starred Ormer and renowned cocktail bar Manetta’s — are not to be missed. And if you’re visiting during the holidays, make sure to check out Fora Advisor Shrinal Patel’s spotlight on Flemings Mayfair during Christmas.
Fora Perks at Flemings Mayfair:
$50 food / beverage credit, welcome amenity, breakfast daily, one-way airport transfer, upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever available.
Rosewood London (Holborn)
Image courtesy of Rosewood London
All Rosewood properties are destination-specific and imbued with a strong sense of place. Rosewood London is no exception. The Central London stay is tucked behind a regal wrought-iron gate. Inside, British sophistication and a handsome, sleek aesthetic reign: dark wood, cozy seating areas, leather, intricate details.
Rosewood London’s Director of Sales & Marketing, Bana Toukan, highlighted Rosewood London’s elegant details, like its marble staircase and rose bronze gallery, a corridor with a marble-mosaic floor, oak armoires and an eclectic array of tchotchkes.
Don’t miss Scarfes Bar, a lively spot filled with jazz and art, nor the legendary Pie Room, where you can learn how to make the flaky-crusted British staples, or grab one to go.
Fora Perks at Rosewood London:
£85 food / beverage or spa credit, a welcome amenity, breakfast daily, & an upgrade whenever possible.
L’oscar London (Holborn)
Image courtesy of L’oscar London
Sometimes, less is more. But sometimes more is more. L’oscar London excels at the latter. The tastefully maximalist aesthetic combines rich fabrics, fun patterns, moody lighting and an overall cheeky sense of play.
It’s indulgent, fun and reflects the chicness you’d expect from a storied Parisian brasserie. This is especially true at the hotel’s eponymous restaurant, where its illuminated onyx bar, surrounded by mirrors and gilded panels, beckons.
Fora Perks at L’oscar London:
$100 food / beverage credit, welcome amenities, breakfast daily, an upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Kimpton Fitzroy London (Bloomsbury)
Image courtesy of Kimpton Fitzroy London
Kimpton Fitzroy London was Fora’s top-booked hotel in London last year. Before even setting foot in the hotel, you'll be wowed by its Victorian façade. The hotel’s elegance continues throughout its lobby and common spaces. (Fun fact: Breakfast is served in a beautiful room that’s said to be almost identical to the Titanic’s dining room.) But there’s a notable transition to a more contemporary style as you enter the hotel’s rooms and suites.
Additionally, Kimpton Fitzroy’s location is prime. The London hotel overlooks Bloomsbury’s Russell Square, home to manicured greenery surrounded by cafés, shops and restaurants.
Fora Perks at Kimpton Fitzroy London:
$100 food / beverage credit, welcome amenity, breakfast daily, upgrade & extended check-out whenever available.
The Langham, London (Marylebone)
Image courtesy of The Langham, London
The Langham represents the best of the city’s refined sophistication.
“[The property] is renowned for its seamless fusion of classic luxury with modern amenities,” Fora Advisor Jasmine Jackson explains in her guide to London.
At the Langham, guests are treated to elegant accommodations and a bevy of top-tier amenities. Even the entry-level rooms are lavishly furnished and spacious.
Notably, guests staying in executive-level rooms or suites access the hotel’s private lounge, featuring personalized service and amenities (including refreshments served by a Michelin-Starred chef).
The hotel doesn’t skimp on wellness, either.
“The hotel's Chuan Body + Soul spa is a standout feature, embracing the principles of traditional Chinese medicine to create a one-of-a-kind wellness experience,” Jasmine said.
Fora Perks at The Langham, London:
$100 food / beverage credit, breakfast daily, upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever available.
The Cadogan, a Belmond Hotel, London (Chelsea)
Image courtesy of The Cadogan, a Belmond Hotel, London
In many ways, Belmond was made for London. The brand is posh and refined, with meticulously selected materials and an unparalleled attention to detail. Belmond’s London property sits in the heart of Chelsea — a veritable urban oasis with an attractive, understated elegance.
You’ll love any one of the 54 rooms and suites, all with towering ceilings. And there are many expansive options perfect for families and groups. As a guest, you’ll also get exclusive access to Cadogan Place Gardens, where tennis, sculptures, an adventure playground, private gardens and idyllic lawns await.
Fora Perks at The Cadogan, a Belmond Hotel, London:
$90 hotel / resort credit, a welcome amenity, breakfast daily, & an upgrade whenever possible.
One Hundred Shoreditch
Image courtesy of One Hundred Shoreditch
One Hundred Shoreditch is a contemporary and stylish hotel located in the heart of Shoreditch — another trendy area known for its eclectic dining, street art and boutiques — in London’s East End. The hotel embodies the area's creative spirit, offering modern, thoughtfully designed accommodations that reflect the artistic vibe of its surroundings.
Enjoy a variety of dining and drinking options, including a rooftop bar with panoramic views of the city and a cozy cocktail lounge. The hotel also features event spaces and a wellness center, catering to both business and leisure travelers. Regardless of your reason for visiting, expect chic, comfortable lodging.
Fora Perks at One Hundred Shoreditch:
$50 food / beverage credit, welcome amenity, upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
The Rubens at the Palace (Westminster)
Image courtesy of The Rubens at the Palace
The Rubens at the Palace is a delight for travelers who love boutique properties and British sophistication. The entire hotel is dressed in ornate décor, complete with updated amenities and a lovely afternoon tea service. It’s warm, charming and authentic.
Location-wise, the Rubens at the Palace excels. The hotel is within walking distance of Buckingham Palace — it used to belong to the palace’s grounds — along with famous landmarks such as Big Ben and Westminster Abbey.
Fora Perks at The Rubens at the Palace:
£40 food credit, breakfast daily, upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever available.
Book with a Fora Advisor to upgrade your stay at top London hotels
These are only a few of the top hotels across London; there are so many more to choose from that cater to all budgets and preferences.
When you book with a Fora Advisor, they’ll work with you to find a hotel and room type that meets your needs. Plus, your advisor will unlock complimentary VIP perks and status at the best hotels in the city.
Your Fora Advisor can also help you plan your ideal London itinerary, whether it’s touring the city’s historic sites or eating your way through the city — and everything in between.
London hotel FAQs
Here are answers to a few common questions regarding London hotels. Read on, or connect directly with a Fora Advisor to start planning your trip..
What’s the average cost of a hotel room in London?
London has an extensive range of accommodations, so providing a true average would be misleading. That being said, for mid-range and four-star hotels, you can expect to pay at least $300-$500 per night, while it’s not uncommon to find luxury hotel rates starting at $1,000 or more per night. At Fora, our average daily rate for London hotels is $622. Your Fora Advisor can help find the best room or suite that suits your travel preferences and budget.
What months can you get the best rate at hotels in London?
London is one of the most popular cities to visit in the world, but it does have less busy seasons. If you visit between September and mid-October, or late April to May, you may luck out with a better rate. Based on Fora’s booking data, our high season in London is in the summer (June, July, August), which typically dovetails with higher rates.
As always, finding the right property at the right budget is something a Fora Advisor can help you with. No matter when you’re traveling, your advisor can make sure you’re maximizing your budget. Plus, they’ll unlock VIP perks at the city’s top properties along the way.
How far in advance should you book a hotel in London?
Ideally, you should book as soon as you’re ready, especially if you have your eye on a specific property or room. The best hotels in London fill up quickly. However, last-minute availability can be an option, especially if you’re more flexible on room type or dates.
How many days do you need when visiting London?
You can see many of London’s highlights in four to seven days. But you could spend weeks in London and still not experience everything worth enjoying. Most Fora Advisors recommend planning a trip with whatever time you have rather than restricting your itinerary to an arbitrary number of days. Fora Advisor Georgia Goddard has a 3-day London itinerary for ideas for first-timers. We also have a full destination debrief on London that highlights some of the city’s greatest hits.
More travel inspiration
Check out the guides below for more UK & Europe travel inspiration: