Top Hotels in London

Claridge's Hotel

Claridge's is one of London's most famous hotels and its elaborate opulence makes it the hotel of choice for those wishing to stay in luxury in London. The rooms are well presented and tastefully decorated in the art deco style that was all the rage when the hotel burst onto the scene in the 1930s. Located in Mayfair, it is the convenient choice for West End theaters, shopping and other attractions. But it is Claridge's strong sense of tradition and the old-fashioned attentiveness and courtesy extended towards its guests that is the key to Claridge's charm.

Thistle Hyde Park

Built in 1850 but extensively modernized since, this hotel is the perfect place to explore Bayswater and Kensington in comfort. It was formerly The Park Court Hotel and now serves as a grade two listed oasis in the heart of London. Check website for further details.

The Goring

Exclusive, traditional and utterly sophisticated, the Goring family has run the Goring Hotel since it opened its doors in 1910. It was the first hotel in the world to have a private bathroom and central heating in every bedroom. Today it retains the emphasis on high-class hospitality and a truly perfect hotel stay. You'll also be in good company as it's next to Buckingham Palace.

The Vicarage Hotel

Located just off thriving Kensington Church Street, The Vicarage Hotel occupies a beautiful Victorian town house that offers a charming and relaxed base for your stay in London. Although the bustle of London isn't far away as the shops and restaurants of Kensington are close at hand, as is Portobello Road Market. The hotel is geared towards leisure guests, and even offers some rooms for families of four. Decor is basic, but perfectly adequate for the reasonable prices. Be aware that not all rooms are en suite, so be sure to ask what the bathroom facilities for your room will be.

The Generator

The Generator was opened in 1995, and is one of Europe's largest hostels, catering for all young travellers from student groups to individual backpackers (the minimum age is ten). It is centrally located in Russell Square, close to Covent Garden, Piccadilly Circus and Leicester Square, so it's a great place to stay if you want to go shopping and sightseeing in central London. Basic accommodation in comfortable, futuristic surroundings is offered, and guests have a choice of single, twin, multi-bedded and dormitory-style bedrooms.Wash basins and hot showers available 24 hours a day in each room. The Generator Bar is something to look forward to. Turbine games and television room are open 24 hours a day. Talking Heads internet room and tourist information centre. No curfew or lock out. Free luggage storage. There are discounts for groups and for stays of more than five nights.

Oxford Street Youth Hostel

This self-catering youth hostel is part of the Youth Hostel Association (YHA) and is close to the main shopping thoroughfare of Oxford Street as well as Wardour Street in the heart of Soho. It's a busy, lively place and ideal for anyone into clubbing, shopping, sightseeing, eating out, theater-going, or simply getting the feel of central London. One of the smaller city youth hostels, it has fewer beds per room and meals are not provided. This isn't usually a problem though, given the wonderful abundance of places to eat around here. Beds for adults at the dorm starts from 25 Pounds.

Astor's Kensington

The Astor hostels were established in 1974 as the first independent youth hostels in London. The Kensington Hostel is the largest of the Astor hostels but has a friendly, vibrant atmosphere. It has a variety of room types, some en suite, and overlooks a pleasant leafy square. It's conveniently placed for many of London's sights and sounds.

Soho Hotel

The Soho Hotel was the first luxury hotel to open in Soho. As it is located in Soho, you are not too far from the happening spots in town. The hotel has 85 rooms and suites with six service apartments. Each room is different as far as the interior goes and has a king size bed. Head to Refuel, the restaurant and bar, to unwind after a hectic day. The bathrooms are designed with oak and glass, have walk-in showers and are provided with exclusive bath products created by Miller Harris. So, if you are in Soho, this hotel, where luxury is truly re-defined, is the best choice.

Parkes Hotel

This hotel, located in Knightsbridge, is ideal for a short stay. With the Victoria & Albert Museum, Harrods and several restaurants in the area, guests have no reason to complain. The rooms are elegantly decorated and have all the possible amenities that one can think of. You can select anything from a standard room to the superior suite, if luxury is on your mind. Parkes offers daily maid service, so your room is spick n' span when you come back after a long day of shopping and sight-seeing! The hotel also does bookings for day trips and theater performances.

Lanesborough Hotel

The Lanesborough is ideally located in prestigious Knightsbridge opposite Hyde Park featuring 95 guest rooms including 43 suites. Guests of the Lanesborough are received as honored guest in a private home and cared for by personal butlers. All guest rooms and suites have the most advanced, yet unobtrusive technology and offer many complimentary services including free unlimited landlines calls to the US and EU, internet access, movies on demand, pressing, mineral water, fruit and tea or coffee served with wake-up calls. Indulge your senses in the recently launched Apsleys. The restaurant offers a modern Italian dinning experience using the finest seasonal ingredients. Enjoy their award winning Tea Room for an afternoon tea served with freshly baked scones, thick clotted cream and home made fruit preserves which have been awarded Best ! Afternoon Tea in London 2008 by the UK Tea Council.