You could be strolling along the street, taking in the beauty of Buckingham Palace, and the next, you’re stomping along to reggae full blast and chowing down on the best jerk chicken of your life in Brixton. It’s safe to say that there’s something for everyone in this giant city.

Stepping on the tube, you will see a huge mix of people, cultures, and fashion. It’s so easy to get lost in the hustle and bustle of it all, and that’s why staying at one of London’s quirky hotels is the perfect way to experience this city.

These hotels are just a few ways that the spirit of London can be captured in one place. From luxury-themed rooms to hipster hostels, it’s fun to see the variety of hotels London has to offer, and with the right budget and planning, you can be lucky enough to relax and take it all in.

The great thing about staying at a quirky hotel is that you can expect unbeatable views, top-notch service, and amenities like artwork-filled lobbies, gourmet restaurants, and unique events.

So let’s jump into my list of the top 24 quirky hotels in London.

Tower bridge in London
Knowing the city a little deeper.
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short

Top 24 Quirky Hotels in London

There is no shortage of weird and wonderful hotels to stay in when you’re visiting London. So let’s get into the best of the best.

nHow Hotel

nhow London

nHow is one of my favorite themed hotels in London. It offers a unique lifestyle concept, perfect to begin a trip around the UK.

It’s part of a hotel chain that started in Berlin and expanded into other major European cities. London’s version is situated in a highly creative area of the city, only about a 10-minute walk from Angel tube station. The hotel beautifully blends the city’s traditional values and community with its technological advancements, resulting in a unique experience.

You can expect stylish and vibrant interiors with contemporary graffiti-style art, trendy rooms equipped with flat-screen TVs and mini-refrigerators, plus amenities like an on-site gym, restaurants, and free bike rentals.

nHow Hotel is known as one of the most Instagrammable hotels in London, so you can be sure to take some great photos during your stay. Just remember to occasionally put your phone down and actually enjoy the music, art, fashion, and architecture for yourself.

The Standard Hotel

The Standard Hotel London

Maybe you’ve heard of The Standard in New York, which is arguably one of the coolest places to stay in London – nay – the world, but now there’s a new kid in the running, The Standard in King’s Cross. This hip hotel is just a few minutes walk from Kings Cross tube station and features an impressive skyline view. 

The hotel is located in a 1970s Brutalist-style building and features a retro/cool theme that is consistent throughout. It’s become THE place to party in London and is the perfect destination for party-goers looking to have a great time.

The rooms are luxurious, fitted with king-sized beds, record players and vinyl records, cocktail bars, and for the digital nomads out there, there’s great Wi-Fi. Plus, the hotel is within easy reach of all the stylish shops, restaurants, and clubs that King’s Cross offers.

Booklovers can take a few moments perusing the huge library in the lobby lounge. The restaurant also offers a great cocktail range, a perfect place for a couple of drinks before heading to the music studio, which hosts frequent live music events.

Mama Shelter

Mama Shelter London

Mama Shelter Hotel offers affordable and unique fun, perfect for partying people.

Originally from Paris, it has gained immense popularity and expanded internationally. Their 4-star London hotel is trendy, and everyone seems to love it, offering an eclectic and modern ambience with a vibrant, fun, and laid-back atmosphere.

The hotel is situated in Hackney, a trendy part of town that is surrounded by great cafes, pubs, and shops, making it the perfect place to explore with new or old friends. It’s easily accessible, as it’s only a four-minute walk from the nearest train station, ideal for saving some pennies in London. The rooms are stylish and offer amenities such as free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and minibars.

You can enjoy a meal at the hotel’s restaurant, have a drink at the lively bar, or sing some karaoke in one of the special rooms! This is one of my favorite hotels to recommend to solo travelers as meeting people is really easy.

The Exhibitionist Hotel

The Exhibitionist Hotel London

This is a luxurious and stylish five-star boutique hotel situated in a row of beautifully restored 18th-century townhouses. The hotel boasts a unique collection of contemporary art pieces, similar to a communal art gallery. There are rotating installations and set pieces of art throughout the hotel, so you’ll see new pieces every time you visit.

The Exhibitionist Hotel is a perfect place to base yourself if you’re looking for a mix of class and culture. Not only is South Kensington tube station only a 4-minute walk away, but world-class museums such as the Victoria and Albert Museum, the Natural History Museum, and the Science Museum are also within walking distance. One of my favorite things to do in London is visit museums as they are FREE, which is perfect if you’re looking to travel in London on a budget. 

The rooms are decorated and uniquely designed, with modern amenities like flat-screen TVs, iPads, and free Wi-Fi. The bathrooms have underfloor heating and rainfall showers, making your bathroom time frankly luxurious.

If you choose to upgrade your room, you will have access to balconies and/or whirlpool baths. The luxurious suites are equipped with rooftop terraces and separate living rooms. In addition to the modern art gallery and funky decor, the hotel features a trendy restaurant, bar, and spa.

Yotel London City

YOTEL London City

Heading into the Future at Yotel!

The 4-star London hotel is located in Clerkenwell, about a 16-minute walk from St. Paul’s Cathedral. It has an eco-friendly, high-tech, and ultra-modern design with a strong Japanese influence.

The hotel has 212 minimalist cabins, all equipped with Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs. Some cabins offer beautiful city views and additional seating areas.

If you’re working remotely, you should really consider this hotel. It has plenty of work pods, meeting spaces, and private lounge areas, perfectly suited to a digital nomad’s needs.

Sunborn London

Sunborn London Yacht Hotel

For the ultimate unique and upscale experience in London, check out the stunning Sunborn Hotel. This four to five-star hotel is actually a yacht; I didn’t even know something like this existed but turns out there are quite a few worldwide.

The Sunborn is a luxurious and modern yacht with sleek exteriors and elegant Art Deco interiors. It features shiny brass railings, teak wood paneling, a spiral staircase, and chandeliers. Classic rooms offer en-suite bathrooms, flat-screen TVs, Wi-Fi, and touchpad room controls.

The London yacht hotel is located in the Docklands, right across from the ExCel London convention center. It’s easily accessible from the city center by using the Docklands Light Railway and a 20-minute train ride. It’s also conveniently close to the O2 Centre and Canary Wharf.

Sea Containers

Sea Containers London

If you’re looking for a picture-perfect stay in London, Sea Containers is the perfect choice. This stylish hotel is located in the bustling area of South Bank, offering stunning views of the River Thames and a short distance away from the Tate Modern museum.

The hotel’s design is a contemporary interpretation of the luxurious decor seen in transatlantic liners from the 1920s, and it boasts 359 guest rooms with unique art pieces and custom furniture.

This is one of the chicest hotels in London, perfect for leisure and business travelers. The rooms have all the modern amenities, including flat-screen TVs, Wi-Fi, air conditioning, minibars, and bathrooms with luxury toiletries.

The hotel also features a waterfront restaurant, a luxurious rooftop bar, a fitness center, a spa, and an outdoor cinema. So you can enjoy all London offers while staying at this beautiful hotel.

Treehouse Hotel London

Treehouse Hotel London

This 4-star hotel in London will have you feeling like Tarzan on a weekend in London. It’s been designed to look and feel like a treehouse. It’s actually so impressive what the designers could create while still being luxurious.

The hotel is just off historic Regent Street at Langham Place in the chic Marylebone neighborhood. It’s situated directly across the road from the BBC Headquarters and within walking distance of Oxford Street and Regent’s Park. Perfect to see all the city has to offer.

The Treehouse London aims to provide a sense of adventure, independence, and comfort by incorporating recycled objects, handmade details, and plenty of plants.

Stay in one of their 95 guest rooms, wake up to a tasty Nespresso, and enjoy their rainfall showers. Additionally, there’s an upscale Mexican restaurant, a cool cafe and wine bar, a penthouse restaurant, and a gorgeous 16th-floor rooftop lounge that provides breathtaking views of the London skyline, including iconic landmarks such as the London Eye, The Shard, and Canary Wharf.

Every day here will feel like a little escape to the wild side.

Leman Locke

Leman Locke London

Leman Locke is a four-star aparthotel with a modern and unique design that showcases the hipster lifestyle of London. It boasts luxury, style, and personality across its 22 floors, making it more than just a place to stay. You’ll feel like a true Londoner during your stay.

Located on the eastern portion of London’s Square Mile. Close to Aldgate East tube station, which can easily take you to the city center through a short tube ride. In addition, it’s close to the creative and lively neighborhoods of Hoxton, Shoreditch, and Hackney.

The design of Leman Locke reflects the trendy area it’s located in. It features light wooden floors and pastel pink upholstery mixed with industrial-style furniture. I love the quirkiness of it.

The apartment also includes a high-quality kitchen, perfect for those traveling a bit longer and want to cook. You’ll also have soundproofed windows, a 24-hour gym, a Purist cocktail bar, and even a yoga mat. Morning stretches have never felt so good!

NYX Hotel London Holborn by Leonardo Hotels

NYX Hotel London Holborn by Leonardo Hotels

The NYX Hotel London Holborn is a newly designed and stylish hotel in the vibrant and chic area of Holborn in central London. It’s located just a nine-minute walk from Oxford Street and it’s becoming one of the trendiest places to stay in London.

The rooms at this hotel are creatively decorated and equipped with Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and floor-to-ceiling windows which are my favorite. If you choose an upgrade, you will also have a comfortable sitting area with plush sofas.

You can spend your evenings on their stylish rooftop bar, or at one of their two restaurants, have an afternoon tea in their lounge, or hit the day spa, swimming pool, and gym.

Zedwell Piccadilly

Zedwell Piccadilly Circus London

The Zedwell Piccadilly is a new hotel with a minimalist design that aims to promote sleep, positive health, and well-being. It’s conveniently located in the center of London.

The hotel’s focus is on creating a serene, calming atmosphere to ensure that guests enjoy a peaceful and restful night’s sleep. The hotel’s interior is made up of natural materials that emphasize sustainability, and its design is the brainchild of renowned architects Neri & Hu.

The hotel has rooms called “cocoons” that are designed to promote relaxation, with features like soundproofing, air purification, and no TVs or windows to minimize distractions. the hotel offers yoga and pilates training as well as healthy food and drinks in the Lounge.

The Good Hotel

Good Hotel London

The Good Hotel in London is definitely unique, with a name that reflects its commitment to making a positive impact. It’s located at Royal Victoria Dock and is only a short walk away from the Royal Victoria light rail station, which provides quick access to the city center. The hotel has a 4-star rating and a lively community atmosphere.

What sets it apart is that all profits from the hotel go back into the business, which provides jobs for individuals who have been unemployed for a long time in the local area.

Along with an incredible mission, the hotel has industrial-style Dutch-modern decor, free WiFi, and communal spaces that promote social interaction, perfect for solo travelers. You’ll also have scenic water views and a rooftop terrace with a grassy lawn and a bar are all reasons to stay at this accommodation.

Mandrake

The Mandrake London

The Mandrake just screams London as it’s a luxury boutique hotel that is located in a redbrick townhouse, just a two-minute walk away from Oxford Street in central London.

The hotel’s interior boasts of a bright, creative, and eclectic design, a stunning central courtyard that is surrounded by hanging gardens of jasmine and passionflower, and a private art collection that has been carefully curated.

You can choose from 30 stylish bedrooms, three luxury suites, and a penthouse, each with a unique design. Additionally, the hotel has an outdoor dining restaurant and a trendy indoor restaurant serving Latin American cuisine, a bar that serves botanical-based house cocktails, a greenhouse terrace, and a spa with sound therapy.

The Hoxton Hotel

The Hoxton Shoreditch London

A country livin’ in the city is what awaits you at the four-star Hoxton Hotel Shoreditch. The hotel has a lively atmosphere with a funky urban lodge style, including open fireplaces, classic leather furniture, exposed brickwork, and faux moose heads.

It’s located in the trendy Hoxton neighborhood, just a short tube or bus ride from central London.

The idea behind the hotel is pretty straightforward. The rooms serve as a starting point for people to both work and have fun in the vibrant neighborhood.

The hotel rooms themselves are contemporary, chic, and practical, with clever and whimsical attention to detail. For instance, one room featured a cool bicycle design inspired by the Shoreditch area on the wall.

H10 London Waterloo

H10 London Waterloo

Known as one of the most popular hotels in all of London, the H10 London Waterloo is a luxurious 5-star hotel located near the famous London Eye.

The high rise will give you unbeatable views of London’s skyline, including iconic landmarks like Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament.

The hotel features modern rooms that are decorated in calming colors with contemporary furniture. The spacious bathrooms are also equipped with luxury amenities. You can enjoy a glass of champagne on the roof terrace overlooking the Thames or catch up on some work in the cozy library.

The hotel also offers a spa, pool, and gym so you can relax or stay active during your stay.

The W Hotel

The W Hotel

The W London is a stylish and luxurious hotel located near Leicester Square in central London. Known for its exclusive Whatever/Whenever® service, the five-star hotel offers exceptional customer service and is popular among celebs.

The hotel rooms have a modern and innovative design, with colorful accents such as mood lighting, neon streaks, and floor-to-ceiling windows. You can hear music coming from hidden speakers.

The rooms include custom-made beds, flat-screen TVs, iPod docks, and custom artwork. Some upgraded rooms have DJ stations, whirlpool baths, and/or cinemas. It’s like hotel heaven.

The W has one of the most popular cocktail lounges for drinks. They also have a Southeast Asian restaurant, a beautiful spa, and a nightclub that features the W’s famous large mirrorball. So dress to the nines and dance the night away!

Megaro Hotel

Megaro Hotel London

Spend your days exploring the city while staying at the Megaro Hotel in Kings Cross. This hotel has a brilliant location, located near some of London’s most iconic attractions such as St Pancras and The British Library.

The building’s exterior features a vibrant mural on its Victorian facade. Inside, the reception area is decorated in a funky style and staff are very friendly. The rooms are spacious and have modern decor and plenty of natural light.

The place has an artistic, eclectic boutique vibe and offers accommodations for families as well as longer stays. The rooms come equipped with large rain showers, free WiFi, and flat-screen TVs. If you snag one of the apartment rooms you’ll also have a big kitchen for cooking.

The trendy London hotel offers an onsite restaurant and vintage-style bar that specializes in delicious cocktails, I recommend the French 75!

ME London by Melia

ME London by Melia

The ME London by Melia is a stunning and luxurious hotel situated in a prime location just one block away from The River Thames, directly opposite Somerset House, and only a 6-minute walk from Covent Garden. Seriously, you can’t beat this location!

The hotel’s modern rooms are equipped with soundproofing, Nespresso coffeemakers, and Egyptian cotton bedding, and boast a unique design featuring white leather walls.

Waking up here is amazing with the floor-to-ceiling windows and private balconies. The suites also have additional features like in-room iPads and living areas. Some suites also provide 24-hour butler service. Sign me up!

In addition, the hotel has a contemporary Italian restaurant, another stylish eatery, a 24-hour exercise room, a lounge bar, and a hip rooftop bar.

CitizenM Hotel

citizenM Tower of London

This Dutch hotel group offers affordable luxury with a unique twist in London. It boasts of trailblazing technology, a laid-back vibe, and a colorful contemporary design that sets it apart from other chain hotels. Once you experience it, you may never want to settle for a dull chain hotel again.

London has three great versions of this place.

The first one is situated in South Bank, central London and is a seven-minute walk from Tate Modern museum, Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, and Jubilee Line Underground station.

At the four-star CitizenM Bankside, you’ll have a unique and trendy experience that includes self-check-ins using modern terminals, large Andy Warhol photographs, Penguin paperbacks, eye-catching decor, and a beautiful outdoor area.

The other two locations are just as vibrant, with rooms in Shoreditch and Tower Hill featuring minimalist interiors and cozy beds.

The Tower Hill location can be reached in a seven-minute walk from Southwark tube station and is near Borough Market.

The Shoreditch location in the hip East central area is a 12-minute walk from Liverpool Street tube station.

AMANO Covent Garden

AMANO Covent Garden London

Influencers rejoice! AMANO Covent Garden is the perfect place to stay for our social media-addicted travelers looking for a unique city experience and the best Insta photos.

The AMANO Covent Garden Hotel is a modern and stylish hotel located in the popular Covent Garden area of central London. It’s the first international location for the German AMANO Group. The hotel is situated near top-notch theatres, boutiques, restaurants, and pubs.

The interiors of the hotel feature the signature AMANO look with clean, modern lines and colors. One of the unique features of the hotel is the Goldy Rooms which have freestanding golden bathtubs and offer spectacular views of the city.

Most rooms offer views of the garden and come equipped with mobile keys and tablets that have a phone function. You can unwind at the Skybar on the 7th floor, which has an open terrace. Alternatively, head down to the basement, where you’ll find an underground bar full of music, cocktails, and a dance floor.

The Corner London City

The Corner London City

If you’ve explored London at all then I’m sure you’re familiar with the hip area of Shorditch. This is where you’ll find The Corner London City, a unique hotel with lots of personality and style, just like its neighborhood.

What started in Amsterdam, this hotel has now expanded to London offering guests a budget-friendly stay in one of their cubi’s.

You may be wondering what a Cubi is, don’t worry, so was I, ha! It’s a cute little sleeping station designed in the shape of a cuboid. It features a comfortable bed and a 32-inch flat-screen TV.

The rooms have modern shower rooms, black-out curtains, and soundproofing for undisturbed sleep.

The Pilgrm

The Pilgrm London

The Pilgrm Hotel is a stylish boutique-style accommodation in a great central location in Westminster.

The hotel is housed in a beautiful Victorian building that is only a one-minute walk away from Paddington tube station and 1 mile from Hyde Park. Despite being in a bustling area, the rooms are chic, cozy, and compact, and will make you feel right at home.

The upgraded rooms have flat-screen TVs and provide city views. Additionally, you can spend evenings at the onsite lounge bar. They serve cocktails, freshly squeezed juices, and international cuisine. There’s also a cozy cafe to grab a coffee at in the morning.

Ruby Lucy

Ruby Lucy Hotel London

This new London hotel blends modern creativity with old-world charm, offering a unique place to stay with vibrant decor inspired by historic carnivals, fairgrounds, and circuses.

It’s located in Lambeth near popular London attractions to see such as the London Eye, Big Ben, and Westminster Abbey, and is conveniently located just a three-minute walk from Waterloo Station. Expect a mix of “glamour, grit, and great British wit” at this cool hotel.

The hotel offers a range of amenities such as a unique bar that serves creative cocktails, a nutritious breakfast buffet, and quality coffee drinks made by a skilled barista.

Additionally, guests can stay in modern and playful guest rooms featuring spacious and cozy beds, refreshing rainfall showers, and air conditioning — I know y’all know how important this is in the summers!

One Hundred Shoreditch

One Hundred Shoreditch London

Discover the vibrant creative and tech scene of Shoreditch by staying at One Hundred Shoreditch. You’ll be surrounded by street art, yummy restaurants, pubs, galleries, and the renowned Brick Lane and Spitalfields markets of the East End for quirky London Souvenirs.

One Hundred Shoreditch offers a variety of rooms, including studio singles, doubles, lofts, and suites. All of their rooms have carefully selected art and accent pieces that add color and warmth to the decor.

The furniture in the rooms is a mix of vintage and bespoke pieces, creating a comfortable and stylish retreat from the busy and exciting neighborhood outside.

Don’t Forget Your London Travel Insurance

One thing is for sure: getting good travel insurance is ALWAYS a good idea.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Final Thoughts

Whether it’s your first or 50th time in London you’ll always discover something new and interesting to do. It’s what makes it one of my favorite cities in the world, so much to see and so much to do, and having a place to stay that matches your personality and style can make all the difference.

These quirky hotels in London offer something special and different with amazing views, top-notch service, interesting amenities, modern rooms, colorful decorations, and a vibrant atmosphere.

If you’re unsure of which one to choose, and understandably so, as it’s a big list, then I highly recommend the Treehouse Hotel. It’s my absolute favorite and really gives you the feeling of being in a treehouse — it’s seriously the best of both worlds: the city on the outside and the jungle on the inside. You’re going to love it.

London St. James's Park
Quaint and quiet London – for a time!
Photo: Sasha Savinov

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