Looking for cool and quirky hotels in London? Here are 21 fabulous and unusual places to stay for your trip.
We have one question for you.
Why stay in a bland and boring hotel when London has so many straight-up amazing places to stay?
No, seriously.
Even though we live in London – there’s nothing we enjoy more than booking into a swanky hotel, going for a blow out dinner and making the most of this crazy metropolis. Let’s face it: in a city that’s packed with quirky things to do and with such a vibrant social scene, it’s no surprise is it that you’re never short of a characterful place to lay your head at night.
Want to stay in rooms surrounded by amazing art? What about a floating hotel? Come along and discover these cool hotels in London.
Best Cool and Quirky Hotels in London: At a Glance
| Best Cool and Quirky Hotels in London – Top Picks | Hotel |
| Best Overall Cool and Quirky Hotel in London | The Hazlitt’s |
| Best Unique Hotel in London | Batty Langley’s |
| Best Stylish Hotel in London | Andaz London Liverpool |
| Best Eccentric Hotel in London | Hux Hotel |
Cool & Quirky Hotels in London
Hazlitt’s
London’s theatreland has long walked the line between debauched and opulent, so there’s no better place to stay than Hazlitt’s.
Named after the Victorian essayist who lived here (we have always maintained that Hazlitt’s The Fight is one of the best pieces of writing in the English language), Hazlitt’s is a London institution.
Tucked within a building that dates back from 1713, the interior oozes old-school glamour with rich hues, panelled walls and hardwood antique furniture.
It’s the kind of place that you imagine has hosted its fair share of salacious affairs and opulent parties.
After a glamorous evening, wake up the next morning with breakfast to your door – the best way to shake off last night’s shenanigans.
Area: Soho
Long known for its neon signs and affiliation with the theatre, Soho is still a nightlife hotspot. Think glamorous cocktail bars and parties that continue on well into the night. It’s also well located for all of the major attractions in London.
Artist Residence
We’re not sure about you, but we often find ourselves torn between the convenience of a hotel (hello, 24-hour reception) and the homely charm of a rental.
Luckily, you can enjoy the best of both worlds with Artist’s Residence, one of our favourite funky hotels in London.
Each room is carefully and uniquely decorated, with a particular highlight being the amazing art pieces on the walls. (No boring old flowers here, thank you very much.)
Plus, there are only ten rooms in the whole property, so you can expect some personal attention.
You can also expect all the convenience that comes with a luxury hotel – including a prohibition themed cocktail bar.
Area: Pimlico
This quirky hotel in central London enjoys an enviable location close to the city’s main attractions. It’s just a short stroll to must-sees like Buckingham Palace, while there’s also brilliant shopping, dining and nightlife in the area.
Zetter Townhouse
If you’re looking for quirky places to stay in London, look no further than The Zetter Townhouse.
This is where we imagine our eccentric old great-Aunt would live, if we had an eccentric old great-Aunt.
Think weird and wonderful paintings and oddities collected from all over the globe, wallpaper/floor combos that shouldn’t work but do, and antique furniture.
It’s all fabulous as far as we’re concerned – and the modern amenities like super-fast wifi, flat-screen TVs and luxury toiletries are great too.
Area: Clerkenwell
Staying in a quirky boutique hotel in London doesn’t mean being banished to the outskirts. The Zetter Townhouse is located in Clerkenwell, just a quick stroll from the Barbican. Within the neighbourhood you’ll also find pubs, bars, shops, restaurants and coffee shops aplenty.
Batty Langley’s
Live like the royalty you are at Batty Langley’s, a unique hotel in London that’s quickly establishing itself as a firm favourite.
There’s really nothing like antique furniture, heavy silk curtains and fine china to yell ‘look at me, I’m fancy!’ – and Batty Langley’s has all of that in spades.
It’s a totally charming hotel that also offers super-modern conveniences.
We especially love the breakfast, which can either be enjoyed in bed (yes, please) or on the sun-filled terrace (also good.)
There’s also 24-hour room service, which is always a good shout in our opinion.
Area: Shoreditch
The hotel enjoys a fabulous location within a short walk to the famous Old Spitalfields Market. Shoreditch is heaving with cool things to do, bars and pubs. Other popular hotspots like Hackney and Whitechapel are also close by, while nearby Tube stops connect you with the whole city.
Andaz Liverpool Street
Converted from a historic building (it was built as The Great Eastern Hotel but has not one but TWO Masonic Temples inside – including a crazy Egyptian-style one that you have to see) and on the doorstep of cool Shoreditch, Andaz Liverpool Street is a great choice if you’re after unique hotels in London.
With 267 rooms, it’s one of the larger hotels on this list – and Andaz is part of the Hyatt chain – so not exactly independent. That said, it’s still got plenty of personality – think beautiful art and hand-selected furniture.
The Andaz is stylish and unique, without being quite as out there as some of the other quirky hotels in the capital.
We love the little touches here, like the free non-alcoholic minibar that’s replenished daily, as well as free drinks and canapes in the lobby in the evening (ummm, yes please.)
Area: Liverpool Street / Spitalfields
The hotel is located on the iconic Liverpool Street in Spitalfields. You are located smack bang in one of London’s liveliest neighbourhoods, with its abundant bars, pubs, quirky shops and awesome cafes.
Ham Yard Hotel
Proving that you don’t have to choose between fun and luxury, Ham Yard Hotel is chic yet also one of the coolest hotels in London, a stone’s throw from the city’s greatest hits.
If the thought of ‘brightly patterned wallpaper’ makes you cringe, be prepared for a shock – this hotel can convert even the biggest wallpaper sceptic.
The rooms here aren’t cookie cutter, but instead have their own personality and decor. There’s an emphasis on bright, whimsy styles that will make you smile.
Head out to nearby Covent Garden and Piccadilly Circus for meals, drinks or shopping – or, do it right in the hotel. Or better yet, do both.
Area: Covent Garden
You can’t get much more central than bustling Covent Garden. There are endless options for shopping, drinking, dining and eating, while London’s premier attractions like Trafalgar Square and Piccadilly Circus are less than a ten minute walk away.
Haymarket Hotel
If it’s fun hotels in London that you’re after, you’d best take a look at the totally charming Haymarket Hotel.
The decor vibe here is hard to put your finger on – think your grandmother’s house meets the Tate.
We mean, with a description like that, how could you not visit this luxurious yet unusual hotel in London?
As well as the quirky and charming decor, the hotel also offers up great amenities including a swimming pool, fitness centre and an afternoon tea that goes on until 4.30pm daily.
Not bad at all.
Area: Westminster / St James’s
Located in an area that’s most famous for its expansive Royal Park, you know things are going to be pretty fancy around the hotel. There’s excellent shopping, dining and eating – oh, and a little house called Buckingham Palace not far away.
Town Hall & Apartments
Get a taste for London living with Town Hall & Apartments in the city’s bustling East End.
Forget squeezing yourself and your belongings into a tiny room, with Town Hall & Apartments you’ll have plenty of room to spread out.
Most of the rooms are self-catered, meaning you can enjoy a cosy night in. If you prefer, however, there’s an on-site restaurant.
Or, step outside and choose from one of the many eateries at your doorstep. And perhaps finish off the meal with some late night cocktails or pints from a local haunt.
Area: Bethnal Green
A more residential area, things here are a little less overrun by tourists meaning you’re likely to stumble across some hidden gems. That said, you’re still within an easy commute of the big ticket items, and the V&A Museum of Childhood is particularly closeby.
Good Hotel
Ironically, one of the city’s most boringly-named hotels is also one of the most interesting places to stay in London.
You see, the Good Hotel is one of the most unique offerings in the capital.
Firstly, it’s a floating hotel. As in, on the water. So you’re pretty much assured of a unique experience and gorgeous views.
Secondly, it’s a not for profit that reinvests its profits into supporting vulnerable people in London and Guatemala. Pretty amazing, right?
The interior is stylish and a tad quirky, and the rooms are too. Definitely one of our top picks for cool places to stay in London.
Area: The Docklands
With an impressive riverfront location, Good Hotel enjoys views over the water not far from the London City Airport. While there are a few amenities nearby, you’re probably best off hopping onto the tube towards the city’s hotspots. It’s great if you’re heading to Excel though.
Leman Locke
Looking a little bit like the Candyland board game come to life (only make it fashion), Leman Locke is proudly ‘design-led’.
This means it’s all very unique and aesthetically pleasing. And one of the coolest hotels London boasts.
The design is on the minimal side, but with enough pops of colour to keep things interesting. It could have been a snoozefest but Leman Locke is one of the London hotels with character.
With 163 rooms on offer, you might be concerned that the rooms will be, ah, “cosy”. Not so – the rooms are practically palatial.
There are also great facilities, including a gym (with free weekly classes) and a very trendy restaurant.
Area: Shoreditch
Shoreditch is nestled in East London – traditionally London’s grittier side. Today, however, it’s undergone a rejuvenation without losing its street cool. You can expect ultra cool bars, galleries and restaurants.
The Mandrake
Trendy hotels in London don’t come much more luxurious than the stunning Mandrake.
Part atrium, part art gallery, part uber-cool drinking haunt and finally part hotel, this amazing place really is something else!
There are only 34 rooms (and 3 suites), so you’ll want to book well in advance – this place only opened recently and is already attracting the crowds.
With such gorgeous decor and a seriously good restaurant to boot, it’s no surprise.
Area: Fitzrovia
If you’re looking to up your own style stakes after a stay at The Mandrake, you’re in luck – you’re just steps away from Oxford Street. And there’s more – think many of London’s best restaurants, cafes, bars and pubs – as well as attractions like the British Museum.
K West
Tucked away on a quiet residential street, K West Hotel is a funky hotel in London’s Shepherd’s Bush.
There’s a lot to love about this sleek hotel: it’s housed in a former BBC recording studio that, in its day, saw the likes of Jimi Hendrix and David Bowie walk through its doors.
These days the vibe is no less creative and eccentric – the colourful lobby bar buzzes with local creatives and hotel guests making the most of the very drinkable cocktail list.
The rooms are stylish – with lots of technological mod-cons to make your stay as easy as possible. There are many benefits to booking somewhere outside of central London – in K West’s case, one is definitely the size of the rooms, which are huge in comparison to many more centrally located spots.
Finally, we can’t mention K West without talking up their sumptuous spa – it’s frequently named as one of the best in London don’t you know.
Area: Shepherd’s Bush
No-one really paid that much attention to Shepherd’s Bush until the mega-monolithic Westfield shopping centre opened there about a decade ago. With it came a whole host of bars, private member’s clubs and cool restaurants – along with the realisation that Shepherd’s Bush is less than 15 minutes’ tube ride to Oxford Circus and the West End. Why hello there.
Hotel 55
Why does Hotel 55 make the cut? Not only does the outside give off gothic townhouse vibes, but the rooms are decorated with vibrant pops of colour and Jackson Pollock-esque artwork adorning the walls. This is seriously one of the trendiest hotels in London.
Another bonus of Hotel 55 is the incredible breakfast spread – make sure you book a room with it included, it’s one of the best we’ve ever had.
Oh, and each room contains a Nespresso Coffee Machine, L’occitane toiletries, and a minibar, so you’ve got everything you need for a comfortable stay right at your fingertips.
Area: Ealing
Situated just a 2-minute walk from Ealing North tube station, you’re half an hour from the restaurants, shops, and vibrant nightlife found in central London. If you’re looking for a quirky London hotel somewhere slightly quieter but with ease of access to the city centre, this is the spot for you.
The Portobello Hotel
Whether the rooms at The Portobello Hotel are eclectic or just pure strange is up to you to decide. Personally, we think they teeter just on the edge, but with the walls covered in murals and bright linens on the beds, this hotel is just so much fun.
The Georgian terrace location is also pretty great – the hotel is only a 5-minute walk from Notting Hill Gate Underground Station.
No two rooms are the same here – in some you’ll find friendly cartoon fish smiling back at you and others have romantic paintings behind the bed. But whichever room you end up with, you won’t be disappointed at The Portobello Hotel.
Area: Notting Hill
Lucky for you, this hotel is situated in the dreamy Notting Hill area. Surrounded by cool bars, pubs, and cafes, there’s plenty to do. This hotel is the perfect base for your London trip.
St Ermins Hotel
If there was an award for impressive entrances, St Ermins Hotel would win. Hands down.
Once you’ve gotten over the gorgeous tree lined road outside (if that’s even possible), you’re greeted with a grand staircase leading up to your cosy room.
From looking at the rest of the hotel, the rooms are not what you would expect – a vision of lime and fuschia – but this is easily one of the coolest London hotels nonetheless.
Feeling hungry? Head to the onsite Caxton Grill for modern European cuisine in a casual setting. The specialities here are the meat and fish dishes – and don’t forget to brush up on your sommelier skills, as there’s an extensive wine selection to choose from.
Area: Westminster
With the hotel’s handy Westminster location, you’re right next to St. James’ Park and Tube Station, a stone’s throw from Buckingham Palace.
QBIC Hotel London City
Based on a pod hotel concept, QBIC Hotel London City is an extremely funky London hotel.
Not only does the hotel ooze eccentricity, but there’s a real eco-friendly drive in the rooms – the rain shower has water-saving technology and all toiletries are organic.
Not convinced yet? Maybe this will sway you… One of the main highlights at the QBIC Hotel is the gorgeous open bar, decorated with Moroccan tiles and a cactus or two dotted around . They’ve also got an impressive cocktail menu and their knowledgeable staff are always on hand to help you choose a tipple.
Area: City of London
If location is the main thing you look for in a hotel, Qbic Hotel is just 5-minutes from Aldgate East and Aldgate Tube stations – and you’ve got connections to the Circle, District, Hammersmith & City, and Metropolitan lines. There’s plenty to do in the City of London, you’re close to all the main tourist attractions.
The Wesley
For a great budget-friendly London hotel, look no further than The Wesley.
Whilst the rooms are spacious and modern, the communal areas are pretty cool. As you enter the hotel, the lobby makes you feel like you’ve stepped straight into a Ridley Scott film with electric green and white tiled walls welcoming you.
You’ve also got The Savannah restaurant on site, so you can grab a bite to eat or drink in the hotel. Or, head out into Camden to one of these great places to grab a cheeky drink.
Area: Camden
Situated in exciting Camden, you’re moments away from brilliant restaurants, the iconic market, and buzzy nightlife. You’re also near Euston station and a 15 minute walk from The British Museum.
Hux Hotel
It doesn’t get swankier than a stay at the Hux Hotel. If the jungle themed decor doesn’t tempt you, we don’t know what will.
The rooms are jewel-toned, combining luxe velvet accents with modern touches like gold-rimmed mirrors and flat-screen LCD TV’s. The bathrooms add some more luxury with rain showers and hip, tiled walls.
Top tip: Opt for the signature double room for the ultimate blend of value and comfort. The rooms are slightly bigger and, in our opinion, you get an elevated experience.
Area: Kensington
Located on Kensington’s high street, with pretty views of Kensington Gardens and Royal Albert Hall on your doorstep. You’re also near Kensington Tube Station, with great connections to the rest of the capital.
Stylotel
Looking like a futuristic dream, Stylotel is one of the most unusual hotels London has to offer. What’s even stranger is that the sci-fi hotel is set between two pretty 19th-century townhouses.
In a hotel fit for Captain Kirk himself, the rooms feel modern but still rather cosy – and with rooms starting at just £50 per night, this is one of the most reasonable hotels in the capital.
It’s low-budget, so don’t expect too much from Stylotel. But, if you’re looking for a clean and quirky place to rest your head after a day of exploring the city, this is the one.
Area: Paddington
If you’re undertaking a more tourist attraction-based trip in London, Stylotel is a 5-minute walk from Hyde Park and Oxford Street is 15-minutes away.
The Sunborn
Ok, we’re ending with a cracker of a hotel: The Sunborn invites you aboard to your room on the yacht hotel, which floats in the Royal Victoria Dock.
The rooms are the real showstopper here, each treating you to incredible views looking out over the water. Oh, and don’t worry, they’ve got private bathrooms equipped with modern amenities, so you won’t be left feeling stranded.
The hotel has pretty much all the benefits of a full-on cruise, just located in the centre of London. A modern restaurant, lounge bar, and 24 hour sun deck all await you on board, along with attentive crew members who make a stay at The Sunborn one to remember.
Area: Royal Victoria Dock
As far as experiences go, it’s hard to beat sleeping afloat the Royal Victoria Dock. Moments from ExCel London, you’re also nearby to the skyscraper haven that is Canary Wharf.
Mama Shelter
If you’re looking for the cool hotels, London has got a real treat for you. Mama puts the quirk in quirky and offers endless fun to each guest.
From the retro arcade games and peg table in the common areas to the Japanese style karaoke rooms and garden bar to keep you entertained, every single inch of this gorgeous hotel has been planned out to perfection.
Make sure to grab a cocktail or two from the bar – the wide selection of drinks rivals some of London’s best bars.
Each of the 194 rooms in the hotel has been designed with hand-crafted furnishings by Dion and Arles. Think corner sofas, cosy nooks, and bespoke signs in each room to liven the space up – the Looney Tunes lighting is a particular favourite feature of ours.
Did we mention that Netflix is on the house? There’s no better way to round off a day exploring London than by snuggling up and watching a film.
Area: Shoreditch
No surprise that this ultra-cool hotel is located in Shoreditch, a stone’s throw from fab street art, restaurants, cafes, and shopping spots.
The Fox and Anchor
Rooms at The Fox and Anchor don’t lack for character. Decorated with funky art and furnished with all sorts of vintage items, you’ll be hard pressed to find a more unique place to stay in London.
Should you plan on leaving your quirky room, your location puts you in the right place to zip about London with ease. Theatres in the West End and some of London’s vest restaurants are only a walk away, as is the iconic Barbican Centre – a hub of restaurants, bars, cinemas and more.
That said, some rooms here have patios. All come with flat-screen TVs and don’t hold back on the comfort – it might be hard to tear yourself away from that.
Area: Barbican
You won’t be far from any of the action in Barbican. The City of London, in all its flashy glory is right there on your doorstep. There’s also Clerkenwell and Farringdon – two of London’s major foodie hotspots – just around the corner for when you get peckish
The Exhibitionist
The Exhibitionist screams kitsch at almost every angle. Rooms play on various over-the-top themes – you can choose from ones kitted out in plush velvet, fitted with garish multicoloured furniture, lit up with neon and more.
Each room boasts a bathtub and sets of Anyah toiletries while the spa suite option pushes the boat out with a full-on hot tub you’ll have just to yourself. Throw in some extremely comfortable beds and you’re on for a winner.
The hotel itself is set into a gorgeous period townhouse in up-market Kensington where cafe culture spills out onto leafy streets and some of London’s best culture can be found on Museum Row. Could you ask for better?
Area: Kensington
Kensington is one of London’s posher neighbourhoods. You’ll pretty much guarantee yourself a peaceful stay if this is the area you go for. It’s a touch further away from the city centre than other places in this guide but wha
Quirky Hotels in London: Practical Tips and FAQ for Your Trip
- London’s famous ‘Tube’ network makes it a piece of cake to get around. If you’re on a budget, heading out a bit further is a great way to make your pounds stretch that bit further.
- Many of the quirky hotels in London are in old historic buildings, which often means stairs. It’s best to double check accessibility ahead of time, just in case.
Where do Hipsters Stay in London?
In short, Shoreditch. Shoreditch’s title as one of the coolest places to stay in London is still going strong thanks to the vast numbers of poppin’ restaurants, bars and cultural hotspots in the area. There are lots of London’s most unusual hotels here and it’s also home to some of the best street art in London too.
Don’t let that put you off if you would rather die in a ditch than describe yourself as a hipster though – it’s an all-round great area to stay.
