The Best Hotels to Book Near the Gherkin, City of London

Nothing says London like a historic East End pub, and this classic 16th-century boozer in Shoreditch offers you the chance to stay in one. Rooms have an individual design, from the grandly traditional Devonshire Suite to the Hush Heath Suite, with a red, white and pink colour scheme that pays homage to their own winery, whose produce you can enjoy downstairs.

Sweeping London views meet exquisite East Asian style and culture at this elegant hotel in Aldgate. The sleek, contemporary rooms all feature floor-to-ceiling windows looking out over the London skyline, some directly over the Shard. Similar views are on offer from the atmospheric Jin Bo Law skybar, while truly exquisite cuisine is on offer at restaurant Shikumen Luxe; try the signature Cantonese dim sum.

The artistic spirit of Leonardo da Vinci is celebrated at his namesake, this vibrant hotel in the City of London. Rooms feature plush sofas in pharaonic colour schemes of blue and gold, and, of course, beautiful artworks adorn the walls – a sight matched only by the views of the London skyline outside your window. Be sure to head to Leo’s Bar and Restaurant for a classic English afternoon tea.

This collection of 47 serviced suites and apartments have a modern feel (bright, airy and flooded with natural light) but feature historic touches, such as leather chesterfield sofas and black-and-white photographs of London landmarks befitting the historic location on Bishopsgate. All suites feature a modern kitchen, so you can cook for yourself should you fancy a night in, though all the world-class dining scene London has to offer is right on your doorstep.

Right beside the modern monoliths of the Gherkin and the Walkie Talkie building, yet sitting in a quiet courtyard and housed in a historic tea warehouse, this lovely group of apartments sums up the timeless atmosphere of London. Period features, such as cast-iron columns, are complemented by a modern monochrome aesthetic, while all apartments – some of which look directly onto the Gherkin – have kitchens so you can self-cater.

This exquisitely stylish hotel features rooms and suites with an eye-catching monochrome design and beautiful marble bathrooms, plus modern conveniences including Nespresso machines to wake you up in the morning; Dyson Supersonic hair dryers to keep you looking your best; and electric blackout blinds to make sure you get a good night’s sleep. The commitment to quality continues at the Michelin-starred Angler Restaurant, where menu highlights include sea bass tartare.

Soft pastel colours of pink and blue, and plush furnishings including comfy sofas, make these apartments the perfect sanctuary from the hardness of the city outside. Apartments with kitchens are available so you can cook for yourself if you wish, but all the culinary delights of Central London are right on your doorstep, as are tourist sights including the Columbia Road Flower Market, Brick Lane and the Tower of London.

A classic 19th-century pub that has lost none of its traditional charm, the Counting House retains a heritage atmosphere in its comfortable guest rooms, with their olive-green wood-panelled walls bedecked with vintage photography depicting London life. Rooms are named after old coins – Guinea, Sovereign, Florin and Crown – reflecting the hotel location in the financial hub of the city, close to Bank Tube station.

Don’t let the name fool you: this is no motel, but rather a stylish city-centre hotel with sleek ensuite rooms overlooking central London and within walking distance of the Gherkin, the Tower of London and the Shard. The chandelier-lit lobby, with mid-century modern-style furniture, is a stylish spot to enjoy breakfast, with light and healthy or hearty cooked options available.