The 6 Best Cheap Hotels in Central London

This budget hotel in the West End is fast becoming one of the the city’s most talked-about places to stay; this is unsurprising when you consider the price, and the minimalistic decor with its pops of neon and millennial pink (inspired by London’s fashion icons, including Alexander McQueen, Stella McCartney and Gareth Pugh). There’s a youthful, fun vibe throughout, thanks to quirky touches such as bunny rabbit chairs; the orange tree-lined Bourne & Hollingsworth restaurant up on the roof terrace is exceptional, both for its food and for the Instagram potential of its lush ‘living bar’.

Liverpool Street is one of London’s most accessible areas thanks to its mainline train and Tube stations, so it makes sense to base yourself here if this is your first visit to the city. Point A is a basic, affordable hotel that still manages to be cool – in part thanks to its hip location near to Brick Lane and the Old Spitalfields Market.

St Paul’s is one of the quieter areas of London, but it’s beautifully situated near to London Bridge and Bank, and full of history. Leonardo Royal Hotel is sleek and stylish, and excellent value for money for a hotel in Zone 1. There are three restaurants for guests to choose from, and if the Sky Bar isn’t being used for an event, guests are welcome to enjoy a drink there and take in the stunning skyline.

Ace is one of London’s trendiest hotels, but has the added benefit of being affordable – a rare find in central London. Aside from the Ace’s obvious credentials (it’s not unusual to bump into a celebrity in the lobby) you’ll almost certainly enjoy the vibe – the hotel’s bar is full of guests and locals, while rooms are decorated in rock and roll fashion with guitars hanging on the walls and record players on hand for some retro entertainment.

This hotel in Aldgate is very Instagram-worthy: the interiors are decorated in pastel hues, and floor-to-ceiling windows let in plenty of light. The rooms are also spacious, and feel surprisingly homely thanks to thoughtful touches like milk in the fridge and complimentary slippers, robes and yoga mat. The restaurant is a highlight thanks to its inventive European menu and cool decor.

Covent Garden hotels tend to be among the priciest in London, but this little gem is far more affordable than most, and it’s uber-cool, to boot. Decor is probably best described as retro with a twist – there’s lots of dark wood, china ornaments and old books, but they’re paired with rainforest showers and speakers to play your music from. The hotel has four bars, so you might have to drag yourself out if you want to explore the local area.