10 London Hotels for Couples (2024)
Dreaming of a romantic getaway in the heart of the city and on the hunt for the absolute best London hideouts for lovebirds? Look no further! With four years of living in London and a genuine passion for hotel exploration, I'm your go-to guide. I'm not just serious about it; I've even got a spreadsheet jam-packed with my dream hotels and their dreamy destinations. Let's make your London stay unforgettable!
London, a city forever steeped in my romantic fantasies. Every corner holds a new revelation, and the diverse neighborhoods create the illusion of stepping into entirely different worlds with each tube station exit. With one of the world's finest culinary scenes and an event calendar bursting at the seams, London is the ultimate destination for a couple's retreat.
While the city boasts some of the country's best hotels, the abundance of choices can be overwhelming. But fear not, as I'm here to simplify it for you. In this guide, I'll delve into my top 10 hotels tailor-made for a romantic escape, sharing the unique features that make each one special. Whether it's the flexibility to choose your check-out time or the allure of a treehouse stay, each hotel has something to elevate your romantic weekend to perfection.
Ready to embark on a journey through my favorite London escapes for couples? Let's dive in.
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If it's not something I'd choose for myself, I won't suggest it to you.
London Getaways for Couples:
1. The Mitre, Hampton Court
The Mitre stands proudly atop my list of London retreats tailor-made for couples. With a commanding view of the Thames and situated just across from the illustrious Hampton Court Palace, it's a location that epitomizes desirability.
This gem is the inaugural offering from The Signet Collection, spearheaded by the former Beaverbrook maestro, Hector Ross. It's no surprise, then, that The Mitre is a marvel, with each of its 36 rooms uniquely crafted to preserve the character of the 17th-century edifice it calls home.
At the core of its charm is a rich history dating back to 1665 when it played host to travelers and guests of Hampton Court Palace. Despite undergoing renovations, the hotel has retained its historical essence, with several rooms named after iconic figures from the past, including a few famous wives and a notable king.
The culinary experience takes center stage here – boasting two restaurants and bars, along with a dedicated orangery for private events and a cozy winter terrace. The riverside brasserie, 1665, is masterfully curated by Ronnie Kimbugwe, drawing inspiration from his Devonshire roots to craft a menu with a seafood focus. For a more laid-back affair, the Coppernose restaurant serves up cocktails and delectable nibbles. Outdoors, the terrace proudly hosts the world's first Whispering Angel concession – a testament to the hotel's impeccable taste.
Photo's Courtesy of The Mitre, Hampton Court
2. The Hoxton
If there's a Hoxton Hotel in the city you're planning to visit, don't hesitate to make a reservation. Their inaugural establishment opened in Shoreditch in 2006, and since then, they've extended their presence to various locations across England, Europe, and America, including four spots in London. Driven by a commitment to community and culture, their aim is to provide a space where guests can live like locals and truly immerse themselves in the neighborhood.
A significant emphasis is placed on ensuring a relaxed experience, evident in details like the room service app and the neighborhood guides available to help guests acquaint themselves with the surroundings. If you're up for exploring, they offer 'Hox bikes' for free throughout your stay.
For those who prefer to stay within the hotel, there's an array of entertainment options. Each Hoxton Hotel boasts an impressive selection of food, and the Southwark location stands out as one of my favorites. On the lower level, you'll find Albie – a laid-back, all-day restaurant featuring dishes from two local eateries, Eggbreak and Pecking Order. However, the real gem is on the rooftop, where Seabird awaits, an extraordinary seafood restaurant offering everything from octopus rolls to manchego cheesecake. Not a fan of seafood? Head up for a drink and secure a spot on the outdoor terrace – the views are unparalleled.
But perhaps the most outstanding feature of staying at Hoxton is the 'flexy time' initiative introduced in 2019, allowing guests to select their check-in and check-out times within a 24-hour period. For instance, if you booked a stay for a Saturday night, you could potentially check in at 12:01 am on Saturday morning and check out at 11:59 pm on Sunday night (confirmed through inquiry).
Photo's Courtesy of The Hoxton
3. The Standard
Contrary to its name, this hotel is far from ordinary. Established in 1999, it made its debut in West Hollywood and rapidly expanded throughout America, solidifying its status as one of the most renowned boutique hotel chains.
In 2019, the inauguration of their London branch marked their first venture outside of America. Boasting 266 rooms ranging from 'Cosy Core' to 'Suite Terrace,' each adorned with a lively and vibrant design. For those seeking indulgence, the suites feature outdoor bathtubs and private patios with views overlooking St. Pancras station.
Dining and drinking options abound in this hotel. The Michelin-starred Decimo offers Spanish-Mexican cuisine, while the more laid-back Isla presents a seasonal menu suitable for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Sweeties becomes the go-to spot for cocktails and DJs in the evenings, operating until 3 am. Alternatively, you can enjoy a drink at the Double Standard, the hotel bar. And for those who prefer a more relaxed setting, there's even a library for unwinding with a good book.
Just a brief 2-minute walk from Kings Cross, The Standard is ideally situated for a romantic weekend getaway. With Coal Drops Yard right at your doorstep, featuring vibrant bars, restaurants, and shops, or a leisurely stroll along the canal to Camden or Little Venice.
Photo's Courtesy of The Standard
4. Treehouse Hotel
Treehouse Hotel offers a unique London escape tailored for couples seeking something out of the ordinary. Situated just across from the BBC, it's a mere 15-minute walk from Piccadilly Circus.
The 95 bedrooms, all elevated, boast large bay windows providing stunning views of London's landmarks. The design exudes a playful vibe reminiscent of a childhood treehouse, featuring lively colors, reclaimed wood, and even tree trunks in the bathrooms. Bedrooms are adorned with scattered toys, including the beloved Paddington Bear.
The hotel hosts one of London's renowned rooftop bars, The Nest, offering 360-degree views of the city, live DJs, and an extensive cocktail menu. Additionally, the hotel features a pizzeria, a Mexican restaurant, a café, and the convenience of room service.
Emphasizing sustainability, the hotel incorporates reclaimed wood, provides water filling stations on each floor, and commits to reducing single-use plastics. A living wall on the rooftop enhances air quality, and free bikes are available for guests to use, aligning with the hotel's commitment to minimizing its carbon footprint.
Photo's Courtesy of Treehouse Hotel
5. Princess Royal
The Princess Royal boasts some of the most charming hotel rooms you'll find. With just four rooms in this renovated Victorian pub, it creates an ideal and intimate setting for a romantic weekend retreat. The allure of staying in a place of this size is unparalleled; the personalized touch is truly special. Each room is uniquely designed, incorporating elements from classic British brands and locally sourced antiques. A recommendation would be reserving the Diana room, where the bathtub at the end of the bed adds a perfect touch to your romantic getaway.
As expected from a pub with rooms, the culinary experience is a highlight. Ben Tish, a classically trained chef and the mind behind Norma, a Sicilian-Moorish restaurant on Charlotte Street, has crafted a menu inspired by Mediterranean flavors. Anticipate delights like whipped Nduja, chicken Milanese, and grilled red prawns.
Situated in the picturesque Notting Hill neighborhood, just a short stroll from Portobello Market, there's a wealth of activities at your doorstep. Whether catching a film at the Electric Cinema, enjoying brunch at Sunday in Brooklyn, or savoring a drink in London's charming pub, The Churchill Arms, there's no shortage of delightful options.
Photo's Courtesy of Princess Royal
6. The Stratford Hotel
While Stratford might not be your initial thought for a weekend in the city, The Stratford could easily change your mind. Crafted by the team behind Chiltern Firehouse and the St Pancras Renaissance, their commitment to excellence shines through in this new venture.
Situated just a brief 6-minute train ride from St. Pancras, The Stratford offers abundant entertainment options upon your arrival. Accommodation choices span from snug doubles to the expansive Manhattan Studio, complete with floor-to-ceiling windows, panoramic vistas, and a super-king bed. Drawing inspiration from New York's extended-stay hotels, the first seven floors house 145 hotel rooms, while the upper levels boast 248 loft apartments available for more extended rentals.
The hotel features three distinct restaurants. Kitchen E20, with its lounge and outdoor terrace, serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The Mezzanine functions as a versatile lounge bar, perfect for work and relaxation, providing a vantage point overlooking Kitchen E20. As night falls, it transforms into a world-class cocktail bar, drawing inspiration from the New York cocktail scene between 1930 and 1960. Thursdays offer an "open deck" night, inviting guests to try their hand at being a DJ. On weekends, resident DJs take the stage from 9 pm until late on Fridays, and Saturdays feature live music from 10 pm.
For a delightful date night, head to Allegra, recognized as the 53rd best restaurant in the UK last year. The menu revolves around seasonality, simplicity, and flavor, offering a diverse range from hand-dived scallops to barbecued quail.
Photo's Courtesy of The Stratford Hotel
7. Art'otel London Battersea Power Station
Nestled adjacent to the recently revamped Battersea Power Station, art'otel stands out as one of the trendiest accommodations in the city. Boasting captivating interiors, the hotel features 164 meticulously designed bedrooms by the acclaimed Spanish artist and interior designer, Jaime Hayon.
Characterized by the fusion of "art, design, and hospitality," the hotel exudes vibrant colors, showcases unique artwork, and emanates a playful ambiance. Opting for a room with city views is almost a must, considering it serves as the focal point of the hotel.
Perched on the top floor, JOIA, a Michelin-star restaurant, offers panoramic views of the Power Station—making it an ideal spot for a romantic date night. However, stealing the spotlight is the heated infinity pool on the 16th floor. Providing a 360-degree panorama of London, this pool allows a fresh perspective on one of the city's iconic structures.
On the ground level lies TOZI, an Italian restaurant that comes with its very own art gallery. Yet, with a plethora of bars and restaurants in the immediate vicinity and an array of shops within the power station, you're spoiled for choice. Battersea Park, a short distance away, adds to the appeal, offering a favorite city retreat. Consider grabbing brunch at Pear Tree Cafe or indulging in the adventure of Go Ape!
Photo's Courtesy of Art'otel London Battersea Power Station
8. Artist Residence
Artist Residence hotels consistently top my list of preferred hotel brands for UK travel. With their excellent cuisine, strategic locations, and a blend of captivating art and exceptional design, they never disappoint.
In London, their establishment is situated in Pimlico, a stone's throw from Victoria, Chelsea, and the Tate Britain for those seeking a cultural experience. Occupying a stunning townhouse, the hotel spans three floors with just 10 bedrooms, cultivating an inviting, homely atmosphere. Despite the unique designs in each room, standard amenities include a TV, Roberts radio, Nespresso coffee machine, a well-stocked mini-bar, and Bramley bath products.
The ground floor houses a cafe and a bar, creating the perfect space to transition seamlessly from morning to night. Additionally, there's a petite outdoor terrace at the front, providing an ideal spot for leisurely people-watching.
Photo's Courtesy of Artist Residence
I really hope my suggestions for the ultimate London getaways for couples bring a smile to your face. Let me know which one steals your heart!