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London’s 17 Best Character Hotels

London’s 17 Best Character Hotels

London is a city with a lot of different facets to its appeal, but there's no doubting that this grand old lady is a charmer with plenty of character. The city can be at once regal and haughty, treading a wonderfully British line between opulence and austerity, yet also forward-thinking and fashionable. With such a rich history, it comes as no surprise that there are a wealth of characterful hotels across the city. Our hotel experts have hand-picked London's best character hotels selected on their design, service, and location. So whether you are looking for a classic grand dame, a stylish boutique, or a hotel that offers character at affordable rates — there is something for everyone here. To start planning your next city break, why not browse through our collection?

For grandeur

While this list isn't in order other than by type, no one would argue the case against Art Deco masterpiece Claridge's appearing at the top of a list of London's best character hotels. Her recent makeover served to highlight her wonderful original assets and polish up this old dowager duchess's glamour.
The Goring Hotel is another wonderful London institution, with its credentials as a family-run country house affair tipping it into the list of London's best character hotels. Now on the fourth Mr Goring, but still offering a wonderful, quintessentially English experience, with magnificent breakfasts, private gardens and long-serving staff. This is where Kate Middleton spent her last night as a single gal, and the hotel's fame hasn't stopped growing since — yet it's still the very heart and soul of English understated discretion.
The Connaught Hotel is another brilliant bastion of Britishness, which has also recently been given a 'freshen up', this time with more modern results — think light and airy replacing ever so slightly stuffy.
For a fresh take on traditional grandeur, The Ned is a good option. This hotel occupies an excellent spot right in the heart of the City of London. The design is historic cool with plenty of elegant Art Deco references while the rooftop bar and restaurant are a chic addition.

For a boutique stay

Zetter Townhouse is an intimate boutique hotel with eclectic vintage decor. Expect wooden four-poster beds draped in the Union Jack offset by walls adorned with bright splashes of modern art; it makes for a fun place to enjoy a city break.

For luxury

The Pelham is a stunning five-star townhouse hotel set in the heart of South Kensington. Characterful rooms and suites are filled with beautiful objets, while the decor is country house chic. Relax in the drawing-room or library and enjoy authentic Italian cuisine in La Trattoria.
The Franklin is a small luxury hotel in the heart of Knightsbridge. This is a seriously stylish property that will suit anyone who likes to exist slightly off the radar. Sumptuous rooms and suites boast rich silks and velvets, Frette linens, and marble bathrooms as standard. With access to a private garden and an excellent Italian restaurant — this is a spoiling stay.
Dorset Square Hotel is a stunning regency townhouse conversion on leafy Dorset Square. The thirty-eight rooms are individually designed in typical quirky Firmdale fashion, with beautiful fabrics and a quintessential English country house feel throughout. Complete with an excellent restaurant and bar.

For an art hotel

Artist Residence London has a homely lived-in feel. Rooms feature exposed brick walls adorned with Warhol-esque pop art, desk lamps standing on old wooden crates and wood-panelled bathrooms that resemble Alpine saunas. A neon-lit café/bar opens from breakfast till late. It's a cool and colourful place, perfect for longer stays.

For a pub

The Fox & Anchor is an atmospheric pub located in vibrant Farringdon. A handful of individually styled rooms are moody and chic with dark hues, free-standing baths and large artworks. The restaurant serves up hearty gastropub fare alongside a choice selection of ales. A trendy boutique choice.

For the West End

The Stafford in Mayfair makes the list because of its wonderfully quiet cul-de-sac location and Edwardian style. The decor is traditional without being heavy and there's plenty of good value luxury for those who want it.
Soho is the West End's more lively side, but Hazlitt's, with its Georgian period grandeur, sits peacefully above the action. It does a great line in elegance with flair and each of the twenty-seven rooms has its own character and treasures. This is one of London's best character hotels for people who appreciate the benefits of staying in a smaller hotel.

For West London

The Portobello has shabby-chic boho London bolt hole written all over it! A favourite of musicians in the 70s, the Notting Hill location now means it can charge a bit more for its rooms than it used to. Plus there's round the clock room service, so if you ever dreamed of ordering scrambled eggs and champagne at four o'clock in the morning this is London's best character hotel for you.
The Gore in Kensington couldn't have a more different vibe. This hotel has been around since the late 1800s and has long been a favourite with stars who like a bit of respectful distance. Each room is different, but all are beautiful. There are lots of prints and paintings and some real treasures when it comes to antiques. There's been a conscious decision here to put character before tech.
Whether or not The Petersham qualifies as one of London's best character hotels depends largely on whether you consider Richmond to be part of London. But for the sake of the argument let's call it Far West London. It's only zone four, but there's a country feel to Richmond, what with Richmond Park, Kew Gardens, Ham House and Hampton Court so close. The views are marvellous and you're right by the Thames.

For the location

If you want to stay in The City of London, The Rookery is one of London's best character hotels for you. Three adjacent 18th Century houses have been converted into one faithfully restored Georgian townhouse hotel, with plenty of period features including roll-top baths, traditional shutters, flagstone floors and copper plumbing.
Another top choice if you need to be in the city is Batty Langley's. A relative newcomer to the London hotel scene, this property oozes character and style with twenty-nine rooms and suites filled with classic antiques and period features. Plus there's even a little courtyard for sitting out in warmer months.
No 11 Cadogan Gardens is in a great spot for both the shopping on Sloane Street and the museums in South Kensington. And it's a good example of traditional decor with modern flair — think Murano chandeliers and lashings of brocade.

For great value

Twenty Nevern Square has 20 rooms, starting from just over £100 per night, in busy, buzzy Earls Court. A converted Victorian charmer, this hotel has deceptively generous proportions. And the Asian influenced decor has a treasured colonial feel to it. The bright bar with its exposed ceilings and huge skylight is the kind of place you choose to hang out in. As an added bonus Continental Breakfast is included in the price!
If you believe part of the experience of staying in a city is using its public transport then the Church Street Hotel is for you. Totally charming, with a bit of Mexican colour and kick to it, the hotel is on a fantastic street, just not the most central one. The compromise on travel means you'll pay as little as £90 per night though, so if your idea of character includes bright colours and quirky features then this is London's best character hotel for you.

Still not found the perfect London hotel?

Browse through our list of all the best places to stay in London.
Consider one of London’s best boutique hotels or one of our top cosy London boltholes.
Alternatively, contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.
- The Goring Hotel London (Belgravia) 69 rooms from $461
  
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  Sights nearby  -  Great for Buckingham Palace, Westminster, Mayfair, Knightsbridge, Sloane Street and the Royal Parks.
  Great walks  -  Green Park in the summer is a sea of green with deck chairs for people to lounge in and relax.
  Traditional  -  The property has a quintessentially English feel.
  Full of character
  Recommended by  -  Frommers, Good Hotel Guide, Small Luxury Hotels, Tablet
  
  A family-owned luxury hotel in the heart of Belgravia with manicured lawns, award-winning high tea and proximity to some of London's most famous sights. Plush carpets, antiques and designer fabrics make up the rooms. Do not miss fine dining at the Michelin star restaurant. Magical stay. See More
  
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- The Stafford London (St James's) 107 rooms from $506
  
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  Sights nearby  -  Buckingham Palace at one end of The Mall, and Trafalgar Square at the other.
  Local markets  -  Southbank is home to food markets all year around.
  Restaurant  -  The Game Bird, opened in 2017.
  Full of character
  Recommended by  -  Frommers, Kiwi Collection, Michelin Travel
  
  A perfectly-positioned luxury townhouse hotel near St James’s Palace with a rich history, contemporary art and comfortable rooms. Enjoy British classics at The Game Bird restaurant and cocktails at the American Bar. See More
  
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- The Portobello London (Notting Hill) 21 rooms from $250
  
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  Sights nearby  -  Madame Tussauds and the amazing wax works is a memorable day for all the family.
  Local markets  -  Come Saturday be sure not to miss Portobello Road Market.
  Romantic  -  Good for couples.
  Full of character
  Recommended by  -  Frommers, Good Hotel Guide
  
  Legendary, laid-back chic boutique in Neo-Classical mansions loved by an eclectic clientele of business travelers, fashionistas and musicians. Varied, funky styles are adopted for the rooms and with delicious breakfast. Location in the heart of Notting Hill, for boutiques and food, is perfect. See More
  
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- Hazlitt's London (Soho) 27 rooms from $268
  
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  Full of character
  Lively area - In the thick of the action.
  Traditional
  Boutique
  Recommended by - Mr & Mrs Smith, I Escape, Tablet, Frommers, Good Hotel Guide
  
  This charming Georgian boutique hotel is full of character and literary associations. Since 1718 Hazlitt's has been in the thick of it on vibrant Frith Street in the heart of Soho. Elegant wood-panelled rooms are the perfect base, relax with a book or explore the city. See More
  
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- The Gore Hotel, Starhotels Collezione London (Kensington) 50 rooms from $243
  
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  Restaurant  -  Restaurant 190 Queen's Gate is overseen by Michelin starred chef Daniel Galmiche.
  Sights nearby  -  Great location for the Royal Albert Hall and Hyde Park.
  Romantic  -  Good for couples.
  Full of character
  Recommended by  -  Tablet
  
  A quintessentially British townhouse that prides itself on spectacular service with laid back vibes. Classic-styled rooms house period pictures, antiques & comfortable beds. Restaurant 190 Queen's Gate offers contemporary classic dishes and Bar 190 superb G&Ts! Spot on location for city exploring See More
  
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- The Rookery London (Clerkenwell) 33 rooms from $361
  
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  Sights nearby  -  Barbican is a cultural hub worth checking out for performances, screenings and more.
  Full of character
  Lively area  -  In the thick of the action.
  Boutique
  Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, I Escape, Tablet
  
  Fashionable Clerkenwell is home to this intimate, period charm City bolthole which prides itself on homely atmosphere across three 18th Century houses. Rooms are full of character, classic antiques, open fires and roll top baths. Breakfast in bed or in the garden is the perfect way to start the day. See More
  
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- Batty Langley's London (Spitalfields) 29 rooms from $218
  
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  Sights nearby - The property is minutes from Liverpool St so there's easy access to all of London's highlights.
  Local markets - Old Spitalfields market is just round the corner
  Full of character
  Opulent
  
  Opulent, sumptuous and quirky converted 18th-century townhouse in the trendy Spitalfields district. Gorgeous over-the-top rooms and suites offer stunning traditional interiors and equally impressive bathrooms. A romantic bolthole in the city of London perfect for a cosy getaway! See More
  
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- Twenty Nevern Square London (Earl's Court) 20 rooms from $165
  
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  Local markets  -  Food markets are taking off in the city, so be sure to explore the local ones on the weekends.
  Full of character
  Romantic  -  Good for couples.
  Four poster beds  -  For romantics.
  Recommended by  -  Good Hotel Guide
  
  Chic tranquility meets a West London colonial-style townhouse. Good value. Fantastically well connected by tube, train and bus. A wide range of different rooms and a breakfast worth getting out of bed for. See More
  
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- Claridge's London (Mayfair) 197 rooms from $961
  
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  Spa  -  Claridge's Spa combines Japanese healing rituals with restorative bodywork and the best in bio-innovations
  Sights nearby  -  Nestled in the embassy district of town, you will see many old grand buildings.
  Romantic  -  Good for couples.
  Outstanding location
  Recommended by  -  Tablet, Frommers, Kiwi Collection
  
  Art Deco-inspired, luxury-centric hotel in the heart of Mayfair offering seamless service, spa treatments and gym facilities. Large, contemporary rooms exude comfort. Whether it is the famous Afternoon Tea in the 1930's Reading Room or a gourmet meal at the restaurant, be ready to be spoiled. See More
  
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- Church Street Hotel London (Camberwell) 31 rooms from $115
  
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  City Style  -  A totally unqiue experience with quirky and meticulously thoughtout design, bold colours and unique charm.
  Value chic  -  Excellent value for money- top quality service, decor, cuisine and vibes for a reasonable price tag.
  Local markets  -  Borough Market on the weekend is a fantastic food heaven with stalls from all over Europe and places to catch a quick bite.
  Great walks  -  South London is full of parks, walk ways and beautiful buildings full of history.
  Recommended by  -  I Escape, Fodors, Good Hotel Guide
  
  This wonderfully vibrant Mexican themed hotel is a shining light in Camberwell. Bright, cheerful rooms are full of character and thoughtful touches. Make sure you sample the to die for tapas, as well as the knockout cocktails in the Havana Lounge. A new wave of affordable and stylish hotels. See More
  
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- The Connaught Hotel London (Mayfair) 121 rooms from $769
  
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  Spa breaks  -  World renowned Aman spa offering green-tea foot baths, Oriental oil massages and red clay body wraps with Navajo herbs.
  City Style  -  The last word in luxurious London hotels
  Swimming Pool  -  Stunning black granite indoor pool filled with ionised water. Child and family friendly sessions are available.
  Sailing  -  During the summer months rowing and pedal boats are available for hire in nearby Hyde Park
  Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, Tablet, Fodors, Frommers, Kiwi Collection
  
  The discreet and understated ‘grande dame’ of Mayfair. This hotel is the epitome of old world Britishness meets contemporary elegance and design. Impeccable service from the fleet of butlers, the ultimate in traditional comforts. Chic restaurants and bars match the world class Aman spa. A must stay. See More
  
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- The Petersham London (Richmond) 58 rooms from $154
  
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  Sights nearby  -  Great for Richmond Park, Royal Botanic Gardens and Twickenham Stadium
  Views  -  Over the River Thames
  Birdwatching  -  Good birding near the hotel.
  Local markets  -  Good for local colour.
  
  Country house feel by the river in leafy Richmond village. Superb restaurant, traditional bedrooms, fine views and a sit out terrace. Good wedding and business venue. See More
  
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- 11 Cadogan Gardens London (Chelsea) 56 rooms from $372
  
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  Romantic Break
  Local exploring
  Sights nearby - Within walking distance of Buckingham Palace and the Houses of Parliament.
  Opulent
  Recommended by - Tablet, Small Luxury Hotels
  
  Located just behind Sloane Square, 11 Cadogan Gardens is a luxury boutique hotel in London part of Relais & Châteaux. Eclectic style with lavish interiors and comfortable rooms including a library, drawing room and terrace. Elegant and calm, this luxury gem is brilliantly positioned. See More
  
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- The Zetter Townhouse London (Clerkenwell) 13 rooms from $315
  
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  Restaurant  -  Guests can dine in the main hotel's top restaurant across the road.
  Lively area  -  In the thick of the action.
  Romantic  -  Good for couples.
  Four poster beds  -  For romantics.
  Recommended by  -  Tablet, Good Hotel Guide, Kiwi Collection
  
  Intimate boutique townhouse offshoot of the modernist Zetter, with quirky and eclectic vintage decor and just 13 rooms. See More
  
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- Fox & Anchor City of London 6 rooms from $191
  
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  Local exploring - Ideally placed to access Farringdon, The City, St Paul's and the Barbican.
  Local markets - Explore the bustling Smithfield Market filled with meat traders alongside smart eateries.
  Full of character
  Boutique
  
  A boutique hotel and atmospheric pub located in vibrant Farringdon. A handful of individually styled rooms are moody and chic with dark hues, free standing baths and large artworks. The restaurant serves up hearty gastro pub fare alongside a choice selection of ales. See More
  
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- The Pelham London London (South Kensington) 52 rooms from $295
  
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  Local exploring  -  With its prime South Kensington location, The Pelham is ideal for exploring London's sights.
  Value chic  -  With rooms starting from only £230 per night, this is 5* luxury without the price tag.
  Restaurant  -  La Trattoria by Alfredo Russo offers authentic, relaxed Italian all day dining.
  Sights nearby  -  Steps from the South Kensington museums
  Recommended by  -  Tablet, Fodors, Good Hotel Guide
  
  A stunning luxury townhouse hotel in the heart of South Kensington. Individually designed rooms and suites are filled with beautiful objets and the decor is country house chic. Relax in the drawing room or library, and enjoy authentic Italian cuisine in La Trattoria. Simply superb! See More
  
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- The Franklin London London (South Kensington) 35 rooms from $538
  
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  Sights nearby  -  A stone's throw from the famous V&A and Natural History Museums, and the rest of London's highlights easily accessible.
  City Style  -  With interiors designed by Anouska Hempel, this is a seriously stylish stay.
  Designer  -  Uniquely designed interiors.
  Full of character
  Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith
  
  Intimate discreet townhouse hotel with interiors by Anouska Hempel. Thirty five sumptuous rooms and suites with rich silks & velvets, Frette linens and marble bathrooms as standard. Superb restaurant serving inventive Italian cuisine, excellent service and access to the private Egerton Gardens See More
  
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- Artist Residence London London (Pimlico) 10 rooms from $327
  
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  Great walks  -  Through nearby Hyde Park, London's largest park, where one can go horse riding, boating, cycling and picnicing.
  Sights nearby  -  The London Eye, The Tower of London, Buckingham Palace and St Paul's Cathedral are all within easy reach.
  Designer  -  Uniquely designed interiors.
  Full of character
  Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith
  
  Regency property from the outside; full of fun, character and modern art inside. Individually decorated rooms and bathrooms are of a good size. Popular restaurant ‘The Clubhouse' and just a short walk from Victoria. A design lover’s dream! See More
  
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- Dorset Square Hotel London (Marylebone) 38 rooms from $354
  
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  Restaurant  -  The Potting Shed is open all day and features a Chef's Table every couple of months.
  Local markets  -  Camden Lock market is not far
  Full of character
  Romantic  -  Good for couples.
  
  A stunning regency townhouse conversion on leafy Dorset Square. The thirty eight rooms are individually designed in typical quirky Firmdale fashion, with beautiful fabrics and a quintessential English country house feel throughout. Excellent restaurant and bar. A stylish and central treat! See More
  
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- The Ned City of London 252 rooms from $423
  
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  Sights nearby  -  Be sure to check out the Tower of London, Trafalgar Square, Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament
  Great walks  -  Wander around the streets of this unique, vibrant city getting a feel for the place
  Spa  -  Spa with treatment rooms, hammam, and pool
  Swimming Pool  -  20m indoor heated pool
  
  Set in the former Midland Bank building, The Ned is located right in the City of London. Boasts sumptuous rooms oozing classical style - with designs harking back to the 20s and 30s. A wide range of top-notch cuisine served up. Enjoy a tipple on the splendid rooftop bar. A dreamy city stay! See More
  
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