20 Great Value UK City Break Hotels
We all have a budget, some more generous than others, but whether you want to see London, Edinburgh, Manchester, Liverpool, Birmingham, York, Brighton or Bath, it’s better to spend your money on fun things to do and great places to see than to blow it all on an over-priced hotel room. There’s just nothing less fun than going to a new place and then having to scrimp on adventures while you’re there… It can be hard to find great, unique and interesting places to stay on a limited budget, but we’ve spent quite a bit of time doing just that so that you don’t have to start from scratch yourself. Not if you have our recommendations for the best budget UK city getaway hotels at hand. These 20 great value city break hotels are spread across eight great cities, but if we’ve missed out the city you’re heading for then you can always use the search box to check out your destination and see our recommendations for great value city breaks there.
For London
- The Good Hotel is based on a really good idea: to create a floating hotel as a social enterprise. It started out in Amsterdam, and spread to London’s Victoria Docks, where its 148 room and suite offering is a friendly bastion of industrial-edged minimalist design. The restaurant is great and the rooftop bar is lively and fun — with incredible Thames views as part of the package. It’s family friendly too.
- Close to Spitalfields Markets and Liverpool Street Station, the Qbic Hotel is a quirky cool pick, in an interesting part of London. Its 185 rooms and suites come in a real variety of styles, but all are bijou, arty and minimal – you might want to check out all their photos to give you an idea of how varied they are! But they key is that the facilities are fab, and it’s all very green and hip, plus they offer complimentary bike hire, and the restaurant is open late.
For Edinburgh
- B+B Edinburgh is a roomily converted Victorian townhouse centrally located in Edinburgh’s West End, which has the feeling of a member’s club: think wood panelling, fireplaces, portraits in oils and ceiling art (and there’s a cosy bar and library), but without the price tag. There’s no restaurant, but they offer breakfast.
- 94 DR is a friendly, seven room guesthouse on the southside of Edinburgh, about ten to fifteen minute's walk from the centre — and with a view of Arthur’s Seat. The rooms are all a good size, with luxurious details. And the breakfast is excellent.
For a Romantic City Break
- The Yard in Bath is a small and charismatic pick: a former coaching inn converted into a 14 room hotel that’s on Monmouth Street, within about ten minutes stroll of the Royal Crescent and the Roman Baths. The rooms offer the sort of decor you might want to copy at home, and while there’s no restaurant, they do have a courtyard bar and cafe offering cheese and charcuterie, and they deliver breakfast baskets to the rooms each morning.
- The Malmaison Birmingham is super central, with all the Malmaison trimmings, including a spa offering a long menu of treatments. There are 193 rooms and suites, decorated in stylish monochrome with pop art prints, plus a great bar and restaurant.
For luxury
- Small and smart, Eight, Bath is a cosy pick converted from a townhouse in Bath’s historic part of town. Period features, like high ceilings and working fireplaces, have been retained, but otherwise the eight rooms and suites have been updated with contemporary colours and details: think pale wood flooring and dove greys. There’s an historic bar, and the restaurant is known for its seasonal, gourmet cuisine. This is a romantic pick, but some of the rooms will suit families too.
- The Malmaison Aberdeen occupies a building that looks quite a lot like a castlem, but it’s quite a new build, and the interior, with its 80 rooms and suites, plus large bar and restaurant, plus substantial spa, and whiskey snug, is all decorated with contemporary flair, and a fair bit of tartan.
For a Fun City Break
- Abode Manchester is a really clever Victorian cotton warehouse conversion, where the 61 rooms and suites, plus stylish common areas, all feature nods to their past, but feel fresh and contemporary as well. Think parquet flooring, black and white tiles, and ironwork columns, but with fantastic library themed murals and lots of whitewash. The higher you climb the Grade II listed original staircase the larger your room, staring from Comfortable, and ending in apartment-sized suites called Fabulous on Fifth. The brasserie buzzes, and the bar hosts DJs.
- CitizenM Glasgow is the most northerly CitizenM, but offers the same simple but cool rooms with big beds and all the tech. you could want and need, and then a bit more. In addition to 198 rooms and suites the Glasgow CitizenM has a 24hour bar and canteen and a chic lounge with books and objets d’art you’d probably like to have at home. It’s a bit cookie-cutter, but super cool with it.
For the location
- Aloft Liverpool is about as central as you can be, a spectacular old building cleverly converted into 116 rooms and suites, plus a New York style bar and restaurant taking up most of the incredibly proportioned ground floor. It feels like a really impressive place to stay while still being super affordable.
- Brooks Guesthouse is perfectly positioned in cool Bristol’s old town, and features all the mod cons, and superb, locally sourced breakfasts as standard each morning. But it also offers a choice of two kinds of accommodation, either a classically country chic bedroom, or an airstream-style caravan on the roof terrace.
- Grasshoppers is a 30 room hotel close to Glasgow’s Central Station — which is the perfect spot for seeing the city’s sights. Rooms are simply dressed in cheerful hues, and there’s a friendly kitchen restaurant with some communal facilities and communal dining too.
- The Cairn Hotel is just north of Newcastle’s city centre, in Jesmond, and offers a collection of 43 rooms and suites, decorated with a minimalist feel and a nod towards Japanese aesthetics. There’s a Pan-Asian restaurant which does more to highlight the Asian design elements, and there are lots more places to eat and drink within a short stroll.
- The Hotel Indigo Birmingham is a sleek, contemporary hotel, both on the outside and inside. The location is ideal: around ten minutes walk from the Birmingham Museum and the Art Gallery, and close to the Chinese Quarter. The 52 rooms and suites are compact but stylish, and there’s a pool, spa and restaurant — all sleek and stylish too.
For a Weekend Break
- Birmingham’s Saint Paul's House is a restaurant and bar with rooms in the up-and-coming Jewellery Quarter. There are 34 suites, all with simple, contemporary decor and generously proportioned bathrooms. The restaurant is open all day, and offers casual and formal dining, and the bar is known for its cocktails.
- Offering easy access to the centre of Manchester, the Ainscow Hotel is a great value, industrial chic pick, with 70 rooms and suites and a fantastic roof terrace and restaurant. The decor is simple, in white and grey, with orange soft furnishings and exposed brick and timber features.
- The Grey Street Hotel has been carefully converted from a very handsome Georgian era bank in a superb central Newcastle spot. The monochrome decor is seriously added to by the cool black and white exterior photos that have been made into murals in the 49 rooms and suites. The views are of the rooftops and city, so if you fancy something quieter opt for one of the rooms overlooking the courtyard. There’s no restaurant, but you’re surrounded by places to eat and drink.
For families
- Malmaison Liverpool is right on Liverpool’s historic waterfront, and offers the combination of friendly service, clever decor and good food that the Malmaisons are known for. The decor has an industrial edge, which suits the location, but this is a recent build, so it’s just a hint of work and plenty of luxury. There are 130 rooms and suites, in a large range of sizes — including great options for families — and the restaurant and bar are stylish and popular.
- Just a short walk from London’s Old Street Station, Z Shoreditch is smart, chic and unfussy. Its 111 rooms and suites offer all the comforts you need: like big bathrooms, big screens with Sky Sports and Movies, nice linen on comfortable beds, big windows, and coffee and tea making facilities. Their suites run to family-sized too.
Still not sure where to book?
- Refine your search by location, and use the ‘sort by’ button on best places to stay in London, for example, so it shows you our recommended hotels in price order,
- or use the Destinations tab to see our curated lists of the best hotels in London, for example,
- or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice and personalised recommendations.
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Z Shoreditch London (Shoreditch) 111 rooms from $90
City Style - Make the most out of Z Shoreditch's location to truly get to know LondonValue chic - Top accommodation in a superb spot and at great priceSights nearby - Head over to Buckingham Palace, Piccadilly Circus, Trafalgar Square or any number of other attractions the city has to offer!Great walks - Wander around this iconic city getting a feel for its unique atmosphere
Check AvailabilityZ Shoreditch is located in the heart of London, just a short walk from Old Street station. This modern property offers smart and unfussy accommodation at an attractive price. Lovely breakfasts served up (at additional cost). A fantastic base in the city. See More
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Good Hotel London (Royal Victoria Dock) 148 rooms from $105
City Style - A chic industrial style hotel, complete with buzzy rooftop bar and Thames views.Local markets - Wake early and visit the bustling Bilingsgate fish market.Views - Great views from hotelRestaurant - Recommended.
Check AvailabilityA trendy floating hotel offering both a chic city pad and the opportunity to give back. A social enterprise that originated in Amsterdam and is now set up in London's Victoria Docks. Expect industrial contemporary cool style, great restaurant, fantastic and friendly staff and a lively rooftop bar. See More
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B+B Edinburgh Edinburgh (West End) 27 rooms from $96
Local exploring - With its excellent central location and attractive price tag, B+B Edinburgh makes a great choice for a budget city breakLess £ - With double rooms starting from well under £100 per night, B+B Edinburgh is a very affordable optionSights nearby - The property is a short walk (or bus/tram ride) from Edinburgh highlights including the castle and Royal MileViews - Many of the rooms boasts fabulous views over the city
Check AvailabilityRoomy B&B in Edinburgh's West End. More like a private club or a boutique hotel, awash with Victorian character. Come for the exclusive feel without the exclusive prices and the brilliant central location. See More
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94 DR Edinburgh (Southside) 7 rooms from $102
Families - The family suite comes complete with bunk room, Xbox, toy chest and DVD player!Value chic - Beautifully done contemporary rooms which offer amazing value for moneyBoutique - Individually designed rooms offer contemporary style alongside period Victorian featuresViews - Some of the rooms boast excellent views of Arthur's Seat and Salisbury Craggs
Recommended by - I Escape, Good Hotel GuideCheck AvailabilityBoutique guest house on southside of Edinburgh, 10-15 mins walk to the centre but on bus route. Good size rooms with luxury trappings and fabulous breakfast. Great views of Arthur's Seat. Friendly, laid back. See More
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Saint Pauls House Birmingham from $127
Restaurant - Both casual and formal dining is available throughout the day.Sights nearby - St Paul's Church is right on the doorstep.Lively - Hip and happening.
Check AvailabilityRestaurant, Bar and Boutique Hotel in the heart of Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter. All-suite luxury accommodation boasts contemporary decor with waterfall showers as standard. All day restaurant for casual or formal dining and the bar has a wide range of cocktails. Ideal for business or leisure. See More
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Ainscow Hotel Manchester (Trinity Way) 70 rooms from $114
Value chic - A stylish hotel offered at a very reasonable rate.Restaurant - Recommended.
Check AvailabilityA stylish hotel with easy access to Manchester's centre. Industrial style rooms feature exposed brick, grey tones, crisp white linen and pops of orange from the soft furnishings. The roof terrace bar and excellent restaurant are enticing spots to return to after a day spent exploring the city. See More
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ABode Manchester Manchester 61 rooms from $122
City Style - Victorian warehouse conversion turned trendy boutique hotel with parquet floors, high ceilings and fun young crowd.Views - Great views from hotelLively - Hip and happening.Full of character
Check AvailabilityVictorian warehouse building turned trendy boutique hotel. Contemporary rooms feature chic design with subtle nods to their past in parquet flooring and ironwork columns, not to mention super comfy beds. Buzzy Brasserie Abode offers great food and resident DJs for those who want to stay in! See More
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The Yard, Bath Bath 14 rooms from $122
Value chic - Bath is a beautiful city at any time of year; with such cosy & luxe rooms at these rates it could become a regular destinationLocal exploring - A lovely spot very close to The Roman Baths - about 10-minutes on foot from the main shopping areaFull of character - Simple & modern; decor mixes on-trend locally-sourced furnishings & interiors with traditional touchesBarefoot Luxury - Includes wonderful in-room touches such as rainfall showers, Netflix & upmarket coffee machine
Check AvailabilityIdeal for two travellers, The Yard is Bath’s latest charismatic opening. This gorgeous 14-room small hotel in a former coaching inn is a stylish and great value option within striking distance of The Royal Crescent. See More
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Brooks Guesthouse Bristol (Somerset) 27 rooms from $114
Local exploring - Right in the thick of it, you are walking distance from some of Bristol's main attractionsFamilies - Book one of the fun airstream style caravans for 2 adults and 2 kids (up to 8)Local markets - St Nicholas Market is on your doorstepViews - Great views from hotel
Check AvailabilityLocated in Bristol's Old Town, Brooks Guesthouse enjoys an excellent location. Choose from novel Air Stream accommodation or classically decorated bedrooms - all fitted with mod-cons such as i-pod docks, TVs and DVD players. Superb locally sourced breakfasts are served each morning. A great stay. See More
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Aloft Liverpool Liverpool 116 rooms from $101
Local exploring - Aloft Liverpool is the ideal base from which to see all that the city has to offerValue chic - A terrific stay at a great price!Great walks - Wander around this bustling city getting a feel for its special atmosphereSights nearby - Football fans should be sure to wander around Anfield and Goodison ParkRecommended by - Michelin TravelCheck AvailabilitySuperbly located, Aloft Liverpool features swish contemporary rooms in a gorgeously traditional building. The restaurant and bar give off a definite New York-style vibe, and you're just minutes from the sights. A terrific choice! See More
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Malmaison, Liverpool Liverpool 130 rooms from $114
Bar - The stylish Malbar serves wonderful cocktailsSuites - Suites are spacious with free standing bathsGood wine list - Malmasion prides itself on its wine listDesigner - Uniquely designed interiors.
Check AvailabilityRight in the heart of this thriving city, the purpose built Malmasion is situated on Liverpool's historic waterfront. The winning formula of comfort, good food and excellent service is much in demand with a loyal clientele. Well-appointed bedrooms from standard to suites. Smart bar and brasserie. See More
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Grasshoppers Glasgow Central 30 rooms from $113
Sights nearby - Ideally situated to access Glasgow's best sights including the Science Centre, Botanic Gardens and Modern Art GalleryRestaurant - Kitchen restaurant
Check AvailabilityA budget-friendly hotel located near Glasgow's Central Station. 30 rooms decorated in a serene, clean Scandinavian style. A laid back kitchen restaurant serves up local produce. A great crash pad from which to enjoy this bustling city. See More
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citizenM Glasgow Glasgow (Cowcaddens) 198 rooms from $114
Value chic - With rooms from as little as £69 per night, what's not to like?Restaurant - CanteenM offers a wide range from sandwiches to sushi, and is open 24hours a day.Sights nearby - Situated in the heart of the city close to all attractions.Lively - Hip and happening.Recommended by - CN TravellerCheck AvailabilityThe most northerly outpost of CitizenM's luxe for less brand. Simple rooms with huge beds and fab rain showers, plus a 24hour bar and canteen, and huge lounge area. A great central location plus trendy interiors and high-tech gadgetry, make this the perfect choice for a fun filled city break. See More
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The Cairn Hotel Newcastle 43 rooms from $67
Value chic - Just 10 minutes from the city centre and undeniably stylish, this is a well priced hotel worth checking into.Sights nearby - Marvel at the architecture of the medieval Castle Keep.Restaurant - Recommended.
Check AvailabilityPart of The Cairn Collection this is a smoothly run operation with on-point design. Rooms are uniformly styled and have a minimalist feel - wooden floors, crisp white linen and large windows. A Pan-Asian restaurant is popular with the locals and Jesmond's restaurants and bars are just a stroll away. See More
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Grey Street Hotel Newcastle (Tyne and Wear) 49 rooms from $101
City Style - A chic hotel located on arguably the city's best street and boasting a small spa too.Sights nearby - Make a trip to view the famed Angel of the North.Romantic - Good for couples.Boutique
Check AvailabilityCool and sleek boutique hotel in a handsome Georgian building in a superb city-centre position. Rooms are smart, modern and fuss-free, plus there's a small beauty spa. An ideal city crash pad. See More
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Hotel Indigo Birmingham Birmingham 52 rooms from $120
Local markets - If you are here in the festive season, head to the nearby Birmingham Christmas Market.Sights nearby - Go and explore Birmingham's nearby Chinese Quarter.Lively area - In the thick of the action.Swimming Pool - Indoor/outdoor
Check AvailabilityImmediately striking on the eye, Hotel Indigo is the epitome of a modern hotel. Sleek rooms, an indoor pool, deluxe spa and excellent restaurant form the bedrock of this classy establishment. See More
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Malmaison Birmingham Birmingham 193 rooms from $110
Sights nearby - Visit the magnificent Victoria Square nearby to the hotel.Local markets - Five minutes walk from Birmingham Christmas Market.Restaurant - Recommended.
Check AvailabilityCentral location and comfortable rooms are the name of the game at the Malmaison in Birmingham. Featuring excellent rooms, a restaurant and a number of spa therapies, Malmaison is perfect for those looking for a good value option in the centre of town. See More
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Malmaison Aberdeen Aberdeen 80 rooms from $122
Sights nearby - Well located for major sights.Restaurant - Recommended.SpaRecommended by - Good Hotel Guide, Kiwi CollectionCheck AvailabilityTypical of the Malmaison brand. Castle-like hotel bedecked with tartan upholstery and dark furniture. Intimate whisky snug, brasserie, bar, and relaxing spa. See More
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Eight, Bath Bath 18 rooms from $147
Local exploring - This hotel is in a very handy location tucked into Bath's historic old town, close to the famous sights and boutiquesSights nearby - The Royal Crescent, Prior Park and the Roman Baths are a must-seeRomantic - Good for couples.Designer - Uniquely designed interiors.
Check AvailabilityA smart and cosy hotel in a historic Bath townhouse with original period features such as high ceilings, fireplaces and cornicing. Guests will love the fresh and light rooms featuring quality linens, pretty upholstery and classic furniture. The seasonal gourmet cuisine is a real highlight. See More
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Written by Kat Parr Mackintosh
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