Planning a spontaneous trip to London? Whether you’re visiting for business or leisure, finding the right accommodation at the last minute can be a challenge. In this post, we highlight six hotels that offer convenience, comfort, and unique experiences, ensuring you make the most of your time in the city. From stylish boutiques to well-located chains, these options are perfect for those who need a place to stay without the stress of advance booking.
[content-egg-block modules=”AE__booking” template=”top_listing” groups=”Roundup”]1. The Z Hotel Holborn, London 2024
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Great value!
The Z Hotel Holborn offers a fantastic central location in London with clean, comfortable rooms and friendly staff, making it great value for money. However, guests should be prepared for small room sizes and potential crowding in shared spaces.
Advantages
- Great location for exploring London
- Clean and well-maintained facilities
- Friendly and helpful staff
- Good value for money
- Comfortable beds with decent amenities
CONS
- Tiny rooms with limited privacy and access
- Potential for crowding in common areas
The Z Hotel Holborn is perfectly situated in the heart of London, making it an ideal base for exploring nearby attractions like the British Museum and Leicester Square. Guests appreciate the air-conditioned rooms, free WiFi, and a cozy shared lounge, complemented by a bar for unwinding after a day of sightseeing. While the hotel offers family rooms, the compact nature of the accommodations may not suit long stays.
Reviewers often highlight the hotel’s cleanliness and the friendly, helpful staff, all contributing to a pleasant experience. However, some guests note the limited privacy in bathrooms and the small size of the rooms, which come with basic amenities and minimal storage. Despite these minor drawbacks, the hotel’s value for money and central location remain significant draws for travelers looking for a short stay in London.
Discover Unmatched Comfort and Style
- Central Location
- Air-Conditioned Rooms
- Free WiFi
- Family Rooms Available
- Shared Lounge
- On-Site Bar
2. Mercure London Bridge, UK 2024 Prices
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Highly recommended
The Mercure London Bridge offers a comfortable and spacious stay in a prime location, just steps from major attractions like Tate Modern and Shakespeare’s Globe. With its modern amenities, on-site dining by Marco Pierre White, and a friendly staff, it’s an excellent choice for travelers, despite limited nearby dining options and a short walk to the subway.
PROS
- Comfortable and spacious rooms
- Prime location near major attractions
- Friendly and attentive staff
- On-site dining options available
Cons
- Limited dining options in the vicinity
- A 15-minute walk to the nearest subway station
Mercure London Bridge offers spacious and air-conditioned rooms in a modern setting, making it an ideal retreat for travelers seeking comfort in the heart of South Bank. Guests can enjoy the on-site Marco Pierre White Italian restaurant and a well-equipped gym, all within a short walk from notable attractions like the Tate Modern and Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre.
With its stylish decor and attentive staff, this four-star hotel has garnered praise for its inviting atmosphere and delightful breakfast options. While some visitors note the distance from the nearest metro station, the peaceful environment and friendly service contribute to a satisfying stay for those exploring London.
Explore Exceptional Amenities
- Spacious and air-conditioned rooms
- On-site Italian restaurant by Marco Pierre White
- Fitness center available for guests
- Prime location near Tate Modern and Shakespeare’s Globe
- Modern 4-star accommodation
- Close proximity to South Bank attractions
3. Novotel London Waterloo 2024 Prices
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Great location
The Novotel London Waterloo offers a prime location near major attractions like Big Ben and comfortable, spacious rooms, complemented by friendly staff and a variety of breakfast options. However, some guests noted issues with cold scrambled eggs and limited meal variety.
Benefits
- Prime location near major attractions (Big Ben, Westminster)
- Comfortable and spacious rooms
- Friendly and helpful staff
- On-site bar and diverse breakfast options
Cons
- Scrambled eggs at breakfast were reported as cold
- Limited variety in some meal options
Novotel London Waterloo is ideally situated in the heart of London, just a stone’s throw away from iconic attractions like Big Ben and Westminster Palace. Guests can enjoy a variety of amenities, including a fitness centre and secure on-site parking, making it a convenient choice for both leisure and business travelers alike.
Visitors have praised the hotel’s friendly and helpful staff, along with its clean and spacious rooms. While the breakfast offerings are varied, some guests noted that the scrambled eggs could be warmer. After a day of exploring the city, the hotel’s inviting bar provides a perfect spot to unwind with a cocktail or beer.
Unbeatable Value in Comfort
- Prime location near Westminster Palace and the River Thames
- On-site fitness centre
- Secure on-site parking
- Proximity to South Bank attractions
- Family-friendly accommodations
- Modern amenities and comfortable rooms
4. Point A Hotel Kings Cross
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Convenient and Comfortable
Point A Hotel London Kings Cross offers a prime location near the station and major attractions, making it a convenient choice for travelers. With modern amenities, complimentary WiFi, and good value for money, it provides a comfortable stay, though guests should be aware that room sizes are compact and tea and coffee facilities are not included.
Advantages
- Prime location near King’s Cross Station for easy travel
- Modern and clean facilities with helpful staff
- Good value for money compared to similar hotels
- Complimentary WiFi available throughout the hotel
Drawbacks
- Room size can feel small
- No kettle provided for tea and coffee in the room
Point A Hotel London Kings Cross – St Pancras offers a modern and convenient stay just a five-minute walk from King’s Cross train station, making it an ideal choice for travelers. Guests appreciate the free WiFi and self-check-in options, which enhance the overall experience, while the hotel’s clean and comfortable rooms provide a cozy retreat after a day of exploring London.
Though the rooms are compact, they are well-designed to maximize comfort and functionality, perfect for those on a budget. The helpful staff are always on hand to assist, and the hotel’s proximity to public transport ensures easy access to major attractions like the British Museum and the Dominion Theatre.
Experience Comfort and Convenience
- Prime Location near King’s Cross Station
- Complimentary WiFi throughout the hotel
- Compact and well-designed rooms
- Proximity to major attractions like the British Museum
- Affordable accommodation options
- Modern amenities for a comfortable stay
5. The Z Hotel Shoreditch, London 2024
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Stylish convenience
The Z Hotel Shoreditch offers a prime location near vibrant attractions, comfortable handmade beds, and modern amenities, making it a great choice for travelers seeking both style and convenience. However, potential guests should be aware of some smaller rooms and occasional cleanliness concerns.
Pluses
- Prime location near Shoreditch High Street and Hoxton Square
- Comfortable, handcrafted beds for a restful sleep
- Complimentary high-speed WiFi available
- Friendly and helpful staff
CONS
- Some rooms are small and may lack windows
- Occasional cleanliness issues with linens
The Z Hotel Shoreditch offers a contemporary retreat just a 15-minute walk from the vibrant Shoreditch High Street and Hoxton Square. Each room features handcrafted beds, a 48-inch Samsung HD TV with complimentary Sky Sports and movie channels, and free WiFi, ensuring a comfortable stay for both leisure and business travelers.
Guests appreciate the hotel’s modern design, friendly staff, and convenient amenities, including a 24-hour kitchen and bar. While some rooms may be on the smaller side or located in less desirable spots, the overall cleanliness and tranquility make it a favored choice for visitors seeking an accessible London experience.
Modern Comfort Meets Urban Style
- Prime Location: Just 15 minutes walk from Shoreditch High Street and Hoxton Square
- Handmade Beds: Comfort-focused, handcrafted beds for a restful sleep
- Samsung HD TV: 48-inch TV with free Sky Sports and film channels
- Complimentary WiFi: Free high-speed internet access throughout the hotel
- En-Suite Bathrooms: Modern bathrooms with full shower facilities
- Contemporary Design: Stylish and modern decor throughout the hotel
6. citizenM Southwark Bankside, London 2024
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Stylish convenience
The citizenM Southwark Bankside offers a stylish and contemporary stay in a prime London location, perfect for exploring cultural attractions and dining at nearby Borough Market, though guests may find the rooms a bit cramped and lacking in functional outlets. With comfortable beds and innovative tech features, it’s ideal for modern travelers seeking convenience and design.
Benefits
- Prime central location near cultural attractions
- Stylish, contemporary design
- Comfortable beds
- Innovative technology with room control via tablet
CONS
- Limited functional outlets in the room
- Room may feel cramped for multiple guests
citizenM Southwark Bankside offers a chic and contemporary stay in the heart of London, just a short stroll from iconic attractions like the Tate Modern and Borough Market. Guests will appreciate the modern decor and the unique touch of controlling room settings via an iPad, enhancing the stylish experience.
While the trendy rooms are designed for comfort, some guests note that they can be a bit cozy, with limited space for movement. Despite minor hiccups like technology issues and a few power outlets, the hotel’s prime location and comfortable beds make it a popular choice for those looking to explore London.
Modern Comfort Meets Urban Style
- Prime central location near cultural attractions
- Stylish, contemporary design
- Trendy and modern bedrooms
- Complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi
- Proximity to dining options at Borough Market
- Short walk to the Millennium Bridge
Your Quick Guide to Last-Minute London Stays
What are some tips for a successful last minute hotel search in London?
Finding a hotel at the last minute in London can be challenging, but here are some tips to help you secure a good deal:
- Use Multiple Booking Platforms: Check various hotel booking websites like Booking.com, Expedia, and Hotels.com. Additionally, consider using last-minute specific platforms like HotelTonight, which specialize in last-minute deals.
- Mobile Apps: Many booking platforms have mobile apps that offer exclusive last-minute discounts. Download these apps and enable notifications for deals.
- Flexible Dates: If possible, be flexible with your check-in and check-out dates. Sometimes shifting your stay by a day can open up better options or lower rates.
- Check for Cancellation Policies: Some hotels allow free cancellation. Look for properties that offer this option so you can secure a reservation and keep searching for better deals.
- Consider Alternative Areas: While central London can be more expensive, look for hotels in outer boroughs or neighborhoods that are well-connected by public transport. Areas like Camden, Islington, or Walthamstow may offer more affordable options.
- Look for Last-Minute Discounts: Some hotels offer discounts for last-minute bookings directly through their websites. It’s worth checking their official pages.
- Call the Hotel Directly: After finding a hotel online, consider calling them directly. They might offer lower rates or special deals not listed online.
- Stay Flexible with Accommodation Types: Consider alternatives to traditional hotels, such as hostels, guesthouses, or serviced apartments, which may have more availability at lower prices.
- Use Loyalty Programs: If you are a member of a hotel loyalty program, check if they have last-minute offers or additional discounts for members.
- Be Prepared to Negotiate: If you’re booking in person or calling, don’t hesitate to ask if there are any available discounts or upgrades.
By following these tips, you can improve your chances of finding a suitable last-minute hotel in London.
How can I find discounts on last minute hotel bookings in London?
To find discounts on last-minute hotel bookings in London, you can follow these strategies:
- Use Hotel Booking Apps and Websites: Platforms like HotelTonight, Expedia, Booking.com, and LastMinute.com often feature last-minute deals. These sites typically offer discounts on unsold rooms.
- Set Price Alerts: Use tools like Google Travel or Kayak to set price alerts for specific hotels or areas in London. This way, you’ll be notified when prices drop.
- Check Directly with Hotels: Sometimes, hotels offer exclusive last-minute rates on their official websites or through their loyalty programs. Calling the hotel directly can also yield better rates.
- Explore Travel Deal Websites: Sites like Groupon or Hotwire can offer significant discounts on last-minute hotel stays.
- Join Loyalty Programs: If you frequently stay at certain hotel chains, joining their loyalty programs can provide access to special last-minute rates and member-only discounts.
- Social Media and Newsletters: Follow hotels and travel companies on social media or subscribe to their newsletters; they often announce flash sales or special promotions.
- Consider Alternative Accommodations: Platforms like Airbnb or Vrbo may offer competitive last-minute rates compared to traditional hotels.
- Travel During Off-Peak Times: Booking during weekdays or off-peak seasons can help you find better deals as hotels are more likely to reduce prices to fill rooms.
By combining these strategies, you can effectively find discounts on last-minute hotel bookings in London.
Are there specific areas in London that offer better last minute hotel deals?
Yes, there are specific areas in London that tend to offer better last-minute hotel deals. Popular districts for budget-friendly options include:
- Paddington: Known for its transport links, Paddington often has competitive rates due to its proximity to major train stations.
- Waterloo: This area frequently has discounted hotels, especially as it is less touristy compared to central attractions.
- King’s Cross: With its ongoing development and transport connections, King’s Cross can offer good last-minute deals.
- Shoreditch: This trendy area attracts a younger crowd and often features boutique hotels with special last-minute rates.
- Southbank: Although it has some upscale options, there are also budget hotels that may offer better deals as check-in dates approach.
To find the best deals, consider using hotel comparison websites and booking apps that specialize in last-minute offers.
What are the best platforms for booking last minute hotels in London?
When looking to book last-minute hotels in London, several platforms are highly regarded for their ease of use, competitive pricing, and availability. Here are some of the best options:
- Booking.com: Known for its extensive inventory and user-friendly interface, Booking.com offers a wide range of last-minute hotel options and often features special deals.
- Hotels.com: This platform provides a rewards program and has a “Last Minute” section that highlights available hotels, often at discounted rates.
- Expedia: Along with flights and car rentals, Expedia offers last-minute hotel deals, allowing for flexible booking options.
- Hotwire: Hotwire specializes in discounted rates for last-minute bookings, often offering “Hot Rate” deals where the hotel name is revealed only after booking.
- Lastminute.com: As the name suggests, this site is tailored for last-minute travel deals, including hotels, flights, and packages specifically for spontaneous travelers.
- Airbnb: While primarily known for vacation rentals, Airbnb also has options for last-minute bookings, including unique stays and traditional lodgings in London.
- Trivago: This hotel search engine compares prices from various booking sites, helping you find the best deals on last-minute accommodations.
- Kayak: Similar to Trivago, Kayak aggregates hotel listings from multiple platforms to help you find competitive last-minute rates.
By using these platforms, travelers can find suitable accommodations in London at the last minute while often benefiting from discounts and special offers.
What should I consider when choosing a last minute hotel in London?
When choosing a last-minute hotel in London, consider the following factors:
- Location: Look for hotels that are close to public transport, attractions, and amenities. Areas such as Central London, near major stations (like King’s Cross or Paddington), can be convenient.
- Price: Compare prices across various booking platforms to find the best deal. Keep in mind that last-minute bookings can sometimes be discounted, but also check for hidden fees.
- Reviews and Ratings: Check guest reviews on platforms like TripAdvisor, Booking.com, or Google Reviews to gauge the quality of the hotel and its services.
- Amenities: Consider what amenities are important to you (Wi-Fi, breakfast, parking, etc.) and make sure the hotel meets your needs.
- Cancellation Policy: Understand the cancellation policy in case your plans change. Some hotels offer flexible cancellation, while others may have stricter terms.
- Safety and Cleanliness: Look for recent reviews that mention cleanliness and safety measures, especially in light of health considerations.
- Type of Accommodation: Decide if you prefer a hotel, hostel, or serviced apartment based on your budget and preferences.
- Availability: Last-minute options may be limited. Make sure to check availability and book as soon as you find a suitable option.
- Loyalty Programs: If you belong to a hotel loyalty program, check if you can earn points or receive discounts.
By considering these factors, you’ll be better equipped to find a suitable last-minute hotel in London that meets your needs.
13 comments
Hey, could you please update this list if any new hotels pop up? I’m always on the lookout for cool places to stay in London!
Absolutely! We’ll keep an eye out for any new recommendations and update the list as needed. Thanks for your interest!
Quick question for the author – are these prices likely to change closer to the dates? I’m trying to plan something for next month!
Great question! Prices can fluctuate based on demand, especially in busy seasons. It’s always good to book as soon as you find a good rate!
I would suggest checking out the Ibis Styles London Kensington, too! It’s stylish, affordable, and has some pretty good breakfast options.
Thanks for this roundup! I totally agree that The Z Hotel Holborn looks like a solid choice for a last-minute stay. Its location is super convenient for exploring the city!
I checked some prices, and honestly, I think the Mercure London Bridge offers great value for what you get. It’s close to a lot of attractions, so you can save on transport costs.
If anyone’s looking for last-minute tips, I recommend booking directly through the hotel’s website! Sometimes you can snag better deals or upgrades that way.
That’s a great tip! Many hotels offer exclusive deals for direct bookings. Thanks for sharing!
I stayed at the citizenM Southwark Bankside last summer, and it was amazing! The staff were super friendly, and the vibe was just so cool. Definitely a great choice for a fun stay.
Thanks for sharing your experience! citizenM is indeed a favorite for many travelers looking for a unique atmosphere.
I’ve had great luck with Point A Hotel Kings Cross before! It’s budget-friendly and perfect if you’re just looking for a place to crash after a long day of exploring.
Absolutely! Point A Hotels are known for their affordability and convenient locations – a great option for budget travelers!
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