London is a vast city with numerous areas each offering a different experience for visitors. Here are some budget-friendly hotel options sorted by area, reflecting a mix of locations and vibes. Note that prices can fluctuate depending on the time of year, special events, and booking lead times, so it’s always a good idea to check the latest prices and read recent reviews before making a reservation.
The West End (Soho, Leicester Square, Covent Garden)
- Z Hotel Soho: Offers compact, no-frills rooms in a superb location for theater and nightlife.
- Seven Dials Hotel: A bed and breakfast with basic amenities right in the heart of Covent Garden.
Bloomsbury
- The Generator Hostel: A hip hostel that also offers private rooms, close to the British Museum and several tube stations.
- Arosfa Hotel: A family-run hotel located in a Georgian townhouse, offering a cozy and affordable stay.
Southbank and Waterloo
- The Walrus Bar and Hostel: Great for young travelers, offering both dorms and private rooms within walking distance of the London Eye and other attractions.
- Point A Hotel London Westminster: Known for its compact, modern rooms with smart pricing based on amenities chosen.
Paddington and Bayswater
- Tune Hotel Paddington: A “limited service” hotel with compact, modern rooms.
- The Royal Eagle Hotel: Offers simple rooms in a Victorian style building, close to Hyde Park and Paddington station.
South Kensington and Chelsea
- The EasyHotel South Kensington: Extremely basic and compact rooms, but in an upscale area close to museums and the Royal Albert Hall.
- Mowbray Court Hotel: A straightforward, budget hotel close to the Earl’s Court Exhibition Centre and tube station.
Victoria and Westminster
- The Dover Hotel: Just a 10-minute walk from Buckingham Palace, offering basic rooms.
- The Sidney Hotel London Victoria: A budget-friendly hotel with modern amenities, not far from the Victoria station.
The City of London
- Premier Inn London City (Aldgate): Part of a reliable budget hotel chain with multiple locations across the city.
- Travelodge London Central City Road: Known for its affordable rates, especially on weekends when the business district quiets down.
East London (Shoreditch, Whitechapel)
- The Dictionary Hostel: A budget-friendly and trendy option for backpackers and solo travelers, in the heart of Shoreditch.
- Ibis Budget London Whitechapel: Basic accommodations with all the essentials in an area known for its vibrant immigrant culture and food scene.
Camden and North London
- Corner House Hotel: A budget-friendly hotel in Camden with good transport links.
- The California London: Quirky and colorful with easy access to Kings Cross Station.
Near Airports (Heathrow, Gatwick)
- Aerotel London Heathrow: Located inside Heathrow Airport Terminal 3, offering flexible booking hours.
- Bloc Hotel Gatwick: A budget-friendly option right inside Gatwick Airport, offering “smartly” designed small rooms.
Keep in mind that “budget” in London is relative, and prices may be higher than in other cities. It’s also worth considering alternatives like Airbnb, especially if you’re staying for a longer period or traveling in a group. Additionally, always check for access to public transportation like the Underground (Tube), buses, and even bike rentals to ensure that you can easily explore the city from your chosen accommodation.
