Park Plaza keeps it modern, simple, and exactly what you need after a hectic day in Waterloo. Let’s be real — anywhere in central London can feel a little chaotic and over the top. Knowing you’ve got a spot that’s refined, calm, and delivers everything it should in high quality? Absolute bliss.

Their standout has to be the Italian restaurant and cocktail bar. Treat yourself to their Roman-style pizzas — they’re huge, super crispy, yet still melt in your mouth. On a sunny day, our cocktail pick has to be the Banana Joe. Don’t be put off by the banana (we get it, banana in a drink is scary unless it’s a milkshake) — this one screams exotic. The banana is mild, letting the freshness of coconut, pineapple, and that buzzy rum really shine.

Oh, and they do rooftop parties too. Who says hotels are just for sleeping? No need to wander the streets of London late at night when the party’s happening right on your roof.

Have to try: Florentine Trattoria restaurant
Perfect for: Bougie stay
Approx price for 2: £230 per night (standard room)

We all know and love the Hilton — trusty, reliable, high quality, and top-notch hospitality. The Bankside location is no exception. They clearly get London weather (grey, rainy, miserable, you name it), so you have to check out their heated indoor pool. Honestly, you just want to sink in and never come out. For those who like to keep the grind going on holiday, there’s also a fully equipped fitness centre (can’t say it’s for us, but respect to those who do).

The on-site restaurant, OXBO Bankside, is sophisticated and elegant without feeling stiff — cosy, delicious, and seriously satisfying. Breakfast is a highlight. The waffles with berries, whipped cream, and a pot of maple syrup are an absolute win. They also do more experimental healthy options like carrot and quinoa pancakes. Would we choose that over a full English? Never. But points for trying.

Have to try: Heated indoor pool
Perfect for: 5 star stay
Approx price for 2: £250–£350+ (depending on room and season)

Sea Containers is sexy, sophisticated, and honestly gives you some of the best views of the Thames. It’s on Southbank, so not exactly in the heart of Waterloo, but it’s so close you won’t even notice.

This place is all about tapping into your inner Londoner bougie vibes and a love for the finer things in life. The real showstopper? They’ve got a screening room. Yep, a full-on cinema. None of those itchy, broken seats — think plush, comfy chairs, loads of leg room, and you can even bring popcorn and a bottle of wine!

Before the film, they keep it fun with blockbuster family hits — no obscure French 1950s arthouse nonsense here. We went for dinner at the Sea Containers restaurant beforehand. Even though it’s a 5-star spot, the menu keeps it real. Starters? Popcorn buffalo chicken. Main? Cheeseburger. Just because you’re somewhere fancy doesn’t mean you have to nibble on a rose petal and call it a day!

Have to try: Curzon cinema
Perfect for: Special occasions
Approx price for 2:  £300–£450+ (depending on room and season)

If, like us, one of the biggest selling points of a hotel is the views, then H10 London Waterloo is the one.

Their famous Waterloo Sky Bar is a proper hotspot — most of the people there aren’t even hotel guests, they’re just locals and visitors chasing that buzzy, lively vibe. It’s the perfect place whether you’re after light bites or a full-on meal, fancy plates or classic comfort food. We stuck to small plates (because cocktails were the real star of the show) — the padrón peppers and the patatas bravas with spicy tomato sauce and aioli were absolute winners.

But yes, the cocktails. For us, it had to be the spicy mango margarita and the strawberry daiquiri. Fruity, punchy, and just that little bit dangerous. Sipping them in the sunshine on a rooftop makes you completely forget the dent in your wallet and reminds you why London is one of the best cities in the world.

Have to try: Waterloo Sky Bar
Perfect for: Fun with friends
Approx price for 2: £180–£250

The Hoxton is actually in Southwark, but don’t worry — it’s only a 10-minute walk from Waterloo, so all your Waterloo plans are still totally doable.

The vibe here is more wellness retreat than city chaos, even though you’re right in the middle of one of London’s busiest spots. Think natural, coastal-inspired interiors that somehow make the hustle outside feel miles away. The rooftop terrace is a total highlight — the city views are gorgeous and totally memorable.

For food, you’ve got to check out Seabird. It’s one of the most popular restaurants in London and it’s all about seafood done right — fresh, tasty, and super high quality. Not a seafood fan? No stress. There’s another casual restaurant and bar that do awesome bites and drinks, perfect for families, catch-ups, or even small parties.

Have to try: Seabird restaurant for fantastic views of London
Perfect for: Parties and celebrations
Approx price for 2: £250 per night (standard room)

If over-the-top luxury hotels aren’t your vibe but you still want somewhere nice, trustworthy, and a bit fancy, this is your spot.

Each room comes with a fully equipped mini kitchen, luxury toiletries (always appreciated), and a king-size bed. Random, but the blackout blinds were a proper game-changer. Slightly dangerous in summer because you could honestly sleep until 4pm and not even realise, but after a full day trekking around London, beauty sleep is mandatory.

Even better? They’ve got a restaurant — totally unheard of for aparthotels — called The Unwined. Fresh food and wines from all over!

Have to try: Unwined restaurant
Perfect for: Affordable luxury stay
Approx price for 2: £180–£250+ (depending on season)

Ruby Lucy nails that balance of modern and sophisticated, while still being fun and a little quirky — basically the same energy as London itself. Even after you’ve questioned all your life choices during rush hour, stepping in here reminds you why you love the city.

The real selling point? Their bar. Open 24 hours (yes, you read that right), it’s buzzing no matter what time you wander in. The bar setup is stunning — fully stacked, glimmering, and just magnetic. You’ll catch yourself staring at it even when you don’t need another drink (though let’s be real, you’ll probably get one anyway). They’ve nailed the vibe with regular live music, DJ sets, and an open-door policy that brings in both hotel guests and locals — it feels more like a nightlife spot than “just a hotel bar.”

Have to try: 24 hour bar
Perfect for: Fun with friends
Approx price for 2: £150–£220+

Now, we’ve all heard of The Savoy — and if you haven’t, honestly, where have you been? It’s one of London’s most iconic, bougie, world-renowned hotels. So why’s it so far down our list? Don’t worry, we’re not about to start nit-picking somewhere that’s basically flawless. The only reason is that it’s technically on The Strand, not Waterloo. But since it’s just a 10-minute train ride away, we’re making an exception. Because staying here? Yeah, it’s worth every second of that journey.

If you thought the interiors were the peak of luxury, wait until you hear they have their own florist. Yep, an in-house florist. The dream spot for last-minute gifts, surprises, or honestly just treating yourself — easily one of the most unforgettable souvenirs you could take home.

And of course, the food. The headline act is the Michelin-starred 1890 by Gordon Ramsay, which is every bit as special as it sounds. But if you’re asking us what’s really worth splashing out on, it’s the afternoon tea. This is London at its most classic, and The Savoy just does it better than anywhere else. 

Have to try: Afternoon tea
Perfect for: Luxury getaway
Approx price for 2: £650–£950+

Yep, we’re back at Hilton, but honestly, they really do come through every time. This one isn’t quite as luxe as the Bankside spot, but for affordability while still keeping things high quality, it’s a solid choice.

They’ve got a fitness centre — nothing state-of-the-art, but just enough to keep you ticking over during a short trip. Free hot breakfast is a winner too. All the continental classics, pastries, cereals, plus your English breakfast staples. And the location? Right on Waterloo Road, perfect for whatever you’ve got planned in the area, or super easy to hop on a train if you’re planning to explore more of London.

Have to try: Premium queen room
Perfect for: Work events
Approx price for 2: £150–£220+ (depending on season)