Cool Boutique Hotels in East London
Luxury hospitality is commonly associated with London, the mega metropolitan city. The focus has previously been on large and upscale structures; towering builds for offices, malls, and restaurants with breathtaking views of London. Famed for excellence and prestige, Claridges, Fortnum and Masons remain loyal staples to the minds of many. The sheer number of cool rooftops, festivals, urban gardens, pop-up events and culinary and cultural happenings, is why London remains one of the most visited cities in Europe. Additionally, there has been an ongoing emergence of more boutique hotels on the scene. Many of which have been popping up in East London. The city’s more urban side is a hit for those wanting to pick up vintage buys, eat at a range of top eateries - from a diverse selection, party until all hours and generally walk around and absorb the street art and culture.
The Stratford Hotel London
The Stratford Hotel is spectacular, and is great for guests and visitors
The Stratford Hotel has a lush green garden that serenades the rooftop. The property is committed to living responsibly by growing vegetables at a local organic farm only 40 minutes from London. The hotel also uses ethically sourced fabrics, which are used for the staff uniforms and the bed linen. You wouldn´t think that a hotel that houses 145 rooms can have this level of detail, but the truth is it has a boutique feel with numerous breakout areas and spaces, 3 restaurants, a large 24-hour gym, conference rooms and amenities that will rock your stay.
Their buffet breakfast is spot-on delicious, the ambience is very welcoming, and you are within minutes of walking distance to the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. What else? The famous Stratford Westfield Mall is on your doorstep in addition to the Stratford International line that will shorten your commute wherever you wish to go in London.
The Zetter Townhouse, Clerkenwell
Deluxe bedroom at the eclectic Zetter Townhouse Clerkenwell Image © Zetter Townhouse
Indulge in the epitome of cool at Zetter Townhouse Clerkenwell in East London. This boutique independently owned abode seamlessly combines the necessities of a modern traveller with the charm of a Georgian townhouse. Whether you opt for the Deluxe Double, Junior Suite, or The Apartment, expect a delightful touch of quirkiness throughout. Each room is meticulously designed, with interesting furnishings and collectables that create a sense of fantasy and eccentricity. The creative flair shines throughout the property with vibrant colours and playful details, making it feel more like a bold private residence. The attentive staff provides personalised services, going above and beyond to ensure your stay is exceptional. Borrow a Brompton bike for a leisurely ride, pamper yourself with bathroom amenities from The White Company, and sip cocktails at the award-winning lounge.
Situated in the heart of Clerkenwell, known for its vibrant arts and design scene, the townhouse immerses you in the creative energy of East London It also happens to be opposite The Zetter Hotel. Explore trendy bars, independent boutiques, and exceptional dining options steps away from your door. Additionally, Zetter Townhouse Clerkenwell's prime location provides easy access to iconic landmarks like St. Paul's Cathedral and the lively Spitalfields Market.
www.thezetter.com/townhouse-clerkenwell
Montcalm East
Image © Montcalm East London
Montcalm East London is where contemporary elegance immediately greets you with open arms. Minimalist design, bold accents, and captivating artwork create an inviting and inspiring space. Strategically located in the cool Shoreditch neighbourhood, it is a stone's throw away from the City of London, making it quite a sweet spot. Although we typically shy away from hotels with over 100 rooms, Montcalm East London is an exception that deserves recognition. It screams creatives. From the illuminated archway to the photographic references throughout, this is a place to "see and be seen" without the pretentiousness.
Art lovers will rejoice as Montcalm East London regularly hosts rotating photography exhibitions in collaboration with Proud Galleries and even features a resident photographer program. Sky High Junior Suites boast incredible vistas over London, whilst their Anything But Standard rooms (aptly named) start at 25sqm and have city views. In a nutshell, it's a haven for art lovers alike. Yet, it fits the bill for sophisticated business travellers and modern families. We can easily see friends staying and making the most of the rooftop, Moor and Mead bar and restaurant, and buzzy nightlife nearby.
www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/lonam-montcalm-east-autograph-collection/overview
Mama Shelter London
Although the rooms may be small at times, the space is totally functional and minimalist Image © Mama Shelter
Yes, you are reading this correctly. Mama Shelter has arrived in London! The boutique hotel chain is famous for its sultry mood, designer furniture and kitsch approach to hospitality. We had the pleasure of staying at their Paris East branch whilst in the French capital some years ago. We took selfies, partied at clubs recommended by the receptionist and met cool people at their pizza restaurant. If you want an experience, the hotel brand is an option you shouldn’t shy away from. Experiences are at the forefront with an in-house restaurant, masks that you can use to take selfies when you convert your TV to a camera booth. This London brand, however, is no different, upping the ante with Japanese karaoke-styled booths and interior courtyard and a restaurant to cater to your gastronomy needs. Pinball machines and retro video games can also be enjoyed at the hip hotel. Located on Cambridge Heath Road, you’re a short walk from Cambridge Heath train station; 10 minutes from Bethnal Green tube, and a good haunt of restaurants, cafes, pubs and activities in East London.
Leman Locke
Cosy corner in design apart-hotel Leman Locke by Aldgate Image © Lemon Locke
There are times when you need more than a hotel room, and that’s when places such as Leman Locke, a new design-led aparthotel in Aldgate, really stand out. It’s ideal for those staying more than the standard two nights, as the apartments come with a bedroom, kitchen and living area. The style is minimalist with a Scandinavian influence, thanks to the white walls, natural furniture and pastel hues. The brand stays true to its creative lifestyle focus. The space is consistently considered and maximised with design aspects showcased nicely without compromising on functionality. A coffee shop, gym, bar, restaurant and co-working space are also available for like-minded types, who appreciate style in this hip part of East End. Many a corner is instagrammable. The feature staircase in the café best gives an insight into what is to come when you stay at Leman Locke.
www.lockeliving.com/leman-locke
The Buxton
Quirky headrest at new pub hotel, The Buxton London Image © The Buxton
The Buxton is a pub and hotel that opened its doors just a few months ago. The younger sister of the East London hit, The Culpeper is already causing quite a wave thanks to its reform and affordable price point. Who doesn’t like a hotel with a rooftop? The building was refurbished during 2019 to form a 15-room hotel right in the heart of Spitalfields. With a brick façade, it oozes sheer Victorian heritage at its finest, neatly showcasing just the right amount of contemporary elements. The history behind the hotel is impressive. Sir Thomas Fowell Buxton was a man who not only actively participated in abolishing the slave trade during the British Empire, but he also founded the RSPCA. Additionally, he was a brewer and owned the iconic Truman Brewery on Brick Lane. The Buxton hotel is sure to honour his efforts attracting a diverse crowd, in a pub with good craft beer among happenings in the area.
Buckle Street Studios
Beautifully created lower floor at the Buckle Street Studios Image © Buckle Street Studios
Buckle Street Studios by Locke sits between the booming business district and the hip corners surrounding Brick Lane. As per the other properties within the Locke portfolio, there s a strong sense of play with colour and shapes, making it a fun and modern property. Matthew Grzywinski of Grzywinski+Pons, designed Buckle Street Studios, which comprises 103 contemporary studio apartments, a concept store, a co-working area, a 'Shaman' coffee shop, and a meeting room. There's an exciting hybrid room mix that features 87 compact apartments with cleverly designed kitchens and living areas and 16 new hotel-style rooms catered for shorter stays.
www.lockeliving.com/en/london/buckle-street-studios-by-locke
The Culpeper
The Culpeper’s distressed walls and shabby chic style in one of their rooms Image © The Culpeper
This pub is a breath of fresh air in East London, and we have visited several times for the food and atmosphere alone. Split across several floors; it features a traditional gastro-pub on the lower level, which is followed by a restaurant and rooms on the first floor and an urban rooftop with incredible views over the city. It is known for building a community, hosting botanical illustration classes in the past and frequently finding ways to make the most of their rooftop. The food is modern and honest, with many flocking for after-work drinks and a chat before gathering at a long communal table and tucking into tasty bites and dishes. Rooms are cosy and most definitely embody a more eclectic vibe that one might expect from an East London abode. Walls are distressed; there is exposed brickwork in places, mixed chairs and some rooms have a fireplace. It is brimming with character and feels more like you're staying at a friend’s place.
CitizenM Shoreditch
CitizenM Shoreditch among street art in the heart of East London Image © CitizenM Shoreditch
There are a few CitizenM hotels dotted around in London, such as the Tower of London branch but we have a soft spot for the Shoreditch hotel. The small boutique hotel is in a less touristy spot, tucked away down the roads lined with street art. This 216 room hotel doesn’t feel like it’s that big and you get all the necessary services - such as food available across 24-hours at their CanteenM. What we love about this hotel is the location. It is close to several eateries, pubs and bars and cute cafes. Whether you’re a first-timer in the city or a regular, it’s a hit. The fact that the location is by a more quiet side of East London, yet a short distance from Liverpool Street station is equally advantageous.
www.citizenm.com/destinations/london/london-shoreditch-hotel
The Boundary
One of the stylishly furnished rooms at the Boundary London on Redchurch Street
Nothing quite says home in London more than the Boundary London hotel, situated within the red brick walls of a former Victorian warehouse in Shoreditch. It is most certainly a destination giving people the option to sleep, eat or drink at their space thanks to the Albion dining area, rooftop bar and grill and outdoor terrace up on the roof with London city views. It’s certainly a destination for brunch, fine dining and special occasions. Rooms and suites are spacious and range from double bedrooms to duplex loft suites. Effortless design is at the essence, with each room inspired by a particular iconic designer or movement in the 20th century, from Bauhaus, Eileen Gray to Le Corbusier. If you are seeking a neighbourhood hangout that is design-centric with all the extras, The Boundary Hotel is an excellent quintessentially English option in East London.
The Hoxton Shoreditch
Cool, classic yet contemporary design in the lobby of The Hoxton Shoreditch
If you want hip and versatility, The Hoxton Shoreditch remains a sturdy contender. It is a magnet for locals and visitors alike that appreciate a multitude of spaces and a welcoming vibe. You can opt for Shoebox, Cosy or Roomie size room, depending on your needs. All rooms have a contemporary flair with parquet floors and industrial details. If travelling solo; as a couple or in a group, this Hoxton haute is likely to tick the box. Their restaurant The Hoxton Grill serves delicious American diner classics from breakfast until late.
thehoxton.com/london/shoreditch/hotels
Z Hotel Shoreditch
Reception and cafe area lamented with concrete at Z Hotel Shoreditch
Functional and minimalist rooms range from doubles to family size at the simple boutique hotel in London’s creative hub. As it’s just 2 minutes away from Old Street and approximately 10 minutes from both Hoxton and Shoreditch train stations, it is the ideal place to book if you want to sample street food on Brick Lane, visit Columbia Road Flower Market or hit the Hoxton rooftop cinema. High-quality, crisp bed linen, aircon, Samsung HDTV with Sky, complimentary toiletries and under-bed storage are in all rooms.
