Hotels Near Big Ben: Your Comprehensive Guide to London Lodging
Big Ben, officially known as the Elizabeth Tower, stands as an iconic symbol of London and the United Kingdom. Its magnificent clock tower and resonant chimes are instantly recognizable around the globe. For visitors to London, staying in a hotel near Big Ben offers unparalleled convenience and the opportunity to immerse oneself in the city’s rich history and vibrant culture.
This comprehensive guide explores the myriad of hotel options available near Big Ben, catering to a wide range of budgets and preferences. Whether you’re seeking luxurious accommodations with breathtaking views, charming boutique hotels with personalized service, or budget-friendly options that don’t compromise on comfort, you’ll find the perfect base for your London adventure.
Why Choose a Hotel Near Big Ben?
Staying near Big Ben offers numerous advantages, making it an ideal location for both first-time visitors and seasoned travelers to London. Here are some key reasons to consider:
Prime Location and Accessibility
Big Ben is located in the heart of Westminster, one of London’s most central and historically significant areas. This prime location provides easy access to a plethora of attractions, including the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, and the London Eye. With excellent public transportation links, including the Westminster Underground station, exploring other parts of London is a breeze.
Iconic Views and Memorable Experiences
Waking up to the sight of Big Ben towering above the cityscape is an unforgettable experience. Many hotels in the area offer rooms with stunning views of the clock tower and the River Thames. Imagine enjoying your morning coffee while gazing at this world-renowned landmark – a truly special way to start your day in London.
Proximity to Cultural and Historical Landmarks
Being situated near Big Ben means you’re within walking distance of some of London’s most important cultural and historical landmarks. Explore the hallowed halls of Westminster Abbey, witness the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace, or take a ride on the London Eye for panoramic city views. The area is steeped in history and offers a wealth of opportunities for exploration and discovery.
Variety of Dining and Entertainment Options
The Westminster area boasts a diverse array of dining and entertainment options to suit all tastes. From traditional British pubs serving classic fare to upscale restaurants offering international cuisine, you’ll find plenty of choices to satisfy your culinary cravings. The area also features numerous theaters, concert halls, and art galleries, ensuring there’s always something to see and do.
Luxury Hotels Near Big Ben: Indulge in Opulence and Comfort
For those seeking the ultimate in luxury and comfort, the area around Big Ben offers a selection of exceptional hotels that cater to the most discerning travelers. These hotels boast exquisite design, impeccable service, and a host of amenities to ensure an unforgettable stay.
The Corinthia Hotel London
The Corinthia Hotel London is a grand and opulent hotel located just a short walk from Big Ben. Housed in a beautifully restored Victorian building, the hotel features stunning architecture, luxurious accommodations, and a world-class spa. Guests can enjoy fine dining at one of the hotel’s award-winning restaurants or relax with a cocktail at the elegant bar. The Corinthia is renowned for its impeccable service and attention to detail, making it a truly exceptional choice for discerning travelers.
The rooms and suites are lavishly decorated with plush furnishings, marble bathrooms, and state-of-the-art technology. Many offer breathtaking views of the London skyline, including glimpses of Big Ben. The hotel’s ESPA Life at Corinthia spa is a haven of tranquility, offering a range of rejuvenating treatments and wellness programs.
The Savoy
A legendary landmark hotel, The Savoy offers unparalleled luxury and a rich history. Situated on the Strand, a short distance from Big Ben, The Savoy has been hosting royalty, celebrities, and discerning travelers for over a century. The hotel’s iconic design, impeccable service, and world-class dining options make it a truly unforgettable experience.
The rooms and suites at The Savoy are elegantly appointed with classic furnishings and modern amenities. Many offer stunning views of the River Thames and the London skyline. The hotel’s famous afternoon tea is a must-try, and its restaurants offer a diverse range of culinary experiences. The Savoy’s American Bar is renowned for its innovative cocktails and sophisticated ambiance.
The Shangri-La Hotel at The Shard
Located in The Shard, Western Europe’s tallest building, the Shangri-La Hotel offers breathtaking panoramic views of London, including stunning vistas of Big Ben. The hotel’s luxurious accommodations, exceptional dining options, and world-class spa make it a truly unforgettable experience.
The rooms and suites at the Shangri-La Hotel are designed with modern elegance and feature floor-to-ceiling windows that offer unparalleled views of the city. The hotel’s infinity pool, located on the 52nd floor, is a truly unique experience. Guests can enjoy fine dining at one of the hotel’s restaurants or relax with a cocktail at the stylish bar. The Shangri-La Hotel at The Shard is the perfect choice for those seeking a luxurious and unforgettable stay in London.
The Ritz London
Synonymous with luxury and elegance, The Ritz London is a legendary hotel located in the heart of Mayfair, a short taxi ride or tube journey from Big Ben. Renowned for its impeccable service, opulent decor, and world-class dining, The Ritz offers an unparalleled experience of classic British hospitality.
The rooms and suites are lavishly decorated with antique furniture, silk fabrics, and marble bathrooms. Afternoon Tea at The Ritz is a quintessential London experience, and the hotel’s Michelin-starred restaurant offers exquisite fine dining. The Ritz Club, a private members’ casino, adds an extra touch of exclusivity to this iconic hotel.
Mid-Range Hotels Near Big Ben: Comfort and Value in a Central Location
For travelers seeking a balance of comfort, convenience, and value, the area around Big Ben offers a range of excellent mid-range hotels. These hotels provide comfortable accommodations, convenient amenities, and a central location that makes it easy to explore all that London has to offer.
Park Plaza Westminster Bridge London
Located directly opposite the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge London offers modern accommodations, a range of amenities, and stunning views of the city. The hotel features spacious rooms, a fitness center, and a swimming pool. Guests can enjoy a variety of dining options at the hotel’s restaurants and bars.
The hotel’s location is ideal for exploring London’s major attractions, and it’s conveniently located near the Westminster Underground station. The Park Plaza Westminster Bridge London is a popular choice for both business and leisure travelers.
The Westminster London, Curio Collection by Hilton
The Westminster London, Curio Collection by Hilton, offers stylish accommodations and a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of Westminster. The hotel features modern rooms, a fitness center, and a rooftop terrace with stunning views of the city. Guests can enjoy delicious cuisine at the hotel’s restaurant and bar.
The hotel’s location is ideal for exploring London’s attractions, and it’s within walking distance of Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, and Westminster Abbey. The Westminster London is a great choice for travelers seeking a stylish and comfortable stay in a central location.
Novotel London Waterloo
Located just a short walk from Big Ben and the London Eye, the Novotel London Waterloo offers comfortable accommodations, modern amenities, and a convenient location. The hotel features spacious rooms, a fitness center, and a swimming pool. Guests can enjoy a variety of dining options at the hotel’s restaurants and bars.
The hotel’s location is ideal for exploring London’s attractions, and it’s conveniently located near the Waterloo Underground and train station. The Novotel London Waterloo is a popular choice for families and business travelers.
Premier Inn London County Hall
For a reliable and affordable mid-range option, the Premier Inn London County Hall offers comfortable and clean accommodations in a prime location near the London Eye and a short walk from Big Ben. This hotel provides a great base for exploring the city without breaking the bank. While not as luxurious as some other options, it delivers consistent quality and a convenient location.
Guests can expect comfortable beds, en-suite bathrooms, and a restaurant serving breakfast and dinner. The hotel is within easy walking distance of many attractions and transport links, making it a practical choice for budget-conscious travelers who still want to be close to the action.
Budget-Friendly Hotels Near Big Ben: Affordable Accommodation in the Heart of London
Traveling to London doesn’t have to break the bank. The area around Big Ben offers a range of budget-friendly hotels that provide affordable accommodation without sacrificing comfort and convenience. These hotels are perfect for students, backpackers, and budget-conscious travelers who want to experience the best of London without overspending.
St George’s Inn Victoria
Located a short distance from Victoria Station and within easy reach of Big Ben, St George’s Inn Victoria offers clean and comfortable budget accommodation. This hotel provides a convenient base for exploring London and offers good value for money.
Guests can expect basic but comfortable rooms, en-suite bathrooms, and a complimentary breakfast. The hotel is well-connected to public transport, making it easy to reach other parts of London. St George’s Inn Victoria is a popular choice for budget travelers looking for a convenient and affordable place to stay.
The Generator London
The Generator London is a stylish and modern hostel located in Russell Square, a short tube ride from Big Ben. The hostel offers a range of dormitory rooms and private rooms, all of which are clean and comfortable. The Generator London features a lively bar and a social atmosphere, making it a great choice for backpackers and solo travelers.
The hostel’s location is convenient for exploring London’s attractions, and it’s well-connected to public transport. The Generator London is a popular choice for travelers seeking a budget-friendly and social accommodation option.
Tune Hotel Westminster, London
Tune Hotel Westminster, London provides a no-frills, budget-friendly option in a great location. Focus is on providing a comfortable bed and a clean room, with optional extras available for purchase. This allows guests to tailor their stay to their budget and needs.
The hotel is within walking distance of many attractions and transport links, making it a convenient base for exploring London. Tune Hotel Westminster is a good option for travelers who prioritize location and affordability over luxury amenities.
YHA London Central
YHA London Central is a well-maintained hostel offering affordable dormitory and private rooms in a central location, accessible from Big Ben via public transport. This hostel is ideal for budget travelers and backpackers looking for a social and convenient base to explore the city.
The hostel features a range of amenities, including a communal kitchen, laundry facilities, and a social area. It’s a great place to meet other travelers and share experiences while keeping costs down.
Apartment Rentals Near Big Ben: Home Away From Home
For travelers seeking a more independent and self-catering experience, apartment rentals near Big Ben offer a comfortable and convenient alternative to hotels. Apartments provide more space, privacy, and flexibility, making them ideal for families, groups, and long-term stays.
SACO The Cannon London
SACO The Cannon London offers stylish and well-equipped serviced apartments in the heart of London, within easy reach of Big Ben. These apartments provide a comfortable and convenient home away from home, with all the amenities you need for a relaxing stay.
Each apartment features a fully equipped kitchen, a comfortable living area, and a modern bathroom. The apartments are well-connected to public transport, making it easy to explore London’s attractions. SACO The Cannon London is a great choice for travelers seeking a self-catering accommodation option with hotel-style services.
Citadines Trafalgar Square London
Citadines Trafalgar Square London offers serviced apartments in a prime location near Trafalgar Square, a short distance from Big Ben. These apartments provide a comfortable and convenient base for exploring London, with all the amenities you need for a relaxing stay.
Each apartment features a fully equipped kitchen, a comfortable living area, and a modern bathroom. The apartments are well-connected to public transport, making it easy to reach other parts of London. Citadines Trafalgar Square London is a great choice for travelers seeking a self-catering accommodation option in a central location.
Native Bankside
Located a short distance from the South Bank and within easy reach of Big Ben via public transport, Native Bankside offers stylish and contemporary serviced apartments. These apartments provide a comfortable and convenient home away from home, with all the amenities you need for a relaxing stay.
Each apartment features a fully equipped kitchen, a comfortable living area, and a modern bathroom. The apartments are well-connected to public transport, making it easy to explore London’s attractions. Native Bankside is a great choice for travelers seeking a self-catering accommodation option with a modern design and a convenient location.
Airbnb Near Big Ben
Airbnb offers a wide range of apartments and rooms for rent near Big Ben, catering to various budgets and preferences. From cozy studios to spacious family apartments, you can find a variety of options to suit your needs. Renting through Airbnb can provide a more local and authentic experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in the neighborhood and live like a local.
Be sure to carefully review the listing details, photos, and guest reviews before booking an Airbnb to ensure it meets your expectations. Consider factors such as location, amenities, and the host’s cancellation policy.
Tips for Booking Hotels Near Big Ben
Booking a hotel near Big Ben requires careful planning and consideration. Here are some helpful tips to ensure you find the perfect accommodation for your needs:
Book in Advance
London is a popular tourist destination, and hotels near Big Ben tend to fill up quickly, especially during peak season. To secure the best rates and availability, it’s essential to book your hotel well in advance, ideally several months ahead of your travel dates.
Compare Prices
Before making a reservation, compare prices from different hotels and booking websites. Use online travel agencies, hotel comparison sites, and the hotels’ official websites to find the best deals. Keep an eye out for special promotions, discounts, and package deals.
Read Reviews
Before booking a hotel, read reviews from other travelers to get an idea of their experiences. Pay attention to comments about the hotel’s location, cleanliness, service, amenities, and overall value. Online travel agencies and review sites such as TripAdvisor provide a wealth of information to help you make an informed decision.
Consider Your Budget
Determine your budget for accommodation before you start your search. London offers a wide range of hotels, from budget-friendly options to luxurious properties. Knowing your budget will help you narrow down your choices and avoid overspending.
Check the Location
While staying near Big Ben is desirable, consider the exact location of the hotel in relation to other attractions and transport links. A hotel that’s slightly further away from Big Ben but closer to a tube station might be more convenient for exploring the city.
Look for Amenities
Consider the amenities that are important to you, such as free Wi-Fi, breakfast included, a fitness center, or a swimming pool. Make sure the hotel offers the amenities you need to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable.
Check Cancellation Policies
Before booking a hotel, carefully review the cancellation policy. Some hotels offer flexible cancellation policies, while others have strict rules and fees. Make sure you understand the cancellation policy before making a reservation to avoid any surprises.
Consider Transportation Options
Think about how you plan to get around London. Hotels near major transport hubs like Westminster Underground station will offer the most convenient access to other parts of the city. Research transport options and plan your routes in advance.
Factor in Noise Levels
Being in a central location, hotels near Big Ben can be subject to noise, especially from traffic and tourists. If you are a light sleeper, consider requesting a room away from the main street or investing in earplugs.
Things to Do Near Big Ben
Staying near Big Ben puts you in the heart of London’s most iconic attractions. Here are some of the must-see sights and activities in the area:
Visit the Houses of Parliament
The Houses of Parliament, also known as the Palace of Westminster, is a stunning Gothic Revival building that houses the UK’s Parliament. Take a tour of the building to learn about its history and architecture, and watch debates in the House of Commons and House of Lords.
Explore Westminster Abbey
Westminster Abbey is a magnificent Gothic church that has been the site of coronations, royal weddings, and burials for centuries. Explore the abbey’s chapels, tombs, and monuments, and marvel at its stunning architecture.
Ride the London Eye
The London Eye is a giant Ferris wheel that offers breathtaking panoramic views of London. Take a ride on the London Eye to see the city from a different perspective and enjoy stunning views of Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, and other landmarks.
Visit Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace is the official residence of the Queen and a symbol of the British monarchy. Watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony, take a tour of the State Rooms (during the summer months), and stroll through the palace gardens.
Take a River Cruise
Take a scenic river cruise along the River Thames to see London’s landmarks from the water. Enjoy views of Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, the Tower of London, and Tower Bridge.
Visit the Churchill War Rooms
The Churchill War Rooms are a historic underground complex that served as the headquarters of the British government during World War II. Explore the rooms where Winston Churchill and his cabinet planned their strategies, and learn about the challenges of leading the country through wartime.
Walk Through St. James’s Park
St. James’s Park is a beautiful park located near Buckingham Palace. Take a stroll through the park, admire the flower beds, watch the waterfowl on the lake, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Explore the National Gallery
The National Gallery is one of the world’s leading art museums, housing a vast collection of European paintings from the 13th to the 19th centuries. Admire masterpieces by artists such as Van Gogh, Monet, Rembrandt, and Leonardo da Vinci.
See a Show in the West End
London’s West End is famous for its world-class theater productions. Catch a show in one of the many theaters near Big Ben, and enjoy a night of entertainment.
Visit the Tate Modern
The Tate Modern is a modern and contemporary art museum located in a converted power station on the South Bank. Explore the museum’s collection of artworks by artists such as Picasso, Warhol, and Matisse.
Enjoy Your Stay Near Big Ben
Staying in a hotel near Big Ben offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the best of London. With its prime location, iconic views, and proximity to cultural and historical landmarks, Big Ben is the perfect base for your London adventure. Whether you’re seeking luxurious accommodations, comfortable mid-range hotels, or budget-friendly options, you’ll find the perfect place to stay near this iconic landmark. Book your hotel in advance, explore the area’s attractions, and create unforgettable memories in London.
