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London is the perfect destination for a romantic getaway, thanks in part to the British city’s many romantic hotels. Whether you’re looking for a charming boutique hideaway or a stately luxury property, London has plenty of options for every occasion, from honeymoon to anniversary celebration. Snuggle up near Hyde Park or spend some time with your significant other in Southwark in these expert-selected romantic hotels in London.
Most Romantic Hotels in London
- Best Overall: Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London
- Best Location: One Aldwych
- Best Budget: The Hoxton, Southwark
- Best Luxury: Brown’s Hotel
- Best Boutique: The Portobello Hotel
- Best Historic: The Langham
- Best Splurge: Shangri-La The Shard, London
- Best Hideaway: 11 Cadogan Gardens
Best Overall : Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London
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This luxury hotel pulls out all the stops when it comes to a romantic stay in London.
Diptyque toiletries, pillow menu, indoor swimming pool and spa, fitness center, personal training
Ideal location on Hyde Park
Two-Michelin starred restaurant Dinner by Heston Blumenthal
Impeccable service
Couples spa treatments
Pricey
Neighborhood is not especially hip
Not all rooms have park views
The Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London has everything you could want from a romantic hotel stay, from an indulgent spa with couples treatment options to a broad selection of stylish food and drink options. The guest rooms are elegant and contemporary, with the option to book a view of Hyde Park’s lush greenery, and the signature suites are worth the splurge. Don’t skip a memorable meal at Dinner by Heston Blumenthal, which serves clever dishes based on the history of gastronomy, and be sure to partake in traditional English afternoon tea in The Rosebery. The hotel offers a broad selection of romantic amenities, as well: Guests can opt for rose petals on the bed and in the bath, book a romantic movie night, or score a private table for two at the Loggia overlooking Hyde Park. The neighborhood of Knightsbridge can be a bit posh for some travelers, but Mayfair and Marylebone are only a quick stroll across the park.
Best Location : One Aldwych
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Courtesy of One Aldwych
This modern luxury hotel drops couples in the center of London, with plenty to see and do while relaxing within elevated rooms and suites (with excellent views).
Luxury high tea offering, in-room rain showers, spa, indoor swimming pool, Mitchell & Peach toiletries
Outstanding central location
Themed afternoon tea
Rooms are recently updated with stunning decor and views of the city and river
Guests looking for a quieter location may find proximity to Covent Garden loud
Luxury hotel One Aldwych, located on The Strand, situates its guests in the heart of Covent Gardens shops and the West End theaters—and is within walking distance from attractions like Trafalgar Square, Big Ben, and Parliament. Romance abounds within accommodations like The Terrace Suite, where guests can dine al fresco on their own fifth-floor terrace or luxuriate on plush couches among neutral hue decor and a stunning art collection. Downstairs, make the most of this property with a trip to the serene spa, a date for afternoon tea (consisting of exquisite sweets and savories), or dinner at the hotel’s restaurant Indigo. When you're ready to hit the town, walk across the street to one of the dozens of top-tier theaters for a show, or head out for a romantic stroll across Waterloo Bridge, which offers 360-degree views of the London skyline at sunset.
Best Budget : The Hoxton, Southwark
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The Hoxton
City views and a cool vibe make this hotel a great pick for couples on a budget.
Blank toiletries, co-working space, minifridge, tea and coffee with fresh milk
Great location on South Bank near Tate Modern
Rooftop restaurant
Many rooms have amazing city views
Hip, modern vibe
Some room categories are very small
No spa
Lobby can be loud and busy
Located within walking distance of many attractions, including the Tate Modern and Borough Market, The Hoxton, Southwark is one of London’s newer, livelier accommodation options. It’s a great pick for those looking for romance without the hefty price tag, especially as it’s the home of highly acclaimed rooftop restaurant Seabird (be sure to book in advance). If you can swing it, go for one of the “Roomy” or “Biggy” room categories, which offer more space and bigger windows. While not all London travelers are familiar with Southwark, the area is adjacent to the Thames and South Bank, where you can recreate key moments from the movies “Love, Actually” and “Bridget Jones Diary.” There’s a distinctly creative vibe to the hotel, which translates into its communal spaces and its events series. Nearby, see a play at Shakespeare’s Globe or The National Theater, or hop aboard the Thames Clipper, a commuter boat with its own bar.
Best Luxury : Brown’s Hotel
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This hotel has the high-end address and amenities to match, ideal for couples looking for a posh touch.
Concierge, shoe shine service, spa, 24-hour gym
Memorable signature suites
Traditional afternoon tea
Central location
Not all rooms have views
Some services, like turn-down, only available on request
Might feel stuffy to younger guests
Located near the Royal Academy of the Arts in Mayfair, Brown’s Hotel captures traditional British luxury both in its public spaces and its sophisticated guest rooms. While all of the rooms are equally stylish and comfortable, the Forte suites really evoke that sense of romance. If you’ve got the means, book the ornate Kipling Suite, named after author Rudyard Kipling, who wrote “The Jungle Book” at this very hotel. For afternoon tea, follow in Queen Victoria’s footsteps in The Drawing Room, or have a cozy dinner at Charlie’s. Nearby, take a walk through Green Park and past Buckingham Palace, or head to Selfridges for a shopping spree. Back at the hotel, unwind with a treatment at The Spa or a private yoga class for two.
Best Boutique : The Portobello Hotel
This off-kilter charmer will appeal to couples who prefer something more unique and intimate.
Green & Spring toiletries, turndown service, in-room coffee and tea
Charming neighborhood
Unique, quirky rooms
Honesty bar in lobby
Romantic atmosphere
Most rooms don’t have TVs
Not all rooms have good views
No spa, but has a partnership with nearby Cloud Twelve Wellness Spa
Legend has it that Kate Moss and Johnny Depp once filled an antique bathtub in one of The Portobello Hotel’s rooms with champagne. While you and your loved one might prefer a bubble bath, there’s no denying the romantic sensibility in the hotel’s guest rooms, all of which are uniquely designed. If it’s available, go for the one with the circular bed and infamous bathtub. Elsewhere in the hotel, breakfast is equally charming and guests can partake in the honesty bar at their leisure. The amenities aren’t quite as ample as some of London’s luxury properties, but the neighborhood of Notting Hill has everything you might want. Nearby, grab a bite to eat at Daylesford Organic or Ottolenghi, or splurge on the tasting menu at The Ledbury. For something more unique, book a couples outing at the Ginstitute, where you can blend your own gin.
Best Historic : The Langham
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History is in the walls at this luxury property, which has a prime location and a sense of sophistication.
Nespresso machines, spa and indoor swimming pool, 24-hour gym
Elegant rooms with marble bathrooms
Ideal location by Oxford Circus and Regent’s Park
Traditional afternoon tea
Award-winning cocktail bar
Some of the decor feels old fashioned
Area has a lot of tourists
Dining options are pricey
The Langham, one of London’s grand dame hotels, has stood over Regent Street for more than 150 years, making it one of the city’s most historic overnight stays. These days, the rooms are more modern with touches of tradition, and the amenities are notable, from a high-end spa to award-winning cocktail bar The Artesian. While the location puts guests right in the heart of Oxford Circus, there’s plenty to enjoy in the hotel itself. Grab a casual bite to eat at The Wigmore or opt for a private dining experience at French-inspired restaurant Roux at the Landau. The Langham especially caters to those visiting for a celebration, too: Look for the Anniversary Indulgence afternoon tea to toast your years together.
Best Splurge : Shangri-La The Shard, London
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This unforgettable luxury property is set on high in the Shard, offering memorable views of London’s skyline for an especially romantic stay.
L'Occitane toiletries, binoculars in rooms, gym and sauna, pillow menu
The highest hotel pool in Western Europe
Picture windows with city views
Large, well-appointed rooms
Expensive dining options
Neighborhood isn’t exciting at night
Pricey
Situated in 18 floors of London’s iconic Shard building, Shangri-la The Shard is where you want to drop your hard-earned cash for a romantic getaway. While the views alone are worth the splurge, the added amenities, like the elevated indoor pool, make for an especially comfortable stay. Go all in with a five-course private dining experience at Asian-inspired British eatery TĪNG, or indulge in a cocktail at GŎNG, the highest hotel bar in Western Europe. Around the corner, Borough Market is a great place for a stroll and a snack, while the attractions of South Bank and Covent Garden are a walk or Uber ride away.
Best Hideaway : 11 Cadogan Gardens
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Nestled in a Chelsea mews, this elegant hotel feels like a romantic country getaway in the city.
Noble Isle toiletries, 24-hour gym, cocktail bar
Charming neighborhood location
Unique rooms with Victorian feel
Access to the private Cadogan Gardens
Classic afternoon tea
Not central to many attractions
Some room categories feel small
No spa
If you prefer to cuddle up away from the hustle and bustle of central London, 11 Cadogan Gardens is the perfect boutique spot to find a quiet moment or two. The Chelsea hotel is the only Relais & Châteaux hotel member in London and its luxurious guest rooms evoke a stately country home, with all rooms and suites completely unique. Indulge in the Sloane Suite, which overlooks the private Cadogan Gardens, or select one of the more contemporary apartments if you plan to stay longer. Hans’ Bar & Grill is an all-day restaurant at your disposal, while The Chelsea Bar is a great spot for a cocktail or glass of wine. The location puts you close to the Saatchi Gallery, Harrods, and the Victoria and Albert Museum, while Hyde Park is a slightly longer stroll away. To extend the romance, journey onward to one of the hotel’s countryside sister properties, Cliveden House Hotel or Chewton Glen.
Final Verdict
While London has many romantic hotels, from hip budget options to high-end luxury properties, a few stand out when it comes to a celebratory occasion with your partner. The Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London is a must-experience hotel for couples, while Shangri-La The Shard, London literally stands above the rest. For something more unique, The Portobello Hotel marries boutique whimsy with classic romance and 11 Cadogan Gardens embraces the spirit of London without the crowds of tourists.
Methodology
We evaluated more than 20 hotels in London before settling on the best for the chosen categories. We considered things such as the hotel’s reputation and quality of service, its proximity to local attractions and neighborhoods, and notable amenities (i.e. pools, concierge services, etc). We also considered the property’s dining and drinks options and any specifical romantic amenities (spa treatments, guest add-ons, etc). The list was determined from personal experiences by the writer, impartial guest reviews, and recent accolades received by the hotels.
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