20 Best Budget Hotels In London That Save You Money | With Prices
Each hotel combines good prices with reliable comfort and central locations. Many are within walking distance of London’s most famous landmarks.
Author:James RowleyOct 06, 202512.1K Shares367.3K Views
Affordable Stays In One Of The World's Priciest Cities
London is known as one of the most expensive cities in the world and hotels often take up the biggest share of a travel budget. For visitors who want value for money, the challenge is finding a place that is clean, safe, and in a good location without paying too much.
Choosing the right hotel is not just about the nightly rate. It also means thinking about transport costs location and avoiding extra charges. Each hotel balances room price with important factors such as easy access to public transport and closeness to popular attractions.
1. Hub By Premier Inn (Multiple Locations)
Price Range:£55-£125 per night
Hub by Premier Inn has become a popular choice for cheap accommodation in London for tourists, thanks to compact yet modern rooms that keep costs low while staying near key attractions. These compact hotels deliver rooms typically 25% cheaper than standard Premier Inn rates while placing you steps from major attractions.
The design maximizes every square inch. Beds fold against walls to create workspace. Under-bed storage holds luggage and touchscreen panels control everything from lighting to temperature. The 40-inch HD TVs and powerful monsoon showers punch well above the price point. The Covent Garden location puts you minutes from theatres and boutiques while Westminster Abbey puts Big Ben practically on your doorstep.
Rooms are genuinely small, so couples comfortable with cozy spaces and solo travelers will appreciate them most. Families or those who need room to spread out should look elsewhere.
2. The Z Hotel (Multiple Central Locations)
Price Range:£90-£150 per night
Best Locations:Holborn, Shoreditch, Piccadilly, Soho
The Z Hotel chain masters the art of stylish minimalism in premium locations. Rooms start from 9 square meters but smart design makes them work. Glass-walled wet rooms with Thierry Mugler toiletries 40-inch HD TVs free Sky channels and rainfall showers create an upscale feel despite the size.
The Holborn location places you between the British Museum and Covent Garden which is perfect for first-time visitors who want to walk everywhere. Shoreditch appeals to nightlife enthusiasts surrounded by Brick Lane curry houses vintage shops and buzzing cocktail bars. Each hotel includes an attached Z Café serving complimentary cheese and wine in the evenings which is a thoughtful touch that offsets the £12-£18 breakfast charge.
Inside rooms without windows start around £60-£70. They offer significant savings if you are comfortable sleeping in a well-ventilated windowless space designed specifically for quality rest.
3. Travelodge London Central (Multiple Locations)
Price Range:£49-£110 per night
Best Locations:Covent Garden, Liverpool Street, King's Cross
Travelodge frequently appears in "best value" conversations because they deliver exactly what budget travelers need: clean rooms, convenient locations, and prices that don't spike wildly during high season. The King's Cross location ranks particularly high on TripAdvisor, consistently praised for staff friendliness and modernized rooms.
Don't expect design flair or boutique touches; these are no-frills spaces with comfortable beds, functional bathrooms, and reliable WiFi. But when you're paying £60-£80 for a private room near Liverpool Street Station, you're getting exceptional value for exploring London's financial district and easy access to the Elizabeth Line.
Book directly through their website for the best rates, and always check for "saver rates" which offer discounts if you're flexible with cancellation policies. Breakfast costs extra (around £10), but numerous cafes nearby offer better value.
4. Point A Hotels (Kensington, Paddington, Westminster)
Price Range:£68-£115 per night
Best Locations:Paddington, Kensington, Westminster
Point A Hotels pioneered the compact pod-style room in London and they have perfected the model. Rooms measure around 11 square meters but feel thoughtfully designed rather than cramped. Wall-mounted TVs good showers comfortable beds and reliable air conditioning make these comfortable bases for sightseeing.
The Paddington location offers unbeatable convenience for Heathrow travelers with just 15 minutes on the Elizabeth Line. Kensington puts you near museums Hyde Parkand South Kensington's restaurant scene. Westminster places you within walking distance of Big Ben Westminster Abbey and the Thames.
Rooms include mini-fridges which are useful for keeping breakfast supplies or drinks cold. The ground-floor lobbies often feature work areas and vending machines. Families often need more space, so while Point A focuses on compact rooms, some locations still stand out as among the best budget hotels in Londonfor families who want safety and convenience at a fair price.
5. Mama Shelter London Shoreditch
Price Range:£90-£165 per night
Location:Hackney Road, Shoreditch
Mama Shelter brings Parisian boutique energy to East London with personality-packed spaces that feel more like upscale hostels than bland chain hotels. Expect bold wallpapers, clashing carpets, quirky artwork, and staff genuinely enthusiastic about making your stay memorable.
Compact rooms compensate for size with character: Tasmanian Devil lampshades, colorful textiles, and playful design elements. The real draw is the social atmosphere: karaoke rooms with vintage microphones, a cinema room, photo booth, and a buzzing bar serving creative cocktails. The young, friendly team offers excellent local recommendations.
Skip the £22 breakfast and walk to nearby Ozone Coffee or grab fresh pastries at Broadway Market. The location edges East London, perfect for exploring Hackney's creative scene, Columbia Road Flower Market, and Satan's Whiskers cocktail bar. Less ideal if you want to stay near traditional tourist sights.
6. EasyHotel London (Multiple Locations)
Price Range:£45-£90 per night
Best Locations:South Kensington, Paddington, Victoria
EasyHotel delivers exactly what the name promises: easy, basic, affordable accommodation stripped to essentials. Rooms are genuinely tiny with space for a bed, compact bathroom, and little else. But when you're paying £50-£70 for a private room in South Kensington, the value equation works.
Everything costs extra: housekeeping, towel changes, even watching TV. WiFi is free for light browsing, but streaming requires payment. These aren't hotels for lounging; they're sleeping pods in premium locations. The South Kensington location consistently offers the best balance of price and centrality.
Book far in advance for the lowest rates, and pack light since there's minimal storage space. Best for solo travelers or couples who spend days exploring and only need somewhere safe and clean to sleep.
7. Zedwell Underground Hotels
Price Range:£90-£170 per night
Best Locations:Tottenham Court Road, Piccadilly Circus
Zedwell takes a radical approach: windowless rooms designed specifically for quality sleep in London's busiest neighborhoods. Soundproofed spaces, premium mattresses, blackout conditions, and purified air create sanctuaries from city noise. After days navigating London's sensory overload, these cocoon-like rooms provide genuine recovery.
Minimalist design includes modern bathrooms, comfortable beds, and everything needed for rest (nothing more). The Tottenham Court Road location puts you minutes from Oxford Street, Covent Garden, and the British Museum. Rooms feel surprisingly comfortable despite lacking windows, thanks to excellent ventilation and thoughtful lighting.
Not suitable for anyone uncomfortable with enclosed spaces or who enjoys natural light. Perfect for light sleepers, shift workers, or travelers who genuinely prioritize sleep quality over views. The concept sounds unusual but reviews consistently praise the restful experience.
8. LSE Bankside House
Price Range:£104-£147 per night
LSE Bankside House offers exceptional value when operating as a budget hotel outside university term times; primarily summer and Easter holidays. These are student residences, so don't expect traditional hotel services: there's no reception desk, daily housekeeping happens only if requested, and the vibe is functional rather than hospitable.
But the location is extraordinary. You're steps from Tate Modern, Borough Market's food stalls, Shakespeare's Globe Theatre, and the Thames riverside walk. Rooms are clean, basic, and perfectly adequate, with private or shared bathroom options depending on what you book.
Solo travelers and couples comfortable with self-sufficient stays get remarkable value. The South Bank area buzzes with street performers, independent restaurants, and cultural venues. Book early as rooms sell out quickly due to the prime location and competitive pricing.
9. The Dictionary Hostel
Price Range:£75-£130 per night (private rooms)
Location:Shoreditch
While primarily a hostel, The Dictionary offers private rooms that compete directly with budget hotels at better prices. These aren't cramped afterthoughts but properly designed private spaces with comfortable beds, en-suite bathrooms, and tasteful decor. The location in trendy Shoreditch means excellent nightlife, vintage shops, and street food markets on your doorstep.
The ground floor includes a social bar/restaurant serving reasonably priced meals, plus work spaces and lounging areas. Unlike some hostels where private rooms feel isolated, The Dictionary creates community without forcing interaction. Book a private room, enjoy the social spaces if desired, or retreat to your room when you need quiet.
Brick Lane's curry houses sit minutes away, as do some of London's best cocktail bars and live music venues. Less convenient for traditional sightseeing but perfect if you want to experience East London's creative energy.
10. Premier Inn London (Multiple Locations)
Price Range:£65-£135 per night
Best Locations:County Hall, Tower Bridge, Southwark
Standard Premier Inn hotels offer more space than Hub locations with the brand's reliable quality; extremely comfortable beds, good showers, blackout curtains, and soundproofing. The County Hall location provides enviable Westminster views across to Big Ben and the London Eye, while Tower Bridge puts you next to one of London's most photographed landmarks.
Southwark branches cluster near Borough Market, offering fantastic breakfast options far cheaper than Premier Inn's £11-£15 breakfast buffet. Rooms accommodate families better than most budget options, with sofa beds and space for luggage.
Book months in advance for the best rates because Premier Inn prices fluctuate dramatically based on demand. Their flexible cancellation policy lets you rebook if prices drop. Loyalty members get additional discounts worth joining for if you visit London regularly.
11. Ibis Styles London (Multiple Locations)
Price Range:£70-£120 per night
Best Locations:Ealing, Southwark, Heathrow
Ibis Styles properties inject personality into the budget hotel formula with themed decor: the Ealing location celebrates cinema with vintage movie posters and quirky props throughout. Rooms include free WiFi, comfortable beds, and en-suite bathrooms. Unlike basic Ibis Budget locations, Ibis Styles includes breakfast in most rates, which improves overall value.
The Ealing location benefits from Elizabeth Line access, reaching central London in 15 minutes. It's less central than some options but offers better value for longer stays when you want more space. Southwark locations place you near Tate Modern and Borough Market with excellent transport links.
These work well for families needing interconnecting rooms or anyone wanting slightly more space than ultra-compact budget hotels offer. The playful design makes stays feel less institutional than some budget chains.
12. Tune Hotel King's Cross
Price Range:£60-£110 per night
Location:King's Cross
Tune Hotel occupies a Victorian building near King's Cross, offering no-frills rooms at competitive prices in an increasingly trendy neighborhood. King's Cross has transformed into a cultural hub with Coal Drops Yard shopping, Granary Square fountains, and the excellent House of Illustration museum nearby.
Rooms are basic but clean, with comfortable beds and functional bathrooms. The location's real advantage is transport connectivity: King's Cross St. Pancras provides access to six Underground lines plus national rail services to Cambridge, Edinburgh, and Paris via Eurostar. The nearby British Library and Regent's Canal walk add neighborhood appeal.
Breakfast costs extra, but the area offers countless cafés where you can grab a coffee and pastry at the Coal Drops Yard food vendors for better value. Best for travelers who prioritize location and transport links over room amenities.
13. The Crescent Hyde Park London Hotel
Price Range:£85-£140 per night
Location:Paddington, near Hyde Park
The Crescent delivers solid three-star quality at budget hotel prices, with rooms larger than many competitors. The location near Hyde Park means morning runs or strolls through one of London's finest green spaces. Lancaster Gate station sits minutes away, and Paddington's transport hub ensures easy airport access.
Rooms feel traditional rather than trendy, with comfortable beds, decent showers, and tea-making facilities. The residential Bayswater neighborhood provides excellent value restaurants, particularly along Queensway and Westbourne Grove. You're within walking distance of Notting Hill's colored houses and Portobello Road Market.
Service receives consistent praise; staff genuinely help with directions and recommendations rather than merely checking you in. Rooms vary in size, so read descriptions carefully when booking. This hotel rewards travelers who value comfort and service over cutting-edge design.
14. St. Christopher's Inn (Multiple Locations)
Price Range:£70-£115 per night (private rooms)
Best Locations:London Bridge, Camden, Hammersmith
St. Christopher's Inn operates lively hostel bars with private rooms that work brilliantly for solo travelers or couples who enjoy social atmospheres. The London Bridge location sits steps from Borough Market and the Thames, with private en-suite rooms offering better value than many nearby hotels.
Ground-floor bars create vibrant evening scenes that is great for meeting other travelers but potentially noisy if you're a light sleeper. Rooms themselves are simple but well-maintained with comfortable beds and good showers. The Camden location suits music lovers and alternative culture enthusiasts, surrounded by live music venues and street markets.
Book private rooms (not dorms) for hotel-like privacy with hostel-style social opportunities and pricing. Breakfast is basic continental but included at most locations, saving £8-£12 daily compared to hotels charging separately.
15. The Fielding Hotel
Price Range:£95-£155 per night
Location:Covent Garden
The Fielding offers boutique character in a pedestrianized courtyard near Covent Garden's Royal Opera House. This genuinely charming small hotel delivers personality without boutique hotel prices. Rooms are compact but individually decorated with period features, comfortable beds, and character Victorian details.
The location is exceptional and you're surrounded by theatres, restaurants, and Covent Garden's market buzz. No elevator exists in this historic building, so pack light or request a lower floor. Some rooms share bathrooms, reducing rates further while private en-suites command premium prices.
Book directly for best rates and specify room preferences. The hotel suits travelers who value location and character over modern amenities. Covent Garden's pedestrian-only courtyard creates a quiet haven despite being central, and numerous pubs and cafés surround you.
16. Holiday Inn Express London (Multiple Locations)
Price Range:£80-£130 per night
Best Locations:Southwark, Limehouse, Victoria
Holiday Inn Express delivers consistent quality across multiple London locations with free breakfast included (a significant value-add worth £10-£15 per person daily). Rooms are slightly larger than ultra-budget competitors, with comfortable beds, decent showers, and reliable WiFi.
The Southwark location provides easy access to Borough Market, Tate Modern, and Thames riverside walks. Limehouse offers better value with slightly longer commutes (15-20 minutes to central London via DLR). Victoria locations suit travelers needing convenient access to Gatwick Airport or southern UK destinations.
Continental breakfast isn't gourmet but includes hot items, cereals, pastries, and coffee, which is enough fuel for London sightseeing days. The brand's consistency means you know exactly what to expect, valuable if you're prioritizing reliable comfort over unique experiences.
17. CitizenM London (Multiple Locations)
Price Range:£90-£180 per night
Best Locations:Tower of London, Bankside, Shoreditch
CitizenM pushes budget hotel boundaries with tech-forward design and social spaces rivaling much pricier properties. Rooms are compact but brilliantly designed with king-size beds, rain showers, and tablet-controlled everything: lighting, blinds, temperature, TV. The Tower of London location provides unbeatable proximity to historic sites.
The real draw is public spaces: stylish lobbies with communal work areas, 24-hour food options, and rooftop bars with city views. Check-in happens via self-service kiosks, speeding the process. Bankside locations sit near Shakespeare's Globe and Borough Market.
Rooms occasionally exceed typical budget hotel pricing during peak periods, so compare rates before booking. The design-conscious atmosphere and tech integration appeal particularly to younger travelers and digital nomads who appreciate smart functionality.
18. The Mad Hatter Hotel
Price Range:£85-£145 per night
Location:Southwark, near Borough Market
The Mad Hatter occupies a restored Victorian pub building, offering quirky character in one of London's most vibrant food neighborhoods. Rooms mix period features with modern comforts, each individually styled. The ground-floor Fuller's pub serves excellent traditional food and local ales; convenient for evening meals without venturing far.
Borough Market sits literally around the corner, meaning weekend mornings bring artisan food stalls, fresh produce, and some of London's best street food. Southwark Cathedral, Shakespeare's Globe, and the Thames Path all sit within a five-minute walk. The location delivers on atmosphere and accessibility.
Some rooms are cozy, so solo travelers and couples fare better than families. The pub below creates lively ambiance most evenings; ask for rooms on higher floors if you're concerned about noise. Book directly for occasional room upgrades or special offers.
19. Safestay London (Multiple Locations)
Price Range:£75-£125 per night (private rooms)
Best Locations:Elephant & Castle, Holland Park, Kensington
Safestay operates stylish hostels with excellent private room options competing directly with budget hotels. The Elephant & Castle location underwent major renovation, offering modern private rooms with en-suites at prices significantly below nearby hotels. Holland Park provides upscale West London access without premium neighborhood prices.
Properties include social spaces, self-catering kitchens (great for budget-conscious travelers), and organized activities. Private rooms offer hotel-level privacy while retaining hostel pricing and optional social opportunities. The Kensington location puts you near museums and Hyde Park.
Best for solo travelers or couples who don't mind hostel environments but want private space. Facilities are maintained to high standards, and staff excel at providing local recommendations. Book early for best rates, especially during summer when school groups fill some locations.
20. Motel One London Tower Hill
Price Range:£98-£160 per night
Location:Tower Hill
Motel One brings successful German budget-design hotel concepts to London with the Tower Hill location within walking distance of the Tower of London Tower Bridge and St. Katharine Docks. Rooms deliver contemporary style with comfortable beds rainfall showers and thoughtful design at competitive prices. It proves that cheap hotels in Londoncan still offer stylish design, comfortable beds, and well-connected locations without pushing budgets too far.
The ground-floor bar creates a stylish social space for evening drinks without premium pricing. Rooms are compact but efficiently designed maximizing space through clever storage solutions. The area combines historic attractions with excellent transport connectivity. Some rooms at Motel One Tower Hill are designed with floor-to-ceiling glass, putting it among the hotels with the most inspiring windowsin the budget category. The City is walkable and multiple Underground lines provide quick access across London.
Breakfast costs extra (around £11) but quality exceeds most budget hotel offerings if you choose to purchase. The location particularly suits history enthusiasts and business travelers needing City access. Book directly for best rates and flexibility.
Maximizing Your Budget Hotel Experience
Traveling to London does not need to be expensive. Budget hotels give you clean rooms and good locations at a fraction of the price of luxury stays. With the right planning you can save even more and enjoy your trip without overspending.
Timing Your Booking
Budget hotel prices change all the time because they are based on demand. Track rates on Booking.com, hotel websites, and sometimes Expedia or Hotels.com. Many hotel chains promise the lowest price if you book directly. They may even add small perks such as flexible cancellation.
The cheapest months are February to April and October to November when there are fewer tourists. January can be very cheap after the holidays, although the weather is cold and gray. September offers nice weather with smaller summer crowds. If you are planning a weekend trip to London,booking early in shoulder seasons often unlocks the lowest rates while keeping you close to the city center.
Transportation Strategy
Budget hotels often save money by being a little further from the center or by offering smaller rooms. This makes your travel plan very important. Get an Oyster card or use a contactless bank card for the Underground and buses. Fares are capped daily so you will not pay extra after reaching the limit.
Walking along the South Bank to Borough Market not only saves transport money but also rewards you with some of the best views in Londonalong the river. For example, Westminster to Covent Garden is a 15-minute walk compared to two tube rides. South Bank to Borough Market takes only 10 minutes on foot along the river. Use Google Maps for walking times and routes.
Eating Affordably
Staying in a budget hotel means you can spend more on food and experiences. Supermarkets such as Tesco Metro, Sainsbury’s Local, and Co-op sell meal deals (sandwich, snack, and drink) for around £3.50 to £5.00. Food markets like Borough Market, Broadway Market, and Maltby Street Market offer tasty meals at fair prices. Go in the afternoon when vendors often give discounts.
Avoid hotel breakfasts that cost £10 to £15 unless they are included in your room rate. Instead, grab coffee and pastries at a local café or buy supplies for your room if you have a mini-fridge. Small choices like this save a lot over several days.
What To Actually Expect
Budget hotels focus on the basics: comfortable beds, clean bathrooms, reliable WiFi, and safe locations. They often skip extras like restaurants, gyms, concierge desks, daily housekeeping, or big lobbies.
This is perfect if you spend most of your time exploring and just need a good place to sleep. But it may disappoint travelers expecting full hotel services. Remember you are getting about 70% of what luxury hotels provide for about 30% of the price. If you accept the trade-off, the value is excellent.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Budget Hotels In Central London Safe?
London maintains excellent safety standards across all neighborhoods where budget hotels operate. As with any major city, practice basic precautions and trust your instincts.
What's Included In Budget Hotel Rates?
Most budget hotels include WiFi, basic toiletries, towels, and linens. Breakfast is typically extra for most of them.
Can I Get A Refund If I Cancel My Booking?
Cancellation policies vary significantly. Budget hotel chains offer flexible rates and non-refundable rates. Independent hotels typically require 24-72 hours notice for refunds.
Are Budget Hotels Suitable For Families?
Some budget hotels accommodate families better than others. If traveling with children, prioritize hotel chains mentioning family rooms explicitly.
Do Budget Hotels Have Elevators?
Modern chain hotels include elevators as standard. Historic buildings converted to budget hotels often lack elevators due to building age and renovation costs.
What's The Difference Between Budget Hotels And Hostels?
Budget hotels provide private rooms with en-suite bathrooms and minimal services at competitive prices. Hostels primarily offer dormitory-style accommodation with shared facilities, though many now include private rooms competing directly with budget hotels on price.
Final Thoughts
Finding good-value budget hotels in London takes some planning. The key is balancing the room price with the cost of daily transport. Most importantly, a trip to London should be about enjoying its famous sights and experiences. These budget-friendly hotels make it possible to explore the city without overspending.
Jump to
Affordable Stays In One Of The World's Priciest Cities
1. Hub By Premier Inn (Multiple Locations)
2. The Z Hotel (Multiple Central Locations)
3. Travelodge London Central (Multiple Locations)
4. Point A Hotels (Kensington, Paddington, Westminster)
5. Mama Shelter London Shoreditch
6. EasyHotel London (Multiple Locations)
7. Zedwell Underground Hotels
8. LSE Bankside House
9. The Dictionary Hostel
10. Premier Inn London (Multiple Locations)
11. Ibis Styles London (Multiple Locations)
12. Tune Hotel King's Cross
13. The Crescent Hyde Park London Hotel
14. St. Christopher's Inn (Multiple Locations)
15. The Fielding Hotel
16. Holiday Inn Express London (Multiple Locations)
17. CitizenM London (Multiple Locations)
18. The Mad Hatter Hotel
19. Safestay London (Multiple Locations)
20. Motel One London Tower Hill
Maximizing Your Budget Hotel Experience
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
James Rowley
Author
James Rowley is a London-based writer and urban explorer specialising in the city’s cultural geography. For over 15 years, he has documented the living history of London's neighbourhoods through immersive, first-hand reporting and original photography. His work foregrounds verified sources and street-level detail, helping readers look past tourist clichés to truly understand the character of a place.
His features and analysis have appeared in established travel and heritage publications. A passionate advocate for responsible, research-led tourism, James is an active member of several professional travel-writing associations.
His guiding principle is simple: offer clear, current, verifiable advice that helps readers see the capital with informed eyes.
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