London’s charm, history, and bustling culture don’t have to break the bank. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend getaway or an extended stay, finding budget-friendly accommodation can help you spend more on experiences rather than just a place to sleep. We’ve compiled a list of the 10 best affordable hotels in London—complete with insider tips, key amenities, and location details—so you can enjoy a cozy stay without overspending.
Why Stay at Affordable Hotels in London?
Save More for Memorable Experiences
London is packed with free museums, vibrant markets, and historic landmarks, but accommodation costs can add up quickly. Opting for budget-friendly hotels allows you to save money for experiences such as:
- West End shows like The Lion King or Hamilton.
- Foodie adventures at Borough Market or Brick Lane.
- Day trips to Windsor Castle or the Harry Potter Studio Tour.
Many affordable hotels are conveniently located near Tube stations and major attractions, offering modern perks like free Wi-Fi, 24/7 security, and comfortable rooms.
How We Picked These Hotels
To ensure the best value, we considered: ✅ Price: Ranging from £50 to £120 per night.
✅ Location: Proximity to Tube stations or key attractions.
✅ Guest Reviews: Rated 4/5 or higher on Booking.com and Google.
✅ Unique Perks: Free breakfast, family-friendly rooms, or scenic views.
10 Best Affordable Hotels in London
1. The Z Hotel Shoreditch – Trendy & Compact
- Price: £65–£90/night.
- Location: 5-minute walk from Liverpool Street Station.
- Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, rooftop bar, minimalist design.
- Why Stay Here? Perfect for nightlife lovers—Brick Lane’s street art and indie pubs are steps away.
2. Premier Inn London County Hall – Family Favorite
- Price: £80–£110/night.
- Location: Next to the London Eye and Waterloo Station.
- Amenities: Blackout curtains, on-site restaurant, soundproof rooms.
- Why Stay Here? Ideal for families craving convenience and peace.
3. Travelodge London Central City Road – No-Frills Comfort
- Price: £55–£85/night.
- Location: 10 minutes from Old Street Station.
- Amenities: 24/7 reception, tea/coffee maker, pet-friendly policy.
- Why Stay Here? A reliable pick for solo travelers and business trips.
4. easyHotel South Kensington – Super Budget
- Price: £50–£75/night.
- Location: 15-minute walk to the Natural History Museum.
- Amenities: Customizable add-ons (Wi-Fi, cleaning), vibrant design.
- Why Stay Here? Culture buffs—explore museums by day, unwind cheaply by night.
5. Point A Hotel Kings Cross – Budget-Friendly & Modern
- Price: £60–£95/night.
- Location: Close to Kings Cross & St Pancras Station.
- Amenities: Compact but stylish rooms, smart TVs, great transport links.
Why Stay Here? Ideal for Eurostar travelers and exploring central London.
6. Ibis Budget London Whitechapel – Great for Explorers
- Price: £55–£85/night.
- Location: Near Tower of London & Whitechapel Market.
- Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, modern rooms, vending machines.
Why Stay Here? Perfect for budget-conscious travelers wanting an East London vibe.
7. YHA London St Pancras – Best Budget Hostel Option
- Price: £30–£70/night (private rooms available).
- Location: Opposite St Pancras International Station.
- Amenities: Shared kitchen, free walking tours, social atmosphere.
Why Stay Here? A great option for backpackers and social travelers.
8. The Corner London City – Eco-Friendly & Modern
- Price: £75–£110/night
- Location: Near Aldgate East Station
- Amenities: Sustainable design, smart room controls, on-site café
- Why Stay Here? A stylish and environmentally conscious choice for budget travelers who love modern tech.
9. Generator London – Trendy & Social
- Price: £50–£95/night
- Location: Near Russell Square Station
- Amenities: Stylish dorms & private rooms, bar, game lounge, co-working spaces
- Why Stay Here? A top pick for budget-conscious travelers looking for a lively, social atmosphere in the heart of London.
10. The Walrus Bar & Hostel – Backpacker’s Favorite
- Price: £50–£75/night
- Location: Near Waterloo Station and Big Ben
- Amenities: Shared kitchen, lively pub downstairs, free breakfast
Why Stay Here? A top pick for solo travelers and budget backpackers wanting a social atmosphere.
Map: Where to Find These Budget Hotels
Stay Central Without the Cost
Most of these hotels are located in Zones 1–2, giving you quick access to attractions like:
- Camden Market (street food & vintage shopping).
- Tower Bridge (iconic London views).
- Hyde Park (perfect for morning walks or a picnic).
Pro Tip: Use the Tube’s Oyster Card to cut down on travel costs between zones.
5 Tips to Save Even More on London Hotels
Smart Hacks for Budget Travelers
- Book Early: Secure summer stays at least 3 months in advance.
- Weekday Stays: Sunday–Thursday rates are often 20% cheaper.
- Loyalty Programs: Join Premier Inn’s loyalty club for exclusive discounts.
- Last-Minute Apps: Check HotelTonight for unsold rooms at bargain rates.
- Avoid Peak Seasons: Skip June (tourist rush) and December (Christmas markets).
FAQs About Budget Hotels in London
Q: Are cheap hotels in London safe?
A: Yes! All listed hotels have 24/7 security, verified reviews, and safe booking options.
Q: What’s the cheapest area to stay?
A: Zones 2–3 (e.g., Stratford, Greenwich) offer great value with quick Tube access.
Q: Do any hotels include breakfast?
A: Yes! Premier Inn and Travelodge often have budget meal deals.
Q: Can I find budget hotels near Heathrow Airport?
A: Yes! Check Ibis Budget Heathrow or Premier Inn Hounslow for under £70/night.
Final Thoughts: London Doesn’t Have to Be Expensive!
From the trendy Z Hotel Shoreditch to the reliable Travelodge near the Tower of London, there are plenty of affordable hotel options in London. Prioritize location, book early, and spend your savings on fish-and-chips, West End shows, or a Thames River cruise.