Top 10 Most Loved London Hotels by Readers in 2025

Note: If you’re looking for our most recent recommendations, check out the 2023 list of our favorite hotels in London.

This year’s World’s Best Awards survey closed on March 2, just before widespread stay-at-home orders were implemented as a result of COVID-19. The results reflect our readers’ experiences before the pandemic, but we hope that this year’s honorees will inspire your trips to come — whenever they may be.

In just the past 15 years or so, London has transformed into a garden of glass and steel, marked by iconic structures like the Shard, the Cheesegrater, and the Scalpel. However, despite this architectural efflorescence, visitors to London seem to cherish the city’s historical charm. The grande dame hotels from the 19th and 20th centuries continue to embody a timeless allure, with their top-hatted attendants and elegant afternoon tea experiences.

Nighttime view of London showing The Shard, home to the Shangri-La at The Shard hotel — Courtesy of Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts

Every year for our World’s Best Awards survey, iBestTravel asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — sharing their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Hotels are rated on their facilities, location, service, food, and overall value, with properties classified as city or resort based on their attributes.

Genteel service remains paramount for visitors in London. At the two-century-old Connaught, located in Mayfair, one reader described it as a “private retreat from the real world,” where “everyone from the doorman to the chambermaids welcomes you graciously.” Meanwhile, at the Lanesborough, just behind Buckingham Palace, another reader noted, “every staff member recognizes you by name from the moment you check in.” This attention to detail, alongside warm hospitality, enhances the overall guest experience.

Other classic retreats strongly favored by readers include The Ritz, renowned for its legendary high tea, which captured No. 6 spot, and the historic Hotel Café Royal, previously frequented by illustrious figures such as Oscar Wilde and David Bowie, now ranked as the No. 2 property in London.

However, the hotel that captured the hearts of voters the most is the Shangri-La Hotel, located within the Shard. This unique establishment combines traditional service with cutting-edge architecture. Read on for the full list of the best hotels in London.

1. Shangri-La Hotel, at the Shard, London

Bedroom with city views at the Shangri-La Hotel at the Shard, in London — Courtesy of Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts

Score: 98.06

More information: shangri-la.com

Housed in the Shard, a 95-story Renzo Piano building near London Bridge, the Shangri-La highlights its prime location near “foodie heaven Borough Market.” Readers expressed a profound affinity for the dedicated staff, with one voter stating, “This is the only hotel in the world that made me feel special.” The unique vantage point from 50 floors above allows for breathtaking views, enhancing the overall experience.