The East of London is one of the capital’s coolest corners – but you don’t need to spend a fortune to stay here, with plenty of affordable hotels on offer.
Originally developed as London’s docklands and the city’s primary industrial centre, East London has experienced rapid gentrification in recent decades. Among its offerings nowadays are a wide range of accommodation options catering to varying tastes and budgets. Our two picks below both differ slightly in style, but share the key benefits of a prime location for exploring the area and cheap rates.
Vilenza Hotel
(Photo: Vilenza Hotel / Courtesy Booking.com)
This hotel’s distinctly Latin-style names is reflected in the Italianatte wallpaper in the guest rooms. But this good news is, the sense of refinement doesn’t stretch to the prices which are eye-catchingly reasonable for the overall quality of the property. Communal amenities include an on-site restaurant and pub, and guest rooms come with a kitchenette and sofa bed, plus minifridges and microwaves for in-room dining.
When it comes to location, the Tower Hamlets hotel places you a short walk from the bustle and Indian restaurants of Brick Lane, as well as the famous Tower of London landmark. You are also close to several transport links, including Whitechapel tube station and Liverpool Street Underground Station, giving you easy access to the rest of the city. For a brisk walk through the area, Old Street – also known as Silicon Roundabout – is about 30 minutes away on foot.
Reviews: Vilenza Hotel London
Guest reviews rate The Vilenza Hotel a very good 8.0 overall. Staff are a clear highlight with an outstanding 9.4, while cleanliness scores 8.3 and comfort follows closely at 8.2. Facilities receive a 7.9, matched by a 7.9 rating for free Wi-Fi. Value for money earns an 8.2, suggesting fair pricing, and an 8.4 location score adds to the hotel’s appeal. Overall, The Vilenza Hotel stands out for its exceptional service and convenient location, offering good value and comfort. From $71 per night.
The Shoreditch Inn
(Photo: The Shoreditch Inn / Courtesy Booking.com)
This hotel’s buzzing Shoreditch identity comes through in its interiors and stylish touches throughout the guest rooms. The good news is that this sense of character doesn’t push up the price, with rates remaining surprisingly low. Shared amenities include a continental breakfast and common areas, while rooms provide all the practical comforts you need, along with handy extras such as mini-fridges and tea/coffee facilities.
The hotel is well located for venturing out and delving into all that East London has to offer. A myriad of restaurants, shops, and bars can be reached within a 5-minute walk and you’re also a similar distance on foot from Old Street Hoxton Station, Shoreditch Overground Station and Liverpool Street Station. Furthermore, bus stops, which operate a 24-hour bus service, are 1 minute’s walk away. For famous London attractions, iconic Big Ben is 3 and a half miles from the hotel.
Reviews: The Shoreditch Inn
Guest feedback places The Shoreditch Inn at a very good 8.1 overall. Staff achieve an impressive 9.2, regularly noted for being approachable and helpful. Cleanliness rates highly at 8.7, combined with an 8.5 comfort score. Facilities come in at 8.1, while value for money scores 8.3, suggesting guests feel the experience is fairly priced. The hotel’s 8.8 location rating highlights its appeal for exploring the surrounding area, and free Wi-Fi earns an 8.2, offering reliable connectivity. Overall, The Shoreditch Inn delivers standout service and a strong location together with comfort and good value. From $77 per night.
By Paul Joseph