Stunning Stays Near The Shard: Discover Top Hotels

Find your ideal London hotel near The Shard now!

Stunning Stays Near The Shard: Discover Top Hotels

London’s skyline dazzles with stunning architecture, and The Shard is a crown jewel. But where do you stay to keep this gleaming spire in sight? We’ve got the inside scoop on the best hotels within a stone’s throw. From luxurious to budget-friendly options, get ready to find your perfect spot at London's iconic end. 

High-end 

The Shard Hotel 

Walking distance: 5 minutes  

Public transport: A quick 10-minute walk from London Bridge station 

Perched next to its namesake, The Shard Hotel offers pure luxury. Wake up to panoramic views of the city’s skyline, or indulge in the in-house spa.  

The renowned restaurant serves dishes crafted with fresh, local ingredients. The stylish rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows, providing guests with stunning vistas. This hotel promises a peaceful retreat amidst the city's buzz, and puts you practically on London’s doorstep.  

The Shangri-La Hotel 

Walking distance: Within the Shard itself  

Public transport: Direct access from London Bridge station 

Why leave The Shard at all? Shangri-La offers a suite right inside. Each elegantly designed room offers unparalleled views, and comfort you wouldn’t believe.  

Sip cocktails at GŎNG Bar, the highest hotel bar in Western Europe, relax in the infinity pool overlooking the Thames, and enjoy exquisite dining at TĪNG Restaurant, where Asian-inspired dishes meet classic British ingredients. You'll feel like a million bucks. 

The Bankside Hotel 

The Bankside Hotel 

Walking distance: 15 minutes  

Public transport: 10-minute walk to Southwark Tube Station 

Art lovers alert! Bankside Hotel merges contemporary design with artistic flair. Situated close to The Shard, it boasts stylish rooms adorned with bespoke artworks.  

The Art Yard Bar & Kitchen offers delectable meals in a vibrant setting, while the hotel’s open spaces encourage creativity. Guests can interact with resident artists or simply relax in the elegantly designed surroundings. With easy access to cultural landmarks and the riverside, Bankside is the perfect jumping-off point for your London adventures. 

The Mondrian London 

Walking distance: 20 minutes  

Public transport: 15-minute walk to Blackfriars Tube Station 

The Mondrian London delivers sleek design and riverside views. Located along the South Bank, this hotel features contemporary interiors with a splash of vintage glamour.  

Guests can unwind at the Rumpus Room rooftop bar, offering stunning views of The Shard and the Thames. The rich menu at Sea Containers Restaurant tempts taste buds with inventive cuisine. 

Mid-range 

CitizenM London Bankside Hotel 

Walking distance: 15 minutes  

Public transport: 10-minute walk to London Bridge station 

CitizenM redefines affordable luxury with compact rooms packed with high-end features. Just a short stroll to The Shard, the hotel offers a vibrant lobby filled with contemporary art and comfy seating. Mood lighting, rain showers, and free movies make the rooms a cozy retreat.  

The 24/7 canteen adds convenience, ensuring you can grab a bite anytime. Blending modern style with smart technology, CitizenM offers memorable comfort at a great price. 

Novotel London City South 

Walking distance: 12 minutes  

Public transport: 10-minute ride on the 381 bus from London Bridge 

Novotel London City South combines modern sophistication with family-friendly amenities. Located near The Shard, it features spacious rooms with contemporary decor.  

Guests can relax at the rooftop leisure suite, which includes a gym and sauna. Gourmet Bar serves international cuisine in a casual setting, perfect for any meal. With a focus on comfort and convenience, the Novotel ensures a delightful stay for both business and leisure travellers. 

Apex City of London Hotel 

Walking distance: 20 minutes  

Public transport: 10 minutes from London Bridge via District Line 

Apex City of London Hotel offers a stylish escape close to The Shard. The rooms provide elegant comfort with thoughtful touches like Nespresso machines and luxurious toiletries.  

The Lampery Restaurant treats guests to modern British classics in a sophisticated setting. The peaceful atmosphere makes it a perfect urban retreat amid London’s hustle and bustle. 

H10 London Waterloo 

Walking distance: 25 minutes  

Public transport: 15-minute walk to Waterloo Tube Station 

H10 London Waterloo offers contemporary elegance with standout service. Situated near The Shard, it features sleek rooms with all the modern comforts you need.  

Guests can enjoy panoramic views from the Waterloo Sky Bar or savour Mediterranean dishes at the Three O Two Restaurant. H10 provides a stylish base for exploring London’s attractions while ensuring a welcoming stay. 

 

Budget-friendly 

The Bridge Hotel 

Walking distance: 15 minutes  

Public transport: 8-minute ride on the 344 bus from Elephant & Castle 

The Bridge Hotel offers cozy accommodations without breaking the bank. Located near The Shard, it features charming rooms and a friendly atmosphere.  

Guests can enjoy a complimentary breakfast to start their day right. The convenient location offers easy access to public transport, making it perfect for sightseeing. The Bridge Hotel is ideal for budget travellers seeking comfort. 

Ibis London Blackfriars 

Ibis London Blackfriars 

Walking distance: 20 minutes  

Public transport: 10-minute walk from Southwark Tube Station 

Ibis London Blackfriars delivers comfort and convenience on a budget. Just a short distance from The Shard, it provides modern rooms with all the essentials.  

Breakfast is plentiful, with options that get your day started on the right foot. The hotel’s lively bar is perfect for relaxing after a day of exploration. Thanks to its central location, Ibis Blackfriars offers an affordable homebase for your London excursions. 

Premier Inn London Southwark 

Walking distance: 10 minutes  

Public transport: 5-minute walk from London Bridge station 

Premier Inn London Southwark offers reliable comfort a stone’s throw from The Shard. The rooms are spacious, with plush beds ensuring a restful night.  

Restaurant Thyme provides a hearty selection for breakfast and dinner. Premier Inn makes an ideal choice for visitors wanting quality without the high price tag. 

Travelodge London Central Southwark 

Walking distance: 12 minutes  

Public transport: 10-minute ride on the Jubilee Line to London Bridge 

Travelodge London Central Southwark offers value and convenience near The Shard. Rooms feature essentials for a comfortable stay, and the hotel’s bar cafe serves a variety of meals and snacks.  

It's perfect for travellers seeking a no-frills option with easy access to London’s attractions. With its strategic location and reliable service, Travelodge ensures you’ll enjoy both comfort and affordability. 

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YHA London St Paul’s 

Walking distance: 25 minutes  

Public transport: 15-minute walk to St Paul’s Tube Station 

YHA London St Paul’s provides budget-friendly accommodation with character. Situated in a historic building, it offers dormitory and private rooms. A communal kitchen and lounge area provide space to relax and meet other travellers.  

With nearby public transport, access to The Shard and other attractions is easy. Perfect for backpackers and solo travellers, YHA offers a social, affordable option for exploring London. 

 

For more, check out London’s best hidden gems, and explore the city’s top immersive experiences. 

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We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems, and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.  

See more, do more, and experience more with The London Pass® - just choose a pass to get started! 

 

 

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Sleep Like Royalty: Top Hotels Near Windsor Castle

Find the best places to stay near Windsor Castle.
Windsor Castle
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Did You Know? 10 Facts About Windsor Castle

It's one of London's most iconic landmarks, but how much do you really know about this royal castle, beloved by King Charles III and the late Queen Elizabeth II? Read on to learn 10 facts about Windsor Castle, including: The reason Deliveroo drivers hate it How many visitors it gets a year And how its name has changed the course of the UK monarchy   1. It’s the longest-occupied palace in Europe The original building was constructed in the 11th century, after the Norman invasion of England. Construction started under William the Conqueror, who built it as a fortress, but it has been used as a royal residence since the reign of Henry I. Henry VIII used it as a giant pleasure dome, enjoying shooting, dancing, wrestling, and playing tennis on its grounds. It was a favourite weekend retreat of the late Queen Elizabeth II, who lived in Windsor Castle. Around 40 other reigning monarchs have lived here throughout history. It’s located a fair distance from Buckingham Palace - about 22 miles. 2. It caught fire in 1992 Windsor Castle has suffered multiple serious fires over its 1000-year history. But the most recent — and most damaging — occurred in November 1992. A portion of the castle was undergoing renovations and it is thought that a curtain was too close to a construction spotlight and set alight. The fire spread quickly, and 200 firefighters arrived to help tackle the flames. Fortunately, because of the renovation work, many rooms had been emptied of their artworks, furniture and other historical treasures. However, over 15 hours, the fire burned through much of the Upper Ward, destroying nine state rooms and severely damaging around 100 others. The restoration work cost around £67m in today’s terms. The question of who should pay for the repairs was a complex and fiercely debated one. In the end, it was decided it would mostly be paid for by opening Buckingham Palace to the public at certain points of the year.  3. Windsor Castle has a fantastic art collection It’s just as well the rooms had been cleared during the renovations, or the country would have lost a fantastic collection of artworks. One of the highlights of any trip to Windsor Castle is seeing the fabulous art collection on display. Masterpieces by Rubens, Michelangelo, Van Dyck and Rembrandt can all be seen during a tour of the many luxurious state rooms, halls and galleries. Inside Windsor Castle, the collection speaks to the wealth and tastes of the monarchy over the centuries. 4. The castle has 300 fireplaces Yep, and it’s one bloke’s job to look after them all. The King’s fendersmith (possibly the only person left with that awesome job title) is responsible for cleaning and lighting all 300 of Windsor Castle’s fires. He’s been doing it for decades, taking over from his dad in 1984. 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It’s been feeding kings and queens for centuries and is a huge operation, particularly when the castle is holding a state dinner. And the sense of pomp and ceremony doesn’t make it easy for the kitchen staff: for instance, each little lump of butter has to be hand-rolled and stamped with the royal crown. To keep the whole dinner service running efficiently, the clocks in the kitchen are set (by the one bloke, as we now know) five minutes fast. If you want to test your knowledge of Windsor Castle, check out our True or False self-test! 7. There is a changing of the guard at Windsor Castle too Just like at the Queen’s other main residence, Buckingham Palace, Windsor Castle has a changing of the guard. A ceremony that signifies a new group of soldiers becoming responsible for guarding the palace, the Changing of the Guard usually takes place at 11am each day. Try and time your visit to witness this iconic military event. The proximity and historical ties between Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle are echoed in these ceremonial traditions. 8. Windsor Castle attracts over a million visitors each year And you could be one of them, with admission to the castle included with your London Pass. Its most famous visitor (until you show up, of course) is His Majesty King Charles III and his predecessor, Queen Elizabeth II, who has a long-held affection for the castle.  And if you're wondering how far Windsor Castle is from Buckingham Palace, it's about a 50-minute drive, making it a perfect day trip destination. 9. The Royal Family got their family name from the castle The current Royal Family is originally of German descent, and their name was previously Saxe-Coburg and Gotha. During the First World War, George V changed the name of their royal house, because of anti-German public sentiment and the name’s highlighting of the family’s German lineage. So, the family name was changed to Windsor and remains so to this day. Many assume that the castle is named after the family, but that isn’t so. Unusually in the world of royal naming, it is the building that gave the name to the royals, rather than the other way round. 10. Windsor Castle has a very, very long driveway There is a 2.65-mile approach to the front door of Windsor Castle. That’s a long stretch to cover before you get inside. Apparently, the late Queen had to meet all Deliveroo drivers at the gates to the drive. And she’s had flaming rows with Uber drivers who just want to drop her off at the gates and make her walk the rest. But how many rooms in Windsor Castle are there for a visitor to explore? Well, the castle boasts an impressive 1,000-plus rooms, reflecting its stature as a home of the monarchy. Summing up why you need to visit Windsor Castle... Windsor Castle is a must-see landmark that boasts both architectural and historical significance. As Europe's longest-occupied palace and a favoured home of the late Queen, its heritage covers hundreds of years and is hard to match, Visitors can enjoy over 1,000 rooms filled with an extensive art collection, learn about the Castle's role in significant events, and witness daily ceremonies like the Changing of the Guards. Despite surviving destructive fires, the Castle remains standing as a testament to royal tradition. It's no wonder that it attracts over a million visitors annually. For those interested in British monarchy or architecture, a visit offers a unique opportunity to appreciate its grandeur and gain valuable cultural insights. You might even say... it's fit for a king. Experience everything London has to offer with The London Pass® Planning your London trip? With The London Pass®, you can explore big-name landmarks, local hotspots and epic tours, all on one pass, all for one price. Not only that, but you'll enjoy savings of up to 50% compared to buying individual attraction tickets. ✈️ Buy The London Pass® ✈️
Matthew Pearson
British Museum, London
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The British Museum Vs National Gallery | The London Pass®

by Mia Russell London's Cultural Showdown: British Museum vs. National Gallery Are you ready to immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of one of the world's greatest cities? Then look no further than London's world-class museums and galleries! From the British Museum's ancient artifacts to the National Gallery's iconic masterpieces, there's something for everyone in this cultural wonderland. Plus, general admission to both is free! Two of the most famous museums in London are the British Museum and the National Gallery. Both world-renowned institutions have loads on offer, so let's take a closer look at what you can expect from each. The British Museum The British Museum is home to more than 8 million objects from around the world and is one of the largest and most comprehensive museums on the planet. This massive institution is particularly well-known for its collection of ancient artifacts, ranging from Egyptian mummies to ancient Greek statues to Mesopotamian pottery. One of the most famous items in the collection is the Rosetta Stone, which helped scholars decipher Egyptian hieroglyphs. But that's just the beginning - there is so much to see here that you could easily spend an entire day (or more!) exploring the exhibits. One of the things that sets the British Museum apart from other museums is the sheer scope of its collection. With objects from every corner of the globe, it is a true celebration of human culture and history. Whether you're interested in ancient Rome or modern-day Japan, there's something here for everyone. Another unique aspect of the British Museum is the way it is organized. Instead of being arranged by region or time, the exhibits are arranged thematically. This means you can explore topics like religion, money, or technology and see how they have been represented in different cultures and periods. It is a fascinating way to think about how human society has evolved. You can wander the galleries at your own pace or enjoy a guided tour led by experts who can provide context and insights into the objects on display. The museum offers free maps to help you navigate and plenty of benches and rest areas if you need a break. The British Museum also has a dedicated children's area if you are visiting with kids. Here, kids can learn about history and culture in a fun, interactive way. Games, puzzles, and activities are designed to engage curious minds and inspire a love of learning. And let us not forget about the amenities! The British Museum has plenty of places to eat and drink, including cafes and restaurants. There is also a gift shop to pick up souvenirs and books about the exhibits. And if you need a break from the crowds, there are plenty of quiet spots where you can relax and take in the beauty of the building itself. The British Museum is a great institution that is well worth a visit. It's a celebration of human culture and history and a testament to the incredible diversity of our planet. The National Gallery If you're a fan of art and culture, visiting the National Gallery in London should be on your bucket list. This world-renowned museum is home to some of the most iconic famous works of art in history, and it's a true feast for the senses. The National Gallery's collection spans more than 700 years, from the Middle Ages to the present day. The focus here is on Western European art, so you will find works by some of the world’s most famous artists, like Van Gogh, Monet, and Leonardo da Vinci. The National Gallery is home to the most extensive collection of paintings by Van Gogh outside of Amsterdam, so if you're a fan of his work, you will not want to miss it. The National Gallery’s collection is also organized by style and theme. This allows you to explore different movements and techniques more effectively. For example, you could explore the Baroque period and see how artists like Caravaggio and Rubens used light and shadow to create dramatic effects. One of the most famous paintings in the National Gallery's collection is undoubtedly ‘The Arnolfini Portrait’ by Jan van Eyck. This stunning piece from the 15th century is a masterpiece of realism, with every detail of the room and the figures depicted in the painting meticulously rendered. But that is just one example - there are countless other masterpieces to discover here. The National Gallery offers free guided tours daily, so that's a great option if you're seeking expert guidance. Alternatively, you can meander around the galleries and take in whatever catches your eye. The National Gallery is in Trafalgar Square, one of London’s many famous landmarks. This means there's always plenty of buzz and activity in the area, making it a suitable place to people-watch and soak up the atmosphere. The National Gallery has several cafes and restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat and a gift shop where you can pick up souvenirs and books about the exhibits. There's also a free Wi-Fi network to stay connected while exploring. The National Gallery is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in art and culture. It's a true treasure trove of masterpieces and a testament to the enduring power of human creativity. British Museum vs. National Gallery Ultimately, deciding which museum to visit (or whether to visit both!) will depend on your interests. If you're more interested in history and artifacts, the British Museum is the obvious choice. But if you are more of an art buff, you'll want to spend some time at the National Gallery. You will undoubtedly have a fantastic time regardless of which museum(s) you choose to visit. The British Museum and the National Gallery are world-class institutions offering a unique glimpse into the past and present. Can't decide? That's no problem either, they're in walking distance from one another (or an easy tube ride if you prefer) and both totally free to enter so pick both and enjoy a culture filled day in London - spiffing!
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