Hotels in South Bank

South Bank: Where Riverfront Wonders Meet Architectural Marvels

South Bank, London, is a vibrant cultural hub nestled along the River Thames, where stunning architecture meets artistic flair. Wander past iconic landmarks like the London Eye and the Tate Modern, and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of museums and galleries. The lively atmosphere is enhanced by street performers and charming riverside eateries, making it perfect for leisurely strolls or romantic evenings. Whether you’re exploring the Shakespeare’s Globe or enjoying a riverside picnic, South Bank offers an unforgettable blend of history, creativity, and breathtaking views, making it a must-visit destination for every traveller. For our best hotel rates in South Bank and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in South Bank

Buckingham Palace, Piccadilly Circus, and Big Ben are iconic attractions in London, perfect for travellers seeking history, culture, and vibrant city life. Buckingham Palace offers a glimpse into royal heritage, while Piccadilly Circus buzzes with energy and entertainment. Big Ben, with its stunning architecture, is a must-see landmark. For accommodations, the South Bank area features a range of hotels, from budget-friendly to luxurious, typically offering modern amenities with competitive room rates. For first-time visitors, Buckingham Palace is the best starting point to experience London’s essence. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our guests in South Bank:

1. Near Buckingham PalaceOpens in a new window: Staying near Buckingham Palace offers a glimpse into royal history and stunning gardens, making it an ideal spot for culture enthusiasts. This area is also close to the vibrant city life. For accommodation, consider Hotel 41Opens in a new window, a 5-star hotel catering to romantic and boutique experiences with unique decor and champagne service. The Resident VictoriaOpens in a new window, a 4-star hotel, provides dining options and entertainment, perfect for family and business travellers. Another great choice is The Rubens at the PalaceOpens in a new window, also a 5-star hotel, which offers amenities for both business and family, including childcare services and romance packages.
2. Near Piccadilly CircusOpens in a new window: This lively area is renowned for its bright lights, shopping, and entertainment, making it a great base for city explorers. Pullman London St PancrasOpens in a new window, a 4-star hotel, is well-suited for families and business travellers with extensive facilities and a prime location in the shopping district. The Clerk & Well Pub & RoomsOpens in a new window, another 4-star hotel, focuses on a shopping experience, while The Goodenough Hotel LondonOpens in a new window, also 4 stars, offers a cozy guesthouse atmosphere with dining options.
3. Near Big BenOpens in a new window: With its iconic clock tower and proximity to the River Thames, this area is rich in history and offers scenic views. CitySpace BoroughOpens in a new window is a 3-star hotel that welcomes pets, making it perfect for travellers with furry companions. Eurotraveller Hotel ExpressOpens in a new window, another 3-star hotel, features a restaurant and is ideal for those seeking comfort and convenience. Lastly, Horangee PochaOpens in a new window, a guesthouse, provides a relaxed atmosphere with dining options, ensuring a pleasant stay close to the city's landmarks.

Things to do in South Bank for first times

Three days in South Bank offers a perfect blend of riverside relaxation, vibrant architecture, and cultural exploration. Stroll along scenic paths, enjoy sunset views, indulge in shopping, and partake in various activities like boating and hiking, all while soaking in the area's lively atmosphere and natural beauty. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to South Bank:

• Day 1: Begin your exploration at Buckingham Palace, where you can witness the iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony. After soaking in the regal atmosphere, stroll along The Mall, a beautifully landscaped avenue leading to Trafalgar Square. Enjoy the sights and sounds as you make your way to Bond Street, renowned for its high-end shopping and chic boutiques. Take some time to browse the luxurious stores or grab a coffee at a nearby café, soaking up the vibrant atmosphere.
• Day 2: Your adventure continues at the lively Piccadilly Circus, famed for its bright lights and bustling energy. From there, wander over to Soho Square, a charming green space surrounded by eclectic shops and restaurants. Explore the artistic vibe of the area before heading to Carnaby Street, where you can enjoy unique shops and trendy eateries. Be sure to stop for lunch at one of the many cafés, savoring the diverse culinary offerings.
• Day 3: Start your day with a visit to the iconic Big Ben, an architectural marvel and symbol of London. Take some photos before walking across the Thames to London Bridge, where you can admire the views of the river and the city skyline. Conclude your day at The British Museum, where you can wander through its vast collection of art and antiquities, immersing yourself in history and culture that spans centuries.

4 tips to find a great South Bank hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit South Bank is from January to March, when hotel prices drop significantly. For international travellers, booking your flight at least three months in advance can lead to more budget-friendly fares. Domestic travellers should aim to secure their flights at least two months ahead for the best deals. To truly experience the key attractions in South Bank, a stay of at least 2-3 days is recommended. Highlights include the scenic river views and impressive architecture, ensuring your visit offers great value for money.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: Last-minute deals to South Bank can offer fantastic savings for spontaneous travellers. To uncover these opportunities on Hotels.com, head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section, where you could find reduced rates on hotels as your travel date approaches. Additionally, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to keep informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute promotions, helping you make the most of your budget.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate depending on factors such as the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, if you remain flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in South Bank.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your holiday, take your location into account. Staying closer to major attractions or city centres may offer convenience but often tends to come with a higher price tag. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central areas or neighbourhoods, striking a balance between cost and ease of access to the places you wish to visit.

Best time to go to South Bank

South Bank experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 40.5°F (4.7°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 64.9°F (18.3°C). October is usually the wettest month. April, July, and August are the peak travel months in South Bank, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny to mostly cloudy, with no to light rainfall. On the other hand, January, February, and October tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by no to light rainfall and mostly cloudy conditions.