If you’ve ever dismissed Hampton by Hilton as just a budget hotel brand, it’s time to think again. We were genuinely surprised by how stylish, comfortable, and welcoming it was. Combining Hilton-quality service with smart design and family-friendly value, it’s one of London’s best-kept hotel secrets.
We booked a last-minute stay at the Hampton by Hilton London City, one of the Hilton brands we often overlook. Usually, we only choose a Hampton when it’s the most convenient option for an overnight stay before a flight – like the one we’ve used at Bristol Airport – but this was our first experience of the new-generation Hampton hotels rolled out over the past couple of years. This particular hotel opened in 2023.
What helped sway our decision was discovering that it’s ranked among TripAdvisor’s top 15 hotels in London and the second-highest ranked Hilton in the city. With competitive family rates, it felt like the perfect time to give Hampton another chance.
First Impressions & Check-In
The moment we walked into the bright, modern, and spacious lobby, we were greeted by friendly staff who immediately set the tone for our stay. The service here was genuinely outstanding – some of the best we’ve experienced at any Hilton brand. From check-in to breakfast, through to check-out and luggage storage before our late train home, every member of staff was warm, professional, and eager to help.
Behind the front desk, a sign read, “Sometimes the best souvenir is a smile,” which perfectly summed up the level of service here at this hotel.
The lobby itself had a modern feel, closer to what you might expect at a full service Hilton, with a stylish design and thoughtful layout. Just off reception was a self-service shop selling snacks, toiletries, and essentials – a handy touch if you’ve forgotten something. Drinks were also available to purchase from reception.
The open-plan lounge area was beautifully designed, with curved upholstered benches, scatter cushions, and a mix of high and low tables, making it ideal for both relaxing and catching up on work. The flexible “eat, drink, work, socialise” layout is part of the new Hampton brand direction and I really like it, along with the artwork of local landmarks.
We’d requested early check-in due to our train’s arrival time. While it couldn’t be guaranteed, we were delighted to find both rooms ready nearly two hours before the official 3 pm check-in. After a friendly briefing about the facilities and breakfast, we headed to our rooms.
Seeing that our rooms were in the basement gave me a moment’s hesitation, but that quickly disappeared. Both rooms were modern and bright, with windows overlooking a central courtyard – proof that basement rooms don’t have to feel dark or confined.
Family Rooms
The hotel offers 278 bedrooms, including king, twin, and two-queen-bed rooms. We booked one of around 30 family rooms, which consisted of interconnecting king and twin rooms. It was spotlessly clean, modern, and perfect for us – especially with two teenagers who now want their own space.
The room quality genuinely exceeded what we’ve had in some full Hilton properties across London. Each room made clever use of space, with a consistent colour palette of wood tones, geometric rugs, and blue headboards softened by some clever lighting.
Our king room included a small sofa area (which also converts into a sofa bed) and a personal welcome message written on the mirror – a lovely touch. The girls twin room was a similar size but without the small sofa.
A cabinet in the hallway concealed a mini fridge and safe, with additional amenities including fast free Wi-Fi, tea and coffee making facilities, a hairdryer, and an iron/ironing board. Instead of a traditional wardrobe, there’s a small open rail and space beneath for suitcases – more than adequate for a short city break.
Each room had a 55-inch flat-screen TV with Freeview, alongside plenty of USB ports and plug sockets by the beds and desk. A small desk and chair below the TV made it ideal for working, too.
The Hampton beds were excellent, with two pillow types to suit different preferences, ensuring we all had a great night’s sleep.
The bathrooms were another pleasant surprise – far beyond what we expected from a Hampton. Each had a large walk-in rainfall shower with a second handheld head, a heated mirror, and plenty of counter space. Toiletries came from Spa Therapy, Hampton’s own brand, including hand wash, hand cream, and shower gel.
Breakfast
Breakfast was much better than expected and is included for all guests. I wasn’t expecting much, but it turned out to be more than adequate, served in the lobby/lounge area.
One of the perks of staying at a Hampton is that breakfast is included for all guests, unlike at most Hiltons where it’s either extra or tied to loyalty status. The only downside is that it can get busy – around 8 am it was quite hectic both mornings – but staff handled the rush impressively, quickly clearing tables and keeping everything replenished.
The buffet included everything we needed for a good start to the day: a full English, continental options, fruit, and cereal. The kids particularly loved the signature Hampton waffle maker, which makes fresh waffles in seconds.
Facilities
After averaging more than 20,000 steps a day exploring London, we didn’t use the gym, but I did take a look. Located on the basement floor, it’s an impressive fitness space with weights, treadmills, and even a state-of-the-art Peloton bike – not something you often find in budget hotels. There is a small bar located in the same location as the check-in area but there is no on-site restaurant here, however there an abundance of restaurants within walking distance of the hotel.
Location
The Hampton by Hilton London City is perfectly placed for exploring London. It sits on a quiet side street, offering a calm retreat from the city’s noise, yet it’s within walking distance of major attractions.
The City of London itself is just a 10-minute walk away, while Brick Lane, the Jack the Ripper Museum, and Old Spitalfields Market are all within easy walking distance.
Transport links are excellent, with Aldgate East and Whitechapel tube stations nearby. I wasn’t keen on the walk towards Whitechapel – it still feels like an area in transition – but the route towards Aldgate and the City was much more pleasant.
Aldgate East (District and Hammersmith & City lines) is just five minutes away, and Liverpool Street Station is about a 10-minute walk, giving access to the Elizabeth Line and Bond Street in around 10 minutes. Aldgate Station (Circle and Metropolitan lines) is also within five minutes.
The location is superb for the City of London, one of my favourite areas. We enjoyed seeing the Halloween display at Leadenhall Market, stopped at Eataly, and visited The Royal Exchange, a beautiful hidden gem most visitors overlook. Also nearby are Puttshack – our favourite mini golf spot for families – and the Bank of England Museum along with the new Broadgate Central, home to a great selection of shops, cafes and restaurants.
Overall
We had a fantastic stay at the Hampton by Hilton London City and came away genuinely impressed. I’m now a convert to the Hampton brand – at least when it comes to these new-build hotels.
Offering great value (from under £200 a night), this property could easily rival, if not surpass, many higher branded Hilton hotels in central London. The rooms are stylish and modern, the service is exceptional, and the location and transport links make it an excellent base for families exploring the capital.
Ready to Book?
Stays at the Hampton by Hilton London City start from around £92 when booking direct with Hilton. If you have Hilton Honors Reward Points then rooms here start at a really reasonable 34,000 points.