Aptel East

Aptel East Overview

First Impressions

Walking up to Aptel East on Commercial Road, you might wonder if you’ve got the right address — it doesn’t scream “hotel” from the outside. But honestly, that’s part of its charm. This four-star property sits right in the heart of Tower Hamlets, and once you step inside, you realize they’ve put all their energy into making the interiors work rather than flashy exteriors. The lobby feels modern and clean, with that understated London vibe that actually makes you feel more at home than intimidated.

Location & Getting Around

You know what’s brilliant about this spot? You’re literally a stone’s throw from some of London’s most interesting neighborhoods without paying West End prices. Brick Lane is practically around the corner — I mean, you can smell the curry houses from here on a good day. The Tower of London and Tower Bridge are close enough for an easy morning walk, and if you’re into the whole Shoreditch scene, it’s right there. Plus, there’s decent public transport links, so getting into central London doesn’t become this whole production.

The Room Experience

The room I stayed in was compact but cleverly designed — they’ve clearly thought about how people actually use hotel spaces. The bed was comfortable (not too soft, not too firm), and there’s enough storage that you’re not living out of your suitcase the entire time. What I appreciated was the attention to lighting — you’ve got options beyond the harsh overhead fixture that most budget-friendly places stick you with. The bathroom was modern and the shower had proper pressure, which honestly can make or break a stay for me.

Practical Matters

The staff here actually seem to know the area well, which is refreshing when you need recommendations that go beyond the obvious tourist spots. They pointed me toward a great little café that I never would’ve found otherwise. There’s no on-site restaurant, but given the incredible food scene literally on your doorstep, that’s hardly a problem. The building feels secure and well-maintained, and the common areas stay clean throughout the day — small details that matter when you’re coming and going frequently.

Why Guests Love It

What really works about Aptel East is that it gets the balance right between comfort and location without trying to be something it’s not. Couples seem to particularly appreciate the intimate scale and the fact that you’re staying somewhere with character rather than a generic chain hotel. The area has this authentic London energy — it’s diverse, creative, and still feels like real people live here rather than just tourists passing through. For the price point and the neighborhood access, it’s honestly hard to beat if you want to experience London beyond the postcard version.

Aptel East Accommodations

Reviews of Aptel East

• Alexandrah1407 from United Kingdom (9/10)

  The hotel was so clean and the apartments were exceptional. We had a family room with outside space which was brilliant and the room was bigger than expected. We heard no noise from other apartments which was great for a good night's sleep. The beds were extremely comfortable too. The bathroom was so big and easily accommodated the needs of a family, the toiletries were lovely and plentiful also. The staff were very friendly and helpful. Very easy and fast check in and check out. Great location and only a short walk from the tube station and located near small supermarkets.

• Mary from United Kingdom (9/10)

  Clean and comfortable. The staff were really friendly and helpful. I liked that we had some kitchen facilities, tea and coffee, and water was in the fridge.
  Travel cot was provided for baby

• Filipe from Canada (9/10)

  Great location – walking distance from Liverpool Street and Shoreditch;
  Friendly & Helpful Staff

• Tala from France (9/10)

  We spent a great weekend at Aptel East. Conveniently located near the tube. Room size is perfect, bedding is super comfortable.
  You can even store your luggage before check-in and after check-out. The staff was wonderful, we will come back for sure and recommend this to anyone visiting this vibrant city – great value for money 🙂

• Mehmet from United Kingdom (8/10)

  Friendly staff, clean and silent

• Simon from United Kingdom (9/10)

  Lots of great breakfast options available locally: I recommend the Padma Coffee House on the corner. The rooms are a good size and comfortably laid out with good shower rooms, and there was a great view north over Whitechapel from ours. The rooms are well enough equipped that you could stay and 'self cater' (with microwave, crockery, cutlery) easily if you were so inclined. The area is 'unpolished' but really welcoming.

• Nicole from Ireland (8/10)

  Room was spacious, was very clean. The staff were very nice and helpful.

• Siobhan from Ireland (9/10)

  Spacious room. Staff very accommodating

• Hakan from Turkey (9/10)

  Very close to whitechapel and aldgate east tube stations. Close to a supermarket. It was fairly quiet even though we were facing the main street. Bathroom was spacious. Staff was very helpful and kind.

• Lianne from United Kingdom (8/10)

  Excellent location with easy access to all transport links. Right next to a tube station within 5 min walk.
  Room was bigger than I expected with a full range of kitchen utensils to use, kettle, microwave and had all cups/bowls etc.
  
  Bed was good size and comfortable too. Would highly recommend.

Surroundings

Facilities