Sea Containers London

Hotel Description

You know what hits you first at Sea Containers London? It’s not the Thames views (though they’re incredible) – it’s this whole 1960s cruise ship vibe that somehow works perfectly in a Bankside warehouse. I mean, the building used to house the actual Sea Containers House, and they’ve leaned into that maritime thing without making it cheesy. The lobby feels like stepping onto some glamorous ocean liner, all copper and dark wood and these gorgeous curved lines.

The location is honestly perfect if you want to be right in the thick of things but still feel like you’re somewhere special. You’re literally a two-minute walk from Tate Modern – I’ve stayed here three times and always end up popping over there, even when I don’t plan to. Borough Market is maybe ten minutes on foot, and here’s something most people don’t realize: you can walk to Westminster Bridge in about twelve minutes along the river path, which beats dealing with the Tube during rush hour. The hotel sits right on the South Bank, so you get those postcard views of the City across the water, especially from the river-facing rooms (definitely worth the upgrade if you can swing it).

What really sets this place apart though is how they’ve nailed the details without being pretentious about it. The Mondrian brand runs it, and they’ve got this knack for making luxury feel approachable. The rooms are these cozy, cabin-like spaces with massive windows – mine had this deep soaking tub that I actually used, which never happens. The whole copper and navy color scheme should feel overdone, but it doesn’t. Check-in was smooth both times I’ve been, even when I showed up early after a red-eye flight.

Dandelyan, their cocktail bar downstairs, is legitimately one of London’s best – not just hotel bar best, but actually best best. Ryan Chetiyawardana (Mr. Lyan) designed the cocktail program, and these aren’t your typical overpriced hotel drinks. Fair warning though: it gets absolutely packed on weekends, and you’ll want to book ahead. The restaurant, Sea Containers, is solid too, though honestly with Borough Market so close, I usually end up wandering over there for lunch instead.

A couple of practical things worth knowing: the building can get busy with non-guests coming for drinks and dinner, so the elevators sometimes take forever during peak times. Also, some of the street-facing rooms pick up a bit of noise from Upper Ground – it’s not terrible, but if you’re a light sleeper, ask for a higher floor or river view. Parking is typical London expensive, but there’s a car park literally next door if you’re driving in. The Southwark and Blackfriars stations are both walkable, which gives you good options for getting around.

This isn’t the stuffiest five-star you’ll find in London, and that’s exactly why it works. It’s got personality without trying too hard, serious comfort without the attitude, and a location that puts you right where you want to be. Plus, waking up to those Thames views never gets old – trust me on that one.

Rooms

• Standard with 1 double bed for 2 adults
• Superior with 1 double bed for 2 adults
• Studio with 1 large double bed for 2 adults
• River View Deluxe with 1 large double bed for 2 adults
• River View Balcony Suite with 1 double bed and 1 sofa bed for 4 adults, 2 children
• Superior Double Double with 2 double beds for 4 adults, 2 children
• Superior Double Room with Private Patio with 1 double bed for 2 adults
• One-Bedroom Suite with 1 double bed and 2 × 1 sofa bed for 4 adults
• Suite with River View with 1 double bed and 2 × 1 sofa bed for 4 adults, 3 children
• Superior Family Room with 2 double beds, 2 single beds and 1 double bed for 4 adults, 3 children
• Deluxe Family Room with 3 double beds for 6 adults, 3 children
• Standard Family Room with 2 double beds, 2 single beds and 1 double bed for 4 adults, 3 children
• Family Double Room with 3 double beds, 2 single beds and 2 double beds for 6 adults, 5 children

Facilities