Westin London City Hotel

20 October 2025

History and Contemporary Elegance.

The Westin London City stands on an impressive riverside spot with views over London’s iconic River Thames. The hotel is opposite the replica of Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre and the impressive Tate Modern. The location is convenient for both tourism and business, but it is also an area steeped in history.

This is Queenhithe, which is a small and ancient ward of the City of London. The ward’s name likely comes from the “Queen’s Dock” which is thought to have originated as a Roman dock and would have been immensely important in those days. It was only awarded its present name when Matilda, wife of King Henry I, was granted duties on goods landed there. Walk down to the river just next to the hotel and find The Queenhithe Mosaic. This is a marvellous piece of street art which lends its name to the restaurant inside The Westin London City hotel.

This 5-star hotel is somewhat anonymous from the outside, but the shy exterior hides a gem of thoughtful design. There are 225 guest rooms, suites and residences to accommodate every traveller’s needs. I am lucky enough to stay at luxury hotels all over the world and my assessment starts at the front door. First impressions can colour one’s whole stay. The Westin London City was a delight from the first cheery ‘Hello’. The staff here were outstanding: friendly, polished and professional.

We enjoyed a Signature room with comfy bed, crisp linen, well-appointed bathroom with fluffy towels, free high-speed WiFi, a phone charging pad being a nice touch. Yes, predictable amenities such as tea and coffee station, yet the room was a cut above much of the London competition. It’s that aforementioned polish again, as well as contemporary style.

Guests might like a pre-dinner cocktail, and they can be had, along with superb river vistas, at Hithe and Seek. This is a striking bar offering small plates, well-crafted mixed drinks from the classics to contemporary libations devised and shaken by the resident mixologists (see my review of Hithe and Seek here).

Fitness too!

For those planning a special event or a business meeting, The Westin London City has seven spaces including the hotel’s signature venue the Westin Ballroom. The WestinWORKOUT Fitness Studio will be welcomed by those with energetic body-sculpting pursuits in mind. The Heavenly Spa by Westin boasts therapy rooms, 12-metre swimming pool and vitality pool, and a relaxation room. The Thermal Suite offers pampering treatments for we who are looking for healthful relaxation and has a sauna, steam room, ice fountain, and sensory shower.