Where to stay in London on a budget
You don't need to stay far out to save money. Several areas within zones 1 and 2 cost much less than the West End and are a short ride from the sights.
Camden
Some of the lowest prices in central London, lively markets, and the Northern line to the West End.
Hotels in Camden · ~$215/nightGreenwich
The cheapest area we cover, with a village feel; allow extra time to reach the centre.
Hotels in Greenwich · ~$200/nightCanary Wharf
Business hotels are cheap at weekends, and the Elizabeth and Jubilee lines are fast.
Hotels in Canary Wharf · ~$220/nightPaddington
Good value near Hyde Park, with direct trains to Heathrow and across the city.
Hotels in Paddington · ~$230/nightShoreditch
Cheaper than the West End, with the best nightlife and food in east London.
Hotels in Shoreditch · ~$240/nightKing's Cross
Six Tube lines and Eurostar, and good mid-range chains.
Hotels in King's Cross · ~$270/night
Typical prices by area
| Area | Budget | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Greenwich | ~$115 | ~$200 | ~$350 |
| Camden | ~$115 | ~$215 | ~$400 |
| Canary Wharf | ~$120 | ~$220 | ~$430 |
| Paddington | ~$120 | ~$230 | ~$440 |
| Shoreditch | ~$125 | ~$240 | ~$470 |
| Bloomsbury | ~$135 | ~$255 | ~$510 |
| Notting Hill | ~$140 | ~$270 | ~$510 |
| King's Cross | ~$135 | ~$270 | ~$565 |
| South Bank | ~$155 | ~$295 | ~$605 |
| Kensington | ~$145 | ~$295 | ~$645 |
| Westminster | ~$160 | ~$320 | ~$695 |
| Marylebone | ~$160 | ~$320 | ~$670 |
| Soho | ~$190 | ~$360 | ~$735 |
| Covent Garden | ~$190 | ~$360 | ~$805 |
Typical nightly rates for a double room, not live prices. Updated Sep 2026.
Written by the StayAreas editorial team · Updated Oct 2026 · How we research our guides