With already London being home to so many incredible hotels, each offering their guests a ‘one off’ and unique experience, its always interesting when a new hotel opens its doors; especially when the newest kid on the block is a Hilton.


My initial thought when I found out was, ‘Great, another Hilton with its generic excuse for luxury, design and service; another hotel with no substance’. Well surprisingly, there are two things that instantly stand out and make me want to eat my words; it’s stylish and the design (on the inside at least) is well thought out. In addition to this, the hotel is nestled in a vibrant area in the midst of an exciting urban renewal and is just moments away from the Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre and Tate Modern, amazingly the Hilton London Bankside actually fits its surroundings.

The Hilton London Bankside has 292 guest rooms, 25 bespoke suites which offer views of London’s skyline, 2 swimming pools, (yes,  you read that right. 2 swimming pools in London!) 1 huge ballroom with the ability to seat up to 750 guests and also includes 1 exclusive penthouse apartment, which boasts its own private roof terrace, a 100m² entertainment area and view across the city.

Simon Vincent, executive vice president and president, Europe, Middle East and Africa, Hilton Worldwide, said, “Bankside is one of London’s most vibrant areas, with an eclectic mix of culture, food, architecture and attractions. With the city attracting around 30 million global visitors every year, we are delighted to be expanding our footprint in the city and look forward to putting Hilton London Bankside on the map as a key destination for travellers and Londoners alike.”

Reflecting History

Designed in partnership with Dexter Moran architects and Twenty2Degrees, each part of the hotel reflects the fascinating history and ambiance of the surrounding area, it combines an air of urban grittiness but still manages to reflect its polished refinement. Referencing its neighbour the Tate Modern, elements like the lobby flooring evoke the famous Turbine Hall, and the surprising and thoughtful collection of art displayed throughout the property.

Striking bespoke lighting, exposed metal screens, bare brickwork, reprocessed tube station tiles and bespoke joinery all feature, with furnishings inspired by the colours and prints of William Morris. Sculptures by British artist, David Farrer, accentuate the interiors, while reclaimed ceilings, and murals have been designed especially for the hotel’s public spaces.

Neighbourhood Eatery & Resident Bar

The hotel’s restaurant, OXBO Bankside, located on the ground floor, is Bankside’s newest neighbourhood eatery, offering a delicious all-day dining menu under the helm of Executive Chef, Paul Bates. The food reflects fresh British ingredients sourced locally wherever possible. OXBO Bankside is a relaxed space which includes an open kitchen with chefs cooking in front of guests, adding to the theatre of the restaurant. Beautiful bespoke lighting is another design feature of the restaurant, a theme that can be seen throughout the hotel.

The Distillery, the hotel’s resident bar, is set to become the place to be seen in Bankside and mirrors the energy of the area. Designed as a buzzy meeting point for the local commercial area and residents of Bankside, The Distillery will serve 50 types of gins and its very own Distillery Beer on tap.

Located on the site of Stevenson & Howell’s Standard Works, a renowned essence factory in 1800s, The Distillery pays homage to its heritage, serving a range of signature cocktails incorporating homemade aromatics, infusions and bitters. The bar also serves a range of sharing platters and bar snacks, prepared by the restaurant kitchen and served until late.

Executive rooms also have access to the executive lounge which serves breakfast, afternoon tea and evening menus of hot and cold canapés with a range of selected beverages, in a stylish, refined setting.

A cosy fireplace, dedicated arrivals area and pre-check in showers are some of the added benefits of this exclusive space.

In conclusion, as someone who hated spending any time whatsoever in Hilton properties, I’m quite looking forward to enjoying this one.