Sea Containers has many winning qualities like its sweeping panoramic views of London’s South Bank and its close proximity to attractions like the London Eye, Tate Modern and the National Theatre. But, once you’ve stepped inside the hotel’s stylish, metallic interiors - all designed by Tom Dixon - it's easy to feel like you’re far away from London’s busy streets. Taking his inspiration from 1920s transatlantic cruise liners, Dixon’s walls are glossed in rich copper, while the lobby is dramatically shaped like a ship’s hull. The boaty theme does not stop there either - in the toilets, the mirrors are sculpted into portholes, while the curved edges give the whole place the feel of a submarine.
I mean that in the best way because Sea Containers’ otherworldly vibe is part of its charm. The top-floor 12th Knot bar has dark, mystical lighting that adds a dash of glamour. Drinks are made and served on a blingy gold bar. There are big, plush sofas to lean back and relax on. But I’d highly recommend taking one of the flawless cocktails (my Negroni was perfection) out onto the stunning roof terrace to soak up the scenes.
About a third of the hotel’s 359 rooms have views over the river, too. Each is also kitted out with a mini-fridge, coffee machine, hair dryer and steamer for all your needs. You’ll be hard-pressed to find a hotel more fashionable in this prime location. The bigger, voguish suites have stand-alone bath-tubs, marble bathrooms and large comfortable sofas to relax on. Even, the smaller rooms are fitted with rain showers for guests to enjoy. With dimmable lights and big flat-screen TVs, it would be easy to lock the door to your room, lie back on the queen-sized, almost sickeningly comfortable beds and rest away.
But if you can avoid it, do, because Sea Containers has some pretty unmissable facilities. The hotel has its own Curzon cinema, a calming oasis of a spa, and an excellent restaurant. For lunch, I feasted on a light and lemony sea bass chowder accompanied by maple-glazed carrots—all cooked to a heavenly standard. Even the standard portion of fries exploded with salty flavour and had a gloriously crispy edge. On hotter days, you can even bag a table right on the river.
The best part is that Sea Containers is surprisingly affordable. Yes, you can get a room for under £200 a night. Of course, if you have the cash to spend, a river-view balcony suite is sure to send your heart racing. This is a hotel that truly is making waves.
Neighbourhood
You’re quite literally in the heart of central London. Stroll 5 minutes from the hotel, and you’ll reach the South Bank, where you’ll find a rich programme of events at the South Bank Centre, as well as a food market during the day. Stop by the National Theatre or Shakespeare’s Globe to catch a play or take a walk down to Borough Market for a bite. Of course, you need not leave the hotel to take in all of London’s glory; Sea Containers offers some gorgeous, photo-worthy views, with the River Thames in full sight.
Nearby
Southbank Centre for a programme of exciting cultural events that straddles world-class artists, literature, music and poetry. This is the UK’s largest arts and entertainment centre, so you can expect the best.
Borough Market is London’s oldest food market, and it is overflowing with gourmet goodies for foodies to enjoy. There is a vast array of street food vendors, as well as cured meats, cheese, and olives. But, go in the weekday daytime to avoid the crowds.
Shakespeare’s Globe is a must-do for fans of The Bard. Here, you can step into the shoes of an Elizabethan Londoner and see a classic play from the famous audience pit.
Time Out tip
Catch a film while you’re staying at Sea Containers. The onsite Curzon Cinema releases its cinema timings in advance, so you don’t need to leave the hotel to catch the latest blockbuster. What’s not to like?