The best hotels near the London Eye

The only central London branch of this rather stylish mid-range US chain has a plum location just behind Waterloo station, within walking distance of the London Eye and other riverside attractions. Modern and purpose-built, the rooms have good sound insulation and big windows, whose views improve the closer you get to the seventh (and top) floor, from where they really do sweep. Breakfast is free, common areas handsome and showers large: it adds up to a comfortable package for the price.

The Park Plaza follows the luxury chain playbook assiduously, with spa, executive lounge, brasserie, patisserie and sushi restaurant. Room decor is suave, modern and comfortable, anchored by dramatic glass-panelled photo portraits. There are walls of glass in the common areas, too, framing stand-out views north across the Thames to the iconic buildings of Westminster. Details of room views are clearly given on the website, and include some of the London Eye.

Premier Inn pulled off a bit of a coup when it got itself into the stately County Hall building. Yes, the decor is classic mid-range chain, with Premier’s trademark purple livery, but the location is excellent, particularly for families – you’ll be sharing a building with Shrek’s Adventure and the London Aquarium (and children stay free). Rooms on the north side overlook the London Eye: no guarantees, but you might get lucky if you request a view when booking.

It’s ‘hotel’ as in hostelry: the Welly is a red-brick corner pub opposite Waterloo station (hence the name; think ‘Duke of’) and the rooms fill its upper parts. Downside: some noise. Upside: great location ten minutes from the London Eye, good price and your own pub on-site. It’s a good one, too, much frequented by commuters, with sports TV, decent food and battle murals on the ceiling. Rooms are simple, modern and cheery and the full English breakfast earns rave reviews.