The addition of the Olympic Park and new transport links have helped make Stratford a popular base for London visitors, with the local hotel scene burgeoning alongside these amenities.
Apartment with a view at Roomzzz (Photo: courtesy of Roomzzz)
In 2012, Stratford in East London was propelled onto the capital’s tourist map with its hosting of the Olympic Games. Today, Westfield shopping centre is one of the busiest in Europe, while the area also connects directly to Stansted Airport, London City Airport and Central London (boosted by the recently-opened Elizabeth Line). The Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park itself features state-of-the-art leisure facilities and acres of green space. Here are five local hotels covering every budget and taste.
Roomzzz
The serviced apartment experience at Roomzzz provides spectacular views, modern facilities and a stylish, understated design style. All units include a work and dining space, a kitchenette and a king-size bed, with luxury touches found across the premium apartments. The higher floors provide sweeping vistas over East London, best enjoyed from the wide terraces attached to the rooftop suites. An in-house deli and a co-working hub can be found in the communal spaces, along with a spacious lounge, a gym and a laundry room that’s free for guests to use. Coffee and croissants are complimentary at breakfast, with upgrades available for those seeking a more hearty start to their day. The location is easy walking distance from the centre of Stratford. From £119 per night.
Moxy
Moxy’s stylish lobby bar (Photo courtesy of Moxy / Courtesy Booking.com)
An affordable boutique hotel with a playful vibe, Moxy Stratford is situated just steps away from Stratford station and the Olympic Park. Through lobby is a spacious ‘plug-and-meet’ lounge dotted with hip furniture and funky décor, while a foosball table helps create a fun, laid-back atmosphere. There’s also a library, a business corner and a large communal table. Each of the 294 guest rooms come with a TV and a private bathroom. The bar offers food and drink around the clock, and a generous buffet breakfast is served each morning. From £129 per night.
The Stratford
Inspired by classic New York hotels, The Stratford exudes grandeur and elegance with a dash of contemporary flair. It occupies the first seven floors of Manhattan Loft Gardens, a design building boasting an impressive glass atrium and triple-height lobby. Pastel hues and natural elements meet retro opulence in the bedrooms, which range from panoramic studios to standard doubles. The Allegra restaurant has a sky terrace and serves contemporary European cuisine, while the Mezzanine cocktail bar hosts weekly DJ nights. Other notable facilities include an open-kitchen dining bar and a gymnasium. From £151 per night.
Snoozebox
A communal area at Snoozebox (Photo: Snoozebox Olympic Park / Courtesy Booking.com)
Snoozebox is an innovative hotel concept that delivers affordable, adult-only accommodation at the southern edge of the Olympic Park. The en-suite rooms are built out of shipping containers, cleverly designed to maximise comfort in a compact space. All units include a flat-screen TV and an en-suite wet room. Food and beverages are available in the communal areas, which comprise a modern lounge and heated landscape gardens. Next door to the hotel is Pudding Mill Lane DLR station (one stop away from Stratford), offering easy access to the rest of the city. From £58 per night.
The Westbridge
The seven-bay facade of The Westbridge Hotel casts a conspicuous presence along Stratford High Street. Once a coaching inn dating back to 1740, today the hotel honours its heritage by sporting a simple yet elegant style. The ‘modern’ range of guest rooms includes a double deluxe with a balcony, while the ‘heritage’ options feature a collection of suites oozing quintessential British charm. The restaurant menu revolves around nibbles and stonebaked pizzas, while a partnership with a bespoke delivery service allows guests to choose from a large number of takeout options. A charming courtyard is the ideal spot to relax and unwind during warmer months of the year. From £101 per night.