When I visited London, I stayed in a capsule hotel for the first time, and it was such a cool experience! Capsule hotels are small, cozy spaces that look like little pods. They have everything you need bed, light, fan, and even charging points. It’s perfect for solo travelers or students on a budget. Most capsule hotels in London are clean, safe, and close to train stations. I liked how peaceful it felt inside my pod. It’s a smart and fun way to stay in a big city like London!
10 Perfectly Cozy Pod & Capsule Hotels in London
1. St. Christopher’s Inn Village – London Bridge
Location: 165 Borough High Street, London SE1 1HR, United Kingdom
Overview:
I found out about this capsule hotel while planning my first solo trip to London. A travel blogger mentioned how fun and social the place was. I wanted something budget-friendly but also stylish and St. Christopher’s Inn was exactly that!
When I arrived, the place felt lively. It’s near the famous Borough Market and only a 5-minute walk from London Bridge Station. The staff at the reception smiled warmly and even gave me a quick map of the area.
Accommodations:
Capsule Beds in Shared Rooms:
Each pod has privacy curtains, reading lights, power sockets, and a small shelf for your phone or book. I slept peacefully even though there were other people in the room.
Private Rooms Available:
If you’re traveling with a friend or parent, they also offer private rooms with pod-style beds and en-suite bathrooms. London City Hotel.
Amenities:
- Lively Bar & Restaurant (Belushi’s): A great place to meet new people. I had my first English burger here!
- Free Wi-Fi: The signal was strong enough for my video calls.
- Secure Lockers: I kept my passport and charger safely inside.
- Chill-Out Lounge: There’s a beanbag area to relax, read or just chat with others.
Note: You can also book city tours from the front desk.
Website: St. Christopher’s Inn London Bridge
2. YHA London Central
Location: 104 Bolsover Street, London W1W 5NU, United Kingdom
Overview:
During my second visit to London, I wanted to stay somewhere near Oxford Street. A classmate who went on a school trip to London recommended YHA. It’s a youth hostel with capsule-style bunk beds perfect for young travelers.
When I walked in, I saw colorful walls and a big world map. The vibe was friendly and adventurous.
Accommodations:
Bunk Pods in Dorm Rooms:
I stayed in a girls’ dorm. Each bunk had curtains for privacy, and the bed was soft. There was a USB charging port and light inside my pod.
Private Room Option:
Great for families or two friends who want some quiet time.
Amenities:
- Café & Snack Bar: I grabbed hot chocolate every morning before heading out.
- Self-Catering Kitchen: One evening, I cooked instant noodles and shared them with another traveler from France.
- Laundry Facilities & Lockers
- 24/7 Reception: Helpful for late-night check-ins.
Note: It’s just a short walk to Regent’s Park and Madame Tussauds.
Website: YHA London Central
3. Wombat’s City Hostel London
Location: 7 Dock Street, London E1 8LL, United Kingdom
Overview:
A German traveler I met in Goa told me about Wombat’s Hostel. It sounded so cool, I decided to stay there on my next trip. It’s close to the Tower of London and the River Thames.
When I entered, it felt like a big community. The wooden floors, cozy lights, and indoor plants made it feel warm and relaxing.
Accommodations:
Capsule-Style Dorm Bunks:
Very good sleeping pod hotel with curtains and reading lights. I stayed in a mixed dorm and met people from Brazil and Japan!
Private Rooms Available
Amenities:
- Wombar: Great sandwiches and fresh orange juice.
- Guest Kitchen: I made pasta one evening and shared it with my dorm mates.
- Cozy Courtyard & Lounge: A peaceful place to write in your journal.
- Free Wi-Fi & Secure Keycards
Note: Great location for exploring East London.
Website: Wombat’s City Hostel London
4. The Z Hotel Shoreditch
Location: 136-144 City Road, London EC1V 2RL, United Kingdom
Overview:
I stayed here during a short two-day trip to East London. Though not a capsule hotel exactly, the compact rooms give a cozy, pod-like feel. It’s stylish, clean, and perfect if you’re traveling alone or with a parent.
Accommodations:
Compact Single & Double Rooms:
Comfortable beds with under-bed storage, a flat-screen TV, and a beautiful bathroom with a rain shower.
Amenities:
- Complimentary Wine & Cheese (Evenings): I don’t drink wine, but I enjoyed the cheese and snacks.
- Free Wi-Fi & Daily Housekeeping
- Close to Shoreditch’s Street Art and Cafes
Note: Perfect for a quiet and modern stay.
Website: The Z Hotel Shoreditch
5. Generator London
Location: 37 Tavistock Place, London WC1H 9SE, United Kingdom
Overview:
Generator is one of the first capsule-style hostels I ever stayed in. I was only 16, traveling with my cousin. We chose it because of its fun atmosphere and budget price. It’s close to King’s Cross Station.
When we checked in, there was cool music playing in the lounge, and the lights were neon purple!
Accommodations:
Pod-Style Dorm Beds:
Neat, clean beds with curtains and lockers below. It felt like sleeping in a tiny spaceship.
Private Rooms Available
Amenities:
- Lounge with Pool Table & Arcade Games
- In-house Café: Great for quick bites.
- 24-Hour Reception
- Laundry Services, Free Wi-Fi
Note: It’s a good place to meet other teen travelers.
Website: Generator London
6. Kabannas London St. Pancras
Location: 79-81 Euston Road, London NW1 2QE, United Kingdom
Overview:
A friend from my English class stayed here during a school tour. When I booked it later, I understood why she liked it! It’s close to the British Library and King’s Cross.
The hotel has bright yellow signs and cozy seating areas.
Accommodations:
Bunk Beds with Curtains:
Comfortable, clean, and quiet — good for a restful night after sightseeing.
Amenities:
- Game Room with Foosball Table
- Café Serving Breakfast & Snacks
- Friendly Staff and Free Maps
- Luggage Storage
Website: Kabannas London St. Pancras
7. Astor Hyde Park Hostel
Location: 191 Queensgate, London SW7 5EU, United Kingdom
Overview:
Located right next to Hyde Park, this capsule-style hostel is inside a beautiful old building. I loved walking through the nearby park in the morning!
Accommodations:
Pod-Style Dorm Beds:
My pod had thick curtains, a power plug, and a personal lamp. It was quiet and perfect for sleeping.
Amenities:
- Common Lounge with Netflix & Board Games
- Kitchen & Free Tea/Coffee All Day
- Laundry Room
- Helpful Front Desk
Note: Close to the Natural History Museum and Kensington Palace.
Website: Astor Hyde Park Hostel
8. BLOC Hotel Gatwick
Location: Gatwick Airport, South Terminal, London RH6 0NP, United Kingdom
Overview:
I stayed here the night before my early flight to India. It’s inside the airport terminal! Perfect for resting between flights.
Accommodations:
Compact Smart Rooms:
High-tech controls for lights and temperature, soft bed, and a strong rain shower. It felt like a futuristic pod.
Amenities:
- Free High-Speed Wi-Fi
- Smart TV
- Quiet and Clean Environment
Note: Ideal for one-night airport stays.
Website: BLOC Hotel Gatwick
9. Snoozebox Olympic Park
Location: Pudding Mill Lane, London E15 2PJ, United Kingdom
Overview:
This is a unique hotel made from shipping containers turned into cozy pods. I stayed here during a sports event. It’s right near Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.
Accommodations:
Smart Pods with Beds & Bathrooms:
Each pod is private and includes a flat-screen TV, power sockets, and heating.
Amenities:
- Rooftop Terrace
- 24-Hour Reception
- Bike Storage
- Free Tea & Coffee
Website: Snoozebox Olympic Park
10. City Sleeper @ Royal National Hotel
Location: 38-51 Bedford Way, London WC1H 0DG, United Kingdom
Overview:
This is a hotel-within-a-hotel. I stayed here with my parents for two nights. The City Sleeper section offers compact rooms with pod-style comfort and modern design.
Accommodations:
Modern, Compact Rooms:
Very comfy beds, clean showers, and lots of plug points. We felt safe and relaxed.
Amenities:
- Restaurant & Room Service
- Fast Wi-Fi
- Daily Housekeeping
Note: Near the British Museum and Russell Square.
Conclusion
In conclusion, pod and capsule hotels in London are a great choice for students and solo travelers like me. They are clean, safe, and much cheaper than regular hotels. I loved how private and cozy my little pod felt, even though I was in a busy city. These hotels are also near famous places and stations, which makes it easy to explore. If you ever visit London and want to save money while having a cool experience, I really suggest trying a capsule hotel. It’s worth it!
FAQs
Q1: What is a pod or capsule hotel?
A pod or capsule hotel offers small, private sleeping pods with basic facilities like lights, fans, charging points, and sometimes a TV.
Q2: Are capsule hotels in London safe?
Yes, most capsule hotels in London are clean, secure, and have lockers or keycard access for safety.
Q3: Do capsule hotels have shared bathrooms?
Yes, most capsule hotels have clean, shared bathrooms that are regularly maintained.
Q4: Are they good for students or solo travelers?
Absolutely! They are budget-friendly, comfortable, and perfect for solo travelers or students.
Q5: Where are capsule hotels usually located in London?
Many are near popular areas like King’s Cross, Paddington, and Heathrow—close to trains and tourist spots.
Q6: Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s best to book early, especially during holidays or weekends, as they fill up fast.
Q7: What amenities do capsule hotels offer?
Most offer free Wi-Fi, charging stations, shared kitchens or lounges, and sometimes breakfast.
Q8: Can couples stay in capsule hotels?
Some capsule hotels offer double pods for couples, while others are single-only, so check before booking.