The hype
Travelers love the futuristic controls and the massive XL beds, but the lack of floor space is a shock to the system for many.
Citizenm London Bankside
$150-250/ night
Book this if You want a high-tech, low-friction crash pad near the Tate Modern that feels more like a cool living room than a hotel.
Why People Love It
- The 'MoodPad' tablet controls everything from blackout blinds to colored mood lighting
- CanteenM offers 24/7 food and drinks, solving the 'midnight snack' crisis
- Prime location: 2 minutes to Tate Modern, 7 minutes to Borough Market
Quick Take: It’s basically a luxury dorm for grown-ups: the rooms are tiny pods, but the lobby is a vibe and the location is unbeatable.
Reviewed by @wander.licious: I honestly believe I'm meant to live like this. Waking up in this massive bed with the Tower of London right there was a dream. The view is insane, the bed is huge, and I never wanted to leave.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'cool' factor wears off when the ventilation is noisy or you realize you have to iron your shirt in a communal room down the hall.
- You travel light and just need a great bed and a shower
- You love gadgets and controlling your room with an iPad
- You want a social lobby where you can actually work or hang out
Cleanliness & Maintenance
8.5
- Housekeeping: Generally reliable daily service, though high shelves and fridge tops often gather dust.
- Bathroom hygiene: Usually sparkling, but watch for hair in the drain or water spots on the glass pod walls.
- Maintenance: Some rooms showing wear (scuffed walls, rattling vents) as the hotel ages.
- Linens & towels: Crisp, white, and usually fresh. Towels are decent quality but not ultra-plush.
- Odors & scents: Lobby smells of signature CitizenM scent (woody/fresh); rooms are generally neutral but can get stuffy.
Sleepability™
7.5SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Noisy air conditioning/ventilation systems
- Street noise on lower floors (Lavington St side)
Before you book
Good to know
- Check-in is self-service via kiosks (staff are there to help, but don't expect a front desk)
- Ironing boards are in a communal 'ironing room', not in your bedroom
- Luggage storage is available in lockers (usually free on day of arrival/departure)
What to pack
- US/EU to UK power adapter (though USB ports are plentiful)
- Minimal luggage — there is storage under the bed, but nowhere else
- Flip flops if you're shy about the semi-open bathroom situation
Room Genie
Best picks
- High Floor, City View (ask for Shard view) — worth the upgrade for the skyline
- Courtyard View — if you prioritize silence over scenery
Rooms to avoid
- Lower floor street-facing rooms (can be noisy)
- Rooms near the elevator bank (more foot traffic noise)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I would love a 'High Floor' room, ideally facing the Shard/City side rather than the internal courtyard. Quiet is a priority if possible.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is there a gym?
No. There is no gym on-site. You'll need to use a local spot like Fitness4Less Southwark (approx £15 day pass).
Is breakfast included?
Usually no. It's a paid buffet at CanteenM (approx £17-20), but it's decent quality.
Can I open the windows?
No, windows are sealed shut. You rely on the climate control system.
Is there room service?
No. But CanteenM is open 24/7 for food and drinks you can take up to your room.
Are the movies actually free?
Yes! The in-room entertainment system includes a library of free movies.
How private is the bathroom?
Not very. It's a frosted glass pod inside the room. You can hear (and sort of see) everything.
Insider Tips
- ✨
The 'MoodPad' has pre-set modes like 'Romance' and 'Party' — try them for a laugh (or a vibe).
- ✨
You can stream your own Netflix/Disney+ via Chromecast to the TV easily.
- ✨
The courtyard rooms are boring to look at but significantly quieter than the street side.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'fridge' is barely cool enough to keep a drink cold; don't store perishables.
💡Dust settles on the top of the fridge and high shelves — housekeeping often misses these spots.
💡The sink is sometimes in the main room, not the toilet pod, which is awkward for hygiene.
💡Vent covers have been known to rattle or even fall off in older rooms.
💡The elevators can be slow during morning rush hour.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Citizenm London Bankside is located and what's nearby.