The hype
Guests are obsessed with the location and the helpful doormen, but consistently note the rooms feel 'tired' and in need of a refresh.
Royal Horseguards Hotel
$180-280/ night
Book this if You want to sleep in a literal former Secret Service HQ that feels like a grand Victorian movie set, just steps from the Thames.
Why People Love It
- Incredible location tucked between the Thames and Trafalgar Square
- Genuine history: former home of MI6 and the National Liberal Club
- Surprisingly quiet street for being in the dead center of London
Quick Take: A grand dame that’s showing her age—expect stunning architecture and unbeatable views, but also creaky floors, tired carpets, and a vibe that's more 'historic charm' than 'modern luxury'.
Reviewed by @Pricelesspassport: I felt like I hacked London travel staying here. The building looks like a palace, the rooms are huge (rare for London!), and the free mini bar was the cherry on top. Being able to walk to the London Eye and Big Ben saved me so much time and money on transport.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
You are paying for the postcode and the exterior grandeur; the interiors often feel like a 4-star trying to keep up with its 5-star status.
- You are a history buff who gets a kick out of staying in a WWI spy headquarters
- You prioritize silence at night (Whitehall Court is a rare quiet pocket)
- You want to walk to the London Eye, Big Ben, and Covent Garden in under 10 minutes
Cleanliness & Maintenance
8.5
- Housekeeping: Generally reliable daily service, though some guests report missed dust in corners.
- Bathroom hygiene: Clean but dated. Expect spotless surfaces but potentially worn grout or older fixtures.
- Maintenance: The biggest weak point. Reports of broken AC, peeling paint, and temperamental heating are common.
- Linens & towels: Standard 5-star quality, crisp and clean.
- Odors & scents: Usually fresh, though some 'internal' rooms can feel a bit stuffy or musty due to lack of airflow.
Sleepability™
8SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Internal hallway noise (thin doors)
- Plumbing sounds from neighboring rooms
Before you book
Good to know
- There is NO on-site parking; you'll need to use Q-Park Trafalgar Square (~£55/24h)
- Breakfast is often not included and costs extra (approx. £25pp)—check your rate carefully
- The 'City View' is often a euphemism for 'Building Opposite View'
What to pack
- UK power adapter (older rooms may not have USBs)
- Slippers (carpets can be a bit worn)
Room Genie
Best picks
- River View Rooms (essential for the London Eye view)
- Tower Suite (split-level with 270-degree views)
Rooms to avoid
- Executive City Rooms (often have zero view)
- Rooms near the service elevators (internal noise)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I am booking this stay specifically for the history and views. Please assign a room on a high floor facing the River Thames. I would strictly like to avoid any 'City View' rooms that face internal courtyards or brick walls.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is there a pool?
No, there is no pool or spa, only a small gym.
Is it noisy?
Surprisingly no. Whitehall Court is a cul-de-sac, so traffic noise is minimal, which is rare for this location.
How much is breakfast?
If not included in your rate, expect to pay around £25 per person. Reviews are mixed on value.
Can I see the fireworks from here?
Yes, if you book a River View room, you have a front-row seat to the London Eye fireworks.
Is it close to the Tube?
Yes, Embankment station is a 3-minute walk, and Charing Cross is 5 minutes away.
Are pets allowed?
No, pets are not allowed, only service animals.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Use the 'secret' entrance to Embankment Gardens to skip the main road traffic.
- ✨
The minibar in some room categories (like Deluxe) is complimentary with soft drinks and snacks—ask at check-in.
- ✨
Request a room away from the 'service shaft' if you are a light sleeper.
5 things to know before you go
💡**The Spy History:** This building was the HQ of the Secret Service (MI6) during WWI; the Chief, Sir Mansfield Cumming, lived and worked here.
💡**The Phone Number:** The restaurant 'One Twenty One Two' is named after Scotland Yard's famous old telephone number, Whitehall 1212.
💡**The Door Buttons:** Instead of 'Do Not Disturb' hangers, rooms have electronic buttons that light up a panel in the hallway.
💡**The Library:** The Gladstone Library on the ground floor is a stunning venue with 30,000 volumes—peek in if there's no event.
💡**The Tunnel:** The nearby pub 'The Ship & Shovell' is the only London pub in two separate halves connected by an underground tunnel.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Royal Horseguards Hotel is located and what's nearby.