The hype
Travelers love the modern, clean rooms and the insane convenience of the location, but the service can feel a bit transactional.
Hotel Saint
$150-250/ night
Book this if You want a sleek, high-rise crash pad with a killer rooftop bar, directly on top of a tube station for instant access to the City and Shoreditch.
Why People Love It
- Unbeatable connectivity—Aldgate station is literally next door
- Jin Bo Law rooftop bar offers some of the best Gherkin and skyline views in London
- Floor-to-ceiling windows in many rooms make the city feel like your wallpaper
Quick Take: It's a sharp, functional business hotel that parties on the roof—efficient for sleeping, excellent for drinking, but don't expect cozy charm.
Reviewed by @kimvdpols: I stayed here for a special occasion and the view of The Gherkin blew me away. Sipping champagne by the window with that skyline backdrop was the highlight of my trip. Definitely ask for a high floor!
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'thin walls' are a frequent complaint—light sleepers should definitely pack earplugs or request a room away from the elevators.
- You're in town for business in the City or sightseeing at the Tower of London
- You prioritize a modern, spotless bathroom over old-world character
- You want to stumble from a rooftop cocktail directly into an elevator
Cleanliness & Maintenance
8.5
- Housekeeping: Generally reliable, but verify if 'daily' service is automatic or on-request during your stay.
- Bathroom hygiene: High marks here—grout is usually sparkling and glass is streak-free.
- Maintenance: Modern building (2017), so wear and tear is minimal, though some scuffs in hallways are reported.
- Linens & towels: Crisp, white, and standard 4-star quality. No complaints of stains.
- Odors & scents: Lobby has a signature fresh scent; rooms are generally neutral/fresh.
Sleepability™
7MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Heavy doors slamming in hallways
- Sirens and street noise on floors 1-5
- Elevator dings if you're too close to the lift bank
Before you book
Good to know
- A £50 credit card hold is taken at check-in for incidentals.
- The rooftop bar Jin Bo Law sometimes closes for private events or on Mondays/Tuesdays—check the schedule if that's your main draw.
- There is no on-site parking; you'll need to use public lots nearby which are expensive.
What to pack
- Earplugs (essential for light sleepers)
- UK power adapter (plugs are standard UK type G)
- Smart-casual outfits for the rooftop bar (dress code is enforced)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Corner rooms (often ending in -06) for dual-aspect views of the Gherkin and St Botolph's Church
- Floors 10-13 for the best light and least street noise
Rooms to avoid
- Lower floors (1-4) facing Aldgate High Street (bus and siren noise)
- Rooms directly near the elevator bank (noise bleed)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I would love to request a high-floor room (10th floor or above) away from the elevators. If available, a corner room ending in '06' with a view of St Botolph's would be fantastic.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is breakfast included?
Not usually in the base rate. It's served at The Cardinal Bar & Kitchen; reviews are mixed ('decent but pricey'), so you might prefer a local cafe.
Is there a gym?
Yes, a decent 24-hour fitness center with cardio machines and free weights, open to all guests.
Can I leave my bags before check-in?
Yes, the concierge provides luggage storage for free before check-in and after check-out.
How close is the tube?
Incredibly close. Aldgate station is practically next door, and Aldgate East is a 3-minute walk.
Is there a spa?
No on-site spa. They partner with 'The Skin Co Spa' (15-min walk) for treatments, but don't expect a pool or sauna in the hotel itself.
Do the windows open?
No, windows are sealed floor-to-ceiling units for safety and soundproofing.
Insider Tips
- ✨
There is often no mirror next to the plug sockets in the bedroom—hair styling can be a challenge.
- ✨
The showers are great (rain heads) but often lack a shelf for your toiletries, so you'll be bending down to the floor.
- ✨
Skip the hotel breakfast and walk 2 minutes to 'Grounded' for a better coffee and vibe.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'Handy' smartphones that used to be a perk are largely gone or defunct—don't rely on them.
💡The elevators can be slow during peak rooftop bar hours (evenings/weekends).
💡The 'City View' isn't always the Gherkin; some rooms just look at office blocks.
💡You might find the room lighting a bit dim/moody for working at night.
💡The lobby scent is distinct—some love the 'fresh' smell, others find it chemical.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Hotel Saint is located and what's nearby.