The Westin London City sits on one of the most dramatic spots of any London hotel. Sitting on the banks of the River Thames, directly across from Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, this is a five-star property that puts you right at the heart of everything that makes London extraordinary.
London has always been one of the world’s great family destinations, but pair it with a front-row seat to Shakespeare’s Globe, a fabulous indoor pool, the Heavenly Spa, and complimentary scooters for the kids (all from the Globe’s own preferred hotel partner), and you will see why we love Westin London City for families.
*Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something we have recommended. Please check out our disclosure policy for more details. Thank you for your support!
How to Reach Westin London City Hotel
The hotel sits at 80 Upper Thames Street in the City of London, with Mansion House Tube station (District and Circle lines) just a few minutes’ walk away. Central London is easily accessible without the need for taxis.
From Heathrow Airport, take the Elizabeth line directly to City Thameslink or change at Farringdon onto the Circle line (this takes less than an hour). From Gatwick, take the Thameslink direct to City Thameslink, which is even easier. London City Airport is the nearest airport, just about eight miles from the hotel door.
Pro Tip: If you’re arriving with young children and heavy luggage, we recommend booking a transfer. We used WelcomePickups, and it was easy to use and efficient.
Accommodations at The Westin London City
The Westin London City offers 226 guest rooms, suites, and residences. For families, the family rooms offer views of St. Paul’s Cathedral and enough space for everyone to have their own space. What’s not to love about waking up to panoramic London views every morning?
For those who really want to splurge, the three-bedroom Residences are exceptional. Each has a private balcony overlooking the River Thames, a fully equipped kitchen, generous living areas, and direct views across the water to Shakespeare’s Globe. For larger families or groups wanting a home-away-from-home with one of London’s great iconic views, it’s hard to beat.
If you’re looking for something in between, the hotel’s suites, including the Presidential, Executive, and St. Paul’s Duplex Suites, offer split-level accommodations.
We had a Classic King and found it to be quite comfortable and spacious for the two of us.
Pro Tip: If a room with a Thames or Globe view is important to you, request it when booking. These fill up quickly, especially during theatre season.
The Shakespeare Connection
The Westin London City is the Globe’s preferred hotel partner, and it’s ideally located for families who want to step into the world of the Bard. Floor-to-ceiling windows at the hotel’s lounge bar, Hithe+Seek, frame the iconic theatre across the water. It’s quite stunning to take it all in while enjoying an evening cocktail.
The hotel has also woven a Shakespearean thread through its spaces. Meeting rooms have names like Romeo & Juliet, Othello, and Hamlet.
Families can take guided tours of the Globe and its backstage spaces. Shows run throughout the summer and fall season, and families can enjoy a performance under the starry skies.
The Sam Wanamaker Playhouse (next door) hosts performances from October through April, with a limited number of productions during the summer months. This intimate, candlelit theater recreates the atmosphere of Shakespeare’s era, offering audiences a rare opportunity to experience his works much as they would have been performed in the 17th century.
Pro Tip: Check the Globe website well in advance to book tours and workshops, especially during school and summer holidays.
Dining Options at Westin London City
Mosaic Restaurant
The hotel’s on-site restaurant, Mosaic, is where most families start their day. There’s everything from continental and full English options to lighter, healthier choices.
The dining room is bright and welcoming, and the team creates an atmosphere where families feel comfortable. They also serve lunch and dinner as well as room service.
Pro Tip: Try to arrive for breakfast before 9 am to beat the morning rush.
Hithe+Seek
We enjoyed the Hithe+Seek bar where we could take in spectacular views overlooking the Thames. This riverside bar offers specialty cocktails, seasonal plates, and panoramic views of the river and Globe Theatre. They also offer an afternoon tea with unforgettable views.
The Westin Club
Marriott Bonvoy members with status (Platinum Elite, Titanium Elite, and Ambassador Elite) have access to The Westin Club, which offers daily breakfast, evening snacks and drinks, and a comfortable place to lounge (or work) outside your guest room.
Hotel Amenities for Families
The hotel’s location on the South Bank offers easy access to the heart of the City of London. The Tate Modern is just a short stroll along the river. St. Paul’s Cathedral is a five-minute walk in the other direction, and the Sky Garden (a gorgeous free rooftop garden open to the public) is about 10 minutes on foot.
Westin London City offers complimentary scooters for children to zip around and explore the neighborhood. This is something the kids will absolutely love, and it makes getting from the hotel to nearby attractions feel like part of the adventure.
Heavenly Spa by Westin and the Pool
The Heavenly Spa by Westin is a full-service spa featuring five treatment rooms and offering everything from a hot stone massage and aromatherapy to facials and body scrubs. There’s also a sauna, steam room, sensory shower, and ice fountain.
Families will love the indoor swimming pool with a hot tub. There are dedicated children’s swim times that allow younger guests to enjoy the pool (be sure to check with the hotel when booking, as these slots are scheduled and can be popular).
For parents looking to stay in shape while traveling, there’s a fitness center with an ample number of cardio machines and weights, including Peloton bikes.
After a long day navigating the city, this is exactly the space you need to relax and recharge.
The Staff: Warmth That Makes a Difference
From the front desk to the restaurant to the spa, we were consistently met with friendly staff. Everyone was helpful and attentive, and we had no complaints. Families are sure to feel welcome here. Concierge services are available for questions and bookings.
Using The Westin London City as a Home Base
The hotel’s central location is one of its greatest assets. Mansion House underground station (District and Circle lines) is five minutes on foot, making the iconic landmarks of London in easy reach.
London attractions within walking distance:
- Shakespeare’s Globe – guided tours and performances year-round
- Tate Modern – one of the world’s great free art museums
- St. Paul’s Cathedral – Christopher Wren’s masterpiece and one of London’s most awe-inspiring buildings
- Borough Market – London’s most famous food market, go early to avoid the crowds
- Sky Garden – a rooftop public garden with panoramic city views (book free tickets in advance)
- Tower of London and Tower Bridge – easy walk along the river or one tube stop away. If you want a private tour, THIS is the one we recommend.
A short Tube or bus ride away:
- The British Museum (Central line, about 25 minutes)
- Natural History Museum and V&A (Circle line, about 20 minutes)
- Hyde Park (District or Circle line, under 30 minutes)
- The London Eye and South Bank – a scenic 30-minute riverside walk or short Tube journey. Book your London Eye tickets in advance.
Pro Tip: Pick up an Oyster card or use contactless payment for all London Tube and bus travel, or use your credit card to tap in and out.
Children up to age 10 are free on London transport with a fare-paying adult. Up to 4 children can travel with one paying adult. Ages 11-15 will need their own Oyster card (or contactless payment), but pay a 50% fare. Those ages 16+ will need their own card and pay the full fare.
Why The Westin London City Is a Perfect Family Base
The combination of the Shakespeare’s Globe partnership, the riverside residences, the complimentary scooters for kids, the family swim sessions, and the exceptional warmth of the staff creates an unforgettable family vacation.
Whether you’re planning a cultural weekend, a family adventure, or even a romantic escape while the grandparents watch the kids, this is a hotel that’s worth a stay. From historic stages to Heavenly beds, this is one London story worth telling again and again.
Related Reads
