First Impressions
Walking into citizenM London Bankside, you immediately get that this isn’t your typical four-star hotel. The lobby buzzes with energy — it’s part co-working space, part social hub, with oversized furniture and floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the space with natural light. Honestly, it feels more like a trendy tech startup than a traditional hotel, which is exactly what they’re going for.
The Neighborhood Edge
The location is honestly brilliant if you want to experience London like a local rather than just ticking off tourist boxes. You’re in Southwark, which means Borough Market is literally around the corner — and I mean the real market where Londoners actually shop, not just the weekend tourist crowds. The Tate Modern is a five-minute walk, and you can stroll across the Millennium Bridge to St. Paul’s without fighting through Leicester Square madness.
Smart Room Design
The room itself is compact but cleverly designed — think efficiency apartment meets spaceship. Everything’s controlled through a tablet mounted by the bed, which actually works better than those hotel TVs that never make sense. The shower is powerful (thank god), and the bed is genuinely comfortable, though the room won’t win any awards for space. If you’re the type who spreads luggage everywhere, you might feel a bit cramped.
Social Spaces That Work
What really sets this place apart is how the common areas actually function. The ground floor restaurant serves decent food until late, but more importantly, it doesn’t feel awkward to work there with your laptop or grab a drink solo. The rooftop bar has those Instagram-worthy Thames views, sure, but it’s also just a pleasant spot to decompress after walking around the city all day.
Why Guests Love It
You know what I appreciate most? The staff genuinely seem to enjoy working here, which shows in how smoothly everything runs. Check-in is quick, they’re helpful without being pushy, and there’s none of that stiff formality you get at some London hotels. It’s perfect for travelers who want modern amenities and a central location without paying Covent Garden prices or dealing with stuffy hotel traditions that don’t really add value to your stay.
Guests are required to show a photo identification and credit card upon check-in
