Checking out: nhow London, the city’s coolest hotel

Blending in while standing out: Inside nhow London

East London has long been where the city's creativity brews – home to a mix of tech hubs, art galleries, vintage markets, and a nightlife scene that rarely calls it early. Straddling the edges of three of its most eclectic neighborhoods – Shoreditch, Hoxton, and Islington – is nhow London (pronounced simply now), a hotel that captures the spirit of the area: unassuming on the outside, wildly expressive within.

Opened in 2020, the hotel blends right into the heart of the city's East End revival, where converted warehouses and modern office blocks sit side by side. From the outside, you might never guess what’s inside—a riot of British iconography and contemporary art installations, from rocket-shaped Big Ben sculptures to neon signage and Union Jack sofas. But this contrast is part of its charm, balancing the neighborhood’s understated exterior with its own vibrant identity.

nhow London doesn’t just reflect its surroundings—it amplifies them. Designed with both work and play in mind, it’s particularly appealing for bleisure travelers – those who blend business trips with leisure time – offering flexible workspaces, a buzzing social atmosphere, and proximity to some of The Big Smoke’s most creative corners. Across its eight floors, the hotel houses 190 colorful rooms, a reimagined British pub-style restaurant, a lively bar, a gym, and meeting spaces known as “laboratories.” It feels less like a hotel chain and more like a creative clubhouse. My first stay at a nhow property – but certainly not my last.

Design-forward digs

The rooms at nhow London mirror the hotel’s playful spirit, blending industrial textures with bursts of color and unexpected details. Whether you opt for a twin, double, or stretch out in a Junior Suite or the Penthouse, each space feels thoughtfully curated rather than cookie-cutter. A neon-pink Queen mural and “It’s a London Thing” decal set the tone in my room, paired with soft, ambient lighting that created a warm, inviting atmosphere.

Many rooms offer views of the street or inner courtyard, while suites add extra comforts like espresso machines, generous lounge areas, and priority access to the hotel’s complimentary Brompton bikes – perfect for exploring the city on two wheels. Bathrooms are colorful and well-appointed, with rain showers and dispensers filled with pleasantly fragrant shower gel, shampoo, and conditioner. By the sink, you’ll find hand soap, body lotion, and a few thoughtful extras – including lip balm, which feels like a small victory after a windy day exploring the city (especially if, like me, you somehow forgot one of the five you swear you always carry).

A creative hub with perks

Whether your stay at nhow London is for business, pleasure, or a little of both, the hotel’s social spaces are designed to strike the right balance between energy and ease. The lobby feels like part gallery, part co-working lounge—there’s a steady hum of conversation and the soft clatter of keyboards as guests settle in beneath gold bell lights or near the sculptural LED column that shifts and flickers with digital art. You might find yourself lingering longer than planned by the glowing fireplace and people-watching.

For overnight guests, amenities include free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel, a stash of board games in the lobby, and a 24-hour gym on the lower ground floor stocked with treadmills, stationary bikes, ellipticals, weights, and complimentary towels and water.

And if you're not staying at the hotel—or just need a change of scenery from your room—the “Fully Charged Hot Desk” package (£22 or about $29) offers a day pass with coffee, lunch, and water, making it one of the city’s best-value co-working options without the usual café bustle.

Guilty pleasures (yes, the food)

Food at nhow London straddles the line between indulgent and inclusive. Guilty London—the hotel’s lobby-level restaurant—serves up global comfort dishes with strong plant-based representation, unsurprisingly, given that London is one of the world’s leading cities for vegan dining. From truffle arancini to wild mushroom risotto and a standout club sandwich, the menu caters to a range of tastes without feeling like an afterthought.

In June, the bar pays homage to Pride with delicious, themed cocktails served with flair. One of the hotel’s most Instagrammable touches? A London Eye-inspired rotating wheel, used during breakfast service to present a selection of flaky pastries and muffins—a tiered display as photogenic as it is tempting. The breakfast buffet itself is generous, offering everything from fresh fruit and vegetables to cold cuts, cheese, and yogurts, with vegan and gluten-free options clearly marked. Whether visiting for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, the atmosphere strikes the right note – bright, casual, and welcoming, without ever trying too hard to be cool.

Out and about: What's nearby

Just a 10-minute walk from Angel tube station and a mile from cultural heavyweights like St. Paul’s Cathedral and the Barbican Centre, nhow London sits at the intersection of commerce, culture, and creativity. The nearby Sadler’s Wells Theatre stages world-class contemporary dance, while the Victoria Miro Gallery offers a steady rotation of thought-provoking exhibitions. Brick Lane Market tempts a little farther away with vintage fashion, street food, and sprawling murals embodying East London’s artistic energy.

For a deeper dive into London’s cultural scene, the V&A – about 25 minutes by tube – is always high on my list of London recommendations. This iconic institution consistently delivers standout exhibitions, and it's one of those museums that never feels the same twice. For quieter moments, the Amy Winehouse statue in Camden – a 30-minute tube ride away – offers a poignant tribute to one of the city’s most beloved voices. Meanwhile, Pleasuredrome – a 24-hour gay men’s sauna tucked beneath Waterloo Station – provides a more sensual, uniquely London experience. And film lovers should seek out The Arzner, a recently opened queer cinema dedicated to LGBTQ+ storytelling in an intimate, community-focused setting.

And if you’re looking for a reliable vegan meal while out exploring, Mildreds – a London staple with several locations across the city – never disappoints. The Dalston location is the closest to nhow and makes for an easy, satisfying lunch or dinner between gallery visits or market strolls.

Your West End moment: 'The Devil Wears Prada'

Only a few tube stops away, the Dominion Theatre is now home to The Devil Wears Prada – a dazzling new musical reimagining the cult film and bestselling novel for the stage. It’s a perfect excuse to build a West End night into your itinerary while staying at nhow, especially if you’re craving a dose of fashion and pop culture nostalgia. With original music by Elton John and direction by Broadway heavyweight Jerry Mitchell, this musical is as stylish as it is camp. Vanessa Williams commands the role of Miranda Priestly, delivering her lines with delicious bite, while Georgie Buckland shines as Andy, bringing just the right mix of earnestness and grit. And Amy Di Bartolomeo steps into Emily’s stilettos with a perfectly frosty edge. The show strikes the tone beautifully – yes, even nailing that forever iconic cerulean sweater moment.

If, somehow, you've managed to avoid the cultural phenomenon, the story follows Andrea “Andy” Sachs, who lands “a job a million girls would die for” as an assistant to fashion doyenne (and boss from hell) Miranda Priestly. Adapted from Lauren Weisberger’s bestselling 2003 novel and the iconic film starring Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, and Emily Blunt, the tale of ambition, fashion, and identity remains as sharp as ever. The Dominion Theatre, best known for its 12-year run of We Will Rock You, is one of London’s largest and most storied West End venues, making it a fitting stage for this larger-than-life production. Performances run Mondays through Saturdays at 7:30 p.m., with matinees on Wednesdays and Saturdays at 2:30 p.m.. And with rumors swirling about a film sequel, there’s no better time to refresh your memory with this musical retelling.

Packing essentials for your London getaway

London’s fashion sense is all about balance – sharp tailoring softened by weather-ready essentials. Pack layers that work for grey skies and gallery nights alike. Here’s a curated edit for your next trip:

Burberry Camden Heritage Car Coat ($2,150): An enduring staple crafted for London’s streets and skies, this shower-resistant coat comes in a deep coal blue, subtly accented with Burberry’s signature check beneath the collar and lining, a subtle nod to the brand’s heritage without shouting it. It’s the kind of coat that captures the London look effortlessly, striking that balance between polished and practical. It looks just as sharp thrown over jeans as it does paired with tailored trousers.

Conner Ives' Protect the Dolls T-shirt ($99.42): Recently seen on Troye Sivan, Pedro Pascal, Tilda Swinton, Lisa Rinna, and Tom Ford's Creative Director Haider Ackermann, this Conner Ives tee blends fashion with activism. All proceeds go directly to Trans Lifeline, offering crucial support to trans communities. Produced in London, it’s both a style statement and a symbol of solidarity – perfectly layered under a coat or styled solo.

Vessi Soho Sneaker ($150): London calls for footwear that’s as adaptable as its weather. These waterproof, vegan sneakers offer day-to-night versatility, pairing just as well with jeans, tailored trousers, or shorts when the sun comes out. Colorways range from sleek black to crisp white, effortlessly styled for any itinerary.

Carmell Hydrating Dew ($249): A skincare splurge, sure – but one that pays off in days. This lightweight, super-charged hydrator revives jet-lagged, travel-weary skin with powerhouse ingredients like squalane, niacinamide (Vitamin B3), and vitamin E. Designed to plump, smooth, and brighten, it’s perfect for bringing your complexion back to life pre-landing or after a windy walk along the Thames. A little luxury in a travel-sized bottle that leaves you looking like you’ve actually slept.

Daniel Simmons Pleated Trousers ($205): I stumbled across Daniel Simmons' London-based label on Instagram, and these pleated trousers havequickly become my go-to. Made in Portugal with a smooth, crease-resistant finish (and yes, machine washable), they strike that perfect balance between tailored polish and everyday ease – ideal with a tee or paired with the brand’s drape-style shirt.

Lonely Planet’s LGBTQ+ Travel Guide ($30): Part guidebook, part manifesto, this beautifully designed volume connects travelers with queer communities in over 50+ destinations. London’s chapter spotlights venues like VFD, Dalston Superstore, and Karaoke Hole and shares stories from locals who shape the city’s LGBTQ+ scene. Edited by Alicia Valenski, a queer, neurodivergent travel writer, this book is packed with insider interviews, illustrated maps, and thoughtful safety tips. Each chapter feels like a warm recommendation from a well-traveled friend, taking the guesswork out of where to go and offering that reassuring nudge in the right direction. A worthy companion for the plane ride over as well as your coffee table back home.

Please note: Occasionally, we receive sample products. This in no way affects our editorial decision-making.

Know before you go

Rates at nhow London start from £179.00 (approximately $237) per night, though prices may vary by season and room type. Booking directly through nh-hotels.com unlocks perks like “Lazy Sundays,” with late checkout until 5 pm for NH Discovery members – perfect if you’re not in a rush to leave. The hotel is conveniently located with easy connections to Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, and Luton airports. On-site parking is available for £37 per day (just note it’s limited and falls within London’s ULEZ and congestion zones). Traveling with pets? They’re welcome too – up to two per room with advance notice.

With sister properties in Amsterdam, Berlin, Brussels, Frankfurt, Marseille, Milan, Rotterdam, and Lima (and Rome on the horizon), the nhow brand continues to carve out its own vibrant corner of hospitality.

Curious for a further glimpse? Their Instagram is a visual feast of bold design and playful details – “London’s most Instagrammable hotel,” so says their bio, and they very much make a strong case for it.