Traveling alone in London doesn’t have to break the bank. Many hotels now offer single occupancy discounts, reducing the cost for solo travelers who occupy a room designed for two. But finding these deals requires knowing where to look. This guide covers the best London hotels with single occupancy discounts, how to avoid single supplements, and practical tips to save money on your solo trip.
Table des matières:
What Is a Single Occupancy Discount?
A single occupancy discount is a reduced rate for one person staying in a room that typically accommodates two. Hotels sometimes lower the price because you’re using fewer amenities (like towels, breakfast, or utilities). However, many hotels still charge a ‘single supplement’—an extra fee for solo travelers. The key is to find hotels that either waive this supplement or offer genuinely discounted rates for one guest.
Hotels in London That Offer Single Occupancy Discounts
Below is a curated list of hotels across London that are known for solo-friendly pricing. Always check directly with the hotel or booking site for current single rates.
1. Premier Inn
Premier Inn is a budget-friendly chain with locations throughout London. They offer a ‘Single Occupancy’ rate that is typically lower than the double rate. For example, a room that costs £120 for two might be £90 for one. No single supplement is applied.
2. Travelodge
Travelodge also provides single occupancy pricing. Their rooms are simple but clean, and you can often book a double room for single use at a reduced price. Look for ‘Saver’ rates which are usually the cheapest.
3. Point A Hotels
Point A Hotels are compact, modern, and designed for budget-conscious travelers. They offer ‘Solo’ rates that are significantly lower than standard double rates. Their rooms are small but efficient, perfect for a night’s sleep.
4. Z Hotels
Z Hotels specialize in boutique budget accommodation in central London. They have ‘Single’ rooms with a single bed, but also offer double rooms for single use at a discount. Prices vary by location.
5. The Hoxton
The Hoxton, a trendy hotel chain, sometimes offers ‘Solo’ rates or discounts for single occupancy. Their Shoreditch and Holborn properties are popular with solo travelers. Check their website for ‘Sleeper’ deals.
6. Hub by Premier Inn
Hub by Premier Inn is a compact hotel concept with smaller rooms and lower prices. They offer single occupancy rates that are often the cheapest option in central London.
7. easyHotel
easyHotel is an ultra-budget chain where you pay for the basics. Their single rooms are very affordable, and they don’t charge extra for single occupancy—you just pay for the room.
8. YHA London (Hostels with Private Rooms)
YHA hostels offer private rooms at lower rates for solo travelers. While not a hotel, they provide hotel-like amenities at hostel prices. Single rooms are available at many locations.
How to Find Single Occupancy Discounts
Not all hotels advertise single rates. Use these strategies to uncover discounts:
- Search for ‘single room’ or ‘single occupancy’ on booking sites like Booking.com or Hotels.com.
- Check the hotel’s own website for ‘Solo Traveller’ or ‘Single Use’ rates.
- Call the hotel directly and ask if they offer a discount for one person.
- Use filters on booking platforms to show only ‘single rooms’ or ‘rooms for one guest’.
- Sign up for newsletters from budget chains like Premier Inn or Travelodge for exclusive deals.
Avoiding Single Supplements
A single supplement is an extra charge that solo travelers often face. It can range from 10% to 100% of the room rate. To avoid it:
- Choose hotels that explicitly state ‘no single supplement’.
- Book ‘single rooms’ instead of ‘double for single use’—single rooms are designed for one person and usually cheaper.
- Look for ‘solo traveller’ packages that include perks like free breakfast or late checkout.
- Consider hostels with private rooms or budget chains that don’t penalize solo guests.
Comparison: Budget vs. Boutique Hotels for Solo Travelers
| Hotel Type | Single Occupancy Discount | Typical Price Range (per night) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget Chains (Premier Inn, Travelodge) | Yes, often 10-30% off double rate | £60-£120 | Budget-conscious travelers |
| Compact Hotels (Point A, Hub) | Yes, dedicated single rates | £70-£130 | Central location seekers |
| Boutique Hotels (The Hoxton, Z Hotels) | Sometimes, vary by season | £100-£200 | Style-focused solo travelers |
| Hostels with Private Rooms (YHA) | Yes, very low single rates | £40-£80 | Ultra-budget or social travelers |
Mistakes to Avoid When Booking Solo in London
- Assuming all hotels offer discounts. Many don’t. Always check before booking.
- Booking a double room without checking single rates. You might pay for two when you only need one.
- Ignoring location. A cheap hotel far from attractions may cost more in transport and time.
- Not reading cancellation policies. Solo plans can change; flexible rates are worth the extra cost.
- Forgetting about hidden fees. Some hotels add resort fees or city taxes. Confirm the total price.
Tips for Solo Travelers: Save Money on Accommodation
- Book in advance, especially during peak seasons (summer, Christmas).
- Consider staying in zones 2-3; hotels are cheaper and tube connections are good.
- Use loyalty programs—Premier Inn’s ‘Me+Rewards’ gives discounts on future stays.
- Look for ‘last minute’ deals on apps like HotelTonight.
- Join hotel mailing lists for exclusive single occupancy offers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do all London hotels offer single occupancy discounts?
No, many hotels charge a single supplement or full double rate for one person. Budget chains and hostels are more likely to offer discounts.
What is the best area in London for solo travelers?
Central areas like Covent Garden, South Bank, and Kensington are popular. For budget options, consider Earl’s Court, Paddington, or King’s Cross.
Can I get a single room in a 4-star hotel in London?
Yes, some 4-star hotels have single rooms, but they are rare. Examples include The Zetter Townhouse or The Ampersand Hotel, but expect higher prices.
How can I avoid single supplements in London hotels?
Book hotels that advertise ‘no single supplement’, choose single rooms, or use booking sites that filter for solo-friendly rates.
Are there any apps that help find single occupancy discounts?
Booking.com and Hotels.com have filters for single rooms. HotelTonight sometimes has solo deals. Also check the hotel’s own app.
What is the cheapest hotel chain for solo travelers in London?
easyHotel and Premier Inn (Hub) are among the cheapest, with single rates often under £80 per night in off-peak times.
Final Recommendations for Solo Travelers
To get the best single occupancy discount in London, start with budget chains like Premier Inn, Travelodge, or Point A Hotels. For a more central location, try Hub by Premier Inn or Z Hotels. Always compare prices on the hotel’s website and booking platforms, and call ahead to confirm single rates. Avoid paying for a double room when you only need one bed. With a little research, you can enjoy London solo without overspending on accommodation.
Photo by Gregoire Jeanneau on Unsplash
Great article! Do these discounts apply to all room types at Premier Inn, or just certain ones?
Thanks! At Premier Inn, single occupancy discounts typically apply to double or twin rooms, not all room types. It’s best to check their website and filter for ‘Single Occupancy’ rates specifically.
I’m planning a solo trip to London and was worried about high costs. This list is super helpful. Quick question: do the single rates at Point A Hotels include breakfast?
Glad it helped! Point A Hotels’ single rates usually do not include breakfast, but they often have a café or offer a breakfast add-on. Check directly with the hotel for exact inclusions.