Sea Containers London review
Sea Containers London review
A stylish yet welcoming spot on the South Bank
The iconic Sea Containers House on London’s South Bank was designed back in 1974 by American Modernist architect Warren Platner. It’s certainly imposing, even more so with its blue neon sign.
The building was originally meant to be a hotel but, instead, it became offices and it wasn’t until 2014 that the south wing was turned into a rather lavish hotel. It was then the Mondrian, in 2019 it was further developed and became Sea Containers London.
I had visited once before – coming without the children and making the most of the ground floor cocktail bar (Lyaness, created by bar legend Ryan Chetiyawardana) and the and the swanky rooftop bar with its stunning views.
This time round, we came with the kids. It would be a different experience for sure but could it still impress?
The reception is still one of the most striking in London, a sleek copper space inspired by the hull of a ship. Unfortunately the bar was, by the time we arrived, out of bounds (it’s over 16s only after 5pm) but we were just in time to enjoy the sunset from our bedrooms.
Our two interconnecting rooms overlooked some office buildings and onto the gorgeous London skyline, including the London Eye, and a quite remarkable view of the side of the OXO tower, which I’ve never seen from this angle. So far, the teen and the tween were impressed. We unpacked and headed out for the evening.
The location is perfect, being right on the South Bank so you can benefit from all the restaurants, bars and the cultural venues nearby. Equally, you can stay put in the hotel as there’s a restaurant and a plush cinema in the basement.
After our wander around London, our rooms offered a very comfortable stay, so much so that our plan to get in an early breakfast and head to the attractions before all the tourist hordes arrived was somewhat scuppered by a lie-in. We found breakfast at peak time to be a busy affair and probably better enjoyed early on.
While we’d not benefitted from the bars this visit, we discovered that Sea Containers London is a stylish spot that caters well for all. Family packages are available, which includes kids’ meals for half price and in-room movies and popcorn. It’s dog friendly too. There’s also a range of offerings for Thanksgiving and Christmas. We’ll be keeping an eye out.
- Rooms at Sea Containers London start £262 for a Standard room.
