FX Excursions

FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.

Sea Containers Hotel London Review

by Aoife O'Riordan

Jul 19, 2023

© Aoife O’Riordan

eFlyer Reviews

On the south shores of the Thames River in London looms a Brutalist-style building that seems to blend into its surroundings, but, upon entering, proves it more than stands out. Sea Containers Hotel London transports you to the era of trans-Atlantic travel, when massive and glamorous steam ships took to the seas. The first hint of this homage lies in the name of the hotel, and details of this theme are incorporated throughout.

In the lobby, bronze and copper colors remind one of the exteriors of a great boat. In fact, the lobby even features a miniature model of a 1920s-style boat not unlike the Titanic. The curved copper walls are accompanied by floor lights guiding guests to either the elevators or restaurant, while the check-in desk peeks through a narrow ovular opening like the windows of a ship. One of my favorite features was the changing timetable reminiscent of a train station or port, in which fun sayings appeared.

Sea Containers

© Aoife O’Riordan

I was spoiled with a stay in the hotel’s Riverview Balcony suite, in which I had access to not one but two balconies overlooking the Thames River. On the right of the suite was a simple but sleek guest bathroom, while the main living space stretched to the first of the balconies, offering endless natural light. A modern glass table with Mid-Century-style chairs, a lounge chair and couch further added to the hotel’s approach. Curated artwork, a television and minibar with snacks and drinks rounded out the living space. Of course, I first ran out on to the balcony to take in the views. The doors open in a unique way, pulling out via a handle and then sliding to the left. It reminded me of opening a boat door, and the living room balcony featured a table and chair to soak in Southwark Bridge, St. Paul’s Cathedral and the North Bank.

Sea Containers

© Aoife O’Riordan

In the bedroom, circular mirrors; boat-style reading lights; and a continuation of the Mid-Century flair in the chairs, curtains and bedding show just how dedicated the hotel is to preserving the theme. The bedroom balcony was my favorite, as it sat at the corner and boasted two views. In addition to two chairs and a table (as well as a throw blanket), this balcony was the perfect spot to watch people below, the river, lights across the water and more.

Sea Containers London focuses on relaxation and comfort, evident through the soft bed, standalone soaking tub, separate shower and vanity with vintage-style lighting. The bathroom’s cool gray tones provide a calming environment.

For dinner, I ventured to Sea Containers Restaurant on the ground floor and sat by the window to enjoy even more views. I had to get the Riverview Spritz, a cocktail with Aperol, prosecco, crème de pêche and thyme. The excellent dinner consisted of four cheese croquettes with jalapeno mayonnaise, and burrata with tomato and basil. For mains, the Surrey farm rib eye with peppercorn sauce and egg pasta with spinach, asparagus and parmesan. No dinner is complete without ending on a sweet note, and, at the recommendation of the French waiter, it was the choux with Bramley apple and salted caramel sauce.

Sea Containers

© Aoife O’Riordan

To round out the night, I went to the rooftop bar to sip on espresso martinis. Reservations are highly encouraged to be able to sit. The views from the terrace are unbeatable.

Sea Containers Hotel London

20 Upper Ground
South Bank, London SE1 9PD
tel 44 0 20 3747 1000

Introducing

FX Excursions

FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.

Explore Excursions

#globility

Insta Feed
Daily
Mar 17, 2025

UN Tourism Announces Best Tourism Villages in 2024

From Caviahue-Copahue in Argentina to Tra Que Vegetable Village in Vietnam, travelers can now discover the 55 newest Best Tourism Villages of 2024 as researched by UN Tourism. These are not overcrowded, mass-tourism villages, but instead very rural destinations that have consolidated their position as key players in sustainable tourism and community development.

Find Your Perfect Escape with Paradisus by Meliá — More Than Just All-Inclusive

Luxury travel today is about more than just beautiful accommodations — it’s about experiencing the destination. Paradisus by Meliá takes traditional all-inclusive resorts to the next level by offering indulgence with immersion, experiences and authenticity. Each resort is shaped by its location, local flavors and curated Destination Inclusive® experiences that bring you closer to the heart of the destination.

March 2025
Mar 17, 2025

Buenos Aires Embraces Life with Art, Music, Sports and Fine Food

The fascinating city of Buenos Aires has managed to maintain its appeal for travelers despite Argentina’s roller coaster economic history.

Daily
Mar 17, 2025

Welcome the Arrival of Tulip Season in Amsterdam with Anantara Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky

Every spring, Amsterdam’s parks and fields erupt into an array of colors with the arrival of tulip season. To help travelers have the ultimate experience, Anantara Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky Amsterdam offers three curated experiences celebrating the iconic flower through historical insights, natural immersion and gourmet food.

A Summer Sojourn Along Europe’s Rivers with AmaWaterways

This summer, elevate your vacation experience with award-winning AmaWaterways. Offering a seamless blend of unparalleled luxury, authentic cultural experiences and unrivaled service, AmaWaterways cruises are the perfect way to uncover the heart of Europe during the sunniest season with itineraries that glide along the continent’s most iconic rivers, including the Danube, the Rhine, the Seine and the Douro.

Slideshow
Mar 17, 2025

6 Reasons to Put Santa Fe, New Mexico, on Your Travel List

It’s time to start dreaming of your next trip. Here’s some destination inspiration for you. Take a visual journey through Santa Fe, New Mexico, with us.

Daily
Mar 13, 2025

Sedona, Arizona, Hotel Promises Perfect Nature-Centric Stay

Immerse yourself in nature with a stay at L’Auberge de Sedona. This luxury property in Sedona, Arizona, invites travelers to reconnect with nature through its accommodations and outdoor experiences.

Royal Air Maroc Marks Five Years with oneworld: Strengthening Connectivity Between USA and Africa and Expanding Global Reach

Royal Air Maroc proudly enters its fifth year as a member of the prestigious oneworld alliance. Since joining in April 2020, RAM has demonstrated resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic, emerging as a dynamic airline that enhanced its digital services and expanded its network. The airline plans to grow its fleet to 200 aircraft by 2037, reinforcing its global presence.

Daily
Mar 13, 2025

Ancient Baths Brand Opens Second Location in New York City

AIRE Ancient Baths officially opened the doors of its second New York City location March 1, bringing even more wellness to New Yorkers and visitors. Following the success of its location in Tribeca, AIRE New York Upper East Side debuts, blending ancient traditions from Roman, Greek and Ottoman civilizations.