A New Chapter in South Bank at Hilton London Bankside

At Hilton London Bankside, transformation has unfolded in real time. Hard hats, tight deadlines and a hotel that continued operating at around 90 percent occupancy tell part of the story. The rest is visible in the details.

“Seamless,” the general manager says with a smile, walking through corridors that were open air less than a year ago.

Inspired by the industrial heritage of Bankside, the original rooms featured dark tones and steel accents, echoing the warehouses that once defined this stretch of London. Today, with cultural landmarks such as Tate Modern and Shakespeare's Globe drawing visitors from around the world, the neighbourhood feels expressive and creative. The hotel has evolved alongside it.

The redesign forms part of a significant expansion, adding 76 newly designed rooms and suites to the property. Within that addition are brand new room categories and several new suites, bringing the hotel’s total suite count to 23. The project increases both capacity and choice, while elevating the overall experience.

“We wanted to create spaces that feel like art, but are as comfortable as home,” the team explains.

Softer lighting, warmer tones and bold artwork inspired by Blackfriars Bridge and the River Thames bring a lighter energy to the interiors. Sculptural headboards, angular mirrors and bespoke finishes give the rooms personality without overwhelming them. Gold accents replace heavier industrial touches. The atmosphere feels more residential, yet still connected to its architectural roots.

Flexibility runs throughout the design. Interconnecting rooms make family stays seamless. Sofas convert easily into beds. The Two Queen Superior Room offers generous space for families or friends travelling together. “We wanted to make city stays effortless for families, without compromising on luxury,” the team adds.

Wellness has also become a defining theme. The Premium Peloton Room features a dedicated fitness alcove filled with natural light and a personal Peloton Bike. On the upper floors, suites offer expansive living areas and panoramic views across the skyline. Some include private wellness spaces with customisable lighting, sound and scent, while spa-style walk-in showers add an extra layer of indulgence. Private gyms developed in collaboration with Technogym reinforce the focus on wellbeing.

The King Junior Landmark View Suite frames iconic sights including The Shard through floor-to-ceiling windows, while the King Premier One Bedroom Suite offers a spacious lounge and dining area ideal for families of four. Each suite feels distinct, contributing to the hotel’s now 23-strong suite collection.

Perhaps most impressive is that the hotel never closed. Construction progressed floor by floor while guests continued to check in and out below. Every room was tested before opening, every finish carefully reviewed.

There is a quiet confidence in the final result. The building still carries traces of its industrial past, but the mood is warmer, brighter and fully aligned with the cultural pulse of modern Bankside.

Rooms are set to open for stays from February 2026, offering a refreshed way to experience London’s South Bank in comfort, creativity and style.