Thistle Piccadilly

Steps from Leicester Square, this hotel shares a concept with other trendy budget brands: Give them comfortable beds and free Wi-Fi, let them check in by kiosk, and then leave them alone. You get a Nespresso coffee machine, a Smart TV, an upper-grade bed, and access to a printer for boarding passes. The stripped-down staff has its drawbacks (if you need someone, you may have to wait), but for what you’re saving and the prime spot you’re scoring, big deal. Paying £180 is a sweet deal, but to lay down north of £280 would be madness; only the sublime location could validate it.