Sea Containers London | Rooftop Bar & Thames Views

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Sea Containers London Hotel Exterior photo

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Key details

About the Hotel

20 Upper Ground, London, SE1 9PD

Close to the Tate Modern gallery

Great

8.9

9.3

/10

4.7

4.3

Loved by Sea Containers London guests

Attentive staff

Magical views

Spacious rooms

Delicious breakfast

Prime location

Great water pressure

"During the day the view from our top floor room wasn't anything special as it faced the side but by night when the whole area is beautifully lit up, it was delightful."

Kavita from United Kingdom

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"The amenities of the coffee bar, lounge, and restaurant on the Thames with open-air seating into the restaurant was very nice and the food was very good."

Ron B from United States

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"We upgraded to the Thames view and it felt like we were actually on a ship."

Alaina from United States

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4-star South Bank hotel with transatlantic-inspired design

Amenities

Sea Containers London offers three distinct dining venues including Sea Containers Restaurant, Lyaness, and the rooftop bar 12th Knot, each serving a variety of seasonal dishes and cocktails. An impressive Curzon cinema within the hotel provides a unique movie experience with stylish seating and state-of-the-art projection. For fitness enthusiasts, a fully equipped gym and the aguas spa offer personalized treatments and relaxation options.

Rooms

The hotel features 359 guest rooms and suites with designer furnishings by Tom Dixon, including Rainfall showers and king or queen beds. The Riverview Balcony Suite stands out with its spacious layout and private balcony overlooking the Thames, providing beautiful vistas of London's skyline. Each room is thoughtfully designed with modern comforts, making it a comfortable base for exploring the city.

Location

Situated on the South Bank, Sea Containers London is strategically placed for easy access to London's key attractions such as the Tate Modern, London Eye, and National Theatre. The hotel lies within walking distance of Waterloo station, making commutes simple for business travelers or tourists. Guests can immerse themselves in the cultural energy of the city while staying in this prime riverside location.

Wellness

agua spa at Sea Containers offers personalized treatments, a steam room, and a relaxation lounge that enhance the wellness experience for guests. The spa uses quality products and techniques to ensure a rejuvenating experience. Additionally, the state-of-the-art gym is available for guests looking to maintain their fitness routine during their stay.

Dining

At Sea Containers Restaurant, guests can enjoy a seasonal menu crafted with local produce and an emphasis on sharing plates. The award-winning bar, Lyaness, celebrates creativity in cocktails through unique ingredient pairings and an engaging atmosphere. The rooftop bar 12th Knot offers stunning views of the Thames while serving a variety of wines and cocktails, providing a lively spot to unwind.

Highlights

Location: South Bank, easy access to London's key attractions

Rooms: Riverview Balcony Suite with private balcony

Dining: Sea Containers Restaurant offering seasonal dishes

Wellness: agua spa and state-of-the-art gym

Entertainment: Curzon cinema with stylish seating

Must-do experiences

Savor a traditional Sunday roast at The Fox & Anchor nearby.
Visit the iconic Tate Modern to admire contemporary art for free.
Stroll through Borough Market for unique food stalls and local flavors.
Discover the historical charm of the Temple Church, often overlooked.
Experience the vibrant Southbank Centre for live performances and events.

Location: Perfect

9.5/10Review score

See hotel location on map

Guest Emotional Experience

Perfect for Finding FriendsMeet me there!

“Rooftop bar had a great vibe and a wonderful view.”

Corrinne from United Kingdom

Away at HomeWelcome home

“When we returned later that day, housekeeping took the effort to get a vase and placed the flowers in the vase - nice touch!!”

Ron B from United States

Quiet Nights for Busy DaysSleep guaranteed

“The rooms are completely soundproof (something that is very important for my sleep) wonderfully modern and clean and with a great mini bar!”

Jodie from Italy

Choose the Room

From cosy doubles to spacious family suites – all with flexible options, breakfast, and exclusive deals.

Mid Century Cabin Suite
2 persons
55 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Bathtub
Shower
room details
Dynasty Cabin Suite
2 persons
55 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Bathtub
Shower
room details
Art Deco Cabin Suite
2 persons
55 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Bathtub
Shower
room details

Show all rooms

Check Dates & Room Rates

See what's available for your travel dates

September 2026 - September 2027

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Check-in/ Check-out

Amenities

Thoughtfully designed amenities for a comfortable & memorable stay

Facilities: Perfect

9.1/10Review score

General

No smoking on site
Wi-Fi
Parking
Safe deposit box
24-hour reception
VIP check-in/ -out
Express check-in/ -out
Pets allowed
Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
Wheelchair access
24-hour security
Luggage storage
Locker room
Lift
Coffee shop
Smoke detectors
Electric vehicle charging station
Fire extinguishers
Key card access
Key access

Sports & Fitness

Fitness centre

Guest Parking

Private parking is possible on site at true.

Services

Room service
Housekeeping
Laundry
Dry cleaning
Welcome drink

Dining

In-room breakfast
Restaurant
Snack bar
Bar/ Lounge area
Outdoor dining area
Special diet menus

Business

Meeting/ Banquet facilities

Children

Cots
Children's buffet

Facilities for people with disabilities

Toilet for disabled
Bathroom for disabled

Spa & Leisure

Entertainment
Spa & wellness centre
Steam room
Body scrub
Facial
Treatment room
Body wraps
Back massage
Head massage
Full body massage
Foot massage

Room features

Air conditioning
Heating
Mini-bar
Sitting area
Patio
Terrace
Garden furniture
Tea and coffee facilities
Dining table
Ironing facilities

Bathroom

Free toiletries

Self-catering

Electric kettle

Media

Flat-screen TV
AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

Carpeted floor

Dining Onsite

Sea Containers London offers a delightful array of dining experiences, blending British cuisine with locally sourced ingredients. Guests can savor flavors while enjoying scenic views of the River Thames or the city's stunning skyline.

Sea Containers
British
Ambiance
Set along the river walk, with options for outdoor seating. The interior boasts a sleek, modern design, ideal for both socializing and intimate dinners.
Key Offerings
Highlights include picnic-style delicacies such as chipotle lobster rolls and smoked BBQ jackfruit sliders, with the unique touch of Guinness ice cream for dessert. The private dining room accommodates up to 22 guests with a secluded terrace, adorned with original 'S' and 'C' lettering from the venue's rich history.
Reservation
Recommended for larger groups.
Open for brunch, lunch, and dinner from 12:00 to 21:30 daily.
Lyaness
Craft cocktails and bar snacks
Ambiance
Vibrant and energetic, this renowned bar offers an inviting setting with stylish decor. It features an inclusive environment perfect for both casual meetings and lively gatherings.
Key Offerings
Voted the world's best bar, Lyaness serves innovative drinks crafted with precision, alongside an enticing menu of bar snacks. Guests can enjoy the lively atmosphere while indulging in expertly mixed cocktails and well-curated small bites.
Reservation
Recommended, especially during peak hours.
Hours vary; please check for specific service times.

Sea Containers London Location

20 Upper Ground, London, SE1 9PD

Explore London

Local Highlights

Tate Modern

8 minutes' walk

Renowned modern art gallery with free admission to permanent collections. Features contemporary pieces and immersive exhibitions.

Shakespeare's Globe

9 minutes' walk

Reconstructed playhouse celebrating Shakespeare. Offers guided tours and performances. Scenic views along the Thames enhance visits.

Borough Market

17 minutes' walk

Historic food market featuring artisan producers. Sample international cuisine and fresh local goods in a vibrant atmosphere.

London Bridge

20 minutes' walk

Iconic bridge with stunning river views. Close to attractions like the Shard and Borough Market, making it a photo-worthy spot.

Thames River Cruise

10 minutes' walk

Scenic boat ride offering unique views of London's landmarks. Cruises vary in duration and can be booked on-site or online.

Yoga at Southbank Centre

10 minutes' walk

Relaxing yoga sessions with river views; ideal for unwinding. Classes are often available and may require advance booking.

Escape Rooms in London Bridge

20 minutes' walk

Thrilling challenges for groups at local escape rooms. Perfect for adventurous couples or friends looking for a fun experience.

OXO Tower Restaurant

3 minutes' walk

Contemporary setting with river views. Offers seasonal British dishes and an impressive wine list. Reservations are recommended.

Sea Containers Restaurant

3 minutes' walk

Stylish dining with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients. Known for its modern international cuisine and chic atmosphere.

12th Knot

2 minutes' walk

Rooftop bar with panoramic views of the Thames. Known for innovative cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere, perfect for sunset sips.

Southbank Centre

10 minutes' walk

Cultural hub with music, art, and performance events. Hosts family-friendly activities and diverse shows throughout the year.

The Old Vic

15 minutes' walk

Iconic theater known for world-class productions. Offers a range of performances from dramas to comedies; check schedule for events.

Getting around

City Centre
London 18 min · 5000 ft
Airports
London City (LCY) 20 min · 8.2 mi
London Heathrow (LHR) 44 min · 18.2 mi
Train
Blackfriars Railway Station 6 min · 1700 ft
Underground
Blackfriars Underground Station 6 min · 1700 ft

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 15:00-23:59

Check-out

until 12 pm

Guest Parking

Private parking is possible on site at true.

Internet

Wireless internet is available in the entire hotel for free.

Breakfast

The hotel Sea Containers London serves a full breakfast for free.

Pets

Pets are allowed on request.

Languages

English, German, Spanish, Italian, Dutch, Portuguese, Swedish, Danish, Czech, Hungarian, Romanian, Chinese, Polish, Russian, Turkish, Arabic, Bulgarian, Croatian, Lithuanian, Latvian, Slovak, Serbian

Number of floors:

Number of rooms:

404

Former name

Mondrian London

Guest Ratings & Reviews

Real Guest Experiences & Ratings

Review summary

Based on recent reviews

Guests consistently praise the modern and clean nautical-themed ambiance, with some finding the gray bathroom decor a bit drab. The hotel's location is ideal for exploring, being within walking distance of the South Bank and a convenient 10-minute journey from London Waterloo, plus close to the Blackfriars tube station. Many appreciate the spacious rooms and the rooftop bar that offers fine views; also, breakfast is abundant and enjoyable.

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Review score

Based on 4394 verified reviews

8.9 /10

Great

91 %

Recommend

Location

9.5/10

Cleanliness

9.4/10

Value for money

8.3/10

Free WiFi

8.8/10

Pros

Great location

Clean rooms

Pleasant staff

Excellent facilities

Cons

Slow service

Expensive drinks

Christina from Sweden

Couple

River View Balcony Suite

4 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: February 12, 2026

9/10

sparkling water rooftop view quick room service

The hotel had water dispensers on every floor that provided both still and sparkling water. The rooftop bar offered fine views. Room service was quick.

The grey paint used throughout the bathroom seemed a little drab.

0 Helpful

Eva from Germany

Couple

River View Balcony Suite

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: January 09, 2026

9/10

a tender escape on the thames

smooth check-in fine views balcony suite warm welcome

our river view balcony suite was amazing, it felt as if we were floating on the water. the check-in process flowed so smoothly, i felt warmly welcomed. the rooftop bar provided fine views, it was a great experience.

the wifi signal was not consistently strong in all areas of the hotel, it was slightly inconvenient.

Rooms

9/10

the suite featured floor-to-ceiling windows that offered panoramic river views, it was AMAZING!!! the bathroom included a separate soaking tub and a rainfall shower. the room provided a comfortable seating area with plush furnishings, it was gorgeous!!!

0 Helpful

Jennifer from United Kingdom

Couple

River View Balcony Suite

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 18, 2025

9.4/10

Exquisite Stay by the River

spacious suite comfortable furnishings friendly staff

The staff's friendliness impressed me. The suite was spacious and included comfortable furnishings. I enjoyed the shower and slept well on the comfortable bed.

The minibar selection could have been more extensive for a hotel of this caliber.

Location

9/10

The hotel allows easy access to several Thames bars and restaurants. Central locations are easily walkable.. The Tate Modern is also within walking distance from the hotel.

Facilities

9/10

The hotel provides simple access to Blackfriars Tube station. The Thames pathway is near, allowing walking access to the river. The hotel design feels boutique, even though it is a large hotel.

Dining

10/10

The bar offered delicious drinks and food. The bar staff paid close attention to details. As a honeymoon gift, the reception gave us prosecco.

Service

10/10

The staff were helpful and super friendly throughout the hotel. The hotel offered early check-in upon arrival. I needed to leave my case early and the service was prompt.

Rooms

9/10

The River View Balcony Suite had mini-bar items and snacks. Free water was available as well as tea and Nespresso coffee. I recommend paying extra for the river view.

0 Helpful

harper from canada

Couple

river view deluxe

4 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 13, 2025

9.0/10

riverside dreams

attentive staff unique maritime design fresh fruit

i found the staff attentive , offering assistance with directions and recommendations. the design of the room featured unique maritime touches. the breakfast buffet included a wide variety of fresh fruit and pastries , ensuring a good start to each day.

i noticed slight wear and tear on the carpets in the hallway , nothing too bad.

Location

9/10

the hotel is situated directly on the riverbank offering easy access to riverside walks. proximity to cultural attractions makes exploration simple , ensuring convenient access to many of this city's landmarks. the area provides both tranquility and accessibility.

Facilities

9/10

the fitness center has treadmills , elliptical machines , and free weights. the spa offers a range of treatments , from massages to facials. a rooftop terrace provides fine city views for hotel guests.

Service

10/10

daily housekeeping keeps rooms tidy. room service is available 24 hours , catering to late-night cravings and early risers.

Dining

8/10

the hotel restaurant features a menu with locally sourced ingredients. the bar offers an extensive cocktail list and a selection of fine wines. breakfast options include a buffet with hot and cold dishes. à la carte options.

0 Helpful

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Questions of the users

About Sea Containers London

Is a cooked breakfast available? Additionally, are there gluten-free, wheat-free, and dairy-free options for the breakfast menu?

12 February 2024

Dietary requirements can be accommodated. Simply inform a staff member when ordering or seek clarifications from the menu.

Are irons provided in the guest rooms?

16 March 2024

Each room comes equipped with an iron and ironing board, conveniently located in the wardrobe.

Is spa access available for guests? Can treatments be booked?

29 April 2024

Guests enjoy complimentary access to the spa. Treatments and massages can be scheduled through the spa staff based on availability and pricing.

Do any room packages include breakfast?

24 May 2024

Breakfast is included with select packages. Be sure to check the package description during the booking process.

Are baby cots available free of charge?

4 June 2024

Baby cots are provided at no extra cost. It's best to inform the hotel prior to arrival so arrangements can be made.

Can dogs accompany guests in the hotel? Are there restrictions on where they can go?

15 July 2024

Dogs are welcome in guest rooms, the lobby, and the Den area. However, they are not permitted in food and drink outlets such as the restaurant and bar.

Which floors have rooms with balconies?

23 August 2024

Rooms with balconies are situated on the 3rd, 4th, and 5th floors of the hotel.

Are there any smoking areas in the river view suites?

10 September 2024

Smoking is permitted on the terrace of the River View Balcony Suite or the Superior Patio, provided that doors remain shut to keep smoke from entering the room.

What is the minimum age requirement for guest check-in?

19 October 2024

Guests must be at least 18 years old to check in. The hotel sincerely apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause.

Can an early check-in be requested prior to the standard time?

16 November 2024

Requests for early check-in can be made, but availability will be determined on the day of arrival. Bags can be stored if the room is not ready.