The Sanctuary House Hotel, Westminster, London
Historic Victorian charm meets modern comfort in the heart of Westminster, steps from London’s iconic landmarks and a traditional British pub.
The Sanctuary House Hotel is a charming 3.5-star boutique hotel located in the heart of Westminster, London. Housed in a Victorian-era building, it offers elegant accommodations with modern amenities, a traditional British pub, and an enviable location just steps from iconic landmarks like Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, and St James's Park. This eco-certified hotel combines historic character with contemporary comfort, making it ideal for travelers seeking a quintessential London experience.
A brief summary to The Sanctuary
- London, GB
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Book early to secure rooms with courtyard views for a quieter stay away from street noise.
- Enjoy a traditional full English breakfast in the hotel’s Ale & Pie pub to start your day authentically.
- Take advantage of the hotel’s proximity to Westminster Abbey and St James’s Park for early morning sightseeing.
- Ask the multilingual staff for recommendations on nearby dining and hidden local gems.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the London Underground to St James's Park Station on the Circle or District lines, located just a 2-minute walk from the hotel. Trains run frequently every 2-5 minutes, and a single journey from central London zones costs approximately £2.50 with an Oyster card or contactless payment.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from London City Airport to The Sanctuary House Hotel takes about 30-40 minutes depending on traffic, costing around £40-£55. Note that parking is not available at the hotel, so drop-off only is recommended.
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Walking
If staying nearby, walking to the hotel is a pleasant option. From Buckingham Palace, it is a 10-minute walk over mostly flat terrain through scenic St James's Park. The route is wheelchair accessible and suitable for all fitness levels.
The Sanctuary location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Sanctuary
A Historic Gem in the Heart of Westminster
Nestled in a Victorian building dating back to the late 19th century, The Sanctuary House Hotel exudes historic charm with its elaborate Baroque staircase, rococo plasterwork ceilings, and classic architectural details. The hotel occupies eight connecting buildings and has been sumptuously renovated to blend period features with modern comfort. Its central location on Tothill Street places guests just a minute’s walk from St James's Park and Westminster Abbey, immersing visitors in London’s rich cultural and political heritage.Comfort and Character in Every Room
The hotel offers 34 well-appointed rooms featuring contemporary amenities such as air conditioning, flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, free Wi-Fi, and in-room refrigerators and coffee makers. Bathrooms are equipped with both tubs and separate showers, complemented by complimentary toiletries. The décor balances tasteful modern touches with cozy comfort, ensuring a restful stay despite the bustling city outside. Many rooms overlook a quiet internal courtyard, providing a peaceful retreat.A Taste of Traditional British Hospitality
Guests can enjoy a full English breakfast served in the hotel’s welcoming pub, The Ale & Pie, which also offers a menu of refined British pub classics made from fresh, seasonal ingredients. The pub atmosphere is warm and convivial, featuring a well-stocked bar with a selection of modern craft beers and classic cask ales. This combination of fine food and authentic ambiance makes it a favorite spot for both hotel guests and locals.Unmatched Location for Sightseeing and Business
The Sanctuary House’s prime Westminster location places it within easy walking distance of London’s most iconic landmarks: Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, the London Eye, and Trafalgar Square. The nearby St James's Park Tube Station offers excellent public transport connections, while Victoria Station is also within a 15-minute walk. This makes the hotel an excellent base for tourists and business travelers alike, especially those attending conferences at nearby venues.Commitment to Sustainability and Guest Experience
Recognized with a Green Tourism Silver Award, The Sanctuary House Hotel demonstrates a strong commitment to sustainable practices, including energy efficiency and community engagement. The hotel’s staff are multilingual and known for their friendly, helpful service, enhancing the guest experience with personalized attention. Accessibility features such as step-free access and assistance dog welcome policies ensure inclusivity.Atmosphere and Amenities for a Memorable Stay
Despite its central location above a lively pub, the hotel maintains a peaceful ambiance with soundproofed rooms and quiet courtyards. Amenities include 24-hour reception, free superfast Wi-Fi, room service, baby changing facilities, and cots for families. The hotel’s blend of historic elegance, modern convenience, and authentic British charm offers visitors a memorable London stay.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Millicent Garrett Fawcett Statue
0.2 km
Honoring Millicent Garrett Fawcett, the first woman commemorated in Parliament Square, inspiring equality through her iconic statue and legacy.
Statue of George V
0.2 km
A dignified white Portland stone statue honoring King George V, standing proudly in Westminster’s historic Old Palace Yard.
Statue of Oliver Cromwell
0.2 km
A commanding bronze tribute to Oliver Cromwell, standing outside Westminster Hall as a symbol of Britain’s turbulent 17th-century history and contested legacy.
Westminster Hall
0.3 km
Step into Westminster Hall, a majestic medieval masterpiece that has witnessed a millennium of British history, law, and monarchy.
Cockpit Steps
0.3 km
Discover Cockpit Steps, a hidden historic passage in Westminster where London’s royal cockfighting past meets ghostly legend and quiet charm.
His Majesty's Treasury
0.3 km
The historic and strategic heart of the UK government’s economic policy, located in the iconic government district of Westminster, London.
Clive Steps
0.3 km
A Grade II-listed bronze statue commemorating the controversial architect of British imperial power in India.
Clive of India Memorial
0.3 km
A towering Edwardian statue in London commemorating Robert Clive, founder of British rule in India, embodying imperial triumph and controversy.
King Charles Street
0.3 km
Explore King Charles Street, a historic London government hub famed for its grand Victorian architecture and pivotal role in British political life.
King Charles Street Arch
0.3 km
A grand 1908 triple-arched gateway in London’s Whitehall, rich in sculptural detail and historical significance.
The Cenotaph
0.4 km
Britain’s national war memorial in Whitehall, a solemn tribute to the fallen of the World Wars and later conflicts.
10 Downing Street
0.4 km
Iconic London residence and office of the UK Prime Minister, steeped in centuries of political history and power.
10 Downing St
0.4 km
Discover the historic seat of British leadership, where iconic moments and political power converge behind the famous black door.
The Women of World War II
0.5 km
A powerful bronze tribute in Whitehall honoring over seven million British women’s vital roles during World War II.
Chindit Memorial
0.5 km
A solemn tribute in London honoring the daring Chindit special forces and their leader Major General Orde Wingate’s legacy.
Unmissable attractions to see
Dean's Yard
0.1 km
A historic, tranquil green courtyard nestled within Westminster Abbey’s precincts, blending monastic heritage with collegiate charm.
Central Hall Westminster
0.1 km
Iconic Grade II* listed venue with Europe’s largest self-supporting dome, hosting historic and modern events in central London.
Westminster Abbey
0.1 km
Discover the majestic Gothic abbey where British monarchs have been crowned since 1066 and history echoes through every stone.
The Supreme Court
0.1 km
Explore the UK's highest court in a stunning neo-Gothic building at the heart of London’s political and judicial district.
St Margaret's Church
0.2 km
Explore the serene St Margaret's Church, a historic Anglican church in London, next to Westminster Abbey, rich in history and stunning architecture.
Mahatma Gandhi statue
0.2 km
A dignified bronze tribute to Gandhi’s peaceful legacy, standing humbly among world leaders in the heart of London’s historic Parliament Square.
Parliament Square Garden
0.2 km
A historic green oasis in Westminster, offering iconic views and monuments at the heart of London’s political heritage.
Jewel Tower
0.2 km
Discover the Jewel Tower, a medieval fortress guarding royal treasures and parliamentary history opposite London’s iconic Houses of Parliament.
Parliament Sq
0.2 km
Historic London square at the heart of British democracy, adorned with iconic statues and framed by world-famous landmarks.
Sir Winston Churchill statue
0.2 km
Iconic bronze statue of Winston Churchill in Parliament Square, symbolizing British resilience and leadership during World War II.
Palace of Westminster
0.3 km
Discover the architectural splendor and historical significance of the Palace of Westminster, the iconic heart of British democracy in London.
Churchill War Rooms
0.3 km
Britain's secret wartime headquarters where Churchill directed the fight against Nazi tyranny from underground bunkers beneath Westminster.
Bridge St
0.3 km
Historic Bridge Street in London offers riverside views, rich heritage, and vibrant urban life beside the iconic London Bridge.
Royal Court
0.3 km
London’s Royal Court Theatre: A historic beacon for groundbreaking new plays and emerging playwrights in the heart of Sloane Square.
Big Ben
0.3 km
Explore Big Ben, London's iconic clock tower, a cultural landmark and symbol of British history, attracting millions of tourists each year.
Essential places to dine
The Pem
0.3 km
Elegant modern British dining in Westminster, honoring heritage with exquisite seasonal menus and refined ambiance.
Ma La Sichuan
0.3 km
Experience authentic, boldly spiced Sichuan cuisine in the heart of Westminster with vibrant flavors and a welcoming atmosphere.
Caxton Grill
0.3 km
Refined British grill cuisine with fresh rooftop garden produce in a relaxed Westminster setting inside St Ermin’s Hotel.
Mio Restaurant & Bar
0.4 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality await you in this cozy central London gem with generous portions and great value.
Osteria dell'Angolo
0.5 km
Classic Italian flavors and fresh pasta in a warm, elegant Westminster setting with attentive service and a visible kitchen.
Chez Antoinette Victoria
0.5 km
Authentic French bistro in London’s Victoria offering classic Lyonnais and Parisian dishes in a cozy, Parisian-style setting.
Colosseo Restaurant
0.5 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of London’s Victoria at Colosseo Restaurant.
Sapori
0.5 km
Enjoy authentic Italian cuisine with generous portions and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Westminster, London.
OKAN South Bank
0.8 km
Experience authentic Osaka-style okonomiyaki and Japanese street food in a cozy, lively South Bank eatery with friendly service and a nostalgic vibe.
Ekstedt at The Yard
0.8 km
Experience Nordic wood-fired cuisine by Michelin-starred chef Niklas Ekstedt in the historic Great Scotland Yard Hotel, blending ancient fire cooking with British seasonal ingredients.
Troia Southbank
0.8 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine with halal options in a vibrant riverside setting near the London Eye.
Park Plaza London Westminster Bridge
0.9 km
Stylish 4-star hotel on London’s South Bank with exceptional dining, event spaces, and modern amenities near iconic landmarks.
The Garden
0.9 km
A Mediterranean-inspired garden oasis offering refined seafood and elegant dining in the heart of London’s Corinthia Hotel.
The Northall
0.9 km
Refined British dining with seasonal flair in a grand, elegant setting at Corinthia London’s distinguished restaurant.
Bill's Victoria Restaurant
0.9 km
A vibrant British eatery near Victoria Station offering hearty classics, sharing plates, and plant-based dishes in a cozy, casual setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Westminster Abbey Shop
0.0 km
Discover exclusive Abbey-inspired gifts and souvenirs that support Westminster Abbey’s heritage and conservation efforts.
Jubilee Shop (Houses of Parliament Gift Shop)
0.2 km
Discover exclusive British political gifts and souvenirs inside the historic Westminster Hall at the Jubilee Shop, Houses of Parliament.
Houses of Parliament Shop
0.3 km
Discover parliamentary pride in souvenirs, books, and gifts at this cozy Bridge Street boutique, steps from Westminster's iconic halls.
Browns of London
0.6 km
Explore Browns of London for unique handcrafted gifts and local treasures in the heart of the city, perfect for memorable souvenirs from your travels.
Gift Shop - London Eye Shop
0.8 km
Capture London's magic at the London Eye Gift Shop: exclusive souvenirs, Thames views, and iconic keepsakes from the wheel's base.
Crest of London Ltd
0.8 km
Discover authentic London souvenirs and local crafts at Crest of London Ltd, your premier gift shop in historic Whitehall.
Cardinal Place
0.9 km
Experience the ultimate shopping and dining destination at Cardinal Place, London’s vibrant commercial hub near Victoria Station.
Custom Gifts By Jupiter
0.9 km
Unleash creativity with bespoke gifts and custom decor from this South Bank artisan haven near the Thames and iconic landmarks.
Berry Bros. & Rudd Wine Shop
0.9 km
London’s oldest family-run wine merchant since 1698, blending royal tradition with expert wine and spirits in a historic Pall Mall setting.
Lock & Co. Hatters
0.9 km
Discover the world’s oldest hat shop, where centuries of British style and craftsmanship come to life in the heart of London.
The Queen's Shop
0.9 km
Exclusive royal gifts and British heritage souvenirs steps from Buckingham Palace, blending luxury, tradition, and timeless elegance in a charming London boutique.
John Lobb St. James
1.0 km
Where 170 years of royal patronage meets handcrafted perfection in every stitch.
Buckingham Palace Shop
1.0 km
Official royal souvenirs at the palace gates: chinaware, gifts, and memorabilia that bring Buckingham Palace's grandeur home with you. (162 characters)
Gifts of London
1.0 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Gifts of London, your perfect shopping destination.
Cool Britannia
1.0 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and vintage photography moments just steps from Buckingham Palace in a lively and welcoming shop.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Westminster Arms
0.1 km
Historic Westminster pub with parliamentary division bell, Shepherd Neame ales, and cozy alcoves steps from Abbey and Parliament—timeless British charm in political heart.
Blue Boar Pub
0.2 km
Traditional Westminster pub serving hearty British classics in a cozy, historic setting near Abbey and Parliament—perfect for ales, roasts, and relaxed evenings.
Two Chairmen
0.2 km
Traditional Westminster pub serving hearty pies, fresh ales, and classic British cheer just steps from St. James's Park and Parliament.
The Red Lion, Parliament Street
0.4 km
A venerable Westminster corner pub — late‑Victorian fittings, political atmosphere and a long history beside Downing Street and Parliament.
Adam & Eve
0.5 km
Classic Westminster pub pouring real ales and hearty grub amid historic streets—a cozy haven near Parliament and the Abbey for authentic London pints.
All Bar One Victoria
0.6 km
Sophisticated wines, global bites, and lively vibes on Victoria Street – London's go-to for stylish drinks and casual feasts near Westminster's heart.
The Spy Bar
0.7 km
Step into London’s secret subterranean bar where espionage history meets masterful cocktails and exclusive, no-photos privacy.
Le Champagne Bar
0.8 km
A compact riverside champagne lounge beside the London Eye—perfect for a celebratory flute and framed Thames views.
Old Shades
0.8 km
Historic Whitehall pub pouring cask ales and pub classics since 1898, steps from Trafalgar Square—a true taste of London tradition.
Primo Bar, London
0.9 km
Sophisticated South Bank cocktails and live jazz with Big Ben views—Primo Bar blends daytime lounge ease with electrifying nightly performances in stylish 60s-inspired surrounds.
All Bar One Waterloo
0.9 km
Sophisticated South Bank bar serving creative cocktails, sharing plates, and wines in a lively spot near Waterloo Station and the London Eye.
Slug & Lettuce - County Hall
0.9 km
Chic South Bank cocktail haven in County Hall: bottomless brunches, 2-for-1 sips, pub classics, and Thames views for London's liveliest lunches and nights out.
The Thirsty Farrier Cocktail Bar
0.9 km
A vibrant London cocktail bar offering expertly crafted seasonal drinks with scenic riverside views and a welcoming atmosphere.
Tamesis Dock
1.0 km
A vibrant floating bar and live music venue on a historic barge with iconic Thames views between Lambeth and Vauxhall Bridges.
Bar @ 26 Leake Street
1.0 km
Experience London’s vibrant street art and nightlife culture at 26 Leake Street, a unique cocktail bar and event venue in Waterloo’s iconic graffiti tunnels.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Boat Show Comedy Club
0.7 km
London’s premier floating comedy club aboard the historic Tattershall Castle, blending laughter with iconic riverside views and vibrant nightlife.
TSQ Club
0.9 km
Dive into Trafalgar Square's nightlife pulse at TSQ Club, where eclectic beats, dazzling lights, and craft cocktails fuel unforgettable weekend nights in London's heart.
Cirque Du Soul
0.9 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
0.9 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
1.0 km
Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
Heaven
1.0 km
London’s iconic gay superclub under the railway arches — big nights, loud music, drag, and late finishes in the heart of the West End.
The Scotch of St James
1.1 km
Legendary Mayfair speakeasy where 60s rock stars jammed and today's elite dance till dawn in velvet-clad intimacy.
Tiger Tiger London
1.2 km
Experience London’s iconic Haymarket nightclub with six vibrant rooms, lively DJs, and a dynamic party atmosphere just moments from Piccadilly Circus.
Luxe Club
1.2 km
Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
Café de Paris
1.2 km
Step into London’s iconic West End nightclub where history, glamour, and electrifying cabaret create unforgettable nights.
Tabu London
1.3 km
Escape Mayfair's polish for Tokyo's neon-lit Shinjuku alleys at Tabu London—retro gaming vibes, caged dancers, hip-hop beats, and upscale bites fuel epic nights.
The Penthouse London
1.3 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
Zoo Bar & Club
1.3 km
Dive into Leicester Square's edgy nightlife hub: two floors of R&B beats, sports screens, and wild energy until 3am at Zoo Bar & Club.
The Cuckoo Club
1.3 km
Exclusive Mayfair nightclub and restaurant blending glamorous design, contemporary cuisine, and vibrant nightlife in London’s upscale scene.
The Windmill Soho | Restaurant, Cabaret & Nightclub in Soho, London
1.4 km
Soho's legendary cabaret den revived: burlesque bites, theatrical feasts, and all-night beats in a historic hotspot of hedonism.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Casual
- Boutique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly