If you’re looking for cheap accommodation in London, Qbic Hotel is definitely your best bet. Located in the up-and-coming Whitechapel area and at one end of the famous Brick Lane, Qbic is perfect for those wishing to explore the evolving East End of London.
Qbic reinvents the affordable hotel and it is far from bland and boring, with quirky touches and characterful features in the rooms and common spaces. As the name suggests, each room is cube-shaped with an all-in-one bed/bathroom pod, which is modern and sleek in its design. Our room, number 323, was located on the third floor and was one of the larger on offer. The design is basic but chic, with a focus on primary colours and experimental furniture. The bed was extremely comfortable and we thoroughly enjoyed the easy-access TV at the foot of the bed. Bathroom facilities were clean, compact and efficient. It is the ideal base for a weekend in London.
The artistic flair of the surrounding district certainly feels present in the hotel’s eclectic and creative lounge. Here guests can unwind, watch sport on TV, read, work or have a snack from the open kitchen (complete with hi-tech vending machines). The breakfast array was very impressive, with a range of hot and cold options; I even spotted Chegworth Valley, the most delicious fresh-pressed apple juice.
Rooms at Qbic range in price from £59 to £84, and if you are lucky you can nab a room for a mere £1 with their regular competitions (100 rooms per month every month).
You needn’t stray far from the hotel, Whitechapel has a plethora of venues to enjoy. Here is a shortlist of my favourites in this part of town:
– Food: Tayyabs, family-run Punjabi cuisine. Delicious, cheap and renowned. BYOB to go with your meal.
– Drink: Apples and Pears cocktail bar, innovative and tasty, my favourite is the signature Martini-style Apples and Pears cocktail. For coffee, there are many independent cafes to choose from, try Love in a Cup or Vagabond for your morning flat white.
– Culture: Wilton’s Music Hall is a beautiful renovated building with regular events and an atmospheric bar. Whitechapel Gallery is the place to see the most exciting exhibitions in East London.
Book a room at Qbic Hotel here.