London's East End
East End is a district of central London, stretching from The City to the River Lee. The East End used to have a reputation for crime and poverty, but much has changed in the last few decades and the area is today popular among visitors.
The East End consists of many small and quite distinct neighborhoods, such as Whitechapel, Mile End, Brick Lane and Shoreditch. The famous Docklands area stretches from the edge of The City along the river to Beckton. This is where you will find the old docks of the port of London. The area declined after World War II, but underwent extensive redevelopment and gentrification in the 1980s. Today, Docklands is characterized by office buildings and fairly upmarket homes, although elements of its past has been saved. Within the Docklands is the Canary Wharf, a newly redeveloped area filled with offices, restaurants, entertainment facilities and shops. At One Canada Square you will find the tallest (completed) skyscraper in the country. The easiest way to get here is to take the tube to Jubilee Line station.
Budget hotels
Ibis London Docklands has 87 modern rooms with satellite TV and internet access. A café is found on the premises. Secure parking (30 cars). This hotel is located a few minutes from Canary Wharf and is thus popular among people who wish to visit this commercial and financial hub. Railway is available to swiftly get you to ExCel and the O2 Arena.
The RE Hotel London Shoreditch is close to the Liverpool Street Station, which makes for an easy commute to Stansted and City Airport. New budget hotel with clean rooms.
Travelodge London Docklands belongs to the well known budget hotel chain Travelodge and you can find really cheap rooms on the website. The area where this hotel is located has excellent links to central London thanks to the East India DLR station, so staying here to reduce the cost of accommodation while exploring more central parts of London is a distinct possibility. There is a busy road running at the back of the hotel, so ask for a room on the front.
Mid-range hotels
City Hotel on 12 Osborn Street has a normal rate of £140, but deals are often available from £60 and upwards. WiFi is available, but costs an extra £5 a day. The nearest tube station is Aldgate.
Custom House Hotel is, unsurprisingly, located close to the Custom House tube station. This hotel has 282 standard and superior rooms, plus on-site apartments and suites. It's popular among business travelers on a budget.
Britannia International was one of the first hotels in the Canary Wharf. You'll find it at the water's edge in the London Docklands, near the South Quay tube station. There are 442 air-conditioned rooms available. Rooms on the upper floors overlook the Thames.
Luxury hotels
Ramada London Docklands Hotel and Suites is located at the waterfront and offers both short-term and long-term accommodation. Close to the ExCel exhibition center.
Four Season Hotel Canary Wharf is one of the most luxurious hotels in the area, and you can get a room with a view over the Thames or the Canary Wharf.
Marriott West India Quay is (unsurprisingly) located very close to the West India Quay tube station. All the hotel rooms are 28sqm or larger. Sports 20 meeting and event rooms with a maximum capacity of 300 delegates.
