Sea Containers London
South Bank, London
About Sea Containers London
Sea Containers London is a design-led hotel on the South Bank with stunning Thames views and a cool, nautical-inspired aesthetic. Housed in the landmark Sea Containers House building on Upper Ground, the hotel was designed by Tom Dixon and draws on the area's maritime heritage — think copper fixtures, reclaimed teak and porthole mirrors. The result is a hotel with serious style and a buzzy, creative atmosphere.
The rooftop bar, 12th Knot, offers some of the best views in London, stretching from St Paul's to the Houses of Parliament. Downstairs, the Lyaness cocktail bar (from the team behind the legendary Dandelyan) is a destination in its own right. The hotel sits between Blackfriars Bridge and Waterloo Bridge, putting the National Theatre, Old Vic and Southbank Centre within easy walking distance. Cross Waterloo Bridge and you're in the West End in 15 minutes.
Why you'll love it
- ✓Tom Dixon-designed interiors with striking nautical-inspired aesthetic
- ✓12th Knot rooftop bar with panoramic Thames views from St Paul's to Parliament
- ✓Award-winning Lyaness cocktail bar on the ground floor
- ✓South Bank location between Blackfriars Bridge and Waterloo Bridge
- ✓National Theatre and Southbank Centre within a 5-minute walk
Good to know
Nearest tube
Blackfriars (District, Circle) — 5 min walk across the bridge; Southwark (Jubilee) — 7 min walk
Check-in
3:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Distance to West End
15-minute walk across Waterloo Bridge; or Tube from Southwark to Leicester Square (2 stops)
Guest reviews
Alex J.
February 2025
“What a hotel. The river-view room was spectacular — watching the sun set over Parliament from bed was something else. Pre-show drinks at 12th Knot and then a stroll to the National Theatre. Doesn't get better than that.”
Emily C.
September 2024
“Gorgeous design, fantastic bar and a great South Bank location. We walked across to the West End for our show and the views from the bridge at night were stunning. Room was beautifully finished. Only gripe: breakfast was pricey.”
Marcus T.
November 2024
“Lyaness alone is worth the trip. We stayed two nights, saw a show at the Old Vic (10-minute walk) and spent far too long on the rooftop bar. The hotel has incredible energy. One of the best in London.”
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to book 12th Knot rooftop bar?
Yes, reservations are strongly recommended, especially on Thursday to Saturday evenings. Hotel guests can sometimes get priority — ask at reception.
Which rooms have Thames views?
River-facing rooms and suites have direct views of the Thames and the north bank skyline. They cost more but the views are truly special, especially at night. Book early as they sell out quickly.
How do I get to the West End?
The most scenic route is walking across Waterloo Bridge (15 minutes). Alternatively, take the Jubilee line from Southwark to Leicester Square — it's only two stops.
Is the hotel suitable for a special occasion?
Absolutely. The combination of the design, river views, rooftop bar and cocktail bar makes it one of the best special-occasion hotels in London. The hotel can arrange in-room celebrations.
Price from
£200
per night
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From
£200/night