Travel | CitizenM Bankside Review

Citizen M London hotel


BRIGHT LIGHTS

Luckily for us London is only a hop, skip and a jump away (*ahem* a twenty minute train ride), but if you’re not within easy reach of the city then it can seem pretty daunting trying to plan a trip that won’t break your budget. The capital isn’t renowned for affordable hotels, especially if you’re after something rather more style-conscious than a Travelodge and with a lot more luxe for your bucks. That’s where CitizenM comes in. They are all about affordable luxury with clever modern touches, and design that fuses technology and beauty. This summer, Callum and I checked in to their Bankside location for a little one-night getaway of our own …


Girl in the Lens Citizen M hotelCitizen M Bankside London reviewGirl in the LensCitizen M BanksideCitizen MGirl in the LensCitizen MGirl in the Lens hotel reviewGirl in the LensLondon hotelGirl in the Lens Girl in the Lens X Free People


dress: c/o Free People | bag: H&M


The beauty of CitizenM Bankside is that it manages to feel like both a modern design museum and private little hideaway nestled at the centre of a bustling metropolis. For two tech junkies, one of the best things about the hotel is the clever use of technology – super easy computer check-in when you arrive that barely takes a minute, tablets to control the lighting in your room (there’s a range of pre-set themes catering for any mood you might be in), a huge catalogue of music, tv and films all from the comfort of your hotel bed. Everything is sleek and intuitive. It’s little details like this that make the hotel feel ahead of the game when it comes to functionality and affordability: they’ve used technology to keep interaction with staff at a minimum but without sacrificing your experience. The bright, fluro decor and playful touches – my favourite is the giant bookcase in the shape of a book – add a great deal of personality and give the hotel a unique, iconic feel.     

And yet you somehow feel utterly at home at the same time. You’ll be so cosy in the uber comfy XL king-size beds you’ll never want to leave your room (thankfully late check out is an option at a small added cost!) and when you do you can lose track of time enjoying the hidden courtyards, chill-out areas and bar. There are so many areas to discover, each with their own individual style. Even in the height of summer on a busy weekend the hotel felt calm and spacious – no doubt the other guests had the same struggle we did leaving our bed! After check out, Callum and I even got a spot of blogging done in the cool dining room-come-workstation over coffee and a few naughty morning pastries. Ah, if only all working days could be like this … x

For bookings and more info, head on over to CitizenM’s website. Room prices start at £109.


Like this post? Follow Girl in the Lens on Instagram | Twitter | Facebook

*This is a brand collaboration post*

7 comments to Travel | CitizenM Bankside Review