Planning a summer trip to London? Whether you’re coming for theatre, sightseeing, or just soaking up the capital’s energy, choosing where to stay can make or break your entire experience.
This year, consider doing something different. Instead of booking another cramped hotel room in Zone 1 where you’ll wake to traffic noise and spend half your budget on a space the size of a cupboard, make Blackheath your London base.
It’s one of those rare places that offers the best of both worlds – genuine breathing space with birdsong and green views, while keeping you brilliantly connected to everything London has to offer.
Here’s why staying at The Clarendon Hotel in Blackheath might just transform your summer city break.
1. You’ll Wake Up to Green Space, Not Traffic
There’s nothing quite like opening your curtains to see Blackheath Common stretching out before you – 200 acres of ancient heathland where locals walk their dogs, families fly kites, and you can actually hear yourself think. Just beyond lies Greenwich Park with its royal gardens and spectacular London views.
The contrast with central London hotels is striking. Instead of sirens and delivery trucks, you’ll wake to birdsong. Instead of concrete and glass, you’ll see trees and sky. It’s the kind of morning that sets you up properly for whatever London adventure awaits, whether that’s museum-hopping with the family, romantic walks for couples, or peaceful solo exploration.
The beauty is that you’re not sacrificing convenience for tranquillity – you’re getting both.
2. Getting Around Is Shockingly Easy
Here’s what surprises most people about staying in Blackheath – you’re actually better connected than many central London locations, with none of the transport chaos.
From Blackheath Station, you’re looking at 13 minutes to London Bridge, 20 minutes to Charing Cross, and just one stop to Greenwich’s maritime treasures. The O2 Arena sits about 10 minutes away by train or taxi, while the DLR, Thames Clippers, buses, and even Uber Boats give you multiple ways to reach any corner of the capital.
The real magic happens at the end of each day when you’re heading back to peace and quiet rather than deeper into London’s intensity. After hours of city exploration, there’s something deeply satisfying about that short journey back to village calm.
3. Proper Rooms (Not Shoeboxes in Disguise)
Anyone who’s stayed in central London knows the struggle – rooms so small you have to step into the corridor just to turn around, bathrooms where you can brush your teeth and wash your hands simultaneously, and prices that make you question whether you’ve accidentally booked a penthouse.
At The Clarendon, space isn’t a luxury – it’s standard. Our Classic doubles actually let you spread out, while family rooms accommodate real families without requiring architectural degrees to fit everyone in. Crown Collection rooms add that touch of luxury for special occasions, and our accessible options ensure everyone can enjoy comfort.
No more breakfast balanced on your lap because there’s nowhere to sit. No more queuing for bathroom time. Just proper rooms designed for actual relaxation.
4. Food, Drink and Blackheath Charm
Some of the best parts of staying in Blackheath happen when you’re not rushing off to famous attractions. Our Meridian Restaurant serves seasonal British cuisine that locals book for special occasions, while the Chart Bar provides the perfect setting for pre-dinner drinks or nightcaps with a view.
Venture into Blackheath Village and you’ll discover cafés run by people passionate about coffee, bakeries where bread is still made properly, and pubs that welcome everyone from families to couples celebrating anniversaries. It’s real London life rather than tourist London – refreshingly authentic after days of sightseeing.
Greenwich Market sits just a pleasant walk away, offering everything from vintage treasures to artisan foods, while the riverside provides perfect spots for ice cream breaks and Thames-side picnics.
5. Close to Attractions (Without Feeling Like a Tourist)
The brilliant thing about Blackheath’s location is how it puts you within easy reach of both Greenwich’s UNESCO World Heritage sites and central London’s classics, while letting you avoid the tourist bubble entirely.
Greenwich’s Royal Observatory, Cutty Sark, and Painted Hall become easy morning or afternoon visits. The O2 offers everything from world-class concerts to roof walks and cable car adventures. Yet the West End, South Bank, and all those must-see London attractions remain just a short train journey away.
What makes the difference is having local knowledge at your fingertips. Our front desk team live in the area and genuinely enjoy sharing insider tips – which Greenwich attractions are worth the queues, which hidden corners most visitors miss, and how to time your visits for the best experience.
Ready for a London Summer That’s Actually Enjoyable?
The Clarendon Hotel in Blackheath offers something increasingly rare in London – the chance to have both adventure and retreat in the same trip. Big skies and beautiful surroundings that restore your energy for the next day’s exploration. Easy access to everything London offers, without the exhaustion that usually comes with city breaks. And rooms designed for actual comfort rather than architectural ingenuity.
Ready to experience London differently this summer? Book your stay and discover why exploring the capital should feel exciting rather than exhausting.