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Last updated: June 2026
The best hotel near The O2 Arena is InterContinental London – The O2 because it is next to the arena and offers the easiest stay for concerts, events and special occasions. If you want better value, Canning Town is one of the most practical areas because it has quick Jubilee line access to North Greenwich. If you want more restaurants, bars and modern hotels, Canary Wharf is a strong choice. If you are also visiting ExCeL London, hotels around Royal Docks are worth considering.
This guide is not only a list of nearby hotels. It also explains the best area to stay, who each hotel suits, what food is available, the main dish or dining highlight, and whether chef information is publicly available.
Note: Hotel prices, menus, chef details, facilities, parking and transport services can change. Always check the hotel’s official website before booking.
Why Stay Near The O2 Arena?
The O2 Arena is one of London’s biggest entertainment venues. It hosts concerts, comedy shows, sports events, exhibitions, family shows, shopping, restaurants and experiences such as Up at The O2.
Staying near The O2 makes your trip easier because you can:
- Avoid long late-night journeys after a concert
- Reach North Greenwich faster
- Stay close to the Jubilee line
- Visit Greenwich, Canary Wharf, Royal Docks or ExCeL London
- Use river services, Tube, DLR, Elizabeth line and the London Cable Car
- Choose hotels for different budgets, from simple budget stays to luxury riverside hotels
The best hotel for you depends on your reason for visiting. A couple going to a concert may want a luxury hotel beside the arena. A family may prefer a reliable budget hotel near Canning Town. A business traveller may prefer Canary Wharf or Royal Docks.
Best Areas to Stay Near The O2 Arena
1. Greenwich Peninsula – Best for Walking to The O2
Greenwich Peninsula is the closest area to The O2 Arena. It is best if your main priority is convenience.
Stay here if you want:
- The shortest journey to The O2
- Less stress after a late concert
- A hotel close to North Greenwich Station
- Easy access to the arena, restaurants and river
The main downside is cost. Hotels very close to The O2 can become expensive on major event nights.
2. Canning Town – Best for Value and Transport
Canning Town is one of the most practical areas for The O2 because it has Jubilee line and DLR connections. North Greenwich is close by on the Jubilee line, so this area is popular with concertgoers who want a lower-cost stay.
Stay here if you want:
- Better-value hotel rates
- Easy public transport
- Access to The O2, ExCeL London and Canary Wharf
- Simple hotels for short stays
3. Canary Wharf – Best for Restaurants and Modern Hotels
Canary Wharf is a smart choice if you want more restaurants, bars, shops and modern hotels. It is not beside The O2, but it has strong transport links and a wider choice of four-star and five-star stays.
Stay here if you want:
- More food and drink options
- A business-friendly area
- Riverside views
- Easy access to the Jubilee line and Elizabeth line
- A more polished hotel experience
4. Royal Docks and ExCeL London – Best for Events and Families
Royal Docks is a good base if your trip includes both The O2 and ExCeL London. It is also useful for London City Airport and the London Cable Car.
Stay here if you want:
- Easy access to ExCeL London
- Hotels near Royal Victoria Dock
- Family-friendly options
- A quieter Docklands base
- Access to DLR, Elizabeth line and cable car routes
Best Hotels Near The O2 Arena: Quick Comparison
1. InterContinental London – The O2
Best For
InterContinental London – The O2 is best for luxury stays, concert nights, special occasions, business events and visitors who want the closest major hotel to The O2 Arena.
Why Stay Here?
This is the most convenient hotel near The O2. It sits beside the arena on Greenwich Peninsula, making it ideal if you do not want to rely on late-night public transport after a concert.
The hotel is polished, spacious and premium. It has river views, restaurants, bars, event spaces, spa-style facilities and a strong business-hotel feel. It is especially suitable for couples, corporate guests, older travellers, visitors with luggage and anyone who wants the easiest possible event-night stay.
Food and Dining
InterContinental London – The O2 is one of the best food-focused hotels near The O2. Its main dining highlight is Kinaara, a contemporary Indian fine-dining restaurant. The hotel also has Eighteen Sky Bar, which is popular for drinks and skyline views.
Main or Famous Dish
The main food highlight is not one single dish. The strongest dining feature is Kinaara’s Indian fine-dining menu, Indian-inspired afternoon tea and tasting-menu-style experience. It is a good choice for guests who want a special meal before or after an event.
Chef Info
Kinaara has publicly been associated with Head Chef Imamuddin Khan. His cooking style focuses on Indian flavours presented in a modern fine-dining setting.
Good to Know
Prices can rise on major event nights. Book early if you are attending a popular concert or show.
2. The Pilot, Greenwich
Best For
The Pilot is best for visitors who want a smaller boutique stay, a traditional pub atmosphere and a location near The O2 Arena.
Why Stay Here?
The Pilot is a characterful pub with rooms in Greenwich. It is not a large luxury hotel, but it offers a more local and relaxed experience. This makes it a good choice for couples, solo travellers and concertgoers who prefer a pub-style stay over a corporate hotel.
It works well if you want to stay close to The O2 but still enjoy a more traditional London feel.
Food and Dining
The Pilot serves seasonal pub food, drinks, British beers and world beers. The food is more relaxed than fine dining, which makes it suitable for a casual meal before an event.
Main or Famous Dish
The best food angle is classic British pub food. Mention seasonal mains, pies, burgers, Sunday-style dishes and comfort food. Do not describe one dish as “famous” unless the live menu confirms it.
Chef Info
No named head chef is clearly listed on the main public hotel/pub pages. It is safer to describe the food as prepared by the pub’s kitchen team.
Good to Know
Rooms are limited, so availability may be difficult on major O2 event dates. Book as early as possible.
3. ibis London Canning Town
Best For
ibis London Canning Town is best for budget-conscious travellers, short stays, solo visitors and anyone who wants easy transport to The O2 without paying premium Greenwich Peninsula prices.
Why Stay Here?
This hotel is directly opposite Canning Town Station, which gives easy access to the Jubilee line and DLR. It is one of the most practical hotels for visitors going to The O2, ExCeL London, Canary Wharf or central London.
The hotel is modern and simple. It is not a luxury stay, but it gives you the essentials: comfortable rooms, Wi-Fi, transport access and food and drink on site.
Food and Dining
ibis London Canning Town has Chill #08 Bar & Café, which offers casual food, drinks and a relaxed space to eat or work.
Main or Famous Dish
This hotel is not known for one famous dish. The main food highlight is casual café-bar dining, with simple meals, snacks, coffee and drinks.
Chef Info
No named chef is publicly listed for this hotel.
Good to Know
This is one of the easiest budget-friendly choices if you want to stay near transport rather than directly beside The O2.
4. Premier Inn London Docklands Canning Town
Best For
Premier Inn London Docklands Canning Town is best for families, groups, budget travellers and visitors who want a familiar UK hotel brand near transport links.
Why Stay Here?
Premier Inn is popular because it offers predictable rooms, family-friendly options and straightforward pricing. This hotel is useful for The O2 because it is close to Canning Town transport links.
It is also a practical choice if your trip includes ExCeL London, Canary Wharf, Royal Docks or Stratford.
Food and Dining
The hotel has an on-site Thyme restaurant, which is useful for guests who want dinner or breakfast without leaving the hotel.
Main or Famous Dish
The main food highlight is the Premier Inn breakfast. It usually includes cooked breakfast items, continental options and family-friendly choices. Thyme restaurants also serve casual dishes such as burgers, fish and chips, hearty mains and desserts.
Chef Info
No named chef is publicly listed for this hotel. It is best to refer to the hotel’s Thyme restaurant team.
Good to Know
This is a strong option for families because the food is simple, familiar and convenient.
5. Holiday Inn Express London – Royal Docks, Docklands
Best For
Holiday Inn Express Royal Docks is best for visitors who want a simple hotel with breakfast included, good transport links and access to both The O2 and ExCeL London.
Why Stay Here?
This hotel is a practical choice for short stays, business trips, family visits and event travel. It is not a luxury hotel, but it focuses on convenience, comfort and value.
It works especially well if you are visiting Docklands, ExCeL London, Royal Docks or The O2 during the same trip.
Food and Dining
The main dining feature is the hotel’s included Express Start breakfast. There is also a lobby bar for drinks.
Main or Famous Dish
The main food highlight is breakfast, especially simple hot breakfast items such as scrambled eggs, bacon, baked beans and sausages, along with continental options like fruit and yoghurt.
Chef Info
No named chef is publicly listed for this hotel.
Good to Know
This hotel is best for guests who want convenience and breakfast included rather than a destination restaurant.
6. TRIBE London Canary Wharf
Best For
TRIBE London Canary Wharf is best for stylish modern stays, business travellers, couples and visitors who want easy access to Canary Wharf restaurants and transport.
Why Stay Here?
TRIBE is a modern lifestyle hotel in Canary Wharf. It is a good option if you want more atmosphere than a basic hotel but do not need five-star luxury.
Canary Wharf gives you a strong choice of restaurants, cafés, bars, shops and transport links. From here, The O2 is easy to reach by public transport.
Food and Dining
The hotel’s main restaurant is Feels Like June, an all-day dining venue inspired by Californian hospitality. It offers breakfast, brunch, lunch, snacks, drinks and dinner.
Main or Famous Dish
The main food highlight is Californian-inspired all-day dining. Good examples to mention include breakfast bowls, brunch-style dishes, casual plates, cocktails and relaxed modern dining.
Chef Info
No named head chef is publicly listed on the main hotel pages. Refer to the Feels Like June restaurant team rather than naming a chef.
Good to Know
This is a good hotel if you want a stylish stay with access to more food options around Canary Wharf.
7. Radisson Blu Hotel, London Canary Wharf East
Best For
Radisson Blu Hotel, London Canary Wharf East is best for riverside views, business travellers, couples and guests who want a quieter premium hotel base.
Why Stay Here?
This hotel is located near the Thames in Canary Wharf East. It is not as close to The O2 as Greenwich Peninsula hotels, but it offers a calmer riverside setting, modern rooms and a polished hotel experience.
It is a good choice if you want comfort, views and access to Canary Wharf, ExCeL London, London City Airport and The O2.
Food and Dining
The hotel’s restaurant is Scoff & Banter, which serves British and European-style dishes with a contemporary feel. The restaurant highlights seasonal produce and a riverside dining setting.
Main or Famous Dish
Good dishes to mention include traditional British-style dishes, contemporary European plates, seasonal mains, fish and chips, burgers and seafood-style options. Do not claim one dish is famous unless the current menu confirms it.
Chef Info
The official restaurant information refers to the culinary team but does not clearly name a head chef. Do not add a chef name unless confirmed directly by the hotel.
Good to Know
This is a strong choice if you want a calmer hotel stay and a proper restaurant experience rather than a basic overnight stop.
8. Canary Riverside Plaza Hotel
Best For
Canary Riverside Plaza Hotel is best for five-star comfort, spacious rooms, riverside views and guests who want a luxury stay outside the immediate O2 area.
Why Stay Here?
This hotel is a premium riverside option in Canary Wharf. It is not the closest hotel to The O2, but it works well for travellers who want space, comfort and a more refined stay.
It is suitable for couples, business travellers, families and guests who want a quieter luxury hotel with easy access to Canary Wharf.
Food and Dining
The main dining venue is Quadrato Restaurant, Bar & Lounge, which focuses on Italian-inspired food, seasonal produce and elegant hotel dining.
Main or Famous Dish
The main food highlight is Italian-inspired seasonal dining. Good examples to mention include fresh pasta-style dishes, Italian classics, elegant mains and riverside hotel dining. Do not name a signature dish unless it appears on the live menu.
Chef Info
A current named chef is not clearly confirmed on the main restaurant page. If you want to include a chef name, confirm directly with the hotel before publishing.
Good to Know
This is best for guests who value luxury and space more than walking distance to The O2.
9. Novotel London ExCeL
Best For
Novotel London ExCeL is best for families, ExCeL London visitors, business travellers and guests who want a Royal Docks hotel with good onward access to The O2.
Why Stay Here?
Novotel London ExCeL is especially useful if your trip includes ExCeL London. It is close to the exhibition centre and also works well for Royal Docks, London City Airport and Canary Wharf access.
It is not directly beside The O2, but it is a practical option for guests who want a comfortable four-star hotel in Docklands.
Food and Dining
The hotel has Upper Deck Restaurant, a casual restaurant and bar with dockside views. It serves international cuisine and breakfast.
Main or Famous Dish
The main food highlight is casual international dining with dock views. Suitable dish examples include fish and chips, salmon, steak-style mains, chicken dishes and family-friendly meals, depending on the current menu.
Chef Info
No named chef is publicly listed on the main hotel page. Refer to the Upper Deck Restaurant kitchen team.
Good to Know
This is one of the better options if ExCeL London is just as important to your trip as The O2.
10. Sunborn London Yacht Hotel
Best For
Sunborn London Yacht Hotel is best for couples, special occasions, Royal Docks stays and guests who want a more unusual hotel experience.
Why Stay Here?
Sunborn London is a floating yacht hotel in Royal Victoria Dock. It is one of the most distinctive hotels in the area and works well if you want the hotel itself to feel like part of the experience.
It is especially convenient for ExCeL London and Royal Docks. For The O2, plan your route in advance using public transport, taxi, river options or the London Cable Car where suitable.
Food and Dining
The main restaurant is Lands End Restaurant, which offers dining on board the yacht hotel with views across Royal Docks. The restaurant focuses on local and seasonal ingredients.
Main or Famous Dish
The main food highlight is the on-board dining experience. Good food angles include seasonal dishes, afternoon tea, fish and chips, salmon-style mains and special-occasion dining.
Chef Info
The hotel refers to an Executive Head Chef, but the current public restaurant page does not clearly name the chef. Do not add a chef name unless confirmed directly by the hotel.
Good to Know
This is best for guests who want a memorable stay rather than the shortest journey to The O2.
Other Hotels Worth Considering Near The O2
ibis London ExCeL Docklands
This is a useful value hotel if you are attending an event at ExCeL London and also want access to The O2. It is simple, practical and close to Royal Docks.
Good Hotel London
Good Hotel London is a floating hotel in Royal Victoria Dock. It can work well for visitors who want a simple waterside stay near ExCeL and the cable car.
Travelodge London Docklands Central
Travelodge London Docklands Central can be a lower-cost option if rates near The O2 are too high. It is not the closest choice, so check transport carefully before booking.
Which Hotel Near The O2 Should You Choose?
Best Overall Hotel Near The O2
Choose InterContinental London The O2 if you want the closest and easiest stay.
Best Budget-Friendly Area
Choose Canning Town if you want value and quick transport.
Best Hotel Area for Restaurants
Choose Canary Wharf if you want more dining options, bars, shops and modern hotels.
Best Area for ExCeL London
Choose Royal Docks if your trip includes ExCeL London, London City Airport or the London Cable Car.
Best Hotel for a Unique Stay
Choose Sunborn London Yacht Hotel if you want a more memorable hotel experience.
Best Hotel for Food Lovers
Choose InterContinental London The O2 if you want the strongest food-led hotel near the arena. Kinaara gives it a stronger dining identity than most nearby hotels.
Food Guide: Best Hotel Dining Near The O2
If food is important to your stay, choose your hotel carefully. Not every hotel near The O2 has a full restaurant.
For fine dining, InterContinental London The O2 is the strongest choice because of Kinaara. For pub food, The Pilot is a good local option. For casual hotel food, Premier Inn Canning Town, ibis Canning Town, TRIBE Canary Wharf and Novotel London ExCeL are practical. For riverside or special-occasion dining, consider Radisson Blu Canary Wharf East, Canary Riverside Plaza or Sunborn London Yacht Hotel.
Before booking, check:
- Whether the hotel has a full restaurant
- Breakfast times
- Late-night food availability
- Room service options
- Children’s menus
- Vegetarian, vegan or halal options
- Allergy information
- Whether restaurant booking is required
This is especially important on event nights because nearby restaurants can become busy before and after major concerts.
Transport Tips for Staying Near The O2
The O2 is served by North Greenwich Underground Station on the Jubilee line. This makes Greenwich Peninsula, Canning Town and Canary Wharf especially useful areas.
Useful transport options include:
- Jubilee line: Good for North Greenwich, Canning Town, Canary Wharf, London Bridge, Waterloo and Westminster
- DLR: Good for Royal Docks, ExCeL London and London City Airport
- Elizabeth line: Good for Canary Wharf, Custom House and Heathrow connections
- London Cable Car: A scenic option between Greenwich Peninsula and Royal Docks
- Uber Boat by Thames Clippers: A river route to North Greenwich Pier
- Taxi or private hire: Useful after events, but demand can be high
After major events, allow extra time. North Greenwich Station, taxi areas and nearby roads can become very busy.
Booking Tips Before You Choose a Hotel
Before booking a hotel near The O2, check these points:
- Distance to The O2
Do not only look at distance on a map. Check the actual walking route or public transport journey. - Event-night pricing
Prices often increase when major artists or events are scheduled. - Cancellation policy
Choose a flexible rate if your event date may change. - Restaurant opening times
Some hotel restaurants may close earlier than expected, especially on quieter nights. - Breakfast inclusion
Some hotels include breakfast, while others charge separately. - Parking rules
Do not assume hotel parking is included. Check charges and availability before booking. - Accessibility
If you need step-free access or accessible rooms, confirm directly with the hotel. - Family rooms
Family rooms can sell out quickly on event weekends.
Final Verdict
The best hotel near The O2 Arena depends on your budget, event time, food preferences and travel plans.
For the closest and easiest stay, choose InterContinental London The O2. For better value, choose a hotel in Canning Town. For restaurants and a modern business district feel, stay in Canary Wharf. For ExCeL London and Docklands access, choose Royal Docks. For a unique stay, consider Sunborn London Yacht Hotel.
If food is an important part of your trip, check the hotel restaurant before booking. Some hotels near The O2 offer proper dining experiences, while others focus mainly on breakfast, snacks or casual meals. The safest choice for both convenience and dining quality is InterContinental London – The O2, while Canning Town and Canary Wharf offer strong alternatives for value and transport.
Sources:
- The O2 official travel and transport guide
- The O2 cable car travel guide
- Transport for London North Greenwich Underground Station
- Uber Boat by Thames Clippers guide to The O2
- Visit London guide to getting to Greenwich
- Visit Greenwich public transport information
FAQs About Hotels Near The O2 Arena
What is the closest hotel to The O2 Arena?
The closest major hotel to The O2 Arena is InterContinental London – The O2. It is the best option if you want the shortest and easiest journey before and after an event.
Is it better to stay in Greenwich or Canary Wharf for The O2?
Stay in Greenwich Peninsula if you want to be closest to The O2. Stay in Canary Wharf if you want more restaurants, bars, shops and modern hotels.
Is Canning Town a good place to stay for The O2?
Yes. Canning Town is a practical area because it has Jubilee line and DLR connections. It is often better value than staying directly beside The O2.
Which hotel near The O2 is best for food?
InterContinental London – The O2 is the best food-led hotel near the arena because it has Kinaara, a contemporary Indian fine-dining restaurant. Other good food options include The Pilot, TRIBE London Canary Wharf, Radisson Blu Canary Wharf East, Canary Riverside Plaza, Novotel London ExCeL and Sunborn London Yacht Hotel.
Are there hotels near The O2 with famous chefs?
Most hotels near The O2 do not publicly promote celebrity chefs. Kinaara at InterContinental London – The O2 has publicly been linked with Head Chef Imamuddin Khan. For other hotels, chef names should be confirmed directly with the hotel before publication.
Which hotel near The O2 is best for families?
Premier Inn London Docklands Canning Town, Holiday Inn Express Royal Docks, ibis London Canning Town and Novotel London ExCeL are practical choices for families. Check family-room availability before booking.
Which hotel near The O2 is best for couples?
InterContinental London – The O2 is best for a premium couple stay. The Pilot is good for a boutique pub stay, while Sunborn London Yacht Hotel is a good choice for something more unusual.
Which hotel near The O2 is best for ExCeL London?
Novotel London ExCeL, ibis London ExCeL Docklands, Good Hotel London and Sunborn London Yacht Hotel are good choices if ExCeL London is part of your trip.
Can you stay in central London and still visit The O2?
Yes, but staying closer to North Greenwich, Canning Town, Canary Wharf or Royal Docks usually makes the journey easier, especially after a late event.
Should I book a hotel restaurant before an O2 event?
Yes, if you want a proper meal before a big event. Restaurants near The O2 and hotel dining rooms can become busy on concert nights.
