The Complete Guide to Serviced Apartments in London (2025 Edition)

If you’re weighing up where to stay in London—especially for a week or more—you’ll quickly run into the term “serviced apartment.”

They’re the go-to choice for business travellers on projects and relocations, families who need space and a kitchen, and anyone who wants a homelike base with hotel-style services.

This guide breaks down exactly what serviced apartments are, how they work, how they differ from hotels and Airbnb, what they’re called, who books them, what can go wrong (and how to avoid it), how to lock in the best price, when to book, practical tips for staying in one, typical London prices by neighbourhood and apartment size, and the types of stays—from luxury to pet-friendly and beyond.

Table of Contents

• What is a Serviced Apartment
• What Serviced Apartments Are Also Known As
• How Do Serviced Apartments Work
• How Serviced Apartments Differ from Hotels
• How Serviced Apartments Differ from Airbnb & Home-Sharing Platforms
• Who Books Serviced Apartments
• Things That Can Go Wrong (and How to Avoid Them)
• How to Find the Best Price
• When to Book
• Tips for Staying in a Serviced Apartment
• Typical Prices in London’s Top Neighbourhoods
• Amenities You’ll Commonly Find
• Different Types of Stays (and How to Choose)
     • Luxury & Premium Residences
     • Pet-Friendly Stays
     • Short Stays (1–14 nights)
     • Business Travel & Project Teams
     • Relocations
• Booking Checklist
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Real-World Scenarios
• How to Compare Two Options Quickly
• Final Tips to Save Money

What is a Serviced Apartment

A serviced apartment is a self-contained flat—studio, one-bed, two-bed or larger—equipped with a full kitchen or kitchenette, washing facilities (in-unit or on-site), separate living and sleeping areas, and inclusive utilities (Wi-Fi, energy, water). Crucially, it comes with hospitality services such as professional housekeeping, linen and towel changes, maintenance support, and (often) reception/concierge and 24/7 assistance.

Think of it as the midpoint between a hotel and a private rental: the space and autonomy of a home, backed by the reliability and standards of an operator or brand.

What Serviced Apartments Are Also Known As

In London you’ll also see them marketed as:

• Aparthotels / Apartment hotels (often with 24/7 reception and hotel-like public areas)
• Extended stay or long-stay accommodation
• Corporate housing (especially for relocation or project stays)
• Short-let or Short-stay apartments (when offered for nights to weeks)

These sit within the broader “extended stay” category (which also includes corporate housing and some co-living formats).

How Do Serviced Apartments Work

1. Choose your unit type: studio, 1-bed, 2-bed (sometimes 3-bed+).

2. Book by the night, week, or month: nightly rates usually apply up to 27–29 nights; monthly rates (often significantly cheaper per night) kick in for 28+ or 30+ nights.

3. Included in the rate: utilities, Wi-Fi, housekeeping (frequency varies), linen/towels, maintenance, and access to building amenities.

4. Check-in: like a hotel (reception) or via smart lock/meet-and-greet.

5. Housekeeping cadence: ranges from weekly to twice-weekly; additional cleans are usually available.

6. Support: on-site or on-call teams handle maintenance and emergencies.

7. Billing: VAT rules differ for extended stay (in the UK, VAT may reduce for longer stays—operators or your booking agent can advise).

How Serviced Apartments Differ from Hotels

• Space & layout: separate living room*, kitchen, and bedroom(s) versus a single room.

• Cooking & laundry: full kitchen stocked with appliances to cook and dine-in and (often) washer/dryer within the accommodation—ideal for longer stays.

• Cost efficiency over time: while nightly rates can be similar to upscale hotels, longer stays typically attract lower effective rates per night (weekly/monthly discounts) and you’ll save on dining and laundry.

• Privacy & routine: more residential and homely feel; fewer daily interruptions than hotels with daily housekeeping.

• Amenities: may have fewer hotel-style extras (e.g., room service, bell staff), but aparthotels increasingly offer gyms, lounges, cafés, and co-working.

*except for studio apartments which have combined living spaces

How Serviced Apartments Differ from Airbnb & Home-Sharing Platforms

• Professional operations: apartments are operated under a brand/management company with consistent standards; no private host variability.
• Compliance & safety: purpose-built or professionally managed residences with safety checks, maintenance and (often) 24/7 support.
• Housekeeping & services: scheduled cleans, fresh linen, maintenance service – all included.
• Billing & paperwork: streamlined invoices (key for corporate travel), flexible payment terms, and support for company compliance, insurance, and duty of care.
• Predictability for longer stays: fewer cancellations/host issues; better suited for business travel, relocations and projects.

Who Books Serviced Apartments

Serviced apartments serve multiple traveller segments:

• Business travel & project teams: engineers, consultants, media crews, and anyone on placements/secondments who need space to work and cook.
• Relocating professionals & families: a landing pad while searching for a permanent home.
• Leisure & family trips: multi-room layouts (and kitchens) make life easier and can be better value than booking two hotel rooms.
• Students, interns and graduate cohorts: especially in summer when companies bring in groups.
• Medical stays: privacy and a homelike environment near hospitals or family.

Things That Can Go Wrong (and How to Avoid Them)

Even the best-run stays can hit bumps. Here’s what to look out for—and how to pre-empt issues:

• Mis-matched unit layout or size
  Ask for floor plans or minimum square footage; confirm bed sizes (UK doubles can be smaller), sofa-bed quality, and whether bedrooms have doors (open-plan “one-beds” exist). Some accommodation is located on the Lower Ground Floor, which is similar to a basement level, so check this.
• Housekeeping frequency surprises
  Clarify how often and what’s included (linen change, dishwashing, consumables). Request a quote for additional cleans.
• Noise & location quirks
  Ask for quiet-side units, upper floors, or double-glazed windows. Check proximity to rail lines, bars, and major roads.
• Heating, cooling, and ventilation
  Not all London buildings have air-con. Verify AC/temperature control and window opening, especially for summer.
• Washer/dryer access
  Confirm in-unit vs communal laundry and whether it’s free or extra costs.
• Wi-Fi performance
  Ask for speed (Mbps) and whether there’s a wired option—critical for remote work and video calls.
• Accessibility needs
  Request lift access, step-free bathrooms, and shower type (walk-in vs over-bath).
• Payment terms & VAT
  Clarify deposit, cancellation, VAT treatment for long stays, and invoice requirements. For corporates, ensure the supplier can Onboard/Vendor with your finance system.
• Key collection
  Confirm 24/7 check-in or arrange meet-and-greet. Late-night arrivals can be tricky without reception.
• Overpromised amenities
  Get written confirmation (e.g., gym access, cot/highchair, pet acceptance) on the booking.

How to Find the Best Price

• Length-of-stay breaks: Most operators discount at 7+ nights and again at 28+ nights. Always request a weekly and monthly quote to compare the effective nightly rate.
• Flexible dates: Shifting by one or two days can dodge peak nights (e.g., big events, trade shows) that lift rates across the city. London’s accommodation rates spikes around major concerts/sporting events and summer peaks.
• Advance purchase vs flexible: For fixed plans, advance purchase can save meaningfully; for uncertain timelines, choose flexible rates to avoid extension penalties.
• Corporate/agent rates: Corporate travellers and group stays can access negotiated or dynamic discounts, plus consolidated invoices.
• Neighbourhood trade-offs: Being one Tube stop beyond the prime core (e.g., Aldgate vs City, Paddington vs Mayfair) can shave 10–25% without losing connectivity.
• Monthly pricing request: For 30+ nights, ask for a monthly all-in—operators may quote a lower blended rate, sometimes with reduced VAT application for longer stays (ask for a breakdown).
• Check inclusions: A slightly higher rate that includes weekly cleans, utilities, and laundry often beats a cheaper base rate with add-ons.
• Compare across brands: Aparthotel brands and serviced apartment operators price differently to hotels and to each other; a multi-operator search surfaces value.

When to Book

• Business corridors (City, Canary Wharf): Prices rise mid-week; book early for Mon–Thu, especially in Sept–Nov and Mar–Jun.
• Leisure peaks: June–August, Christmas/New Year, and bank holiday weekends book out fast—lock plans 6–10 weeks ahead.
• Major events: Watch for spikes (e.g., big stadium tours, Wimbledon, RHS Chelsea, Frieze). When events pop, book immediately or shift location/dates.
• Long stays: For 30–90+ nights, start 3–8 weeks out to secure the right layout and negotiate a monthly rate.

Tips for Staying in a Serviced Apartment

• Send your “stay profile” up front: housekeeping cadence, bed setup, desk/monitor request, cot/highchair, pet details, parking, and delivery preferences (e.g., food/groceries).

• Ask for a starter pack: many apartments provide basics (tea/coffee, milk, detergent). For long stays, schedule a grocery delivery to arrive after you.

• Confirm work setup: ask for a proper desk and chair, extra lamp, and a quiet-side unit if you’ll be on video calls.

• Laundry plan: verify in-unit machine type and cycles; if not available, locate nearest laundrette or on-site facility hours.

• Safety & mail: learn building access, fire evacuation routes, and mail/package rules (some receptions accept parcels).

• Utilities know-how: locate fuse box, thermostat, and appliance manuals (operators usually provide a digital compendium or QR codes).

• Extensions: if you might extend, flag it early—operators can hold the same unit or present alternatives.

Typical Prices in London’s Top Neighbourhoods

Pricing moves with seasonality, day of week, lead time, and events. The table below gives indicative nightly ranges for well-located, professionally managed serviced apartments in 2025 for stays of 7+ nights (expect higher for 1–3 nights; expect lower effective rates for 28–30+ nights). Ranges blend aparthotel brands and independent serviced operators.

Amenities You’ll Commonly Find

• In-unit: full kitchen (hob, oven/microwave, fridge/freezer), dishwasher (in many), cookware, crockery, washer/dryer (or washer with drying racks), iron/board, hairdryer, safe, smart TV, blackout curtains.

• Building: reception or 24/7 assistance, lifts, gym, residents’ lounge, co-working, café/bar, courtyard/terrace, bike storage, package handling.

• Services: housekeeping (weekly typical), linen/towel changes, maintenance, optional extra cleans, airport transfers (on request), dry cleaning partners.

• Tech & work: high-speed Wi-Fi, sometimes wired ports, smart locks, streaming-ready TVs, USB/USB-C power points.

• Family & accessibility: cots/highchairs on request, step-free access in many newer builds, roll-in showers in accessible units.

• Pet-friendly options: increasingly common—expect pet fees/deposits and rules (e.g., weight, breed, number).

Different Types of Stays (and How to Choose)

Short Stays (1–14 nights)

• What to expect: aparthotels with 24/7 reception and hotel-style facilities; pricing can mirror hotels on busy nights.
• Tip: compare against hotel suites; for families, a 1-bed with sofa-bed can beat two hotel rooms.

Business Travel & Project Teams

• What to expect: corporate-ready invoicing, weekly housekeeping, reliable Wi-Fi, quiet units, flexible extensions.
• Tip: ask for multiple units in one building for teams, and a monthly blended rate for 30–90+ nights. Many corporates continue to increase extended-stay usage year over year.

Luxury & Premium Residences

• What to expect: larger footprints, designer kitchens, on-site concierge, full gyms, residents’ lounges, sometimes spas and pools.
• Best for: executives, VIP relocations, special occasions.
• Where: Mayfair, Knightsbridge, Marylebone, Kensington, Covent Garden

Relocations

• What to expect: storage for luggage deliveries, interim day-to-day living, and proximity to target schools/workplaces.
• Tip: book 4–8 weeks initially and hold an option to extend; request flexible terms and an inventory that mirrors your lifestyle (e.g., baking gear, coffee machine).

Pet-Friendly Stays

• What to expect: pet fees per stay or per night, designated floors, and rules on unattended pets.
• Tips: request ground-or lower-floor for easy walks; confirm nearby green spaces; bring pet bed and proof of vaccinations if required.

Booking Checklist

• Dates (and whether you’re flexible by ±1–2 days)
• Preferred neighbourhoods (2–3 options)
• Unit type & headcount (note children/infants)
• Bed configuration & extra-bed needs
• Laundry facilities (in unit or communal)
• On-site facilities (reception hours, CCTV, gym, co-working)
• Housekeeping frequency (weekly, twice-weekly)
• Work setup (desk)
• AC requirement (summer stays)
• Floor, Accessibility, lift access, step-free shower
• Pet details and cleaning extras
• Parking or congestion charge considerations
• Invoicing details & any corporate rate codes

Frequently Asked Questions

• What’s included in a serviced apartments in London?
  Serviced apartments come fully equipped with furniture, TVs, WiFi, kitchen appliances, cooking utensils and cutlery, dining table and chairs, linens and towels  and in most cases a washing machine, iron, hairdryer and safe in the apartment.
• Do I pay for utilities and council tax (local tax)?
  No—serviced apartments in London includes utilities, council tax (where applicable) in the rate.
• Is there a minimum stay?
  Many aparthotels allow 1–3 nights. Some residentially-focused properties set 7-night minimums (or longer) due to building regulation or licensing.
• Can I have guests over?
  Usually yes, within building rules. Parties are prohibited and quiet hours apply. Overnight guests should not exceed the unit’s occupancy.
• What about VAT?
  UK VAT treatment can change for longer stays; ask for a VAT breakdown for 28+ nights vs nightly.
• Is housekeeping daily?
  Usually weekly. Many properties can add extra cleans for a fee and may charge for extra sets of linen and towel changes too.
• What happens if I have an emergency?
  Serviced apartments offer a 24 hour emergency helpline for any issues during your stay.
• Can I bring children?
  Children are most welcome and can be accommodated in baby cots or extra beds, depending on the accommodation selected.
• What time can I check-in and check-out and is there anywhere to store luggage?
  Check-in is usually between 3-4pm and check-out is between 10-11am. Some properties may offer early/late options for a fee and subject to availability. Some properties, usually those that have an on-site reception or concierge) have a luggage room and can store bags, however most do not offer luggage storage facilities.

Real-World Scenarios

• A three-month Canary Wharf project: a 1-bed at £210–£280 pn for 30+ nights, weekly cleans, and an option to extend month-by-month.

• Family of four near South Kensington: a 2-bed with a proper dining table, highchairs on request, and museum-side location—around £420–£650 pn in mainstream seasons.

• Executive relocation in Marylebone: a premium 1-bed with concierge, gym and balcony, £320–£480 pn depending on term and season.

Each scenario beats an equivalent hotel suite on space per pound and day-to-day comfort, especially when you factor in cooking and laundry savings.

How to Compare Two Options Quickly

1. Measure the space: request square footage; anything under ~30–35 m² for a studio will feel tight for two.
2. Calculate the “effective nightly”: include cleaning add-ons, pet fees, and taxes to compare apples-to-apples.
3. What floor and view: lower or higher floor,  lifts or stair access only, internal or city view.
4. Check the kitchen and laundry spec: hob + oven vs microwave-only; dishwasher; full-size fridge/freezer. Washer in the unit.
5. Bed size matters: Double or king (or Super King) for the best night’s sleep – confirm sizes.
6. Work zone: separate bedroom (for calls), desk, fast wifi.
7. Review policies: cancellations, extensions, and deposit/refund terms.
8. Confirm climate control: AC in summer.
9. On-site facilities: Reception, gym, lounge, pool, co-working

Final Tips to Save Money (without worrying about comfort)

• Book over 28 nights if you’re close to the threshold: the monthly price drop can be lucrative.
• Accept a different view/floor: same building, lower price. Note: avoid lower ground floor if concerned about basement style properties.
• Shift the neighbourhood, not the commute: being one Tube stop out can save 10–25%.
• Bundle multiple units: for teams, ask for a group quote—operators love consolidating demand.
• Travel smart: avoid big-event nights.