The hotel is just a short walk to the Tate Modern, so it’s worth spending an afternoon enjoying the museum’s seven gallery floors (housing over a hundred years of art, dating back to the early 1900s) — especially since admission is free. But there’s also no shame in aimlessly strolling along the Thames Path, popping over to Borough Market for lunch (locals swear by the toasted cheese sandwich at Kappacasein). On rainy days, book a treatment at the hotel’s sleek below-waterline Agua spa, or see what’s playing at the 56-seat screening room.

Here, food and drink offerings are not just a check in the box. Sea Containers Restaurant is a favourite for alfresco brunch, lunch or dinner, while the rooftop 12^th Knot bar is a glitzy spot for happy hour, complete with sprawling views. On the hotel’s ground floor, blue-velvet Lyaness was awarded World’s Best Bar by the 2022 Spirited Awards and is a must for one-of-a-kind cocktails. The housemade ingredients described on the cocktail menu might raise an eyebrow (tree caramel, death bitters and thunder mushroom), but they’re so thoughtfully and expertly blended into signature libations, such as the Goldblum Whiptail and Black Champagne, it won’t be long until you’re raising your glass with a second round.

Of the 359 plush guest rooms and suites, many have jaw-dropping views of the Thames River. For an extra-special stay, opt for a riverview balcony suite, which features a fully furnished private balcony (perfect for enjoying afternoon tea or evening cocktails), a stylish living room area and an oversized marble-clad bathroom with rainfall shower.