Places To Stay Near The O2

Let’s be honest—going to a big gig or a show at The O2 is a proper event. You’ve probably spent ages deciding what to wear, and you’ve already planned your post-show singalong on the tube. But then the lights come up, and you realise: you’re tired, the last train is a distant memory, and the Uber surge price looks like a phone number. That’s when finding a good place to stay nearby becomes your new best friend.

Why Bother Staying Near The O2?

Think of it as giving yourself a backstage pass to a good night’s sleep. You skip the scramble, avoid the grumpy commuters, and walk back to your hotel in five minutes still buzzing from the encore. It’s like pressing pause on the real world for a few more hours.

Plus, you can wear your comfiest pyjamas home instead of squeezing back into jeans. I once did a full-on dance-off in my hotel room after a gig, and nobody judged me. That’s the kind of freedom we’re talking about.

The Closest: InterContinental London – The O2

This one is basically attached to the arena. You can roll out of your seat, through a private entrance, and into your room before the encore ends. It’s fancy without being stuffy—think posh pillows and a view of the Thames that makes you feel like a VIP.

Perfect for when you want to keep the night going with a nightcap at the bar. Or when you simply can’t walk another step. I’ve seen people in full sequins ordering room service at midnight here, and it’s the most wonderful vibe.

The Budget-Friendly Hero: ibis London Greenwich

Don’t let the low price fool you—this place is solid. It’s a ten-minute walk from The O2, past the O2 arena’s glowing lights, which feels like a little parade after a show. The rooms are clean, the beds are firm, and the breakfast is exactly what you need to recover from shouting along to your favourite band.

It’s the kind of hotel where you don’t worry about spilling crisps on the duvet. Freedom. And you’ll have extra cash for a celebratory pint at the nearby pub.

The Quirky Gem: Staycity Aparthotels Greenwich

This is for when you want a little home-from-home vibe. You get a kitchenette, so you can make toast and tea in your pants at 2am if you want. The location is a short Uber boat ride or a 15-minute walk from the arena, which feels like a mini adventure.

I love the idea of grabbing a takeaway from the nearby Greenwich Market on your way back. You can eat noodles in bed while replaying the gig on your phone. It’s the ultimate “treat yourself” move.

The Riverside Retreat: DoubleTree by Hilton London – Greenwich

This one sits right on the water, with a view of the O2’s dome twinkling across the river. You get that famous warm cookie on arrival—which, let’s be fair, is basically a hug for your soul. The walk to the arena is a breezy 20 minutes along the Thames Path, perfect for a pre-show chat or a post-show calm-down.

It’s a great choice if you’re going with a group. You can all gather in the lobby, share a laugh, and then wander over together. No arguing over who has to be the designated driver.

The Fun Alternative: A Hotel with a View (Holiday Inn Express Greenwich)

Yes, it’s a chain, but hear me out. This one has rooms that overlook the O2. Waking up and seeing that massive white dome from your window is a bit surreal. It’s a 15-minute walk, and the price is usually very kind to your wallet.

You’ll also be right next to the North Greenwich tube station, so you can zip into central London the next day. It’s practical, but it feels like a secret bonus view. I once saw a group of tourists taking selfies with the dome from their hotel room—peak holiday energy.

A Few Pro Tips for Your Stay

Book early, especially if a big name is playing. Rooms near The O2 vanish faster than a free drink at a wedding. And if you can, check if your hotel has a deal that includes parking—driving can be a lifesaver, especially if you’re lugging merch.

Also, consider the Uber Boat from the arena. It drops you right by Greenwich Pier, and some hotels are a short stumble away. It’s cheaper than a taxi and feels like a little cruise under the stars.

Finally, don’t forget to pack a bag with snacks and a phone charger. You’ll thank yourself when you’re lying in bed at 1am, still buzzing, with a bag of crisps and a fully charged phone to rewatch the blurry videos you took. Bliss.

So next time you’re heading to The O2, give yourself the gift of a nearby bed. You’ll wake up feeling like a rockstar, not a zombie. And honestly, a night of dancing and a short walk to your pillow? That’s the real encore.