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Approach from the north side of the Thames and the Sea Containers appears on the riverside as an arresting Brutalist structure elevated by a façade draped in neon lights and looked over by the iconic Oxo Tower. But inside, nautical themes of brass and copper thought up by interior designer Tom Dixon lead guests to a brilliant collection of bars and restaurants, bathrooms with port holes and modernist sculptures of sailor’s knots. And the impressive reception, fully manned by an exceptionally attentive guest services team, is modelled after a 19th-century clipper.

Of the 359 rooms, more than a hundred have river views, and each hopes to evoke a sense of transatlantic wanderlust, with designs loosely based on 1920s transatlantic ocean liners. Sumptuous double beds, marble bathrooms and rainfall showers come as standard, while superior rooms are ideal for anyone searching for a view of the London skyline. Riverview Balcony Suites elevate the experience further with immersive views from a private balcony. And guests with disabilities are catered to through a good collection of adapted rooms spanning each room category.

The iconic Sea Containers Restaurant spreads across the scenic river side of the bottom floor, with stunning waterside views and a vibrant, seasonal menu (think: oysters, pan-fried salmon, and burgers) designed to be shared. Bottomless brunches with Prosecco or Bloody Marys characterise lively weekends, while right next door, the Lyaness Bar offers expertly crafted and highly creative cocktails from one of London’s best cocktail minds. Those in search of the London skyline should navigate o the top floor, where the 12th Knot Bar offers a lively terrace lush with plants and views of the City and St Paul’s alongside a picnic-themed menu of bites and drinks.

The Agua Spa has an indulgent bathhouse-style thermal suite and a library of holistic treatments to pick from (including Vegan manicures), while the onsite gym features floor-to-ceiling mirrors, integrated smartphone connectivity and a good range of cardio equipment to help you keep in shape during your stay. A Curzon cinema, accessed through the lobby, offers a fun finish to the eclectic amenities, with sumptuous sink-in-to velvet seats and a delightful vintage popcorn cart.

But London lovers will undoubtedly agree that Sea Containers’ best feature is its location, with everything from the Tate Modern and the Globe Theatre to St Paul’s and the Southbank just a short, scenic stroll away. Take a riverside promenade west to Parliament and the big ben, or go south and you’ll soon stumble into Borough Market, while Blackfriars tube station (and ferry) brings the rest of London quickly to your fingertips.