You are here:
Home >
Districts >
City of London > Blackfriars
 |
Hotels near Blackfriars
You are searching for a hotel in Blackfriars in London postcode EC4.
Located in the southwestern corner of the City of London, Blackfriars is an area well known for its Tube and train station and for its proximity to the River Thames. Its evocative name dates from the early 1300s and is a reference to the Domican Friars (identified by their black caps) who settled in this area in the late 1200s.
Used daily by more than 40,000 commuters and tourists every day, Blackfriars Station is conveniently serviced by the London
Underground's Circle and District Lines. Overground trains to/from Blackfriars run from Luton (with its international airport) in the north to Brighton (with its fun London-by-the-sea attractions) in the south. The station is a good one to keep in mind when planning a visit to a number of London's most popular landmarks. The Millennium Bridge, Tate Modern, St Paul's Cathedral and Shakepeare's Globe are all within easy walking distance. Indeed, with its riverside location, the Blackfriars area is a great place for a walk along the north bank of the Thames, replete with stunning views of St Paul's Cathedral, the Oxo Tower and more.
As well used and convenient as the station may be, it should be noted that Blackfriars Station is to be closed from March 2009 until late 2011. During the 24 month closure, the station will be rebuilt with its above office building to be demolished and replaced. Upon completion, the station will have lengthened platforms to accommodate longer trains, step-free access to the station and improved interchange facilities between the Tube and rail services. A new station entrance from the south bank of the Thames is in the works for the updated station as well.
The Blackfriars area is also home to one of London's most beautiful pubs: the Black Friar, across from Blackfriars Station at 174 Queen Victoria Street. Built in 1875, its wedge-shaped design is reminiscent of New York's famous Flatiron Building and its name alludes to it being near the site of the Dominican Priory. Customers to this famous pub are greeted by a large laughing friar above the main entrance. Inside the Black Friar, the pub's walls and archways leading to different rooms are richly decorated in marble, mosaic and wooden carvings, featuring illustrations of monks in a variety of activities. Work on the Black Friar's interior began in the early 1900s. Contributors including well known sculptures Nathaniel Hitch, Frederick T Callcott and Henry Poole. In the 1960s, the Black Friar faced demolition until a campaign spearheaded by Poet Laureate Sir John Betjeman thwarted such plans. Today, it is still enjoyed as a pleasant place for a drink. Its gardens make the Black Friar a popular summer destination and its "pub grub" menu is well regarded.
5 Star City hotels
4 Star City hotels
3 Star City hotels
