The new a&o London Docklands Riverside will operate as a hotel, demonstrating the hostel groups expansion in the hospitality industry. The new venue will officially open under the a&o flag in November, with bookings already available. With 500 rooms and 2,100 beds, the property will also receive a gradual refurbishment with an investment of £21 million (approx. €25 million) while remaining open for guests throughout the process. The parties have agreed not to disclose the purchase price. The hotel acquisition demonstrates the group’s strategic growth, with London being the third location in the UK, after Edinburgh and Brighton.
The former 17th-century dockland building is located directly opposite Canary Wharf on the banks of the Thames in the Southwark district. The building has its own pier, and a&o Hostels will provide free access for guests to an electric river cab service to and from Canary Wharf – offering easy access to Tower Bridge, Buckingham Palace and beyond.
From January 2026, the three building complexes of the original 17th century port building will be gradually converted and modernised during ongoing operations. The investment amounts to approximately £21 million, or €25 million.
A great solo travel tip spotted this week on Hotel Designs.
