A New RIU Plaza Hotel Opens Steps from Big Ben as the Brand Grows in Central London

(NEWS) LONDON, 2026-Jan-8 — /Travel PR News/ — RIU Hotels & Resorts has expanded its footprint in the UK capital with the opening of Hotel Riu Plaza London The Westminster, marking the company’s second RIU Plaza property in London. Located in the heart of Westminster, the newly added hotel places guests just steps from some of the city’s most recognisable landmarks, including Big Ben and Westminster Abbey, while also offering quick access to the River Thames and nearby cultural attractions such as Tate Britain.

The 464-room hotel builds on the momentum generated by the Hotel Riu Plaza London Victoria, which opened in July 2023 and has seen strong demand since its debut. According to details shared in the company’s official announcement, that performance was a key factor behind RIU’s decision to introduce a second city-centre property, further strengthening its presence in one of Europe’s most competitive hotel markets.

Positioned within walking distance of Buckingham Palace, St James’s Park and the London Eye, the hotel is designed to cater to both leisure and business travellers. Guests have access to a full buffet breakfast, a signature element of RIU’s urban hotels, alongside a lobby café bar, meeting facilities and a fully equipped gym that operates 24 hours a day.

The building itself dates back to 2003 and underwent a comprehensive renovation in 2021, at which point it joined the Curio Collection by Hilton. Following RIU’s acquisition, it has been integrated into the company’s RIU Plaza portfolio of city hotels, with the recent refurbishment meaning no major structural changes were required. As outlined in the press release, the property also features interior design elements inspired by the world of espionage, a nod to its proximity to the headquarters of MI5 and MI6.

With the addition of Hotel Riu Plaza London The Westminster, RIU’s urban portfolio now spans 13 properties across major global cities, including Panama, Madrid, New York, Berlin, Dublin and Toronto. Based on official press updates shared by the group, RIU remains focused on expanding in leading international destinations and is currently developing its third hotel in New York, while continuing to explore opportunities in Europe’s key capitals.

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