(Above) The new a&o London Docklands Riverside, the company’s first London property
Europe’s largest independently owned hostel chain, a&o Hostels, has announced the landmark acquisition of the former DoubleTree by Hilton, Docklands Riverside, marking the opening of its first London property and their third in the UK. 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 through a&o’s official channels.
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. a&o London Docklands Riverside is also less than a mile walk from Canary Wharf London Underground which offers great connectivity via the Elizabeth Line
With 500 rooms and 2,100 beds, the new a&o London Docklands Riverside 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.
London is one of the world’s most important commercial, financial and cultural centres in the world with an abundance of diverse attractions such as the Tower of London and UNESCO World Heritage Site Westminster Palace. The hotel acquisition demonstrates the group’s strategic growth, with London being the third location in the UK, after Edinburgh and Brighton.
Speaking on the announcement, a&o Hostels Founder and CEO Oliver Winter said: "London is simply a city you have to experience. It represents a deep history, a fierce energy and an incredible internationalism rarely found elsewhere. The opening of our first location here is a real statement for a&o, as a leading destination for travellers, families, school groups and groups of friends. It was at the top of our list as we look to provide value driven accommodation to youth travellers, groups, families and solo guests in an otherwise expensive city.”
"This acquisition is the result of an intensive and purposeful selection process. It signals that a&o is present at the highest level – in the best cities in Europe, with strong partners and a clear focus on sustainable growth," he added.
a&o London - the highlights at a glance
From January 2026, the three building complexes of the original 17th century port building will be gradually converted and modernized during ongoing operations. The investment amounts to approximately £21 million, or €25 million.
