Spanish hotel group Riu Hotels & Resorts has completed a landmark acquisition of The Westminster in London, securing the 464‑room property for around £290 million.
he move marks one of the capital’s largest single‑asset hotel transactions in recent years and signals a strategic expansion of Riu’s urban “Plaza” portfolio.
For business travellers, the acquisition represents a notable shift in Westminster’s hospitality offering. The hotel now rebranded Hotel Riu Plaza London The Westminster sits between Westminster Abbey and Tate Britain, placing corporate guests within walking distance of government offices, major institutions, and key transport links.
A Strategic Play for London’s Corporate Market
Riu’s decision to take full operational control of the property underscores the group’s confidence in London’s year‑round business travel demand. The acquisition also ends the hotel’s previous affiliation with Hilton’s Curio Collection, giving Riu the freedom to shape the guest experience around its Plaza brand known for efficient, business‑friendly stays in major global cities.
The Westminster becomes Riu’s second London property, following the opening of Riu Plaza London Victoria in 2023. With the addition of the Westminster site, Riu now operates 13 urban hotels worldwide.
What Business Travellers Can Expect
The hotel underwent a full refurbishment in 2021, meaning the infrastructure is already aligned with modern corporate needs.
Riu’s Plaza brand typically emphasises streamlined check‑in, strong connectivity, and practical room layouts — features that resonate with frequent business travellers looking for reliability and efficiency.
A Vote of Confidence in London’s Hotel Market
For Riu, the acquisition strengthens its foothold in one of Europe’s most competitive urban markets. For business travellers, it adds another globally recognised operator to the mix and a fresh option in a district where demand consistently outstrips supply.