Zedwell opens world’s largest capsule hotel in the iconic London Pavilion at Piccadilly Circus

Andrea Thompson

ByAndrea Thompson

September 19, 2025

Zedwell Capsule Hotel Piccadilly Circus launches with nearly 1,000 pods in the historic London Pavilion, offering affordable, sustainable, and design-led accommodation for business travellers in the heart of the West End.

In a bold move that reimagines central London hospitality, Criterion Capital has unveiled phase one of the world’s largest capsule hotel under its pioneering Zedwell brand. Located in the Grade II-listed London Pavilion at Piccadilly Circus, the new Zedwell Capsule Hotel introduces nearly 1,000 individual sleeping pods—designed to offer business travellers a restful, affordable, and well-connected base in the capital.

With Piccadilly Circus welcoming over 100 million visitors annually, the hotel’s strategic location places guests within walking distance of London’s most iconic theatres, restaurants, and corporate venues. For professionals navigating tight schedules and high expectations, Zedwell’s capsule concept offers a streamlined alternative to traditional hotel stays—without compromising on comfort or convenience.

A heritage building reimagined for modern mobility

The transformation of the London Pavilion into a future-focused hospitality hub reflects Criterion Capital’s long-term commitment to revitalising the West End. By repurposing one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks, the development preserves architectural character while embracing sustainability. The capsules themselves are crafted from sustainable oak and feature ambient lighting, Hypnos mattresses, Egyptian cotton sheets, smart climate control, and purified airflow—creating a cocoon-like environment ideal for rest and recovery between meetings or flights.

Logistics and connectivity at its finest

For business travellers arriving from Heathrow or Gatwick, the hotel’s location couldn’t be more convenient. Piccadilly Circus Underground Station, served by both the Piccadilly and Bakerloo lines, offers direct connections to Heathrow terminals and major transport hubs including Paddington, Victoria, and King’s Cross. The hotel’s proximity to Leicester Square, Soho, and Oxford Street ensures that guests are never far from client meetings, networking events, or after-hours entertainment.

Staff and service: calm, capable, and community-driven

Behind the scenes, Zedwell’s operational team has demonstrated exceptional capability in launching and managing a property of this scale. From guest services to housekeeping, the staff are trained to deliver a seamless experience that balances privacy with connection. Communal spaces are thoughtfully designed to foster interaction among guests, while shared bathrooms, laundry facilities, and secure luggage storage add layers of convenience and safety.

Dedicated dormitories for women and flexible group configurations make the hotel suitable for solo travellers, corporate teams, and event delegates alike. With rates starting at just £30 per night, Zedwell Piccadilly Circus offers unmatched value for business travellers seeking a central London stay that’s both practical and polished.

A new chapter for business travel in London

“This is an exciting milestone for both Criterion and Zedwell,” said Halima Aziz, Head of Hotels at Criterion. “Our capsule concept introduces an entirely new way to stay in London—affordable, sustainable, and experience-driven. We’re proud to preserve the legacy of the London Pavilion while opening a new chapter in its story.”

With additional floors and amenities set to launch in the coming months, Zedwell Capsule Hotel Piccadilly Circus is poised to become a dynamic fixture in London’s hospitality landscape—offering business travellers a smart, stylish, and sustainable way to stay in the heart of the city.

Andrea Thompson

ByAndrea Thompson

Andrea can be found either in the Travelling For Business office or around the globe enjoying a city break, visiting new locations or sampling some of the best restaurants all work related of course!