Mama Shelter Shoreditch
Family fun at Mama Shelter
There’s something instantly uplifting about Mama Shelter Shoreditch. You feel it as soon as you walk inside this black brick building, which stands out a mile. The staff, dressed in sweatshirts and big round name badges (not like those hideous ones you see in large chain hotels) greet you like friends, the lighting’s soft but playful, and the overall mood is easy and cheerful. It’s the kind of hotel that makes London feel welcoming again. I walked from Liverpool Street, which is about half an hour, or you can walk 10 minutes from Bethnal Green (on the Central Line) or Bethnal Green train station which is one stop from Liverpool Street.
The atmosphere at Mama Shelter is calm and effortlessly hip without any hint of pretence. A mix of creative locals and travellers fill the open-plan bar and dining area, where people work, eat or chat freely. There’s no rush and no pressure to order anything. You can settle in with your laptop or take time over lunch and still feel completely at home.
Location-wise, it’s spot on. A short walk from Bethnal Green or Shoreditch High Street stations, and it’s close enough for meetings in the City but still laid-back enough to unwind. For anyone needing an affordable base in London, it works perfectly. The Wi-Fi is quick, free, and passwordless.
Bedrooms are neat and practical, designed with a simple, modern style. Large wooden bed frames, deep mattresses and crisp white sheets make for a restful night’s sleep. There’s a corner table with benches that doubles as a workspace, and bathrooms are small but smart, with Mama’s own-brand bath/shower products. Mama Shelter does families very well and it’s not unusual to see kids in their PJ’s having an early supper.
It’s the details that make Mama Shelter stand out. Slippers with red hearts, fruit and cookies waiting in the room, Disney character masks for some fun and plenty of good coffee and tea. Cheerful handwritten messages appear on the mirrors throughout the hotel, adding a personal touch that makes you smile. Everything feels thoughtful and relaxed.
The bar and restaurant is a bright, lively scene with table football and a menu focused on eastern flavours, with a great selection of cocktails. Service was slow, and the food was disappointing, but perhaps I chose the wrong dish.
Breakfast is an absolute feast from custard tarts, pastry, cakes and sourdough, to poached and scrambled eggs, avocado, babaganoush, fruits, yoghurt and more. There’s an à la carte menu too, though with what’s already on offer, it’s hard to believe you need it.
If you thought Mama Shelter Shoreditch was just for humans, think again. Luna, their adorable Chief Dog Officer, has created a whole menu for furry guests—complete with bites, dog-friendly wine and beer. You can even throw your pup a birthday party, with fun themes, treats and space to celebrate properly. And for those who never travel without their dog, Mama’s Dogcation offer includes a comfy bed and bowl for a proper night away together.
The fun doesn’t stop there. There are karaoke rooms if you fancy a singalong, an open-plan bar and restaurant for relaxed sharing plates, and a garden bar that’s perfect for decompressing after meetings. There’s even a compact gym with treadmills, a Peloton bike, cross trainer and its own shower. Mama really does think of everything.
Mama Shelter Shoreditch gets it right in so many ways. Cool but unpretentious. Affordable but full of personality. Whether you’re staying overnight, working remotely or catching up with friends, it’s friendly, relaxed and great value. A place that feels good to be in—and that’s what makes it special.
Who for? All ages, perfect for solo travellers and great for families, couples and business travellers.
Why? Stylish, friendly, fun and affordable