The Ultimate Guide to For the Love of Fantasy & Sci-Fi 2026: The Best Hotels Near ExCeL London
Pop culture fans, cosplayers, and sci-fi enthusiasts are gearing up for For the Love of Fantasy & Sci-Fi 2026, taking place 22–23 August 2026 at ExCeL London. Featuring celebrity Q&A panels, immersive photo ops, and legendary prop displays from franchises like Lord of the Rings, Stranger Things, and Harry Potter, this weekend event requires a comfortable, well-connected base in London.
When searching for the top-rated hotels near ExCeL or premium places to stay near ExCeL London, savvy attendees know that staying directly in Docklands isn't the only option—nor always the most convenient for evening dining, sightseeing, and nightlife. Mercure London Paddington Hotel offers a 4-star boutique stay right on the Elizabeth Line, taking you straight to ExCeL London in just 20 minutes without a single train change.
Why Mercure London Paddington is the Top Choice for ExCeL Hotels
Searching through ExCeL hotels during major convention weekends often means facing inflated rates, cramped dockside crowds, and limited dining choices. Staying at Mercure London Paddington gives you the best of both worlds: effortless event access and a vibrant central London base.
How to Get to ExCeL London from Mercure London Paddington
Getting from your hotel room to the convention hall couldn't be simpler:
- Step Out: Walk 2 minutes from Mercure London Paddington into Paddington Station.
- Board Train: Hop on the eastbound Elizabeth Line toward Abbey Wood.
- Arrive: Alight directly at Custom House for ExCeL in approximately 20 minutes.
- Walk In: Custom House station exits directly onto the ExCeL London pedestrian walkway.
Event Highlights: What to Expect at For the Love of Fantasy & Sci-Fi 2026
- Star-Studded Guest Lineup: Meet iconic stars, snag autographs, and pose for professional photo ops.
- Immersive Movie Sets & Props: Walk through life-sized fan-favourite sci-fi and fantasy sets.
- Cosplay Competitions: Show off your custom craftsmanship or admire incredible fan costumes.
- Trader Zone: Browse dozens of vendor stalls offering rare collectibles, comic books, artwork, and custom merchandise.
Tips for Booking Places to Stay Near ExCeL London
- Book Direct for the Best Rate: Convention dates trigger high demand across hotels near ExCeL London. Booking directly through the official Mercure London Paddington website guarantees the best available price and flexible cancellation policies.
- Prioritise Air Conditioning & Space: Dressing up in detailed cosplay requires room to prepare and reliable climate control to stay cool after a long day on the convention floor.
- Extend Your Weekend: Combine your convention trip with central London sightseeing, Hyde Park strolls, and West End theatre—all right on your doorstep at Paddington.