UK’s first standing bed hotel UpRight launches in London

A new hotel concept where guests stay in vertical sleeping pods is launching in London’s Covent Garden today.

In a world first, UpRight Covent Garden will replace traditional beds with padded, enclosed spaces that allow guests to rest while standing.

Bare Minimum Hospitality Group is aiming its new hotel concept at solo travellers having taken inspiration from budget airlines looking to introduce standing seats for short-haul flights.

The hotel will open with 450 vertical pods supplied by OneNightStand™ today – 1 April 2026 – which the company says offers 22% more rooms than traditional hotel beds would in the same space.

Pods will be available from £120, with a premium ‘lean experience’ starting at £289, which includes a branded sleep mask and unlimited coffee.

Chief executive of Bare Minimum Hospitality Group Neil Down said: “London is one of the most exciting vertical markets in the world, and UpRight reflects a natural evolution in guest expectations.

“Today’s traveller doesn’t need space – they need the best location and rest efficiency.

“By removing beds entirely, we’re able to pass the savings onto the customer at a time when everyone has a watchful eye on their bank balance.”

UpRight Covent Garden general manager Flora Islop added: “Windows are a legacy feature. At UpRight, we’re focused on what guests truly value – being indoors.”