a&o Hostels Welcomes New General Manager for London Location

Carolin Paarmann has been appointed as the General Manager of a&o London’s first property, a&o London Docklands Riverside, which opened in late November. Paarmann, who has a wealth of international hospitality experience, aims for the hostel to maintain an average occupancy rate of 65% during the initial half of 2026.

Located in a historic 17th-century dockside building in Southwark, the site features amenities such as a riverside bar, underground parking, and London’s first electric ferry to Canary Wharf.

The hostel chain, recognized as Europe’s largest and fastest-growing, is committing approximately $21 million (€20 million) to a phased modernization program for the property, which will continue to operate during renovations. CEO Oliver Winter emphasized the importance of entering the London market, asserting, “London is another major milestone in the history of a&o.”

Paarmann, who has lived in London since 2015, remarked, “London is a magnet for visitors, from independent travellers to groups such as school and language students.” The a&o London Docklands Riverside aims to attract around 180,000 overnight guests in 2026 and provides unique offerings like a complimentary a&o river taxi and close proximity to major landmarks including Buckingham Palace and Big Ben, which are expected to enhance its attractiveness to a diverse range of travelers.