I am facing a somewhat similar situation but with different times: Flight lands LHR around 2100 and connection departs LHR the next evening around 2000. Will have luggage that I don't want to carry around while touring, nor do I want to go through several Tube connections with it. First question is should I stay near LHR (and just go into the city the next day) or go to a hotel in the city? And specific, convenient hotel suggestions? Something comparable to a Courtyard Hotel (in the US) would be fine. Does not have to be a chain hotel. A non-smoking room is important, though. Hilton Paddington is showing more than $500 USD for the night I will be there, and that is a bit pricey.
I have been to central London twice before, so I am not trying to do it all in a few hours. Possibly interested in a catching a matinee before my connection.
Thoughts are appreciated.