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Why we love London

An unmissable destination for travellers, London is a melting pot of history, culture, green spaces and an international crowd that spills into every delicious corner of its cuisine.  From the unique vintage markets of Portobello Road or Camden to the huge highstreet shops of Oxford Street, Regent Street and Westfield, food lovers will be spoilt for every kind of cuisine - check out trendy trendy Shoreditch and Brick Lane to colourful Chinatown.

Hike up its iconic landmarks and sip a cocktail in tallest building, The Shard, or take in the view from one of its many rooftop bars. Immense yourself in a leading cultural scene with no fewer than four international orchestras, a plethora of West End theatres and live gigs from Wembley to the O2 (Millennium Dome). And discover world-leading museums and galleries, from the Natural History Museum to London’s two Tates. And for some downtime, soak up some rays in one of the city’s Royal Parks or the green lungs of Hampstead Health or Greenwich. Britain’s biggest city has it all – and then some more!

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NG200, National Gallery

It’s party time as the National Gallery celebrates 200 years. Expect an ambitious programme of events in 2024, including a special Vincent Van Gogh exhibition.

Wembley Stadium

Wembley, London

2024 UEFA Champions League final: Wembley Stadium

What better place is there see the 2024 UEFA Champions League final than at Wembley Stadium? See the best of the best in football crowned champions as the 2023/24 competition concludes.

boroughmarket

Borough Market

The mother of all food markets in London. Dating back from the thirteenth century, Borough Market  is an institution. From gourmet and sustainable to butchers, bakers and cheese makers and all things food.

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Art but not as you know it

On the bank of the Thames, in a sort of trendier more modern sister of Pimlico’s  Tate Britain , is Tate Modern . Free to enter, you can take in 360 views of London and eat and drink here too.

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Hit up London’s Southbank

A giant of culture,  Southbank Centre is made up a few places that house London’s most desired events from music to poetry. There’s books, cafes and multiple venues hosting some of London’s most sought-after events.

Get your London Eye tickets

Book your tower of london tickets, things to do in london.

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The London Eye

Take a spin on this world-famous London landmark: riding high in a glass pod, you’ll enjoy magnificent views of the capital.

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ABBA Voyage

ABBA return to the stage as Abbatars for a unique performance.

VisitBritain/Abba Voyage

Tower of London

Get hands-on with history at this former palace and prison. It’s full of tales and treasures, including the Crown Jewels.

Visit Britain/George Johnson

iFLY at The O2

Feel the adrenaline rush as you take flight and freefall through the air at this indoor skydiving experience.

iFLY London

London’s Royal Parks

London’s eight Royal Parks offer an oasis of calm in the city – as well as amazing venues for live music, festivals and theatre.

VisitBritain/Tareq Mooradun

Buckingham Palace

On selected dates, Buckingham Palace opens its doors to visitors: your chance to explore the Royal Family’s iconic London home.

VisitBritain/Tom Weightman

Natural History Museum

Explore the story of life on Earth at this fantastic – and free – museum. A must-visit for all animal lovers and curious thinkers!

VisitBritain/Anastasia Ustenikova

The Lost Estate

Five-star dining, live performance and craft cocktails. Step into an unforgettable immersive experience by master world-builders.

Hanson Leatherby

London, England

Warner Bros. Studio Tour - Harry Potter

Filled with original props, sets and costumes from the Harry Potter films, this is a must-visit for all fans.

Warner Bros. Studio Tours, The Making of Harry Potter / Marc Sethi

London Rock Tour

A musical journey through the sounds of rock music, from 1950s beatnik coffee houses in Soho, to Freddie Mercury and Queen’s very own playground in Kensington.

David Bowie Walking Tour

Get to know the man behind Ziggy Stardust as you uncover the stories and sounds of a musical legend in Brixton and Soho.

Brit Music Tours

West End Silent Disco Walking Tour

Party, parade and prance through the dazzling streets of London’s West End, taking in the city’s theatres while listening to their musical sounds.

Silent Disco Walking Tours

Thames Rockets

Scream if you want to go faster! Part sightseeing cruise, part rollercoaster ride, this speedboat is an epic way to explore London.

VisitBritain/Thames Rockets

Secret Adventures - Kayak

Join this small-group kayaking tour on the River Thames and see London from a whole new perspective.

The Dare Skywalk

Do you dare walk on the roof of London’s mighty Tottenham Hotspur Stadium? Its London views are incredible…

Tottenham Hotspur

Up at the O2

The O2 is one of the capital’s top entertainment venues – but did you know you can also climb up to its roof?

Museum of London

Full of spine-tingling stories, archive photos and curious artefacts, this museum explores the capital’s past.

VisitBritain/Andrew Pickett

Victoria & Albert Museum (V&A)

The epicentre of all-things art and design, the V&A explores everything from high-art sculptures to vintage fashions.

Tate Modern

Discover modern art and captivating exhibitions on the bank of the River Thames.

Somerset House

From outdoor movie screenings to vibrant art exhibitions, Somerset House is packed with fun things to do.

Kevin Meredith

Tally Ho Gin Safari

Discover the entertaining history of London’s favourite spirit on this gin-fuelled bike tour of Southwark and Bermondsey.

©VisitBritain/Jacob Niblett

Supperclub Tube

On a 1967 former Victorian Line carriage, you’ll enjoy a six-course Latin American menu in this truly unique combination.

Jess Rose Photography

Taste of London

Immerse yourself in cooking masterclasses, watch live demonstrations from Michelin star chefs or tee off for a round of crazy golf.

VisitBritain/Jacob Niblett

London in the Sky

Taking dining to new heights, this open-air table is suspended high over Greenwich: an epic spot for dinner and drinks.

The Sherlock Holmes Museum

Step back in time to the Victorian world of one of the greatest literary detectives, Sherlock Holmes, at his ‘real life’ address.

VisitBritain/Emmanuel Teikirisi

The British Library

From Leonardo da Vinci's notebooks to priceless artworks, Britain’s biggest library is rammed full of treasures…

British Library

Imperial War Museum

Revealing the human side of Britain’s conflicts, the world’s largest war museum is both poignant and fascinating.

Imperial War Museums

St Paul's Cathedral

Open to visitors of all faiths and none, London’s iconic cathedral hosts guided tours, live music and art exhibitions.

VisitBritain/Matador Network

Houses of Parliament

Westminster Palace is the spectacular home of the British Government – see it for yourself on a guided tour.

London Pride

Britain’s biggest Pride celebration takes over the capital every summer – with spin-off events year-round.

Tristan Fewings

UK Black Pride

Dive into Europe’s largest celebration for African, Asian, Middle Easter, Latin American and Caribbean LGBTQIA+ people in London.

All Points East

August 2024 Big names hit up the capital for two weekends of music extravaganza from the likes of Gorillaz, Tame Impala and The Chemical Brothers.

Louise Morris/ All Points East

Wireless Festival

12 – 14 July 2024 The place to be for rap and R&B music in the UK with previous headliners including Kanye West and Jay-Z.

Festival Republic

DJ and clubbing royalty headline this annual fiesta of electronic music, in East London’s Victoria Park.

Outside Org/Eric Aydin

Mighty Hoopla

This flamboyant festival of pop and queer culture has featured the likes of Steps, Cheryl and Chaka Khan.

Forage London

These foraging tours reveal the edible herbs, flowers and berries hidden in the capital’s parks and gardens.

Little Venice

Though it’s just steps from Paddington, this waterside area is famed for its tranquil walks and charming pubs.

VisitBritain/Francesco Stile

Skuna Boats

Hop on board a floating hot tub or barbecue boat, for a tour of Canary Wharf you’ll never forget.

Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew

Connect with nature at London’s 300-acre Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, founded by King George III’s mother in 1759.

VisitBritain/J Baxter

Richmond Park

One of London’s eight royal parks, this wildlife-filled nature reserve is a haven for solitude-seekers.

At this state-of-the-art spa, Eastern traditions meet Western technologies, for an exhilarating full-body experience.

Kensington Palace, London

The home to many a royal, from Queen Victoria, William III, to Queen Anne.

Â? visitlondon.com/Jon Reid

Westminster Abbey, London

Step into more than 1,000 years of history at the setting of every coronation since 1066.

Hampton Court Palace

Once the home of King Henry VIII, it now hosts vibrant festivals, outdoor movies, historic tours – and the odd ghost.

VisitBritain/Historic Royal Palaces

Oxford Street

This retail heaven boasts almost 1.5 miles (2.4km) of flagship boutiques – for fashion, beauty, souvenirs and more.

Kevin Lamport

Portobello Road

Find the world-famous antiques market spilling over with fascinating wares.

Â? visitlondon/Antoine Buchet

This East London street is famous for its vintage fashions, bustling stalls and authentic Bangladeshi cuisine.

VisitBritain/Sam Barker

Camden Market

This eclectic collection of punk-like fashion and clothes for every subculture, includes vintage shops and bric-a-brac emporia is firmly a favourite with visitors.

Gauthier Soho

One of the world’s first fine-dining restaurants to go 100% vegan, this acclaimed spot is inspired by fine French cuisine.

Silo, Hackney

A zero waste restaurant choosing local ingredients that generate no waste.

AlternativeLDN

Learn about street art through AlternativeLDN’s London tour, then have a go yourself.

The Culpeper, Shoreditch

Housed in Shoreditch, surround yourself with colourful flora, indulge in homegrown veggies, and take in the impressive London skyline from this rooftop oasis.

The Culpeper

Explore a Great British icon of luxury at Harrods, and discover more than 330 departments over seven floors.

Battersea Power Station

A one stop destination for shopping, food and drink, entertainment and views over the River Thames.

Vogue Fabrics

With film screenings, stand-up comedy, club nights and cabaret, this Dalston venue celebrates all things LGBTQIA+.

Getty Images/iStockphoto

Colours Hoxton

Located in vibrant Shoreditch, this cocktail bar and live music venue hosts a fun-filled ‘drag brunch’ every Saturday.

The Crown Tour of London

You’ve admired London’s royal landmarks on screen – now explore them in person on this Crown-based walking tour.

VisitBritain/Aurélie Four/@LeCorgi

Leave the real world behind, and immerse yourself in a mind-clearing, tension-soothing soak in a weightlessness pool.

Float Works

Featured things to do

A sleepover at London Zoo

Stay overnight with the animals, get a private evening tour of your favourite wild beasts, eat dinner within a whisker of a lion and sleep among the cacophony of baboons and parrots.

Discover London’s Pride festival as it retraces its original route from 1972 through Hyde Park, Piccadilly and Trafalgar Square.

Secret Adventures

Kayak the Thames by moonlight

Kayak on the Thames and see London’s iconic landmarks - quite literally in a different light. See landmarks like the Houses of Parliament, St Paul’s, Bank Side and Tower Bridge all light up.

Christmas festivities

London glows with twinkling Christmas lights, bustling shops, ice rinks and seasonal theatre performances each Christmas. Visit the capital city to get a taste for the festivities.

Places to stay in London

Notting hill.

Stroll along the brightly painted houses, the buzzing cafés and pubs and visit its famous market in this, the home to one of the world’s most iconic festivals - The Notting Hill Carnival.

Explore the super central, trendy, all night buzz to Soho, find cafes, bars, restaurants and ice cream parlour here. It’s a playful and buzzing spot all the time, and shoulders China Town.

Stay in this leafy and affluent part of London that has a great bars and delis, restaurants and its home to London’s green lungs - Hampstead Heath. And of course, you can grab one of best views here - Primrose Hill.

Explore nearby

From ice-cream parlours to sea food festivals, the ‘Garden of England’ is meant for discovery.

VisitBritain/Dipyourtoesin

South Downs

Discover epic trails, rivers to kayak, castles to conquer and wild woods to explore.

VisitBritain/Nadir Khan

A quirky seaside city filled with diverse cuisine, vintage shopping and adrenaline fuelled adventure.

VisitBritain/i360

Just an hour by train from London and you’re in the city of dreaming spires.

VisitBritain/Jess Barfield

Lovers of The Crown can wrap themselves in royalty as this town is about as regal as it gets.

Royal Collection Trust / © His Majesty King Charles III 2022

Getting to London

The capital is served by six international airports , including London Heathrow and Gatwick, with direct and connecting routes to destinations all over the world (shop for Heathrow Express tickets and Stansted Express tickets here). Travelling by train is an eco-friendlier option and the capital offers 12 major stations , including Waterloo, Euston and Paddington. St Pancras International is the city’s Eurostar hub, with multiple direct connections to Europe.

Getting around

London is incredibly well served by public transport, much of which runs late and through the night. Take your pick from the Tube  (shop for a London visitor Oyster card , London Day Travelcard or a Group Day London Travelcard ), trams , buses and boats, or the IFS Cloud Cable Car  for a different perspective of London’s skyline. All services and numerous stations are wheelchair accessible. Alternatively, grab a Santander Cycle from one of hundreds of docking stations around the capital – you can bike around the city from as little as £2.

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Check out Visit London for top insider tips and travel inspirations

London, England   Travel Guide

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34 Best Things to Do in London, England

Whether you're keen to brush up on your history knowledge at the Tower of London , tour the home of the monarchy at Buckingham Palace or check out one of the city's many art galleries, London isn't short on things to do. Thespians will

• All Things To Do
• 1-Day Itinerary
• 2-Day Itinerary
• 3-Day Itinerary

Buckingham Palace Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace, King Charles III's London home, is open for touring (except for the king's private quarters, of course) from July to October. On the tour, you'll have access to the 19 State Rooms where the king and members of the royal family host guests for state, ceremonial and official affairs. Opulently accented with chandeliers, candelabras, paintings by Van Dyck and Canaletto, and exquisite English and French furniture, these rooms display some of the most magnificent pieces from the Royal Collection. Along with the grand interiors, the State Rooms, where kings and queens have entertained guests on both official and ceremonial occasions, are also a witness to history. Those who followed the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton closely will recognize the Throne Room, which served as the backdrop for the pair's official wedding photographs.

For tours in the summer, recent travelers suggested taking advantage of the multimedia guide (included with admission and available in multiple languages), so that you hear a detailed history of each room at your own pace. The palace advises you set aside at least two hours to see the State Rooms (and that you wear comfortable shoes), while recent travelers advised that you use the facilities prior to the start of the tour; there are no public restrooms available until you reach the garden. Except in the Garden Café, no food or drinks (except bottled water) are permitted in the palace.

Tower of London Tower of London

Although its exterior might be grim and even unimpressive (especially when compared to stately  Buckingham Palace ), the Tower of London's interior is always bustling with activity. Despite its name, the large complex has a long history as a palace, a fortress and a prison. Each exhibition and activity here explores this history.

If you're enchanted with the monarchy, don't miss the famous crown jewels exhibition. Among the items you'll see is the Imperial State Crown – which is still worn by the queen for each State Opening of Parliament – and the Sovereign's Sceptre with Cross. In 2020, Prince of Wales' Investiture Coronet joined the display in the Jewel House. For an oral history, take an entertaining tour led by the Yeoman Warders (tower guards). During the hourlong excursion (included in your admission ticket), the guards will regale you with tales of the tower's bloody past. The White Tower is one of the world's most famous castles and a recognizable London landmark. Inside, you'll find the 350-year-old exhibition, "Line of Kings," which includes suits of armor worn by Henry VIII, Charles I, and James II. Keep an eye out for the Tower's famous ravens, who are said to guard the structure.

Houses of Parliament Houses of Parliament

Step through halls where history was made time and again by visiting the British Parliament. Guided and self-guided tours (which come highly recommended by recent travelers) take visitors through multiple areas of the building, including Westminster Hall (the oldest building on the Parliamentary estate, which is more than 900 years old), the House of Commons Chamber and the House of Lords. If you're not interested in perusing the corridors that make up the U.K.'s governing body, many travelers say that simply admiring the iconic structure's impressive exterior is enough, and an absolute must-do for anyone visiting London. 

If you're one of many looking to snap your own photo of one of the most photographed buildings in the world, the best vantage point is from Westminster Bridge. But if you want a truly smashing shot, head on over to Lambeth Bridge or the Golden Jubilee Bridges on the South Bank for a view of Parliament and the London Eye together. Keep in mind that Westminster Bridge connects two of the city's most popular attractions ( London Eye  and Parliament), and as a result is almost always very crowded.

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Westminster Abbey Westminster Abbey

This medieval church, graced by many royal weddings and coronations, offers a magnificent peek at London's far-reaching history. Westminster Abbey is generally busy – and the staff keeps you moving at a pretty swift pace – so do a little research ahead of time to avoid missing your personal must-sees. For instance, if you're a bibliophile, consider a visit to the Poets' Corner. This is the final resting place of famed authors Geoffrey Chaucer, Charles Dickens and Rudyard Kipling, among others. If you're fascinated by all the intrigue surrounding the British royalty, you might like to visit the shared tomb of enemies and half sisters Elizabeth I and Mary Tudor.

If you prefer to see the abbey at your own pace, but still want a little guidance on the history you're encountering, take advantage of the multimedia guides, which are included in the price of admission and available in 14 languages. Alternatively, you can take a guided tour (led by the abbey's vergers) and see special places inaccessible to the public, including the tomb containing Saint Edward the Confessor. If you decide to take this tour, you'll pay 10 pounds (around $14) on top of the general admission price.

British Museum British Museum free

The British Museum is both an architectural beauty and a trove of some of the world's most noted antiquities. In fact, many travelers say it's the best museum in all of London. What's more, it's free to visit. From the Rosetta Stone to the Parthenon Sculptures to Mesopotamian objects, the British Museum is a history buff's dream containing artifacts in the millions. The immense collection can make an initial museum visit seem overwhelming: Pick the exhibits that most interest you, and plan return trips if you feel so inclined.

If you want a little help navigating the museum's exhibits – the approximately 80,000 objects on display out of its collection totaling 8 million items – consider tagging along on a guided tour. Several, including the daily eye-opener tours and the LBGTQ-themed "Desire, Love, Identity" tour and Friday evening spotlight tours are free. You can also book an "Around the World in 60 Minutes" tour for 14 pounds (around $20). Audio guides, which cost 7 pounds (about $10), are also available to rent daily.

Covent Garden Covent Garden free

Though called a garden, Covent Garden isn't all about plants and flowers. Rather, it's a piazza and a collection of urban streets boasting numerous upscale stores as well as bars, restaurants, art installations and more. In other words, it's a bustling neighborhood within London's West End. Shops range from famous trademarks like Ralph Lauren and Mulberry to independent brands. In addition to conventional shops and boutiques, Covent Garden has a covered market area where vendors sell everything from antiques to crafts. Similarly, dining options range from foodie destinations like Sushi Samba and Balthazar to casual pubs. Given Covent Garden's open-air orientation, there are appropriately more than 1,000 seats for al fresco dining.

Covent Garden is also home to the Royal Opera House. Even if you're unable (or disinclined) to see an opera, you can tour the lavishly appointed Royal Opera House. Architecture-enthusiasts find the building, especially its glass atrium, stunning and the tours informative. General admission tickets are 19 pounds (about $24) for adults and 16.75 pounds (about $21) for anyone younger than 16. (Check the opera house’s website for dates and times.)

Piccadilly Circus Piccadilly Circus free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Wander over to nearby Chinatown to sample its slew of Asian restaurants and bubble tea shops, and continue on into Soho for some of the city's best LGBT-friendly bars. – Laura French

Regularly compared to  New York 's  Times Square , Piccadilly Circus is the meeting place of five busy roads and is the center of London's hustle and bustle. Whether it's people on their way to work in the morning, shoppers en route to the chain store-lined Oxford Street (just a few blocks north) or lively club and bar hoppers passing through at night, Piccadilly is always thrumming with activity. 

West End Theatre District West End Theatre District

U.S. News Insider Tip:  For a fun night out, buy tickets for a showing of Agatha Christie's "The Mousetrap," which is the longest-running play in history. – Nicola Wood, Senior Editor

Catching a show in London's West End theater district is just as necessary as watching a play on  Broadway  during a trip to  New York City . The quality is some of the best in the U.K., and the constant mix of new and classic productions with local and world-renowned talent (think: Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Angela Lansbury, Andrew Lloyd Webber, Benedict Cumberbatch) excites both visitors and locals alike. Even if you don't consider yourself much of a theater devotee, recent travelers said the atmosphere, specifically near the lively Leicester Square, where many of the theaters are concentrated, is worth a late-night wander.

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Hyde Park & Kensington Gardens Hyde Park & Kensington Gardens free

U.S. News Insider Tip: A short stroll from Hyde Park Corner will take you to The Grenadier – a tiny pub hidden down a cobbled alley. It opened in 1818 as an officers' mess and now serves beers and classic pub fare in atmospheric, wood-strewn surroundings. – Laura French

Just north of the Royal Albert Hall and northwest of Buckingham Palace  sit Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens: a stretch of green bisected by West Carriage Drive. Hyde Park was once the recreational stomping grounds for King Henry VIII, but now this 350-acre swath of land is open to the public and a must-visit for travelers looking for a relaxing moment away from the city's hustle and bustle. Among Hyde Park's meandering foot and bike paths and flourishing flora and fauna, you'll find a few standout attractions that are worth exploring. Watch the swans and boats glide over the serene Serpentine Lake (or rent a vessel yourself), visit the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain or stop by the Speakers' Corner, a site for public speeches and debates since the 19th century (previously used by George Orwell and Vladimir Lenin, among others). For the sporting set, Hyde Park has tennis courts, football pitches (remember: football means soccer here) and a horse-riding arena.  

The London Eye The London Eye

The London Eye (the giant Ferris wheel found in many London panoramas) is on the River Thames and meant to deliver great views – not a thrilling ride. It circles around slowly, offering an unbeatable bird's-eye perspective of London's South Bank. However, those with a fear of heights should beware: When you're more than 400 feet high, the 360-degree views can be a bit disconcerting.

While some travelers say the London Eye is an absolute must-do, others found the experience to be overrated. Some recent travelers said the lines were too long (upward of a couple hours) and the ticket prices too high. However, many others were amazed by the views, especially  Parliament  and  Buckingham Palace . Visitors were keen to note that this ride is not a fast one, with the average rotation of the wheel at least 30 minutes long. You can also combine a ride on the London Eye with a guided boat tour.

Trafalgar Square Trafalgar Square free

For nearly 200 years, Trafalgar square has been a London institution. Flanked by the National Gallery , the square features two fountains, several busts and bronze lions at the base of Nelson's Column. The column, which honors Admiral Horatio Nelson for his success at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805, stands 16 feet tall. At its base, bronze panels detail some of Nelson's battles and the two lions are there to protect the monument.

Recent travelers appreciated this famous London locale, noting that it's a great spot for photos and people-watching. However, know that aside from the National Gallery and surrounding shops and restaurants, there isn't much to do at the square itself.

St. Paul's Cathedral St. Paul's Cathedral

St. Paul's Cathedral is arguably the second must-see church in London (the first, of course, being Westminster Abbey ). With its imposing dome – one of the largest in the world – St. Paul's forms a predominant spot along London's skyline. It's also a survivor: Although an older incarnation burnt during the Great Fire of London in 1666, the current dome (designed by Sir Christopher Wren and officially completed in 1711) survived numerous World War II bombings.

To make the most of your visit, reviewers highly recommended climbing to the top of the dome to the Golden Gallery. You'll have to hike up 528 steps, but after catching your breath you'll enjoy far-reaching views of the River Thames, the  Tate Modern , and Shakespeare's Globe . And once you've seen the top, head below ground to the crypt (the largest in Europe), where the tombs of notable figures such as Lord Nelson and the Duke of Wellington as well as Wren are housed. Though some reviewers are put off by the pricey admission, most agree that a peek inside is well worth the extra coin.

Natural History Museum Natural History Museum free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Before or after your visit, head next door to the Science Museum to browse interactive exhibits and live science shows, and catch a film at the IMAX, one of the UK's biggest screens (entry to the museum itself is free, though some exhibitions are extra). – Laura French

Located in South Kensington, this museum brims with data from 70,000 different species (from animals to tiny protozoa) and exhibits showcasing everything from dinosaur bones to simulated earthquakes. The Natural History Museum is also a favorite among families, so you'll find it crawling with kids.

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St. James's Park St. James's Park free

One of London's eight Royal Parks, St. James's Park is nearly 57 acres. It's surrounded by three palaces: its namesake St. James’s Palace, Westminster (now the Houses of Parliament ) and Buckingham Palace . The park's semi-circular flower beds – the Memorial Gardens – which sit beside Buckingham are one of its major attractions. The park is flanked one side by the Mall, a route for royal processions that bisects the gardens and on another by the Horse Guards Parade, a parade ground where the annual Trooping the Colour is held. Other notable buildings nearby include No. 10 Downing Street (the Prime Minister's residence) and the Churchill War Rooms . The park also features a portion of the 7-mile Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Walk and provides habitat for various animal species, including foxes and ducks as well as its famed pelicans. Additionally, runners race through St. James's park as the final leg of the annual London Marathon.

Visitors invariably find the park to be quite stunning and well-maintained. It’s deemed an excellent place for walking while admiring the many historical structures nearby.

National Gallery National Gallery free

Sitting in Trafalgar Square, London's National Gallery features a labyrinth interior so large that it requires a color-coded map to navigate. The museum features paintings in the Western European tradition from the 13th to early 20th centuries, including Italian Renaissance masterpieces and French Impressionist works. Among its 2,300 in-house pieces, visitors will find famed paintings, such as Botticelli's "Venus and Mars," Rembrandt’s “Self Portrait at the Age of 34” and Van Gogh's "Sunflowers." 

Recent visitors loved the variety of paintings at the National Gallery, saying that travelers may need more than a day to get a glimpse at all the masterpieces that grace its never-ending halls. They also commend the gallery's cafe.

Borough Market Borough Market free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Across from Borough Market sits the Old Operating Theatre Museum & Herb Garrett: a tiny museum housed in an 18th-century attic of that's the oldest surviving operating theatre (think: operating room) in Europe. It displays intriguing artifacts about the gruesome medical practices of the past. – Laura French

The food-focused Borough Market is effectively three markets in one (with restaurants, bars and shops interspersed throughout). Three Crown Square features large producers and merchants while Green Market has smaller, specialty ones. You'll find everything from cheese to wine to pastries to produce. Borough Market Kitchen provides a platform for street-food vendors. The roughly 1,000-year-old market regularly hosts cooking demonstrations and classes.

Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter

U.S. News Insider Tip:  Pick an early tour time and explore slowly. There is so much to see that you may miss small details if you go too quickly. And don't worry about time. Once you're inside, you can stay as long as you like (well, until closing). – Marisa Méndez, Senior Editor

Located at the studios where all eight of the "Harry Potter" films were produced, this is a must for anyone wanting to learn more about the Wizarding World. Visitors can view original film sets – from the Great Hall to Gringotts, Diagon Alley to the Gryffindor Common Room – with hundreds of original props and costumes to browse. Glimpse the model used for Hogwarts Castle, learn about Hagrid's animatronic head, visit Platform 9 ¾ and board the Hogwarts Express; this is a comprehensive, interactive tour for the whole family that's well worth adding to your London bucket list.

Windsor Castle Windsor Castle

Home to more than 40 British monarchs and in use since the 11th century, Windsor Castle is a spectacular daytrip from London. Visitors can wander the elaborate state rooms, observe the famous Changing the Guard and admire the many artworks and collectibles on display. Should time allow, take a stroll along the Long Walk: a nearly 3-mile-long tree-lined road that is part of the castle's park. Though you'll find a cafe and souvenir shop on-site, Windsor (the town) offers a bevy of dining and shopping options.

Though always crowded, a visit to Windsor should not be missed. Time and again, travelers say that it is a wonderful place to see while in London, and many were repeat visitors. Additionally, travelers with mobility issues said they had little trouble exploring the castle.

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Shakespeare's Globe Shakespeare's Globe

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you're able, opt for a standing ticket at the performance. You'll get a more authentic experience, plus your proximity to the actors lets you admire their facial expressions and costumes. – Marisa Méndez, Senior Editor

This is not the Globe Theatre of Shakespeare's time. The original Globe Theatre – which staged Shakespeare's plays and where the Bard wrote "Twelfth Night," "King Lear," and several others – opened in 1599 and burned down in 1613. The second Globe was erected in 1614 but was then torn down in 1644, after all theaters where shuttered by Parliament. The current incarnation – referred to as the Globe Theatre by its staff – has been in operation since 1997 and it is a celebrated performing arts venue dedicated to staging the Bard's plays. In a nod to its much older namesake, today's open-air theater has a thatched roof – the only one in the city – that does not cover the central yard. Seating is in the round. Or, for a truly memorable experience, you can choose to stand in the yard just below the stage to watch a performance (as many did in Shakespeare's time).  

Royal Albert Hall Royal Albert Hall

U.S. News Insider Tip: Come in December to see Carols at the Royal Albert Hall; it's a spectacular, sing-along show guaranteed to get you in the festive spirit. – Laura French

Royal Albert Hall is a concert hall where musicians of all genres perform. It also hosts special non-concert events, including sporting events and dance performances. The building's famed 20,000-square-foot iron roof was the largest unsupported dome in the world when it was installed in 1869 (two years before the hall officially opened). An 800-foot long, 5,200-square-foot mosaic frieze dubbed "The Triumph of Arts and Letters" encircles the structure's exterior. The hall can accommodate 5,900 people.

Victoria and Albert Museum Victoria and Albert Museum free

The palatial Victoria & Albert Museum, named in honor of the 19th-century royal couple, is known more commonly in its shortened form – the V&A. Located in South Kensington, this free museum is a compendium of applied art across a number of genres, disciplines and time periods. The collections are arranged by categories, such as sculptures, Chinese artifacts, and so on, making it slightly easier to navigate this mammoth museum. Among the permanent collections, the V&A also offers diverse temporary exhibitions and free weekly public lectures.

Recent travelers praised the variety and sheer enormity of the art offered here. Many described its permanent collection as surprise around every corner. If you've only set aside a few hours to tour the museum, consult the building's map before you go; a map will help you plan a route of the collections you'd like to see and maximize your visit.

Tower Bridge Tower Bridge free

Along with Parliament and Big Ben, Tower Bridge is London's next must-see architectural marvel, not to mention the most famous bridge that crosses the Thames. Construction on the bridge started in 1886, which means it's practically modern by London standards, but Tower Bridge stands out for its stunning detail and moveable roadways that lift up when large ships need to pass through. The views from the bridge are an added bonus. From the elevated sidewalks visitors get a prime view of the  Tower of London ,  St. Paul's Cathedral's iconic dome, the London Eye and The Monument.

If you're interested in viewing the city from a higher vantage point (about 137 feet above the Thames), consider a visit inside Tower Bridge, during which you go to the top of the bridge – equipped with a glass floor – as well as to the bottom to the engine rooms. However, recent visitors say that those who are afraid of heights might want to forgo walking across the glass floor.

Hampton Court Palace Hampton Court Palace

Hampton Court Palace, which Henry VIII acquired in the 1520s and subsequently expanded, features the Grand Hall (with Anne Boleyn's coat of arms carved in the ceiling and antique tapestries on the walls) and the largest kitchens in Tudor England (capable of producing 800 meals a day). Its grounds include 60 acres of formal gardens complete with the oldest surviving hedge maze in the country as well as the largest grape vine in the world.

Past visitors observe that there’s a lot to see and that the huge palace necessitates a lot of walking. They also recommend the audio tour, which is included in the ticket price. The gardens are frequently singled out as worthy of attention.

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Regent's Canal Regent's Canal free

Meandering just shy of 9 miles from Paddington in the west to the Limehouse Basin in the east, this charming river walk offers an idyllic escape from the bustle of the city. It passes several postcard-pretty spots, including Little Venice, where quaint cafes, pubs and restaurants sit on the waterfront; Regent's Park, one of London's most popular green spaces and the home of London Zoo; and Camden Lock, famous for its markets, street food stalls and antique shops. You'll also get to see the East End, including trendy Dalston, Victoria Park (home to a farmers market every Sunday) and Mile End.

There's history behind it, too; the canal opened in the early 19th century to transport coal, building materials and other goods from northern industrial cities to King's Cross – a long-standing center for trade – and operated for more than 140 years.

Camden Market Camden Market free

Londoners and out-of-towners alike enjoy spending a morning (or afternoon) at the Camden Market. Camden Market is actually multiple markets spread out in the neighborhood of Camden. It sprawls with more than 1,000 stalls, shops, bars and cafes carrying close to everything, from furniture to food and lots of fashion. Looking for cheap graphic T-shirts and dresses? Head over to the first set of Camden Market stalls located closest to the Tube station. If you're looking for more of a mix of items, walk over the bridge to the lock market, situated on the peaceful Camden Lock. You'll find stalls filled with antiques, clothing, souvenirs and a variety of food stalls. Food on offer ranges from traditional fish and chips to Middle Eastern fare, hot dogs and Portuguese tarts. This area gives way to the long and winding stables market, consisting of vendors selling vintage home decor, leather goods and clothing.

It's easy to get lost in this market, but with all it has to offer, including cool restaurants and bars tucked between nooks and crannies, visitors agree it's also very fun. The only grievance travelers had concerned the massive crowds that form during the weekend. If you don't want to be shopping amidst wall-to-wall people, consider visiting during the week. Even if you're not intent on shopping, many visitors recommend the market for its diverse food stalls. You can find the Camden Market off of the Camden Town, or Chalk Farm Tube stops, as well as the Camden Road Overground stop. Bus routes nos. 24, 214, 274 and 393 also stop in the area. The market is open daily from 10 a.m. until roughly 6 p.m. (though different businesses may open and close at different times). For more information about the vendors at the market, visit its official website .

Tate Modern Tate Modern free

Located on the South Bank along the Thames, the Tate Modern is part of a group of four museums (all named Tate) which house the 70,000 artworks that comprise the national collection of British art. As its name suggest, this Tate holds the more contemporary-style pieces than its three other counterparts, making it more of a hit or miss among travelers. Dalí and Picasso, as well as many British artists, are represented inside this repurposed power plant – but you'll find the works are scattered. Art is grouped by theme rather than by artist.

Recent visitors said if you're a fan of contemporary and modern art, you'll enjoy the Tate Modern. If you're partial to antiquities or the more traditional works of art, you'll probably be better served at the  British Museum  or the  National Gallery . Art aside, the eateries located within the museum may be enough of a reason for travelers to visit. Both the Espresso Bar and Kitchen and Bar at Tate Modern afford stunning views of  St. Paul's Cathedral , which is situated on the other side of the river. At the very least, take a stroll along the Thames to view the museum's impressive exterior.

Greenwich Greenwich free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Skip the tube and hop on an Uber Boat to arrive in Greenwich by water – they depart from various stops along the Thames, including Tower Bridge, London Bridge, Westminster and the London Eye, with single fares from £5.20. – Laura French

Sitting southeast of central London, Greenwich is a great daytrip within city limits and well worth the trek. Greenwich's claim to fame is undoubtedly the Royal Observatory, where the prime meridian bisects the institution and travelers can stand on both the eastern and western hemispheres. Other favorite museums and attractions include the Greenwich Market, the Cutty Sark, the National Maritime Museum and the Greenwich Market. 

Madame Tussauds London Madame Tussauds London

Famous for its waxworks, this was the first Madame Tussauds museum in the world, established in 1884 on Marylebone Road to display works by French sculptor Marie Tussaud. During the French Revolution, Tussaud was forced craft works of executed nobles – including King Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette – to prove she was loyal to the crown. Following the end of the revolution, she left France and traveled to Britain, bringing the waxworks with her, in the early 1800s. Today, the museum upholds the waxwork tradition, with more than 150 realistic-looking figures displayed across 11 zones – from Leonardo DiCaprio to Lady Gaga, Brad Pitt to Harry Styles and Barack Obama to King Charles III.

Recent visitors were impressed and said they enjoyed exploring the different themed areas – from "Star Wars" to "Marvel" – as well as the new Chamber of Horrors room, which explores London's historic criminals. The taxi-themed ride and Marvel 4D show were also a hit, and many recommended it for families, especially those with teenagers. Several commented that lines can be long, even with pre-booked tickets, and it can get crowded inside.

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Up at The O2 Up at The O2

U.S. News Insider Tip: Go early in the morning for crisp air and fewer crowds. Afterwards, head southwest to Greenwich for some food and shopping at Greenwich Market. – Marisa Méndez, Senior Editor

Climb over the roof of The O2 – London's arena for major musical and sporting events – for unparalleled views of the city. The Olympic Park and Canary Wharf are among the sights observable from the 170-foot apex. Excursions generally take about 90 minutes, with an hour of walking that travelers typically find rewarding.

Portobello Road Market Portobello Road Market free

Locals and tourists alike tend to adore Portobello Road Market. Located in the posh Notting Hill neighborhood (made famous by the Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts movie of the same name), the market stretches down the long Portobello Road, which is considered to be the area's high street (or main street). The market is filled with hundreds of merchants of all kinds selling a variety of common flea market items including antiques, art, jewelry, clothing and food. But what stands out about Portobello Market (aside from its adorably colorful location) is its collection of antiques and quintessentially English items. In just a few blocks, visitors can find a wellie shop, scores of vintage tea sets, quality London souvenirs and Banksy recreations. The market is also billed as being the largest antiques market in the world. If you have a penchant for fashion, the best sampling is found at the end of the market near the Ladbroke Grove Tube stop. There, visitors will not only find the greatest concentration of locals but a great selection of vintage attire as well.

Recent visitors loved Portobello Market for its lively atmosphere, wide selection of items and cheap food stalls. Although many lauded the quality found at the food stalls, some urged visitors to check out nearby restaurants, as many serve exceptional British and international fare. Others also advised visitors to pay close attention to their belongings. Portobello Market is not only very crowded, but concentrated on a narrow street, creating an easy opportunity for pickpockets to strike. 

The London Dungeon The London Dungeon

Delve into London's macabre past at this interactive attraction, which explores the history of Jack the Ripper, Guy Fawkes, Sweeney Todd and other criminals through live actors, exhibits and rides. Smell, see and hear the city of yesteryear as you wander through the underground vaults of County Hall on the South Bank, exploring a darker side to this bustling city.

Travelers said the London Dungeon was a great way to get a glimpse into the history of the city and were impressed with the quality of acting and special effects. Many enjoyed the rides and other surprises, although some noted it can be frightening for younger children (a minimum age of 12 is recommended). Some also said it was expensive, but discounts are available when tickets are combined with entry to nearby attractions, including Madame Tussauds and the London Eye.

London Transport Museum London Transport Museum

Step inside the London Transport Museum to explore the history of getting around London. Exhibits detail the first London Underground, how the city expanded, Victorian-era transport and much more. Plus, there are multiple hands-on exhibits to keep young ones entertained.

Overall, travelers were pleased with their visits to the museum and found the history fascinating. Others note it's very family-friendly, so you should expect tons of kids during a visit (unless you visit in the late afternoon, when the museum says it's a bit quieter). 

The Wallace Collection The Wallace Collection free

The collection here includes works by renowned artists such as Titian, Velazquez and Van Dyck as well as various medieval and Renaissance objects. The collection was assembled in the 18th and 19th centuries by the Marquesses of Hertford and Sir Richard Wallace and then donated to Great Britain. The permanent collection centers on European paintings from the 14th to 18th centuries and includes notable French paintings and decorative arts from the 18th century. Special exhibits tend to focus on individual artists, such as Frans Hals and Peter Paul Rubens. Before going to see the fine and decorative arts on display in person, you can explore more than 400 items using a free digital guide available from the museum's website .

Art lovers generally find much to enjoy here, and many suggest it merits repeat visits. Some opine that the signs could provide more information about the items on view.

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Churchill War Rooms Churchill War Rooms

The Churchill War Rooms are the underground bunker that Prime Minister Winston Churchill and his war cabinet used to shelter from bomb raids and plot their steps during World War II. The maze-like corridors tell the story of this volatile time period, centering on the larger-than-life leader that Churchill was.

Travelers describe the Churchill War Rooms as fascinating, and more than one traveler calls it a favorite London attraction. Some say that the rooms are much bigger than they had imagined and that people tend to spend a lot of time soaking in the exhibits and information. Others say that the exhibits have a strange layout, which can lead to confusion when trying to follow the sequence of events. Additionally, this popular spot gets crowded, so most museumgoers recommend that visitors get to the Churchill War Rooms early to avoid a long wait.

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27 Best Things to Do in London

By Sonya Barber and Ramsay Short

London: the city that has anything and everything you could possibly want in a vibrant, world-class capital. Your only real problem is working out what you can miss. With over 170 museums, 3,000 parks, 3,500 pubs and an ever-changing number of restaurants, there’s almost too much to see, do and eat—even for a life-long Londoner.

Truly, the city is too large, and too rich in options, for you to get to it all in one visit; you'll have to make some hard choices. Which incredible food or clothing-market to browse? Tate Modern or the British Museum? Where should you pick for a perfect, full-English breakfast? Where's the best afternoon tea ? How do you pick from all the abundant pubs ? And don't get us started here on the best restaurants . Thankfully, our locally led list of the best things to do in London is here to help you decide—just don’t try to do it all in one day.

Read our complete London travel guide here .

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Tower of London Arrow

Built by William the Conqueror in 1066, this uncompromising slab of a building has been many things—including the site where Henry VIII ordered the execution of two of his wives. Now the Tower is most famous as the home of the Crown Jewels. Come, take a tour from one of the Beefeaters (offered every half hour), and gawp at the sparkling and the frightening alike.

Kew Gardens Arrow

A spectacular 500 acre garden in west London, Kew boasts one of the biggest and most diverse botanical collections in the whole world. There’s been a botanic garden here since the 18th century when it was a royal palace; today it’s not only a UNESCO World Heritage site with over a whopping 50,000 plants, it’s also just a really lovely place to visit. You can spend a whole day gently wandering along the winding paths through the lawns, trees, lake, Japanese garden, rhododendron dell, rose garden and kid’s play area, as well as popping in and out of the grand glasshouses. It’s a calming and tranquil place (as long as you avoid the playground on a school holiday) but you can also learn plenty about plants along the way.

Tate Modern Arrow

This former oil-fired power station sits smugly in the center of the South Bank, knowing that you’re interested in what’s going on inside. It’s filled to the rafters with paintings and sculptures by the likes of Picasso, Dali, Warhol, and Rothko, all set off perfectly by that gritty industrial interior. It’s rare that any exhibition at Tate Modern is awaited with anything less than bated breath, whether they’re the paid shows across the mid-levels of the institution or the vast and clever commissions to take over the massive space that is the Turbine Hall. You’re pretty much bound to be blown away. 

The Globe Theater Arrow

In London, every building and street has history. And Shakespeare's Globe, although a reconstruction of the original Globe Theatre—where many of William Shakespeare's plays were first staged and which burned down in 1613 during a performance of 'Henry VIII'—is no exception. The theater was rebuilt not far from its original site, using construction methods and materials as close to the original as possible, and to watch a performance here is to step back in time with the Royal Shakespeare Company.

Tom Vanderbilt

Alex Erdekian

Jessica Puckett

Shana Clarke

Coal Drops Yard Arrow

Ever since the Eurostar undersea rail link between Paris and London rolled into Kings Cross St. Pancras station, the formerly down-and-out neighborhood of Kings Cross has experienced a total transformation. Abandoned railway land with disused gas tanks now has been turned into new offices, shopping areas, fountains, apartments, green spaces, and more. There are posh supermarkets in converted train sheds, the coveted Central St. Martins London School of Art and Fashion, artisan restaurants like Hicce, and trendy ice cream shops like Ruby Violet. Granary Square, north of the station and surrounded by restored warehouses, has a 1,000-jet fountain that's great for kids, as well as canal-side, amphitheater-style seating. There’s also the gorgeous revamped Camley Street Natural Park, which is packed with stunning wildflowers and urban biodiversity. Google is building their London headquarters here, an office complex that is supposed to be so state-of-the-art it will reinvent everything we know about workplaces. Add starchitect Thomas Heatherwick's stunningly designed Coal Drops Yard, former coal sheds that are now a super desirable luxury shopping and eating indoor and outdoor destination space, and you no doubt want to hang out at this development in what was once a dark and dusty neighborhood.

South Bank Arrow

The South Bank is one of the London’s best bits. Generally located between the Westminster and London bridges, it offers about two-miles of excellent, largely state-funded arts and entertainment venues alongside breezy, traffic-free views of a succession of city landmarks (Big Ben, St. Paul's, the Tower of London) that lie on the north bank. No wonder it attracts over 14 million people per year. If you have limited time in the capital, South Bank is great because it has everything, including a selection of good restaurants and street food offerings.

Victoria and Albert Museum Arrow

South Kensington’s V&A is one of the world’s largest art and design museums, and it's arguably London’s most glamorous. (Just the building itself is well worth the visit: a glorious red-brick palace filled with sculptural details, extravagant tiling, and frescos.) The collection is helpfully broken down into topics—fashion, theatre, furniture, architecture—and all are comprehensive, usually spanning several hundred (if not thousand) years. Don’t expect to tackle more than one or two galleries per visit, and do check out the seasonal exhibition. The collection is helpfully broken down into topics such as fashion, jewelry, theater and performance, furniture, architecture, ceramics etc and all are comprehensive, usually spanning several hundred (if not thousand) years. Don’t expect to tackle more than one or two galleries per visit.

E Pellicci Arrow

Chances are there will be a queue for this beloved British ‘greasy spoon’ cafe. The Pellicci family has been feeding east Londoners since 1900 and still make some of the best fry ups in town. Stepping inside is like entering a time warp: there’s beautiful ornate art deco wooden paneling, stained glass windows, formica tables and a huge steaming tea urn. In fact, it’s such an icon that English heritage has awarded it grade-II listed status. It’s lively, chaotic, and always great fun. Whatever food you choose, always order a cup of strong "builder’s" tea. There’s coffee, milkshakes, beer, wine, and even limoncello on the menu but nothing goes better with a breakfast than a perfectly brewed cuppa.

Sir John Soane's Museum Arrow

This is, without a doubt, the city’s most atmospheric museum, packed to the rafters with hundreds of interesting and impressive artworks and artifacts. The collection is pretty much whatever took Sir John Soane's eye, positioned in the place it looked best—so don’t go looking for order. Instead, go curious, as the walls give way to secret rooms the unobservant might miss. It's not the unknown it once was though, so unless you go first thing in the morning you'll probably have to wait in line.

Columbia Road Flower Market Arrow

Weekly on Sundays, Columbia Road in East London's hip Shoreditch/Hackney neighborhood, transforms into a multicolored frenzy of stalls and flowers. This otherwise unassuming East End street is transformed into a swath of magnificent plant life, the air fragrant with blooms and the shouts of historic London's famous Cockney stallholders. It's as eccentric as it gets around here. You'll hear rushed deals and offers for a 'tenner' or 'fiver' (ten or five pounds) and because everything is so fresh, it's all gotta be gone by 2 p.m. 

Dennis Severs' House Arrow

Fancy a trip back through time? Just around the corner from buzzy Spitalfields Market, there’s a beautiful old four story house in Spitalfields that is essentially a wonderful time warp. Eccentric American Dennis Severs bought the crumbling derelict building in 1979 and turned the whole thing into an amazing work of art, evocatively recreating the home life of different generations of a Huguenot family living from 1724 to 1919 (and living there himself at the same time!). Severs died in 1999 but the house is perfectly preserved and is one of the most incredible museums in London. This is quite a niche museum: one for history fans, interior enthusiasts and those into theatrical spaces, but truly anyone visiting will be instantly immersed into the bewitching experience. There’s only a small number of people allowed in at one time and everyone is respectfully tip-toeing around peering into chamber pots and studying the ghostly paintings.

Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon at Fortnum & Mason Arrow

This historic spot for afternoon tea has been an upper crust British favorite since it began importing leaves from Asia in 1707. It's no wonder the beloved tearoom was reopened in 2012 by the Queen after a sensitive refit. The room retains a fittingly regal affect, decorated in the store’s trademark eau de nil (take that, Tiffany). There’s often a pianist tinkling away in the corner of the airy elegant room in the afternoon. The tea itself will leave even the most discerning of tea snobs with their mouths open. There are 50 different blends and tea sommeliers to help you chose which one is for you.

St. Paul's Cathedral Arrow

One of the most famous cathedrals in the world, St. Paul's (finished in 1708) is the masterpiece of architect Sir Christopher Wren, and its towering dome is probably second on the definitive list of symbols of London after Big Ben. It's awe-inspiring, magical yet somber and reflective, a place for prayer whether you're religious or not. 

Royal Academy of Arts Arrow

The Royal Academy of Arts, or the R.A., as it's more fondly known, has been around for 250 years run by artists, and is home to an incredible collection of global art. The R.A.'s collection is vast, including sculpture, drawing, painting and architecture. There are numerous classic works on show as well as themed exhibitions from the collection, and varied and regular temporary shows that sell out quickly. Annually there is the annual Summer Exhibition featuring plenty of new work from up and coming R.A. students and alumni, and major icons in the art world; it's well worth seeing. You can come for a short visit and still get plenty out of the R.A.—the buildings themselves are worth checking out alone if you like seeing 19th-century and modern 21st-century architecture blended together.

Liberty London Arrow

This is truly one of the most beautiful shops in London. A Grade II-listed boutique department store with an iconic mock-tudor façade constructed from the timbers of two ships, it’s well worth a visit for the shop itself. Founded by Arthur Lasenby Liberty in 1875 who wanted an emporium to show off the treasures from his travels, today the wood-paneled light-filled atriums and cozy side rooms are stuffed full of goodies, new and old. It’s atmospheric, eclectic and unlike any other department store we’ve ever visited. A visit to the store must include a peruse of the impressive fabric department: the rolls and rolls of colorful, intricate and fabulous prints that will make you wish you’d paid more attention in home economics. If sewing isn’t your thing, you can get ready-made bags, cushions, bedding and even chess boards adorned with the delicate Liberty patterns.

The Shard Arrow

Western Europe's tallest building at 309.6 metres, or 1,016 feet, high, The Shard houses London's first Shangri-la hotel , private apartments, offices and three high-end restaurants—Aqua Shard, Hutong and Oblix. All good reasons to visit of course but arguably the main one is the viewing gallery aka The View. Located on floors 68-72 and 244 meters above London, you have an unobstructed 360-degree, 40-mile view across the city.

West End Theatreland Arrow

London's answer to New York's Broadway cuts across a swathe of the West End of the city in Covent Garden, Soho, and Picadilly.  From Shakespeare to contemporary comedies and dramas like Hamilton, as well as countless famous musicals of old and many new, London's West End has it all. Who doesn't want to feel again the infectious glee of musical theatre choreography and the sweating happiness of curtain calls. With the shows coming back after a long closure due to coronavirus, the Criterion Theater is offering a wonderfully quirky musical version of Amelie—the popular French movie of the same name—for more affordable prices than the big-name shows.

National Gallery Arrow

Set in London’s busiest open space, Trafalgar Square, this is the grandmother of galleries with more than 2,300 paintings spanning the 13th to the 19th centuries: Heavyweights include Van Gogh’s Sunflowers, Velazquez's Rokeby Venus, and Constable’s six-foot long The Hay Wain . It gets packed at weekends, but its so large that you can usually find a quiet corner. You can download an audio tour covering the museum's highlights, but you can also curate your own by selecting the paintings you want to see before you arrive. The seasonal exhibitions are the only ones you’ll pay for, and as you'd expect, most are spectacular ranging from Lucian Freud to Titian.

Borough Market Arrow

The food hound's favorite London market (and the city's most atmospheric) occupies a sprawling site near London Bridge, both in a large covered area and spreading into the smaller maze of streets that surround it. Records show there’s been a market here since 1276 when it apparently caused traffic jams on London Bridge. What’s on offer? Gourmet goodies run the gamut and you’d be hard pressed not to find something you can’t get enough of and simply spend all day stuffing your face.

Highgate Cemetery Arrow

A graveyard is always a somber place, but Highgate is also a celebratory one. You’ll recognize parts of it if you’ve seen Francis Ford Coppola’s ‘Dracula,’ and you'll find the final resting place of writers like George Eliot and Douglas Adams, science pioneers like Michael Faraday and pop culture icons like George Michael (although his grave isn't named as such;  his Panayiotou family plot is in the West Cemetery next to Lucien Freud). And believe it or not, for somewhere with so many legendary men and women buried in it, Highgate Cemetery is one of the least visited of London’s landmarks. But those who come do it for both the ghostly mystery of the place itself, as well as the celebrity dead.

British Museum Arrow

You could spend several lifetimes in the British Museum, Britain’s largest museum, without running out of artifacts to ponder. The collection is one of the largest in the world, arranged by location (Ancient Egypt, Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and Greece and Rome), and the list of big hitters includes the Rosetta Stone and other finds from Ancient Egypt, Asia and the Middle East. Come early on a weekday for a less crowded experience, pick one gallery and stick to it, or go for a guided “eye-opener” tour.

Hampstead Heath Arrow

Forget the perfect lawns of London's Royal Parks, Hampstead Heath, the vast and, in places wonderfully overgrown, tract of countryside just north of the rock ‘n’ roll neighborhood of Camden Town is the wild heart of the city and an undisputed highlight, so much so it's said to have inspired CS Lewis’s Narnia. The Heath covers 791 acres of woodland, playing fields, swimming ponds and meadows of tall grass perfect both for picnickers and couples in search of privacy. It’s truly beautiful.

Portobello Market Arrow

Running through the center of the ever-fashionable Notting Hill neighborhood in West London, Portobello Road is know for everything from sixties models, photographers, artists and rockstars to rows of antiques stalls, hip pubs and Hugh Grant, but what we’re talking about is Portobello Market when the street is closed off Friday to Sunday and packed with people from far and wide. It’s that famous. Portobello is actually several markets rolled into one: There are antique and bric-a-brac shops, loads of food stalls and further up next to the Portebello Green arcade, emerging designers and vintage clothing shops.

Hyde Park Arrow

Hyde Park is big. At one and a half miles long and a mile or so wide, it's one of London's largest Royal Parks, originally appropriated from the monks at Westminster Abbey by Henry VIII to hunt deer, but now the sort of space where anything goes. Think gangs of roller-bladers on the paths, mad swimmers and chill boaters in the Serpentine Lake, rowdy protestors at Speaker’s Corner and kids aplenty riding horses and tipping their toes into the Diana Memorial Fountain.

Tayyabs Arrow

Most nights you’ll be waiting for at least half an hour before entering this famous, BYOB Punjabi diner in Whitechapel. Tayyabs is loud (and no one’s on a romantic date) but what you’re there for are the sizzling plates of meat. The main attraction is the lamb chops, served up spicy and marinated in a kadai masala with coriander, sliced onions, and chillies, and everything must be paired with freshly baked rotis, parathas, and naans. It’s a great spot for meat eaters and large groups looking for an affordable way to dine on exceptional Punjabi food.

Churchill War Rooms Arrow

This underground lair, just around the corner from 10 Downing Street, is where Churchill spent endless hours plotting Allied victory during the Second World War. Come for the Map Room, which looks exactly as it did when the members of the War Cabinet abandoned it at the end of the war, and the Transatlantic Telephone Room, where Churchill had secret conversations with U.S. officials. Entry is currently timed so you won't be crowded, and there are some pandemic restrictions still in place in terms of social distancing, but it's easy to get around and see everything. The audio guide comes with your ticket and provides an extra insight into the operations that went on during the war, including sounds and speeches of the time. The museum is also fully wheelchair accessible.

Ronnie Scott's Jazz Club Arrow

Nightlife institutions are institutions for a reason. And Ronnie Scott's, Soho’s premier jazz venue on Frith Street, never, ever disappoints. One rule: book your ticket in advance. Ronnie's is a concert venue, generally hosts two sittings a night—everyone from Nina Simone to Pharaoh Sanders has played here—and gigs get booked out quickly by tourists, aficionados and fellow musicians. You can, however, usually get into Ronnie’s Bar, a smaller more dance oriented venue upstairs, without advance notice, as well as into the 'late late' shows. The place itself is everything a jazz venue should be: dark, loud and enticing, romantic even, and so very Soho—you’ll probably feel like drinking whisky but Champagne always goes down better. When the music ends, and you fall out buzzing into the street, finish up with a bite at the legendary late-night favorite Bar Italia across the road. It’s just what's done.

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The 50 best attractions in London

Discover London’s best attractions, landmarks and sightseeing spots that you’d be mad to miss, even if you‘re a local

London landmarks are iconic for a reason.  You’ve got your London Eye, your Hyde Park, your Big Ben, and even if you’ve lived here for years and have steadfastly been avoiding ‘tourist traps’, you really ought to check these places out at least once.  Whether you’re a day-tripper or a local, marvelling at the capital’s museums , galleries , monuments and  parks  is a London rite of passage – and they’re all really bloody great.  But where to begin? We’ve pulled together a list of the best attractions in London for you to start ticking off your bucket list. And the best news? Loads of these must-see London attractions are free, and for those that aren’t, you can book below.

Still after some sightseeing inspiration? Check out our list of  101 things to do  in London, and find out what’s happening in London  today ,  this week , and  this weekend .

RECOMMENDED: the best hotels in London   RECOMMENDED: the best alternative attractions in London RECOMMENDED: the best London bus tours

This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our   affiliate   guidelines .

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London’s top attractions

1.  The London Eye

• Things to do
• Event spaces

What is it? Much like the Millenium Dome – or, as it's known to those who don’t remember the twentieth century, the O2 Arena – the London Eye was built to celebrate the year 2000. Since then, the Eye has been a resounding success and it’s hard to picture London’s skyline without it. It rarely ever comes to a stop, so you won’t be standing on the ceremony when you get on. Before you know it, you’re halfway into the sky and taking in sweeping vistas of the city.

Why go? The view, obviously. 

2.  Shrek’s Adventure! London

• Theme parks

What is it? An interactive tour that starts with a breathtaking 4D ride through the sky before you crash-land near a certain ogre’s swamp and find yourself having to flee from the wicked Rumpelstiltskin. You’ll encounter a few favourite characters while you take on different missions, such as liberating Pinocchio from the Wheel of Torture and cooking up some spells with the Muffin Man. 

Why go? To have a giggle on a whirlwind trip to Far, Far Away.

3.  Madame Tussauds

What is it? In 1802 Marie Tussaud made her waxwork debut in the capital (32 years after she founded the show in Paris). By 1884 she decided to lay down permanent roots in Marylebone and she’s been there ever since (well, her legacy at least). Visitors to Madame Tussauds today will find over 150 lifelike models including contemporary stars like Drake and Dua Lipa and historic icons like Einstein and Marilyn Monroe. Elsewhere The King stands proudly on the Royal Balcony and stars like the Marvel cast have their own Hall of Heroes.

Why go? To snap a selfie with all the famous faces. Instagram, incoming.

4.  The View from the Shard

• Towers and viewpoints
• London Bridge

What is it?  The capital's tallest tower, having joined London's skyline in 2012.  Measuring 310 metres, The Shard was built with everything in mind: offices, homes, hotels, bars, restaurants and, of course, the alluring viewing platform. From the highest point, the public are allowed access (floors 69-72) you get stunning 360-degree views of the city. There’s a silent disco on selected Saturday nights and other events, such as gigs and gin tastings throughout the year.

Why go? The floor-to-ceiling windows allow exceptional views out across the capital, especially on a clear day.

5.  The London Dungeon

What is it?  A tour of London’s nastiest historical moments, with gory stories retold with humour, gooey props and gruesomely costumed actors. You can board a traitor’s boat to the Tower of London, dash through the streets of Whitechapel in pursuit of Jack the Ripper and glimpse plague London. 

Why go?   Gore-seekers can ride a recreation of The Death Express, a line which carried the deceased to their final resting place in Surrey. 

6.  Up at The O2

• Sightseeing
• Greenwich Peninsula

What is it? Ever wondered what London looks like from 53 metres above North Greenwich? Find out with a ticket for Up at The O2 where you can choose from Daytime, Sunset and Twilight climbs. The ultimate AAA pass gains you access to the roof, where you’ll be able to see across the capital, spotting famous sites like the Olympic Park, Thames Barrier, The Shard and Canary Wharf.

Why go? For an incredible 360-degree view – and that adorable climbing onesie.

7.  Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park

• Sport and fitness
• Parks and gardens
• Olympic Park

Remember the London Olympics in 2012? Feels like a lifetime ago – and a very different time – but we were promised a legacy and, if the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park is the yardstick, we got one. The buildings and all that parkland are now one of London’s best attractions, drawing swathes of tourists and Londoners every year. The  London Stadium  (host to big concerts with headliners like The Weeknd and West Ham FC as well as various athletics championships). The southern section of the park is home to all the stunning parkland, including children's play areas, four walking trails, a couple of dozen public artworks, plus the attraction of ascending the remarkable  ArcelorMittal Orbit . Make sure you check out foodie hot spots like  Hackney Bridge food market  and the award-winning floating restaurant  Barge East . It continues to honour its reputation for state-of-the-art sporting venues – from the  Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre  as well as the Zaha Hadid-designed  London Aquatics Centre , which is open for public swimming and diving sessions, followed by the VeloPark, home to road, track, BMX and mountain biking. There’s more to come too. Heard of East Bank? Set to be London’s newest cultural quarter with world-class experiences from BBC, Sadler’s Wells, UAL’s London College of Fashion, University College London and the V&A East. In short: a lot of great stuff to explore.

8.  Westminster Abbey

• Religious buildings and sites
• Westminster

What is it? Like the Pantheon Crypt in Paris, where you can see the tombs and memorials of great figures from history, Westminster Abbey is a popular attraction to peruse the graves, tablets, busts and stone dedications. In fact, seventeen monarchs are buried here, along with dukes, countesses and history’s ‘celebs’ (Think Darwin, Dickens and Hardy). Founded by Benedictine monks in 960 AD, there have also been 16 royal weddings here and every single British coronation has taken place within the Abbey's walls since 1066.

Why go? To see Gothic grandeur in all its splendour.

9.  Buckingham Palace

What is it? A chance to see world-famous art, glimpse regal opulence and get inside HM’s headquarters. Tourists and locals alike know the façade of Buckingham Palace, which stands at the end of The Mall. But it was only in 1913 that this addition was made, by King George V and Queen Mary. Before that, in 1633, the palace wasn’t even royal – it belonged to Lord Goring, who was forced to hand over ownership to the Royal Family (under King George III) due to a flaw in his contract. Poor chap. 

Why go? To snoop around the most famous royal residence in the world.

10.  Hampton Court Palace

• Historic buildings and sites

What is it? A resplendent palace with plush grounds on the edge of south west London. From the Tudor indoor tennis court to the Royal Maze, from the King’s private loo to the Magic Garden adventure playground, there’s something here for all ages. History buffs and art enthusiasts should purchase a ticket for the Palace and Gardens; those with little ones in tow will appreciate the Magic Garden and Maze ticket. Make sure you keep an eye on the site for their seasonal opening times.

Why go? To get lost in the Royal Maze.

11.  The Houses of Parliament

What is it? The seat of British democracy. Take an audio tour through the House of Lords and House of Commons to bring the building to life. It takes around 90 minutes and features leading parliamentary figures such as Mr Speaker and Black Rod. 

Why go? For a dazzling combo of history, politics and architecture.

12.  St Paul’s Cathedral

What is it? Iconic as St Paul’s may be, the cathedral as we know it today is in fact version six, at least. Mark five was razed to the ground by the Great Fire of London in 1666, mark three was also destroyed by fire, in 1087, and mark four fell to ruins under Henry VIII’s leadership. Thankfully Sir Christopher Wren’s design, which was completed in 1708, survived 12 monarchs and two world wars, notably the German Blitz of WWII. If you’ve paid for the main admission you’ll be treated to an introductory talk before being taken on a 90-minute tour.

Why go? To test your hearing in the Whispering Gallery.

13.  Afternoon tea at the Ritz

• Restaurants
• price 3 of 4

What is it? An occasion to enjoy finely cut sandwiches, fresh cakes and the tinkling of shiny silver teapots in the gold and white splendour of the Ritz Hotel’s former Ballroom. It’s so popular that you can book sittings from 11.30am to 7.30pm every day – sure, it’s not strictly the afternoon, but it’s all accompanied by the delicate sounds of a pianist, harpist or string quartet.

Why go?  For the unlimited scones and sandwiches.

14.  Tower Bridge

• Tower Bridge

What is it? There’s more to this ornate Victorian bridge than something cool to look at: you can actually venture inside. Check out the engine rooms with their whirring wheels and pistons, then head up to the glass-floored viewing platform above the draw bridge, where you can delve into this magnificent structure's story.

Why go?  Time it right and you'll see the bridge rising up to let paddle steamers and barges through. Want to know a fun fact? A full schedule of bridge lift times is available on their website . 

15.  Kensington Palace

What is it? Where William, Kate and the kids hang their hats. This tourist attraction has a chic style: it played host to the most fashionable salons in Georgian times, was home to Queen Victoria in her youth, then sassy Princess Margaret and then classy Princess Diana. Now the main palace is a pretty visitor magnet with tranquil gardens to wander.

Why go? To be blown away by the outfits in the ‘Royal Style in the Making’ exhibition.

16.  Big Ben

TOURS SUSPENDED TEMPORARILY

What is it?  Big Ben is the nickname of the Great Bell inside Westminster’s iconic clock tower, but even locals think ‘Big Ben’ when they see the Elizabeth Tower. You can’t get inside for a tour due to maintenance work but you’re a minute away from the river, the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey here, so it’s an easy visit.

Why go?  To see the world's most celebrated clock face to face.

17.  Wembley Stadium

What is it? The venue where England won the World Cup in 1966, and the Lionesses won the Euros in 2022. Wembley still has a magic about it, even when you don’t have a ticket for a match or a rock concert. Take the tour and you’ll get to walk down the players’ tunnel and climb the 107 Trophy Winner’s steps, plus, with the use of 360-degree video, experience the electric atmosphere at some of the stadium’s biggest events.

Why go?  To peek  behind the scenes and sense that Cup Final magic.

18.  The National Gallery

• Trafalgar Square

What is it? A huge art museum right on Trafalgar Square that’s free to enter. Perfect, whether you’ve got ten minutes in your lunch break to check out Van Gogh’s ‘Sunflowers’ or time to wander the entire collection of Western European paintings from the thirteenth to the nineteenth centuries. Check out the Friday Lates for after-hours access to exhibitions, creative workshops and life drawing sessions.

Why go? To be swaddled in artistic greatness.

19.  Churchill War Rooms

What is it? A secret, secure bunker, tucked behind Downing Street and Parliament Square, where Churchill and his cabinet could monitor how World War II was going, receive intelligence and give orders. It’s the little details that give the biggest impression, from a daily-updated weather noticeboard to the scratch marks on Churchill’s chair (caused by his ring on a stressed day).

Why go? For history lovers to see the rooms just as they were left after 1945.

20.  National Portrait Gallery

• Charing Cross Road

What is it? Just around the corner from The National Gallery, this is the home of a stunning collection of portraits, from paintings to photography, capturing the essence of notable royalty, celebrities and our enduring fascination with the human face. The permanent collection is free to visit, with ticketed special exhibitions.

Why go? To wander among the great and good.

21.  Thames RIB Experience

• Victoria Embankment

What is it? A high-speed ‘rigid inflatable boat’ that will have you zooming up and down the river. If you want to ramp up the excitement on the Thames – the kind that would make 007 proud – hop aboard the RIB to travel at speeds of around 35 knots (roughly 40 mph).  

Why go? Because it’s the most thrilling way for adrenaline junkies to see the sights.

22.  National Theatre

• Public and national theatres

What is it? Only the greatest theatre in the world (well, we would argue so, anyway). Take your pick of entertainment from the three theatres, and if you’ve got time to kill pre- or post-performance, take a seat at one of the various bars or restaurants. 

Why go?  To witness shows that champion rising talents and showcase big-name stars.

23.  Royal Albert Hall

• Music venues
• South Kensington

What is it?  Across the road from the ornate golden memorial statue of Prince Albert is another dedication. The construction of Royal Albert Hall was ordered by Queen Victoria and named after her late husband. Since its completion, the hall has hosted music and theatre and continues to do so to this day – most famously the Proms.

Why go? To experience the dazzling Victorian opulence.

24.  Tower of London

What is it? O ne of the capital’s best and most well-known historical attractions.  The Tower of London offers wonderful architecture, gruesome stories, hands-on activities for younger visitors, costumed actors and guides, and worryingly confident ravens.

Why go? To get an eyeful of the Crown Jewels.

25.  Royal Opera House

• Classical and opera
• Covent Garden

What is it? Covent Garden’s grand old opera house. You don’t have to be super-rich to get in on the action – there are reductions for students, senior citizens and those on credits, plus regular ticket offers for all. Alternatively, take a backstage tour, where you can sometimes spot the Royal Ballet practising their moves. 

Why go? To see a right royal opera or ballet performance.

26.  Kew Gardens

What is it? Budding horticulturalists will have a field day here. There are over 300 acres to explore filled with indigenous flora and fauna, as well as exotic greenhouses and nature trails. There’s also a treetop walkway and the Grade I-listed Temperate House recently reopened after a five-year refurb. It’s the largest Victorian glasshouse in the world and quite a sight to behold.

Why go? For a breath of fresh air in the busy city.

27.  Shakespeare’s Globe

• Shakespeare

What is it? A painstakingly accurate recreation of the kind of theatre Shakespeare would have written all his plays for. If you’ve never been, book groundling tickets and stand in the open-air pit like you’re at a rock festival. It makes Bard’s poetry seem a lot less like homework and a lot more like first-rate drama.

Why go? For a raucous, interactive take on  theatre.

28.  Somerset House

What is it? An elegant eighteenth-century landmark and cultural hub on the north side of Waterloo Bridge that hosts several art exhibitions and events at a time, incorporating the Courtauld Gallery and temporary exhibitions in the Embankment Galleries. Hell, even the courtyard (once an Inland Revenue car park) makes itself useful, with gigs, alfresco cinema and fountains in summer.

Why go? For music and movies under the stars.

29.  Tate Modern

What is it?  A riverside icon dedicated to modern and contemporary art, based in what was the Bankside power station. You can discover works by the likes of Warhol, Dalí and Hockney, as well as unusual, eye-grabbing installations, as part of its free-to-visit permanent collection.

Why go?  For some of the best art and architecture London has to offer. 

30.  Kew Palace

What is it? The favoured residence of George III looks more like a massive, ornate biscuit tin than the glittering home of a royal. In the gardens, there is a wonderful little cottage built for Queen Charlotte that trumps any garden shed. You can only visit the palace via Kew Gardens (it’s free with entry to Kew).

Why go? To discover an often-forgotten treasure.

31.  Cutty Sark

• Ships and boats

What is it?  Experience life aboard the world’s last surviving tea clipper in Greenwich. See the intricate craftsmanship used in its creation and find out how the crew lived. Thanks to a million-pound refurbishment after a fire in 2007, you can now walk underneath the hull.

Why go?  To get a taste of life at sea without leaving the dock. 

32.  HMS Belfast

What is it? A grey warship, with its guns tilted high, moored close to Tower Bridge, that’ s a museum nowadays. Open daily, with scenes set to show you what life was like on board a working WWII warship, HMS Belfast is a lively visitor space. You can scoot around the lower levels, exploring the engine room, the kitchens and the dentist’s office, and the action stations up on deck.

Why go? To play life-sized battleships.

33.  London Transport Museum

What is it? A vast museum full of real relics of the bygone ages of London transport, where there’s always a bus or a train to hop on. Find out why tube stations were used as wartime shelters, see decades of beautiful poster artwork and discover how the latest technology will run our services in the future. The LTM always hosts a fabulous Friday Late themed around its newest exhibition.

Why go?  To discover a treasure trove of retro design. 

34.  London Zoo

• Zoos and aquariums
• Regent’s Park

What is it?  The Regent’s Park landmark has come a long way since the days when zoos were full of homesick wildlife. London Zoo does a lot of world-class animal welfare work, creating carefully designed settings in which beautiful creatures from gorillas to lizards, penguins to tigers now reside. There’s a dedicated area for small kids and daily shows for nature fans of all ages.

Why go?  To take a walk on the wild side.

35.  Warner Bros Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter

• Hertfordshire

What is it? The Warner Bros Studio, a short trek north of London, where you can set foot inside the Great Hall, Forbidden Forest and Diagon Alley. See film sets, costumes, props and exhibits that take you behind the scenes of the Harry Potter films. Changing exhibitions are included in the ticket and you get the chance to discover the secrets of the movie’s special effects.

Why go? To finally get your mitts on a flagon of Butterbeer.

36.  Royal Observatory

What is it? For centuries, the location for the scientific study of the stars and of timekeeping – originally for the benefit of sea navigation. This is where you’ll see the Greenwich Meridian Line marked out, from which point the world’s time zones are measured. You can also see the incredible instruments with which astronomers made discoveries about our universe, long before the digital age, or go stargazing at a planetarium show.

Why go? To give Brian Cox a run for his money. 

37.  The South Bank

What is it? A buzzing open space and cultural nucleus of the capital, lined with some of the city’s most exciting galleries, theatres and attractions. Start at the Southbank Centre, for free art and live shows, lunch at one of the many restaurants, watch the skateboarders and then wander east past the artists’ enclave at Gabriel’s Wharf and on to Tate Modern and the Globe.

Why go? For riverside adventures and ace views. 

38.  SEA LIFE London Aquarium

What is it?  The home of sea creatures from all over the world, from Pacific nurse sharks to Antarctic penguins (with a glimpse of what’s swimming past you in the Thames, too). It can get busy, but go off-peak to get some one-one-one time with the crocs

Why go? To immerse yourself in the life aquatic.

39.  British Library

• Libraries, archives and foundations
• King’s Cross

What is it? A working resource for printed and sound archives that’s open to all. If you nip into the free entrance hall exhibitions you might get to see a scribbled page of Beatles songwriting or a Leonardo da Vinci notebook. There are some stunning illuminated scripts and landmark scientific items too, including very early photographs. Don’t expect silence to be enforced when a Late at the Library event kicks off.

Why go? For studious research or to geek out on paper-based artefacts.

40.  The British Museum

What is it? Since it opened in 1759 – the first-ever national museum for the public – the British Museum has been displaying global artefacts discovered by British explorers. Must-see gems include the Rosetta Stone and the Parthenon sculptures.

Why go? The museum has more than eight million objects in its collection, 50,000 of which are on display. That’s a lot of bang for your buck, considering entrance to the main areas is free.

41.  Hyde Park

What is it? A massive central London park that’s easy to take for granted. Wander into Hyde Park’s vast greenery and eventually, you get to the Serpentine lake, where you can take a dip, go boating, board a solar-powered ferry (in summer) or eat pizza by the water. You can also take guided tours of the gardens and a secret pet cemetery – visit the park's website to book the latter. 

Why go? Because life’s more fun if you stop for a stroll, a bike ride or a picnic.

42.  Highgate Cemetery

What is it?  A beautiful, crumbling north London cemetery full of overgrown paths that will lead you to several Grade II-listed catacombs and a number of famous remains, including poet Christina Rossetti, architect Sir Lawrence Weaver and philosopher Karl Marx. On a sunny day, it even feels a little less morbid.

Why go?  To try to find Karl Marx’s hidden-away grave.

43.  Museum of London

What is it?  A museum that traces the capital’s history from its beginnings to the present day – you can even see part of the city’s original Roman Wall from its windows. Sense the drama of the Great Fire of London, walk through a Victorian shopping arcade, see the stunning London 2012 Olympic cauldron and get an eyeful of part of the fatberg found lurking in a Whitechapel sewer. Yuck!

Why go? To find out what life was really like in Londinium – for free.

44.  V&A Museum

• Art and design

What is it? One of the greatest collections of decorative art, design, fashion and textiles in the world. The Fashion galleries run from 18th-century court dress right up to contemporary chiffon numbers; the Architecture gallery has videos, models, plans and descriptions of various styles; and the famous Photography collection holds more than 500,000 images. Admission is free.

Why go? To drool over amazing designs and gobble up cake in the sunny courtyard. Bliss.

45.  Natural History Museum

• Natural history

What is it? The magnificent South Kensington home of around 80 million plant, animal, fossil, rock and mineral specimens. This fascinating museum, which is also a world-class research institution, is full of natural wonders and admission is free.

Why go? To marvel at a  25.2-metre-long  blue whale skeleton, a piece of Mars rock,  Mary Anning's  ichthyosaur fossil and lots more.  

46.  Science Museum

• Science and technology

What is it? An incredible, free-to-enter, hands-on museum that features seven floors of entertaining and educational exhibits, including the Apollo 10 command module, a virtual reality space-descent experience and a 16th-century artificial arm.

Why go? To experience the incredible Information Age gallery, from where the Queen sent her first tweet, signed Elizabeth R.

47.  Regent’s Park

What is it?  A verdant 410 acres of lush, open space, just a short stroll north of Oxford Circus. Featuring a pretty rose garden, the elegant Open Air Theatre (open throughout the summer – check the  website for exact dates) and tree-lined avenues for jogging, it’s a slice of horticultural heaven and a much-needed respite from the rest of the whirring city. 

Why go? To escape the Oxford Street crowds.

48.  St James’s Park

What is it? London’s oldest Royal Park and, essentially, Buckingham Palace’s front garden. St James’s Park runs alongside The Mall and offers a handy escape from the traffic noise of Trafalgar Square. The two islands in its lake are home to wildlife and there’s the Princess Diana Memorial Walk to follow if you fancy some gentle exercise.

Why go? To watch the pelicans (which were introduced to the park more than 400 years ago) being fed at 2.30pm daily.

49.  Trafalgar Square

What is it?  When it comes to London’s top attractions, Trafalgar Square can’t be overlooked. Bring your selfie stick because posing for pics is a must. Get the lions and fountains in shot (no paddling in the fountains, please) and check out the latest modern art installation adorning the Fourth Plinth, as London’s red buses circle on the busy roads around you.

Why go? To take the archetypal, cheesy, London tourist selfie.

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40+ London Travel Tips for First Timers & Must Knows Before You Go

Last Updated: March 20, 2024

*FYI - this post may contain affiliate links, which means we earn a commission at no extra cost to you if you purchase from them. Also, as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Check out our Privacy Policy and Disclosure. for more info.

Whenever people say they dislike London, I get weirdly defensive.

I mean… Not like London? How dare you?!

In a city with attractions, shows and restaurants catered to every whim, I find the prospect outrageous. Which is why I’ve come to the following conclusion: most of those who ‘dislike London’ simply fail to prepare for it properly… an easy failure, given the many, many mistakes tourists can make here.

… But that won’t be you. You’re going to love London, because I’m arming you with every London tip and must-know you could ever possibly need, accumulated over a dozen visits ranging from two days to two months.

So, read on for a truly maniacal range of London travel tips for first timers, from London planning tips and culture shocks to niche, practical must-knows upon arrival.

Soon, you too shall be a violently defensive London fangirl. See you on the other side.

Save this List of London Travel Tips for Later!

You’ll be very glad you did.

1. Avoid visiting London in peak season

First, in terms of when to visit London… my number one rule is to avoid London in peak peak season, meaning July and August.

Sure, the city draws tourists year-round, but summer time is next level in terms of crowds, and there’s a bonus villain that comes in to guest star: muggy London heat , an absolute menace if you use public transport.

Overall, there’s a compelling reason for every season (you know it’s true because it rhymes), just avoid summer if you can, and also try to avoid school and bank holidays because London is a super popular family destination.

Here’s a quick breakdown of what every (other) season can offer:

• Spring: Flowers in bloom, May for wisteria hysteria, plenty of fun events like the Chelsea Flower Show/Chelsea in Bloom
• Fall: Gorgeous foliage and comfortable temperatures, fun events like the London Film Festival
• Winter: The sheer magic of London at Christmas (though this can be crowded too – plan for weekdays/earlier in the season for a slightly quieter experience). Winter can otherwise be a bit gloomy, but the relatively thinner crowds and lower prices help compensate

2. Plan to be in London for minimum four days

One of the best ways to hate London is to rush through it.

This is a city best enjoyed somewhat slowly – otherwise burnout is guaranteed.

I personally think first time visitors need at least four days to get a good feel for the city. You definitely won’t see everything in this time, but it’ll give you a good grasp of the main must-sees. I’d advise adding a few more days if you want to do some cool day trips too.

3. Research your airport to accommodation commute in advance

First time visiting London? Great news – the confusion starts before you even arrive!

When booking flights, you may find that there are actually six airports that service the Greater London area: Heathrow, Gatwick, Stanstead, Luton, London City Airport, and London Southend Airport.

For most visitors coming from overseas, Heathrow and Gatwick will likely be your main point of entry, whereas the others are popular for shorter flights, typically from elsewhere in Europe (often with budget airlines like Ryanair , easyJet and Wizz Air , especially with Stanstead and Luton ).

When planning, you should remember to factor in costs getting from these airports to central London, as it’s often not cheap.

While the options vary by airport, the most convenient (and most expensive) is of course by taxi or private transfer. Welcome Pickups can be a good option for pre-booking, if you are prioritizing convenience and ease.

There are also public transport options for all of them which are much more cost-effective.

One general word of warning though: regardless of which airport you arrive at, make sure you research different ways to get to the city centre. Often times, the most popular and most advertised options aren’t the best solution.

For instance, with Heathrow, often visitors will hop on the Heathrow Express, a ride notorious for being the UK’s most expensive train journey per mile (though a new train from Luton is set to dethrone it) … only to find out they need to complete their journey with further means because their hotel is nowhere near Paddington Station.

So, definitely explore different options for getting into the city!

4. Prioritize comfort when booking accommodation

In terms of places to stay, there are thousands of hotels and accommodation options to choose from in London. Unfortunately, their prices will make you want to cry, regardless of quality.

As I discuss in my guide on how to book the best accommodation every time , often sacrifices must be made depending on whether you’re prioritizing price, quality or location.

For London, I would advise prioritizing quality or price.

Whereas in other cities, I’m more inclined to prioritize location, the truth is London and its attractions are very spread out, so booking a hotel close to one attraction won’t necessarily put you at an advantage when it comes to seeing other places.

Plus, staying in touristy areas can mean noise, crazy prices, and a lack of good-value places to eat nearby. Rather, in London, I think it’s smarter to prioritize an area with good food options nearby and proximity to a Tube station (preferably in more central zones like Zone 1 and Zone 2).

Apart from that, to make your decision, I think you should be looking more at the specifics of the hotel and whether they suit your needs in terms of amenities and comfort. At the end of a long day of sightseeing, you’ll want somewhere nice to come home to!

5. Thoroughly research your accommodation before booking

Related to the London planning tip above is the simple fact that many of London’s hotels are terrible value for money.

You’d assume (based on prices) that you’re getting a great place to stay, but oftentimes hotels will lack the amenities you typically expect.

This is because many (smaller) London hotels weren’t purposely built to be hotels, and are converted from old buildings, which may mean a lack of elevator and/or ‘quirky’ plumbing and temperature control issues.

So, be extra careful when you’re vetting hotels. Read the descriptions, comb through reviews, scroll through all the photos, and if amenities like Air Conditioning are important to you, triple check the hotel has it because many older ones do not.

Don’t automatically assume every hotel will have standard amenities (especially if the price seems too good to be true!)

6. Make sure you have a data plan

Another important London tip is to get a local SIM card or make sure you have an international data plan because having access to Internet in London is pretty crucial these days, with many restaurants/pubs offering their menus on QR code or confusingly stumbling around using Google Maps.

Three has really cheap data plans and you can pick up a card straight at the airport! You can also find their SIM cards on Amazon. An unlimited one costs less than my 5GB data plan back home in Canada. It simply doesn’t make sense.

7. Make sure you have a travel-friendly credit card

Another important London travel tip? Make sure you have a good credit card that travels well.

London these days is becoming very much a cashless city and you’ll be relying on card a lot more than cash, which is why it’s important to have a travel-friendly credit card like Wise , which doesn’t charge you foreign transaction fees or overinflated currency conversion fees.

8. Do not rent a car for your London trip

When in London, I wouldn’t advise renting a car. Driving in the city is a horrific pain, with copious weird fees that tourists aren’t used to.

Public transport is definitely the way to go. Renting a car may make sense for further trips out in to the countryside, but just know that when you’re in London itself, public transport or taxis should be your pick.

9. Learn how to book taxis quickly and easily

On the topic of taxis, I’d recommend downloading an app called FreeNow which is basically Uber but with licensed taxis.

This is way easier than flagging down a taxi on the street, plus you can see how much the fare will be, which helps you avoid getting scammed.

10. Avoid hop on/hop off buses to get around

Another London tip for getting around: I wouldn’t advise using those ubiquitous hop on/hop off buses as a means of transport.

Not only are they wildly expensive compared to local buses, their schedules also aren’t as consistent or reliable as regular public transport, so it’s really a lose-lose situation.

Instead, just use the vast public transport network that serves millions of locals everyday! Sure it’s stuffier and you might get lost or meet some characters, but it’s all part of the experience.

NOTE: I do think the open top buses are fun, but I’d advise doing a tour for the experience, rather than use it as a way of getting from Point A to Point B. Local transport will cost you far less, and will make you feeling more like a Londoner, if that’s what you’re after.

11. Make sure you have a contactless card for public transport

If you DO end up using public transport in London, the good news is it’s quite easy. Both buses and the Underground (AKA the Tube) rely on a card tap system that automatically charges you.

As a tourist, the easiest option is to just use a contactless card for all payments. You tap in on the bus as you board, then you can just get off at your stop without worrying again. Or, you tap in at Tube stations at the gates on your way in, and at the gates on your way out. Easy!

There is a reloadable card called an Oyster Card that you can buy to tap in/out easily, like a gift card you fill up with travel credit, but the prices and caps are the same for both contactless cards and Oyster cards.

Plus there’s a 5GBP activation fee for Oyster cards, so it’s not worth it for a short trip, unless you’re dealing with some specific scenarios which I’ll outline below, after this cute photo of a tap in/tap out machine.

12. Get an Oyster Card (in some situations)

There are only two situations where I think getting an Oyster card makes sense if you’re a tourist.

First, if you plan to buy a RailCard, this saves you 1/3 on all journeys, including on the Tube so you will need to get an Oyster Card and link the two to take advantage of that. Of course this only makes sense for visitors staying longer or who plan to come back often.

Second, you should maybe consider an Oyster card if you don’t have a travel friendly credit card and get charged individually for foreign transactions, as those costs might add up.

In most cases though, just using a contactless card is the simplest solution because it deducts amounts automatically. You can even use this to get far out to popular day trip destinations like Hampton Court Palace.

Just make sure you use the same card all day though because there are daily caps on how much they can charge you!

13. Understand when to take buses vs. the Tube

In terms of public transport in London, there’s Underground trains AKA the Tube, buses, and overground trains which connect to suburbs and neighbourhoods that are farther out.

As a tourist, you’ll most likely be relying just on the Underground and buses. 

Both have their pros and cons.

I do think buses are fun for tourists because they’re above ground so you see a lot more, especially if you ride at the front of a double decker (which is a mandatory must-do in my opinion), plus you can get phone service on them and they are cheaper as well, especially because it’s one price across zones.

The downside is they’re not as punctual (the time tables on Google Maps are notoriously inaccurate, so focus on the digital estimates at the stops themselves whenever possible)… and you can get stuck in traffic.

So, keep these pros/cons in mind when choosing how to plan your journey. If traffic a mess, the Tube may be a better choice. If you need phone service, want views, or are prioritizing low cost, then the bus may be better.

NOTE: Contrary to popular belief, the Tube does not run 24/7. It actually stops running surprisingly early, so check times before you head out, or prepare to get comfy on the night bus.

14. Always plan for lots of buffer time in case there’s delays with public transport

Regardless of which option you choose, be sure to plan things with buffer time in between obligations, especially if you need to be somewhere at a specific time.

The Tube may not get caught in traffic like buses do, but there’s still often random delays and unexpected failures.

So, if you have a tour, show or attraction booked, be sure to add in 30 minutes or more of wiggle room, just in case.

15. Walk as much as possible

Truthfully though, while I’m a big fan of London public transport, my preferred way to get around is walking as much as possible within neighbourhoods, then taking the Tube or bus to cover huge distances.

In busier tourist areas, there’s often signs you can follow to find big attractions so don’t worry too much about navigating on foot, and walking can sometimes even be faster than the Tube depending on how far you’re going.

16. Learn to ride the Tube like a pro

If you want to navigate the Tube system like a slick, terrifyingly efficient professional, then there are some basics to keep in mind.

First, I would never ride the Tube by choice between 7:30-9am and 5-7pm. It’s more expensive at this time so it’s a lose-lose, plus it’s rush hour when everyone and their mom’s landlord is trying to get to/from work. Don’t get caught in this as a tourist. Remember, you’re here to escape that kind of minutia!

Second, remember, when riding the Tube, you need to tap out to leave, so have your card ready to tap out upon exit, and don’t block everyone’s way as you shuffle through the deepest depths of your chaotic tote bag.

Also make sure you have your full journey loaded on your phone or written down before you head out. There’s usually no service so you won’t be able to Google directions when you’re down there, hence why you may want to bring a book or some form of entertainment.

One random hack I have for finding the right exit to take from a Tube station is to plot your journey on Google Maps, and then rotate your map to make it look like your train is headed straight North. This way, you have a sense of which direction you need to move towards once you get off the train, and which exit makes the most sense.

In this example for instance, as you exit the train, you will know your end destination is behind and to the left of you:

Some busier stations will also have an exit guide:

Lastly, be sure to exercise proper Tube etiquette:

• Let people off the train before you try to get on
• If there’s a crowded train, take off your bag or have it on your front so you’re not in everyone’s way
• Don’t stand on the left side of the escalator – this is meant to be left empty for people who choose to walk up

17. Consider a BritRail Pass if travelling farther

If you’re staying a while in London and plan to do many day trips or side trips, one potential pass worth considering is the London Plus BritRail Pass .

With it, you can get unlimited train journeys for a set period (either a consecutive few days or a set number of days within a month).

The London Plus Pass is especially good value because it covers the Greater London area, plus many of London’s most popular day trip destinations like Bath , Winchester , Windsor, Salisbury, Brighton , and Bournemouth.

This is a great option if you need a bit more flexibility and don’t want to buy tickets in advance, but overall if you plan to only do a handful of day trips, buying tickets well in advance will probably be cheaper. 

18. Don’t overload your London itinerary

Now let’s move onto some London itinerary planning tips. The first and most important one? Resist the urge to overload your itinerary!

London is a gargantuan city packed with fun attractions, so many in fact that even people born and raised there haven’t seen it all.

Which stands to reason that you, as a first time visitor, will not be able to see it all in one go either.

I would recommend limiting big paid attractions to 1-2 per day, then dedicating the rest of the day to just wandering, enjoying food, and pursuing more relaxed activities.

19. Plan your days by neighbourhood

Another important London must-know is that you should be organizing your itinerary based on strategic neighbourhood hopping.

London is really spread apart so planning things by neighbourhood is crucial for avoiding the inefficiency of doubling back. If you need help, I have a 3 Days in London itinerary you can steal.

Needless to say, it’s really worth getting out of Central London to explore other neighbourhoods during your visit. Notting Hill, Camden, and Shoreditch are super popular ones for instance, but if you want something quieter, Hampstead Heath or Greenwich are also great.

20. Consider the London Pass for potential savings

London is expensive, so I highly recommend you cap your paid attractions to only a few that you desperately want to do, then devote the rest of your time to free attractions.

That said, if you do intend on seeing lots of paid sights I can highly recommend the London Pass , especially if you can grab one on sale.

It’s essentially one card you pay for that then gets you into tons of paid attractions. If you plan correctly, this can save you SO much money. I bought a ten day one recently so that I could test out all of London’s paid attractions in one go. It was busy but I ended up saving a crazy amount of money.

Again, this would only be worth it if you planned to see a bunch of paid sights anyway, but it’s worth looking into if you’re a ‘see it all!’ type of visitor.

21. Prioritize uniquely ‘London’ attractions

We’ve already established that there’s a ton to see in London… so how can you decide which sights to prioritize above the rest?

Well, my advice would be to prioritize uniquely London attractions. There are many big name attractions in the city now that are fairly random and completely unrelated to the city, for instance Shrek’s 4D Adventure or Madame Tussauds.

And… Unless you are travelling with kids and need to entertain them, I think there’s way better attractions to be prioritizing, so try to pick ‘Londony’ attractions whenever possible.

22. Time your attraction visits strategically

Of course, it’s worth emphasizing how busy London can be when it comes to tourist sights, so if you want to enjoy attractions with minimal selfie sticks in your eyes, then avoid going to big attractions in the middle of the day.

Early morning or (even better) just before closing time is often way less busy.

23. Familiarize yourself with all the free things to do in London

I’ve mentioned this already, but it’s worth noting again just how many great free things there are to do in London!

You can visit parks, go to free museums, or simply absorb London’s most wonderful sights on a (very free) walk.

In terms of free/by donation museums, the V&A is my personal favourite – it’s full of amazing decorative art and also located very close to other free museums like the Science Museum and Natural History Museum.

There’s also the National Gallery, National Portrait Gallery, Tate Modern, Tate Britain, the Imperial War Museum, the British Museum and more. So if you’re looking to save money, prioritize these sights over others.

There are some great free viewpoints as well, like at…

• Tate Modern – the views over the Thames from the viewing level terrace are too good to pass up
• Primrose Hill – a farther away view of the skyline in a very pretty park/colourful neighbourhood
• Greenwich Observatory  – the perfect place to see the London skyline at sunset

24. Learn when to book London’s most exclusive free/almost free tickets

While London is swimming with free things to do, some are harder to pursue than others due to limited tickets that are pre-released at set times before quickly being gobbled up by the eager freebie goblins.

SO, to help you prepare, here are some cool experiences in London that are free or almost free, but need to be booked in advance:

• Barbican Conservatory: Really beautiful and free green space in the heart of the City! Tickets released for next week Thursdays at 10am here
• Sky Garden: Free and stunning viewpoint, but you need to book in advance and the tickets go QUICKLY. Usually tickets are released every Monday up to a week in advance. Click here to book.
• Mithraeum: Cool ancient Roman temple underneath all the huge skyscrapers in the City of London. Tickets can be booked up to four months in advance here although they do accept walk-ins depending on availability.
• Ceremony of the Keys: Secret, centuries-old ceremony at the Tower of London where they lock up for the night. SUPER cool. Not free, but only costs 5 GBP. Tickets need to be booked in advance on the 1st working day of the month at noon, for the next month. You can book it here.

NOTE: If you don’t manage to book Sky Garden  for free, another fun way to see it which I prefer is to book it for breakfast to see it without crowds. It does cost 8.50 per person but you get a drink and a pastry so it’s not a bad deal!

24. Book important must-dos well in advance

From West End shows to reservations for popular restaurants, planning ahead is key in London, especially during peak season.

Some key attractions that tend to book out months in advance include the Harry Potter Studio Tour and tickets for shows at the Globe .

So, remember: preparation is key to avoiding disappointment! If you know what attractions you want to see, book in advance online and get a skip the line ticket. If there’s a special restaurant you want to visit, book a table. If there’s a non-negotiable show that you need to see, book those tickets.

… You can always book cancellable ones to secure your spot, then decide later!

25. Learn how to get the best deals on West End shows

On that note, if you’re hoping to get West End show tickets during your time in London, then here are some tips for saving money:

• If you’re flexible with what show you watch, get the TodayTix app – they always have great sales and deals and within that app you can enter different ticket lotteries and do day-of rush tickets
• In advance of your trip, enter different ticket lotteries – they have ones for Hamilton, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child and other popular shows. This is how I got these seats in Hamilton for only 10 GBP!
• And in a pinch, you can also visit the TKTS booth in Leicester Square for discounted day-of tickets

26. Read local blogs/websites to find special events

Another VERY underrated London travel tip is to scour local blogs and websites for fun events/pop-ups.

In a city like London, there’s always cool things happening, so if you want to spice up your itinerary beyond the tourist must-sees, there’s plenty of opportunities. London is home to millions of locals after all!

Some good local websites to check out include London x London , Time Out London , Londonist , Secret London.

27. Be sure to try plenty of English classics

Ahh, now for London food and drink tips!

I know most visitors will flock to London to try fish and chips, but besides this English classic, there are many other great British foods to try (alongside excellent international options, but more on that later).

If you’re craving local food, be sure to try some…

• Savoury pies
• A full English breakfast
• Sausage rolls
• Sticky toffee pudding

Those visiting on a Sunday should also make sure they try a Sunday roast, which tends to be eaten as a heavy lunch or early dinner, although booking for this in advance is strongly advised. 

28. Visit food markets if you have trouble with decisions

Beyond English classics, be sure to head out to some food markets in London as well (the city is famous for them!)

These vibrant foodie hubs offer a taste of London’s incredibly diverse food scene, all in a ‘grab and go’ manner that’s ideal for those who are indecisive, or simply bottomless pits of sustenance like me.

Borough Market is a foodie favourite that’s always busy but fun. Other markets I love for food include Greenwich Market, Brick Lane Market, nearby Old Spitalfields Market and (the much smaller) Maltby St Market… although these all have their own specific opening days, so be sure to research before you head out!

29. Learn where to grab a quick, cheap bite

If you’re in a rush, on a budget, or both, the most cost-effective and quick lunch you can get for yourself in London is a Meal Deal. These are set combos that include a main, a snack, and a drink for a set small price like 4 or 5 pounds. Most major supermarket chains do them.

Another place to get cheap snacks is bakeries or chains like Greggs, where you can get pastries and sausage rolls for less than 2 pound each.

I know how savage London can be on one’s budget, so keep these money saving tips in mind do help ease the pain a bit on some days.

30. Learn proper pub etiquette

Now, let’s have a quick chat about pub etiquette.

Going to a pub in London is an essential activity, even if you don’t drink. Pubs can be a great place to grab food, socialize or even listen to live music if you plan properly, so don’t write off the experience just because you’re not a drinker!

Of course, visiting a London pub for the first time can be an awkward experience for first timers, full of random little culture shocks, so here are some must-knows to help you prepare.

First – not all pubs in London have table service, so the most typical way to order (especially if you’re just getting drinks) is to go up to the bar and order from there. You can usually place food orders at the bar as well. If you plan to do this, take note of your table number (usually somewhere on the table) so that they know where to bring your food!

When ordering at the bar, you tend to pay on the spot, and not after the meal is over.

These days, it’s also common for pubs, especially chain ones, to have a QR code or app where you can order directly from your table using your Table number. If you’re feeling a bit anti-social, this can be an easy option.

Lastly, in terms of what to order, beers are most commonly ordered as pints which in the UK are 20 fluid ounces, but if you want something smaller, ordering a half pint (AKA just a half) is also possible, although not too common.

Bear in mind pubs don’t tend to have as wide a selection for drinks as in bars, so you’re probably best sticking to beer, wine, cider or whatever simple cocktails they list on their menu. Don’t go asking for anything too fancy or they may look at you like you’re an alien.

31. Learn how tipping in London works

Now, in regards to tipping, you’ll find that many restaurants in London these days add on a Discretionary Service Charge of about 12.5% which is automatically tacked onto your bill.

This isn’t a mandatory fee and you can ask them to remove it if you don’t think the service deserves that amount.

Otherwise, if you pay it, don’t worry – you’re not usually expected to pay an additional tip on top of that, unless you found the service to be really exceptional.

32. Be careful when crossing the street

Now, for some London safety tips.

Please, for the love of Peppa Pig, make sure you look the right way when crossing the street.

The first time I visited London, I almost died about five times. Brits drive on the left, which sounds cute enough until you realize it turns every street crossing into an auto-fuelled death trap.

This has become such a problem that most crosswalks in touristy areas literally have “LOOK LEFT” and “LOOK RIGHT” painted on the pavement in aggressive white block letters, so read them.

33. Keep your phone close at all times

While pickpockets do exist everywhere, the more common crime these days in in London is phone snatching. 

What thieves will often do is come by you on a bike or scooter, then snatch the phone from your hand and escape so be sure to avoid having your phone out when you’re in a busy area, especially next to the road.

… And review my guide on how to avoid pickpockets too.

34. Beware of commonly mispronounced words and names

If you’re a first time visitor to London, you may be shocked to find that many of the names you’ve been reading in your head actually sound nothing like how you’ve been pronouncing them.

That’s because British English is filled with fun little traps!

So, let’s review some of the most commonly mispronounced names in London:

• Thames is pronounced like “temz”, not THEY-mz
• Leicester Square is pronounced like “LEST-ER Square”, not like LAY-SESS-TER Square
• Greenwich is pronounced like ‘GREN-itch”, not green witch
• Clapham and Fulham are pronounced like Clap-mm Full-mm, not Clap-HAM or Full-HAM
• Southwark is pronounced like “Suth-irk” not South Wark

And trust me, that’s barely scraping the surface. SO, when in doubt, keep an ear out on the announcements at train stations and tube stations for the proper pronunciation of things. I still learn new pronunciation traps all the time!

35. Beware of differing words in British English

On a related note, remember there are quite a few day to day words that are different in England compared to North America, so remember…

• Bathroom = the toilet or loo
• Elevator = lift
• Garbage can = bin
• Line-up = queue
• Sidewalk = pavement

… Just to name a few examples.

36. Learn some basic London etiquette

Of course, norms vary from destination to destination. Here are a few to bear in mind for London specifically:

• Never jump a queue – this might as well be a punishable crime in England
• Avoid talking too loudly – North Americans have a reputation for being obnoxiously loud in public
• Don’t take up a seat on the bus or train with your bag if it’s busy
• And most importantly: don’t put on a fake English accent! You might think it’s funny or convincing, it’s probably not

37. Don’t bring too much cash out

I mentioned before how London is mostly a cashless city these days… but it’s an important must-know so I’ll mention it again!

Remember: there are now some places in London that are “card only” so you won’t be needing cash too often, hence why I’d recommend carrying very little with you at all times.

A good rule of thumb is to never bring more cash out than you could stand to lose. I usually just walk around with £20 juuust in case, but I’ve rarely had to use it.

38. Learn where to find free public toilets

If you need to find a public toilet while exploring London, either look for big train stations, McDonalds, Starbucks and department stores OR in a pinch, duck into a pub and order a drink.

39. A hooded jacket > an umbrella

If you’re running low on space and can’t decide what to pack, I would recommend packing a hooded jacket over an umbrella for your trip to London.

London’s rain can often come unexpectedly, and honestly the wind can be pretty vicious too, so having a hooded jacket is a better defense.

Because yes, it does rain a lot quite randomly in London, so make sure you’re prepared!

40. Remember to be respectful

Getting to the end of our list of London travel tips, please remember the importance of being a kind and respectful tourist!

Some examples of what NOT to do include…

• Trespassing private property to get a fake candid in front of a colourful wall
• Being loud and disruptive if you’re wandering around a cute residential neighbourhood
• Blocking the escalator/sidewalk/train door with huge suitcases and bags
• Stopping suddenly on the sidewalk to look at directions/take a photo

At the end of the day, there are a lot of tourists in London, sure, but there’s even more locals who call this city home… so let’s make sure we don’t ruin their day to day lives with our tourist debauchery.

41. Binge watch movies/shows set in London before your visit

Finally – last but not least, a very dorky tip: watch lots of movies and shows in advance of your visit which showcase London as the backdrop.

This will make your trip 1000x more delightful… trust me!

There’s way too many to choose from, but here’s a list to get you started:

• About Time (one of my favourite movies ever – please watch it)
• Paddington 1 & 2 (not just for kids. These are great and showcase London well)
• Bridget Jones’ Diary or Notting Hill (if you want a good rom com)
• Anything Sherlock Holmes related
• Love Actually (at Christmas time – a must!)
• The Harry Potter series (not a TON of London scenes, but still magical)

I hope this list of London Travel Tips was helpful!

I appreciate you trudging your way through this lengthy list of tips for London, my London fangirl in training. Hopefully this post answered most of your questions, but if you have any more, let me know in the comments. Safe and happy travels!

My Go-To Travel Favourites:

🧳 Eagle Creek: My favourite packing cubes

💳 Wise: For FREE travel friendly credit cards

🍯 Airalo: My go-to eSIM

🏨 Booking.com: For searching hotels

📷 Sony A7IV: My (amazing) camera

✈️ Google Flights : For finding flight deals

🌎 WorldNomads: For travel insurance

🎉 GetYourGuide: For booking activities

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Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

London Travel Guide

Last Updated: January 5, 2024

London is one of the most popular cities in the world. It’s home to charming pubs, world-class (and often free) museums, tons of history, some of the best theater performances in the world, a diverse population, incredible food, and a wild nightlife.

I know it’s cliche to say there’s something for everyone but, in this sprawling metropolis, there really is!

I’ve been visiting London since 2008 and, with every subsequent visit, the city has grown on me. The more I go, the more awesome stuff I see, the more I fall in love with it. There’s always something new to do here and there’s an energetic vibe to the city.

Unfortunately, it’s also an expensive destination. A visit here can eat a hole in any budget if you aren’t careful.

Luckily, there are tons of free and cheap things to do in London . While budget travelers need to be frugal here, you can still visit London on a budget and have an amazing time.

This London travel guide can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most out of your time in this cosmopolitan capital!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on London

Top 5 Things to See and Do in London

1. Visit Big Ben and the House of Parliament

Although you can’t go up the tower, you can view this Gothic structure from the street and hear its chimes four times an hour. Big Ben is actually the name of the Great Bell of the Great Clock of Westminster which can be found inside Elizabeth Tower at the north end of the Palace of Westminster, but is often used to refer to the clock and the tower as well. To learn about the UK government, take a tour of Parliament, founded in 1801, while you’re here (get there early or reserve tickets online) . Guided tours cost 29 GBP while self-guided multimedia tours are 22.50 GBP. The best view of the tower is from the opposite side of the river on the South Bank, near the London Eye.

2. See the Tower of London and Tower Bridge

Built in 1070, the Tower of London has expanded many times over the years. It was built as a double-leaf bascule bridge in the middle (both sides lift up) to maintain river access to the Pool of London docks while easing congestion on each side of the river. You can visit inside the tower and walk along the glass walkways. Weapons, armor, and coins were made here until 1810 and today you can view the famous crown jewels, walk the battlements, wander recreated medieval palace rooms, see the iconic Yeoman Warders (known as the Beefeaters as they were allowed to eat as much beef as they wanted from King Henry VII’s table), and spot the legendary black ravens that live in the tower. Skip-the-line tickets are 29.90 GBP.

3. Admire Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace is only open to the public for 10 weeks during the summer, but you can join the crowds and watch the changing of the guard at 11am every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday throughout the year (get there in good time to find a good place to stand). Admission to the palace isn’t cheap, with tickets costing 30 GBP online (33 GBP on the day), while exclusive guided tours are 90 GBP. Check the Royal Collection Trust website for details on other events happening throughout the year.

4. See Westminster Abbey

A working royal church, the Gothic Westminster Abbey was founded by Benedictine monks in 960 CE. More than 3,300 people are buried here including 17 monarchs and numerous royal funerals have been held here over the centuries. It’s the traditional coronation site for British monarchs and has been the setting for every coronation since 1066, as well as for many other royal occasions, including 16 weddings. Other famous British figures buried here include Charles Darwin, Sir Isaac Newton, Aphra Behn, and Charles Dickens. Tickets cost 27 GBP , but you can visit for free if you go during a service. Just make sure to dress (and act) appropriately as it is a place of worship.

5. Hang out in Trafalgar Square

Stroll around and admire the fountains and the famous monuments, such as the four bronze lion statues and Nelson’s Column (which honors Admiral Nelson’s victory at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805). It is bordered on all sides by a number of museums, galleries, cultural spaces and historic buildings so there’s plenty to do as well. Trafalgar Square is also known to be a center of national democracy and protest so peaceful rallies and demonstrations are frequently held (usually at weekends). Even if there aren’t any official events, lots of people still hang out here so it makes for a good place to people-watch.

Other Things to See and Do in London

1. take a free walking tour.

London has tons of different walking tours on offer. From free tours to specialty tours to paid tours to literary tours to quirky tea tours, London has it all. Free London Walking Tours and New Europe Walking Tours are two of my favorite companies to go with when it comes to free tours. They’re the best way to see the sights and learn about the city on a budget. Just remember to tip at the end!

If you’re looking for more in-depth and specific tours, check out Take Walks. They offer affordable tours that go into a lot of detail. And if you’re a Harry Potter fan, Get Your Guide runs an awesome Harry Potter tour around the city for 15 GBP.

2. Go museum hopping

London has more museums than you could see in a single visit, and many of them are free. You can spend days visiting world-class museums like the Tate, the British Museum, the City Museum, the National Gallery, the Historical Museum, and many others — all without spending a penny. One of my favorites is the Natural History Museum, a beautiful Romanesque building that contains over 80 million items, including specimens collected by Charles Darwin. It also has an expansive collection of fossils, making it a fun and educational stop. The Victoria and Albert Museum (named after Queen Victoria and Prince Albert) is another favorite of mine. It’s home to over 2,000 works of art covering over 3,000 years of human history.

3. Grab some food in Borough Market

Established in 1756, London’s Borough Market has something for every foodie. It’s home to some of the best British and international produce and dishes. Come here hungry and leave satisfied. It’s great for people-watching too. The market is open daily but the crowds are terrible on Saturdays so be sure to get there early.

4. Enjoy some theater

London is known for its famous theater scene. Attend a show while you’re here and see some of the incredible performances that make London famous. Tickets can be pretty cheap, and something is playing every night (check out TKTS for discounted tickets to shows in the West End). Otherwise, catch a Shakespeare show at The Globe in South London — tickets range from 5-62 GBP depending on the show and seat you choose.

5. Stroll along Brick Lane

Known for vintage clothing, cheap eats, and art, this East London street is a local favorite. Sunday is the best day to come, as this is when the outdoor street market takes place, though the restaurants and shops lining the street are open daily. Brick Lane has some of the best (and cheapest) food in London, especially when it comes to curry, as this is the hub of London’s Bangladeshi community. This street is also a great place to bring a camera, as its walls are basically a gallery for London’s best street artists, including Banksy, D*Face, and Ben Eine.

6. Ride the London Eye

The London Eye is a 152-meter (500-foot tall) Ferris wheel. While a little cheesy, it’s nevertheless one of the most popular attractions in London. It’s across the street from Parliament and provides excellent views of London and the city’s most iconic buildings, especially on a clear day. Tickets are 32.50 GBP , but if you want to play tourist and take in the view, it might be worth it. The ride lasts 30 minutes and tickets start at 32.50 GBP.

7. Visit the London Dungeon

The London Dungeon calls itself “the world’s most chillingly famous horror attraction.” It covers 2,000 years of London’s gruesome history and is a morbid but interesting museum. Although you can learn about popular torture methods in England, this place has turned into more of an “amusement park” type attraction. But if you like things like escape rooms and scary boat rides, it’s enjoyable. Tickets cost 29 GBP when you book online (32 GBP in person).

8. See St. Paul’s Cathedral

St. Paul’s is a striking English Baroque cathedral with a world-famous dome. Architect Christopher Wren’s masterpiece, the iconic building dates from the 17th century. Inside, you can visit the crypt to see the resting places of famous figures including The Duke of Wellington, Christopher Wren, and Admiral Nelson, or just enjoy the cathedral’s glittering mosaics and elaborate stone carvings. If you don’t mind climbing some stairs, a highlight is to climb to the Stone Gallery or Golden Gallery for panoramic views over surrounding London. Admission costs from 18 GBP when you buy online , which is cheaper than the London Eye and offers similarly breathtaking views.

9. Explore Covent Garden

Covent Garden, a popular West End neighborhood, is a fun place to hang out for an afternoon. It’s home to lots of quirky stalls, busking musicians, an artsy market, and a selection of unusual pubs and coffee shops. Covent Garden is also within walking distance of all the big musical theater shows, so it’s a great place to spend a few hours before catching a performance. Make sure to visit Covent Garden Market, which has been open since the 1830s. It’s a good place to grab a bite to eat or shop at some of the artisan craft stalls. It’s open Monday to Saturday from 8am-6pm, with an outdoor farmer’s market on Saturdays between April and December.

10. Visit Shakespeare’s Globe

An integral part of England’s history, Shakespeare’s Globe is a reconstruction of the original Globe Theatre, the venue for which the famous playwright wrote his plays. It’s a must-see for lovers of Shakespeare, with performances embracing near-perfect replicas of Elizabethan staging practices. You can even sit in front where the groundlings did, for shouting and heckling! The theater is open-roofed, so bundle up in the winter. Tickets cost 5-62 GBP depending on the production and the seat (you can stand just as they did in Elizabethan times). You can also take a guided tour for 17 GBP to learn more about the history of the theater (more specialized ones such as the Ghosts and Ghouls tour or the Pride tour cost 20 GBP).

11. Explore Camden Market

A long-time counter-culture haven, Camden Market is home to over 1,000 independent shops, stalls, cafes, restaurants, bars, buskers, and everything in between. It’s enormously popular and busiest on the weekends (it sees over 250,000 visitors each week). Camden Market is actually a series of six separate markets, so you can literally wander the labyrinth of alleyways for hours and not see it all.

12. See the Royal Observatory

Since its founding in the late 17th century, the Royal Observatory at Greenwich has played an important role in astronomy and navigation. The observatory is divided into two sections, with one half focusing on time while the other half is devoted to astronomy. In the Meridian Courtyard, you can stand on either side of the Prime Meridian, which separates the Earth’s eastern and western hemispheres. The Peter Harrison Planetarium is also housed here, where you can see a show for 10 GBP. The Royal Observatory itself costs 16 GBP .

13. Walk around the Strand

In the 12th century, rich noblemen built elegant homes and gardens along the shore (the strand) of the Thames, making it one of the most prestigious places to live (a fact that remains true to this day). Walk down this thoroughfare and be treated to a grand display of wealth and beauty. It was dubbed “the finest street in Europe” by Prime Minister Benjamin Disraeli in the 19th century. The Strand, which runs from Trafalgar Square to Temple Bar, is home to numerous shops, pubs, landmark buildings, and classic hotels.

14. Drink beer at Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese

This historic pub has been around since the great fire of 1666 (and there has been a pub at this location since 1538). It’s surprisingly large inside, and in the winter, fireplaces keep pub-goers warm. The wood paneling, atmospheric lack of natural lighting, and vaulted cellars make stepping inside feel like stepping back in time. Famous literary figures like Charles Dickens, R.L. Stevenson, Mark Twain, Oliver Goldsmith, and others used to frequent (and write about) this particular pub.

15. See the Churchill War Rooms

Located beneath the Treasury Building in the Whitehall area of Westminster, the Churchill War Rooms include the government’s command center during World War II and a museum about the life of Winston Churchill. The centerpiece of the whole place is an interactive table that enables visitors to access digitized material from the Churchill archives. If you are like me and a huge history nerd, this is one of the best attractions in the city. I highly, highly encourage you to visit. It’s worth the price! Admission is 29 GBP.

16. Relax in Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens

If you’re looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, head to Hyde Park or Kensington Gardens for some reprieve. Both parks, which are (conveniently for the visitor) right next to each other, are designated as Royal Parks of London. Hyde Park is the most famous park in London. Originally the private hunting grounds of Henry VII, it opened to the public in 1637 and is a great place to stroll, picnic, or catch one of the many events that are hosted here throughout the year. Kensington Gardens are home to the Serpentine Galleries as well as Kensington Palace. The park and the gardens cover almost 250 acres!

17. Take a Jack the Ripper tour

Jack the Ripper is one of London’s most infamous killers — and his true identity was never figured out. Every night, there are tons of people in the East End learning about Jack the Ripper on a ridiculous number of similar tours. The tour guides you through dark alleyways, stopping at historic locations connected with the infamous serial killer. Tickets cost 15 GBP .

For more information on other cities in England, check out these guides:

• Bath Travel Guide
• Brighton Travel Guide
• Bristol Travel Guide
• Cambridge Travel Guide
• Liverpool Travel Guide
• Manchester Travel Guide
• Oxford Travel Guide

London Travel Costs

Hostel prices – A bed in a dorm with 4-8 beds costs 16-25 GBP per night while a bed in a dorm with 10-18 beds costs 13-16 GBP. A private room with a shared bathroom costs 50-90 GBP per night. If you want to stay closer to the center of the city expect to double these prices and expect prices to be at least 10 GBP higher in peak season. Free Wi-Fi is standard and many hostels offer free breakfast and self-catering facilities.

Budget hotel prices – A budget hotel room costs 70-100 GBP per night. Prices are higher in the center and in peak season. Expect basic amenities like free Wi-Fi, TV, and a coffee/tea maker.

There are lots of Airbnb options in London. A private room costs 45-60 GBP per night (80-100 GBP in the center), while an entire home/apartment starts around 90-150 GBP per night (more in high season).

Food – While British cuisine has evolved in leaps and bounds due to immigration (and colonialism), it’s still very much a meat and potatoes country. Fish and chips remain a popular staple for both lunch and dinner while roasted and stewed meats, sausages, meat pies, and the quintessential Yorkshire pudding are all common options as well. Curry (and other Indian dishes, such as tikka masala), are super popular too.

You can eat cheap in London if you stick to street eats and food vendors (plus many of the hostels have free breakfast). You can find fish and chips or a kebab for about 7 GBP each. Indian food can be purchased for between 8-10 GBP for lunch entrees. You can buy pizza for 8-12 GBP or burritos and sandwiches for 5-9 GBP. Fast food (think McDonald’s) is around 13 GBP for a combo meal.

For a mid-range meal of traditional British cuisine at a pub or restaurant, expect to pay 14-16 GBP. A pint of beer can cost up to 6-8 GBP while a glass of wine costs around 7-10 GBP.

You can find tons of high-end dining in London, but be prepared to spend a lot. Expect to pay at least 30-35 GBP for a three-course menu with a drink in a mid-range restaurant and upwards of 70 GBP in a higher-range establishment.

If you plan on cooking for yourself, a week’s worth of groceries costs around 50-60 GBP. This gets you basic staples like rice, pasta, veggies, and some meat. The best places to buy cheap groceries are Lidl and Aldi, Sainsbury’s and Tesco are more mid-range, while Marks & Spencer and Waitrose are higher-end.

A great way to save money is to get the Taste Card. This diner’s club card offers 50% discounts on tons of restaurants as well as two-for-one specials. It can really pay off, especially on any nice meals you want to have. You can only live on fish and chips for so long!

Backpacking London Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking London, expect to spend about 60 GBP per day. This budget covers a hostel dorm, taking public transit, cooking all your meals, limiting your drinking, and sticking to free activities like parks, free walking tours, and museums. If you plan on drinking, add another 10 GBP to your daily budget.

A mid-range budget of 150 GBP per day covers staying in a private Airbnb room, eating out for most of your meals, having a drink or two, taking public transit and the occasional taxi, and doing some paid activities such as Tower Bridge or Westminster Abbey.

On a “luxury” budget of about 300 GBP or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out anywhere you want, drink more, take more taxis, and do whatever activities and tours you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. the sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you spend more, some days you spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in GBP.

London Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

London is one of the most expensive cities in the world. But thanks to its free museums, cheap pubs, and numerous hostels, there are a lot of ways to cut your costs and save money here. Here are my top tips for saving money in London:

• Visit all the free museums – Most of the museums in London are free, including the Museum of London, the British Museum, the Natural History Museum, and the Science Museum. The National Gallery and the Tate Modern are also free and are two of my favorites.
• Buy an Oyster Card – This prepaid transit card saves you about 50% on each tube, bus and tram ride. If you plan on using the tube a lot, get this card! You can get a refund for the balance left on the card at the end of your trip. If you aren’t charged international transaction fees and have a contactless credit or debit card, you can also use this for travel and the system automatically caps your travel so you never pay more than you would have if you had bought a travel card. Just make sure to tap in and out and the beginning and end of each ride to make sure you’re charged the right fare.
• People watch at the markets – Sunday is market day in London, with Camden Market, the Portobello Market, the Flower Market, being some of the more popular options. People watch, snap some photos, and enjoy local London life without spending a dime.
• Watch the changing of the guards – Both the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace (4 times a week) and the changing of the horse guards (daily) at Whitehall take place at 11am (10am at Whitehall on Sundays). Take in true British flare with these interesting and free ceremonies.
• Just walk and explore – London is a huge city and beautiful, historic buildings abound. I once walked for four hours and barely made a dent in the route I was going to take (hence the need to get the Oyster Card.) However, once you get out of the tourist area around the Thames, you get to see London the way the locals do. You can pick up free maps of showing walking routes around the capital from any of London’s tourist information shops.
• Snag last-minute theater tickets – You can get last-minute tickets to the theater from the official booth in Leicester Square. Availability varies every day, so be sure to get there early. And if you don’t want to shell out a lot of money to see The Lion King or Les Misérables , check out smaller shows and comedy nights at theaters like Leicester Square Theater, where prices start at about 17 GBP.
• Skip the cabs – Taxis are incredibly expensive in London and can destroy your budget. I stayed out past when the tube closed one night and the taxi to my hotel was 31 GBP! If you start taking taxis everywhere, you’ll end up spending hundreds of dollars per day, so keep this in mind.
• Master the night bus – In London, the tube closes around 12:30am (the Central, Jubilee, Northern, Piccadilly, and Victoria lines do run all night on Friday and Saturday nights). To avoid taking expensive taxis, make sure you get a map of the night bus routes so you can get back to your hotel/hostel on the cheap. These buses go all over the city and into the suburbs.
• Take a free walking tour – London, like most big cities in Europe, has a wide array of free walking tours given throughout the city. For a historical view of the city, try New Europe , and for off-the-beaten-path tours, try Free Tours by Foot .
• Get the Taste Card – This diner’s club card offers 50% discounts on thousands of restaurants as well as two-for-one specials. It can really pay off, especially on any nice meals you want to have.
• Get the London Pass – If you get the London Pass, you can enjoy access to over 80 London attractions, including the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, and St. Paul’s Cathedral. A one-day pass is 89 GBP, a two-day pass is 115 GBP, and a three-day pass is 135 GBP. You can get all the way up to a ten-day pass for 199 GBP although they often have deals on giving discounts to this. This pass makes for good savings if you’re planning on doing a ton of sightseeing! Other passes available include the London City Pass from Turbopass which includes an option to add transport costs, and the London Sightseeing Pass.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in London

While the city may be expensive, its popularity means there are lots of hostels here. I’ve stayed at dozens of hostels over the years. Here are some of my favorites:

• Astor Hyde Park
• St. Christopher’s
• Clink261 Hostel
• Generator London
• Onefam Notting Hill

For more hostel suggestions be sure to check out my list of the best hostels in London.

How to Get Around London

Public transportation – London has excellent public transportation and is the cheapest way to get around. A one-way fare on the tube in Zone 1 costs 6.30 GBP, but getting a Visitor Oyster Card reduces tariffs to 2.50 GBP per ride. No matter how many trips you take per day, your Oyster Card caps your travel at 7.70 GBP for travel in Zones 1 and 2. This is applicable across all public transit, including buses and trams, saving you a ton of money.

The Visitor Oyster Card costs 5 GBP, and then you choose how much credit to add to your card. Remember that you can get back any remaining balance at the end of your trip.

The bus system in London also uses the Oyster Card and costs 1.65 GBP per ride. However, a day of unlimited bus- and tram-only travel costs a maximum of 4.95 GBP. Buses do not accept cash; you must use either an Oyster card, a Travelcard, or your own contactless payment card.

The tram system in London works the same way as the bus system, with rides costing the same.

Bicycle – London’s public bike-sharing program is Santander Cycles. With 750 docking stations and 11,500 bikes, they’re available all over the city. Renting a bike costs 1.65 GBP for up to half an hour and 1.65 GBP for each additional 30 minutes, though you can always dock a bike and take out another one to restart the free timer.

Keep in mind, however, that London isn’t a super bike-friendly city, especially if you’re used to biking with cars driving on the other side of the road!

Taxis – Taxis are readily available, with prices starting at 3.80 GBP and going up around 3 GBP per mile (the tariff is more expensive at night). Given how expensive they are, I wouldn’t take one unless absolutely necessary.

Ridesharing – Uber is available in London but it still costs an arm and a leg if you use it a lot. Stick to public transportation.

Car rental – Cars can be rented for 20-30 GBP per day for a multi-day rental. However, traffic is terrible in the city so I wouldn’t rent a car here unless you are heading out on some day trips. Remember that driving is on the left and that most cars have manual transmissions. There’s also a 15 GBP daily Congestion Charge for driving in the center (7am-6pm Mon-Fri and noon-6pm Sat/Sun/public holidays) and parking is expensive too. Drivers need to be 21 to rent a car as well.

When to Go to London

London doesn’t get too cold, but it’s notoriously foggy and rainy. Summer is peak tourism season, and temperatures are the warmest during this time — but rarely are they ever above 30°C (86°F ). London is bursting at the seams during the summer, but the city has a fun, lively atmosphere. People make the most of the warm weather and there are constantly tons of events and festivals happening.

Spring (late March-June) and autumn (September-October) are also fantastic times to visit, as temperatures are mild and the city isn’t as packed.

Winter lasts from December to February, and tourism crowds thin out dramatically during this time. Temperatures can dip below 5°C (41°F), and prices are slightly lower as well. Expect grey weather and be sure to dress warmly.

Since it is frequently rainy here, pack a light rain jacket or an umbrella no matter when you visit.

How to Stay Safe in London

London is a safe city and the risk of violent crime here is low. Scams and pick-pocketing can occur around high-traffic areas, especially around tourist attractions like London Tower and on crowded public transit. Pick-pockets tend to work in teams, so stay alert and be aware of your surroundings. Keep your valuables secure and out of reach at all times just to be safe.

Solo travelers, including solo female travelers, should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

Although there are no super seedy neighborhoods in London, avoid wandering around late at night alone — especially if you’ve had a pint or two. As an extra precaution, only bring the money you need when you go to the bar. Leave the rest of your cards and cash in your accommodation.

Scams here are rare, but if you’re worried about getting ripped off you can read about common travel scams to avoid here .

If you do experience an emergency, dial 999 for assistance.

Thanks to a few high-profile terrorist attacks and riots across Europe (including London), I frequently get emails inquiring whether or not Europe is safe to visit. The short answer: yes! I wrote a whole post about why Europe is safe to visit.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

London Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
• Fat Tire Tours – For bike tours, use this company! They have fun, interactive tours led by expert local guides. You’ll get to see all the main sights without breaking the bank!
• BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing website that lets you share rides with vetted local drivers by pitching in for gas. You simply request a seat, they approve, and off you go! It’s a cheaper and more interesting way to travel than by bus or train!
• Take Walks – This walking tour company provides inside access to attractions and places you can’t get elsewhere. Their guides rock and they have some of the best and most insightful tours in all of England.

London Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling England and continue planning your trip:

The 14 Best Things to Do in Bristol

Where to Stay in London: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

The 8 Best Hostels in London

How to Spend a Week in London

The 9 Best Walking Tour Companies in London

70+ Free Things to Do in London

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• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

Where to Stay in London - Best Areas in London

Our guide on where to stay in London. Central London is enormous, covering around 8 miles from west to east, and 5 miles north to south. This means there is no single best area to stay in London. Wherever you choose to stay, you will have to travel around to see all the main tourist attractions. Luckily, London has one of the best public transportation systems in the world, with an extensive underground and bus network. It’s helpful to look for a place to stay near an underground station, from which you can travel to almost anywhere in Central London within 30 minutes. There are also lots of bus routes that crisscross the underground, which means that all of Central London is very well connected. Finally, our London City Break package includes a hotel and sightseeing and is perfect for first-time visitors to the city.

Where to Stay in London

Our overall favourite:.

The West End is a major tourist district right in the centre of London. It’s where you’ll find lots of theatres, great shopping, excellent restaurants and buzzing nightlife. High hotel prices reflect the West End’s outstanding central location, and there are lots of 4-star and 5-star hotels in the area. This is the best area for families, couples, singles… just about anyone!

Best Area for Sightseeing:

Head south of the River Thames to the Southbank neighbourhood for hotels closeby to sightseeing attractions. Here, you’re near to the London Eye, Shakespeare’s Globe and other popular tourist spots.

On a budget:

Head a little further out, and you’ll find some excellent budget hotels options. Whilst areas like Victoria or Paddington don’t have a lot of attractions, they have excellent transportation links. This means you’re only a short ride away from many of London’s tourist sites.

Looking for luxury:

There are no shortage of luxury places to stay in London. Try looking for hotels near Hyde Park in neighbourhoods like Mayfair or Kensington . These offer the perfect combination of excellent location and top-notch accommodation.

Hotels in London – from West to East

In this article, we’ll take you through the best areas to stay in London from West London to Central London and East London, in terms of price, location, ease of access and facilities. We’ll also point out nearby underground stations since they are the easiest and most efficient way of getting around. We’ve also listed some hotel recommendations for each area.

Hotels in West London

There are lots of hotels in West London, combining a diverse set of neighbourhood. Budget and mid-priced areas of West London including areas like Earls Court, Victoria and Paddington. Here you’ll find lots of well known hotel chains in London. At the luxury end the hotel market, you’ll find areas like Kensington, Knightsbridge and Chelsea filled with 5-star hotels and boutique accommodation.

Hotels in Earls Court & Cromwell Road

Earls Court and Cromwell Road is a major hotel district in West London where you’ll find lots of budget hotels. This area tends to be very popular with backpackers and students. There are many large 4-star hotels, used by coach tours, mainly along Cromwell Road. There’s also an enormous amount of budget nightlife, clubs and restaurants in the area which is geared towards young people. Bear in mind that Cromwell Road is one of the busiest streets in London, so if you do stay here make sure to ask for a room at the back of the hotel to avoid the traffic noise!

Bottom line: If you are on a budget, this is a good compromise neighborhood as it’s easy to get into Central London with the tube.

• Transportation: There are three underground stations that cover this area: Earls Court, West Brompton and Gloucester Road. Its a particularly good neighbourhoood for getting to and from Heathrow Airport, with direct trains operating along the Piccadilly line.
• Local sightseeing: This is not an area with any tourist attractions, and there is nothing to see in the neighborhood during the daytime.
• Nightlife: You’ll find good value for money restaurants in the area, along with a few local clubs, bars and pubs.
• Shops: Mostly local convenience stores.
• Cost: Budget hotels & hostels.

Where to Stay in Earl’s Court & Cromwell Road:

• 4* Hotel: Hotel Indigo London Kensington – set in a beautiful Victorian townhouse
• 4* Hotel: Hotel Moonlight – a boutique hotel that’s 3 minutes walk from Earl’s Court Station
• 3* Hotel: Holiday Inn Kensington Forum – a great value hotel with superb reviews in an excellent location near the museums
• 3* Hotel:  London Court Hotel – a small 22-room hotel just two minutes from Earl’s Court Tube Station
• 2* Hotel: Meininger Hotel – just across the street from the Natural History Museum offering clean modern rooms
• Hostel: Barmy Badger Backpackers – one of the best rated hostels in London for young travelers

Hotels in Kensington & Knightsbridge

Royal Albert Hall,

These districts are in West London near Hyde Park and you’ll find high priced hotels in the area. Kensington is a very swanky neighborhood where many of the large museums are located, along with some exclusive shops. Knightsbridge is home to Harrods department store and Harvey Nichols. It’s a great area for people wanting a quiet place to stay and especially for families.

Bottom line: A great area to stay for tourists looking for a very upmarket, quiet and stylish neighborhood. With several national museums located nearby, excellent restaurants, a range of boutique shops, plenty of green spaces and good transport links, this is one of the best places to stay in London!

• Transport: The area has excellent transportation with lots of tube stations that go to the major sights in Central London. The main stations are High Street Kensington, South Kensington, Knightsbridge, and there is particularly good access to Heathrow Airport.
• Local Sightseeing: Within walking distance of Hyde Park, Kensington Palace, Kensington Gardens, the Royal Albert Hall and the museum neighborhood  (The V&A Museum, Science Museum & Natural History Museum).
• Nightlife: There are lots of restaurants in the area, which tend to be exclusive and very expensive. There are also a few high-end clubs and some very old pubs.
• Shops: Kensington High Street is the main shopping street, where you’ll find all the main high street brands. Harrods department store and Harvey Nichols are located on Brompton Road and there are some very small exclusive shops around South Kensington.
• Cost: Exclusive, very high-end and expensive luxury hotels

Where to Stay in Kensington & Knightsbridge:

• 5* Hotel: The Ampersand – a small and stylish boutique hotel
• 5* Hotel: The Lanesborough – one of the most expensive luxury hotels with a Michelin star restaurant
• 4* Hotel: Levin Hotel – a cozy 12-bedroom townhouse hotel close to Harrods
• Luxury Hostel: Astor Hyde Park – a fantastic location opposite Hyde Park and the museums
• Luxury Hostel: Safestay London Holland Park – a luxury hostel a few minutes from Kensington High Street

Hotels in Chelsea & Belgravia

Chelsea merges into South Kensington and Knightsbridge. It’s a very trendy, upmarket and expensive area, very similar to Knightsbridge. The main street is The Kings Road between Oakley Street to Sloane Square and this is where you’ll find lots of exclusive shops. Nearby Belgravia is megabucks, with a few exclusive 5-star hotels.

Where to Stay in Chelsea & Belgravia:

• 5* Hotel: San Domenico House – a 19 room boutique hotel near Sloane Square
• 5* Hotel: Como The Halkin – a luxury hotel in Belgravia furnished with an Asian style

Hotels in Victoria

Buckingham Palace

Victoria is a small area with a large concentration of budget hotels. It’s a very good location for walking to Buckingham Palace which is located nearby. It also has one of the busiest underground and overground stations in the capital, so you can get to all of the tourist attractions easily from here.

Bottom Line: A great place to stay for tourists on a budget

• Transport: Transportation is excellent, with direct trains to Gatwick Airport, 2 underground lines connecting to all of Central London and a central bus terminal, with coaches to Luton, Stansted & Heathrow Airports. Most of the sightseeing day tours of London and day trips from London depart from Victoria coach station.
• Local sightseeing: There’s nothing to see in Victoria itself, but you are only a 20-minute walk from Buckingham Palace, St James’s Park, Westminster Abbey, the River Thames, Houses of Parliament and Big Ben
• Nightlife: There is a mix of restaurants in the area , from budget to high end, along with a few pubs and bars.
• Shops: Mostly convenience stores
• Cost: Budget hotels and hostels

Where to Stay in Victoria:

• 3* Hotel: Luna & Simone Hotel – a family run hotel in Victoria
• 3* Hotel: Premier Inn Hotel Victoria – a budget hotel chain known for their clean and tidy rooms
• 3* Hotel: The Beverley Hotel – a boutique hotel in a 19th Century Victorian townhouse

Hotels in Paddington & Bayswater

Kensington Gardens

This Paddington/Bayswater area is located just north of Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park in West London. There are many hotels of differing standards and it’s a very popular area to stay for tourists, with excellent transport links.

Bottom line:  A convenient location, close to the shops in Oxford Street and the Royal Parks. A great place to find budget and mid-price hotels.

• Transport: Excellent transport with Notting Hill Gate, Bayswater, Queensway, Lancaster Gate, Marble Arch and Paddington tube stations in the area. The Heathrow express train runs from Paddington overground station to the airport in just 15 minutes. Look for hotels on or near Bayswater Road, which is where the underground stations are located, and is just opposite from Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens.
• Local sightseeing: Both Kensington Garden and Hyde Park are within walking distance and perfect for an early morning stroll! There are quite a few things to do with kids in the area, and you can also walk through the gardens to the museum district on the other side.
• Nightlife: Lots of restaurants of different prices along with pubs and clubs in the area
• Shops: The main shopping street is called Queensway, which has mostly local shops. Bayswater Road leads eventually into Oxford Street, which is the busiest shopping street in Europe.
• Cost: Budget to mid-price hotels.

Where to Stay in Bayswater & Paddington:

• 4* Hotel: The Westbourne Hyde Park – a contemporary hotel located 1-street from Hyde Park
• 4* Hotel: Hotel Indigo – located nearby Paddington Station
• 3* Hotel: Delmere Hotel – part of the Best Western group and newly built in 2015
• 3* Hotel: Parkwood Hotel – a lovely bed and breakfast located right at the start of Oxford Street
• Luxury Hostel: Altas Hostel – within walking distance of Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens
• Luxury Hostel: Astor Kensington – the other side of Bayswater, within walking distance of Notting Hill

Hotels in London City Centre

Trafalgar Square

Whilst London doesn’t officially have a City Centre, an area called The West End is the center of tourist attractions in London. It is made up of several smaller areas, each with its own character and price. The main areas are Marylebone, Oxford Street, Mayfair, Soho, and we’ll look at each area individually.

In general, the West End is excellent for transportation. The main street running through the area is called Oxford Street, and the main stations are Marble Arch, Bond Street, Oxford Circus and Tottenham Court Road.

Hotels in Marylebone

Regent’s Park gardens, London, England,

Marylebone is a very upmarket, expensive centrally located area. There isn’t a lot of accommodation here, but there are a few delightful boutique hotels. In general, this is a very exclusive and quiet part of Central London. Local sights include Bakers Street with the Sherlock Holmes museum, Madame Tussauds, and Regents Park. The main shopping street is Marylebone High Street, with great stores and restaurants. And on the southern edge of Marylebone is Oxford Street and the heart of London’s shopping district .

Cost: Around £150-£250 per night

Bottom line: Perfect for those looking for a sophisticated, upmarket neighborhood that feels like a village within the city.

Where to Stay in Marylebone:

• 5* Hotel: The Landmark London – one of the grandest hotels in London
• 5* Hotel: The Langham – an equally grand and impressive hotel!
• 4* Hotel: Montagu Place Hotel – a boutique 16-bedroom hotel
• 4* Hotel: The Zetter Townhouse – an extraordinary boutique hotel with amazing rooms
• 2* Hotel: Marylebone Inn – a newly refurbished hotel near Baker Street
• Hostel: YHA London Central – a backpackers hostel with good reviews

Hotels in Mayfair

One of the most expensive areas in London, so make sure to bring your wallet 🙂 There are mainly luxury hotels in Mayfair, with those on the west side overlooking Hyde Park and on the south side overlooking Green Park and Piccadilly.

Where to Stay in Mayfair

• 5* Hotel: The Ritz – probably London’s most famous hotel and popular with celebrities
• 5* Hotel: Claridges – probably London’s second most famous hotel 🙂
• 4* Hotel: The Chesterfield Mayfair – an all-around fabulous place to stay!
• 3* Hotel: Holiday Inn Mayfair  – if you want to stay in Mayfair on a budget, this is your only option

Bottom line:  A wonderful and quiet area to stay if your budget allows! There are some seriously expensive and classy hotels in this area like Claridges, The Ritz and the Chesterfield Mayfair. A more affordable option might be the Holiday Inn Mayfair

Hotels Near Oxford & Regent Street

The beginning of Oxford street around Marble Arch and Portman Square is where you’ll find many 4 & 5 star hotels. There are lots of tourist restaurants and pubs down some of the side streets, especially St Christopher’s Place. There are also a few places to stay along Regent Street. This is a very central location in London.

Bottom line: This is an extremely convenient location if you are planning to do a lot of shopping during your stay in London, with medium to high priced hotels.

Where to Stay in Oxford/Regent Street:

• 5* Hotel: The Montcalm Marble Arch – at the top of Park Lane, and with great access to all the main shopping streets
• 5* Hotel: Cafe Royal – elegant hotel on Regent Street
• Luxury Hostel: YHA Oxford Street – part of the YHA chain, in an amazing location on Oxford Street

Trendy Hotels in Soho

Soho is a trendy area to stay in London for younger tourists, with a lively and buzzing nightlife, and lots of pubs, bars and restaurants open until late. It’s also the heart of London’s LGBT community.  Soho is in walking distance of the theatre district and major shopping streets like Oxford Street, Regents Street and Carnaby Street. And you can easily walk from Soho to Piccadilly Circus, Green Park, St James’s Park and beyond.

Bottom line:  The place to be for buzzing nightlife, but bear in mind that hotel prices are on the expensive side.

Where to Stay in Soho:

• 5* Hotel: The Soho Hotel – a unique luxury hotel located off a quiet street in Soho
• 4* Hotel: The Nadler Soho – a 78-room hotel with excellent location
• 4* Hotel: Hazlitt’s Soho – a quirky boutique hotel, and a real gem
• Luxury Hostel: SoHostel – great budget hostel right in the heart of Soho

Hotels in London Theatre District

London Theatre

Covent Garden is London’s theatre district , located right in the heart of the capital next to Soho. The area around Covent Garden market is a lively place to be both day and night with lots of restaurants in the area. It’s within walking distance of Soho, Oxford Street, The River Thames and it’s easy to get around via Covent Garden underground station.

Bottom line:  A great area for anyone to stay if your budget allows!

Where to Stay in Covent Garden:

• 5* Hotel: Covent Garden Hotel – a charming English-designed boutique hotel
• 4* Hotel: The Henrietta Hotel – a small 18-bedroom boutique hotel with beautiful architectural features
• 3* Hotel: Assembly Hotel – a fantastic location with clean, modern and tidy rooms

Family Hotels in Bloomsbury

The British Museum

This area is a great compromise between price and location with lots of 3 and 4 star hotels and is perfect for families to stay. Bloomsbury is a quieter area popular with families, with green spaces like Bloomsbury Square Garden and small streets like Sicilian Avenue. The neighbourhood attracts artists, writers, and painters, with the British Museum located in Bloomsbury , and it’s only a 20-minute walk to Covent Garden and Oxford Street.

Bottom line:  A good location and affordable prices, with excellent transportation links and close proximity to the shops of Oxford Street. Possibly the best location to stay in London for families

• Transport: The main stations are Russel Square and Holborn. It’s close to Euston, St Pancras and Kings Cross stations. This area is especially convenient if you are traveling on the Eurostar trains or to Luton airport.
• Local Sightseeing: The British Museum and it’s a very pretty area.
• Nightlife & shops: The best restaurants are located down Torrington Place but there isn’t much in the way of shops or nightlife in the area. You’ll find mainly convenience stores.
• Cost: Budget to mid-price

Where to Stay in Bloomsbury:

• 4* Hotel: The Bloomsbury Hotel – award-winning hotel that has recently been refurbished
• 4* Hotel: The Montague on the Gardens  – Full of character and just steps away from the British Museum
• 3* Hotel: Grange Lancaster Hotel –  a small hotel with 36 guest rooms
• 3* Hotel: Thanet Hotel – a small and charming family-run hotel
• Luxury Hostel: Astor Museum Inn – an award-winning hostel considered to be one of the best in London

Hotels near Kings Cross

A budget area around Kings Cross, St Pancras and Euston stations. The transportation links are excellent, with mainland trains to Northern England and the Eurostar to Paris.

Bottom line:  There is nothing to do or to see in the area, the only reason to stay here would be because of the price and close proximity to train stations.

Where to Stay near Kings Cross

• 3* Hotel: Crescent Hotel – good value for money bed and breakfast
• 3* Hotel: Premier Inn London St Pancras or King’s Cross : This popular chain has two hotels in the area
• 2* Hotel: Alhambra Hotel – a simple bed and breakfast in St Pancras
• Luxury Hostel: YHA London St Pancras – a popular hostel chain with  a selection of different rooms and dorms

Where to Stay in London, South of the River

The London Eye

The Southbank neighborhood  is located south of the River Thames, immediately across from the Houses of Parliament. You’ll find a lot of budget hotels here, as well as several luxury hotels overlooking the river. The London Eye, Southbank entertainment centre and Imperial War Museum are all located nearby.

Bottom line:  A great place to stay if you are looking for budget hotels that are conveniently located.

• Transportation: Excellent transportation with Waterloo mainland and underground station. along with Lambeth North and Elephant & Castle underground stations.
• Restaurants, shops or nightlife: Not many restaurants, shops or nightlife in the area.
• Cost: Mostly budget hotels and hostels, with some very expensive hotels overlooking the river

Where to Stay in Southbank & Waterloo

• 4* Hotel: Park Plaza Westminster Bridge  – a very popular large hotel overlooking Westminster Bridge
• 4* Hotel: Marlin Waterloo – luxury apartments that come with kitchen facilities.  There are incredible views of the city from the top floor
• 3* Hotel: Premier Inn London County Hall  – another location of this extremely popular hotel group
• 3* Hotel: Hampton by Hilton London Waterloo – part of the Hilton Hotel chain group
• Luxury Hostel: The Walrus – a boutique hostel with a great lounge area

Hotels in the area:  Park Plaza Westminster Bridge is a good place to stay with families, with lots of attractions within walking distance. There are plenty of options for budget travelers and backpackers.

London Airport Hotels

There are four major international airports serving London, and each have hotels nearby. You can also easily reach the hotels by taking public transportation from London.

• London Heathrow Airport is serviced by many major hotel chains. There’s also a Heathrow Express train that goes directly from the airport to London Paddington. This means it’s popular to look for hotels in the Paddington area when travelling to Heathrow.
• There are lots of hotels in and nearby London Gatwick Airport . Many of the hotels have direct access to the North Terminal or South Terminal or are within easy walking distance. The Gatwick Express train runs directly from the airport to London Victoria, and so it’s also popular to stay in London’s Victoria neighbourhood.
• There are a few hotels located nearby Stansted Airport . Two of the hotels are within walking distance of the terminal, whilst several more can be reached with a shuttle bus.

Other Areas to Stay in London:

There are other areas in London with hotels, especially in Camden, Shoreditch, the East End of London and the financial centre which is called “the City of London”. Some of these places can have poor transportation links, with few underground stations, and will be further away from the major tourist attractions. For this reason, we haven’t recommended any hotels in these areas.

As a rule, be particularly cautious if there is no underground link into Central London from your hotel. Sometimes there may be an overground station nearby, but the cost of train tickets is high. Also buses from outside the centre can have long journey times and will get caught up in rush hour traffic. This means whilst hotel prices may seem very cheap after you factor in the extra cost of transportation and the wasted travelling time, there are normally better places to stay for tourists in the centre of London.

Hotels near Attractions

There are some areas that are good for staying in London to get to a specific attraction. For example, there are lots of hotels near Wembley Stadium that are ideal if you are going to an event or match at the stadium. There are lots of hotels near Kew Gardens that are perfect for a visit specifically to the botanical gardens.

Similarly, you’ll find lots of hotels near ExCeL London which are ideally located if you are attending a conference or event at the centre, but less so if you are looking to do some sightseeing in the heart of the capital.

Further thoughts

• Sightseeing: If this is your first time visiting the capital, a great way to orient yourself is with a London double-decker sightseeing bus tour , where you can see all the major attractions on the first day and get a feel for the city.
• Safety: All of the areas that we’ve listed as good places to stay in London for tourists are safe to walk around. But as in all major cities be cautious, especially at nighttime.
• Hostels: London’s hostel scene has been hotting up over the last couple of years, with some of the top hostels in London  considered to be amongst the best in the world.
• Traveling: If you are traveling around London, you will need a contactless payment card like the visitor Oyster card , in order to get the cheapest travel rates.

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Best Area To Stay In London For First-Time Visitors & Tourists

Last Updated on November 15, 2023

by Michael Rozenblit

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If you’re a first-time visitor to the British capital, it can be overwhelming to figure out the best area to stay in London. Given the large size of London, one of the most challenging issues for all travellers – especially first-time visitors – is determining what is the best place to stay for tourists.

As such a diverse city, each neighbourhood can provide travellers with a completely different experience of the city.

Furthermore, given London is fairly spread out, choosing the best area to stay for first-time visitors is particularly crucial to ensure you don’t spend unnecessary time commuting to the sites you want to see.

So without further to do, here’s our guide to the best London neighbourhoods for tourists to help you decide where to stay on your first trip to the British capital. It can also be helpful if you’re a returning visitor who simply wants to experience another side of one of the most exciting cities in the world!

Want a quick answer? Here are some of the top areas and accommodation choices for your trip! Best Area For Sightseeing – Belgravia or Kensington : Astor Hyde Park Hostel (Budget), The Montana Hotel (Mid-Range) & Park Grand London Kensington (Luxury) Best Area For Shopping – Soho: Astor Museum Inn (Budget), Z Hotel Soho  (Mid-Range) & Sanderson Hotel (Luxury) Best Area For Families – Paddington : Publove @ The Green Man (Budget), Hotel Edward (Mid-Range) & Royal Lancaster London (Luxury) Best Area For Nightlife – Shoreditch : Prime Backpackers Angel (Budget), The Hoxton (Mid-Range) & Batty Langley’s (Luxury) Best Area For Live Music – Camden: Smart Camden Inn Hostel (Budget), Selina Camden (Mid-Range) & Kimpton Fitzroy London (Luxury)

Table of Contents

Choosing Where to Stay in London For First-Time Visitors

If it’s your first time in the British capital, it’s easy to get confused about where the best area in London for tourists is. After all, the city is huge, many of the attractions are spread out across the city and prices vary across the city.

The first thing to remember is that you simply can’t be close to everything in London and you will, therefore, need to prioritise.

If you want to stay in London to be close to the typical sightseeing spots then West London is ideal. If you’re visiting London to experience the nightlife then areas like Shoreditch or Camden are where you want to be.

Wherever you choose to base yourself, you’ll need to make use of the extensive public transport system to get by.

I suggest downloading the CityMapper app before arriving as it provides real-time public transport times and tells you exactly how to get from point A to B using the transport network.

If you’re arriving from outside of the EU, then buying a prepaid SIM card with data before you arrive is a good idea so you can easily get your accommodation.

Regardless of where you stay in London as a first-time visitor, you’ll never be able to experience and see everything that the city has to offer in one trip so I suggest choosing from the places below based on your trip preferences!

Belgravia or Kensington – Best Area For Sightseeing

If it’s your first time visiting London and the primary aim of your trip is to see all the major sites and visit the world-famous museums, then you might as well stay as close as possible to them!

Belgravia and Kensington are located in West London and, Belgravia in particular, is only a stone’s throw from some of London’s most popular attractions including Buckingham Palace, Trafalgar Square, Big Ben and Westminister Abbey.

Kensington, especially South Kensington, is also home to some of the most iconic museums in the city – including the Science Museum, the Natural History Museum and the Victoria and Albert Museum. This area is perfect for those who’ve included visits to these places into their itineraries.

Of course, these neighbourhoods also encompass the gorgeous Hyde Park. Home to Kensington Palace and Gardens and to the Winter Wonderland around Christmas time, this is one of London’s best green spaces.

Whilst this part of London is undoubtedly more expensive, the proximity to the sites makes these neighbourhoods some of the best to stay in London for first-time visitors and tourists whose primary aim is to sightsee!

Accommodation in Belgravia or Kensington

Budget: Astor Hyde Park Hostel – A great budget option in this area offering a mix of dorm and private rooms. The hostel has a brilliant common area, a large kitchen and a cheap breakfast available with proceeds going to charity.

Mid-Range: The Montana Hotel – A mid-range hotel located just a few minutes’ walk from the Science Museum and the Natural History Museum. Also well connected with nearby Tube stations.

Luxury: Park Grand London Kensington – A luxury option located close to Earl’s Court Tube Station. The hotel has a contemporary design and is popular with business travellers in London. A good option if you want to splurge in this area!

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in this area!

Soho – Best Area for Shopping

If it’s your first time in London and you want to explore some of the world-famous shopping that the British capital has to offer then look no further than staying in Soho.

Soho is located within walking distance of Oxford Street, arguably London’s most famous shopping street with over 300 shops featuring some of the world’s best-known brands.

You can also walk to Covent Garden for more boutique shops and possibly even go to Knightsbridge to visit Harrod’s department store.

This neighbourhood is full of restaurants and bars, as well as being within walking distance of most of the major theatres if you want to see a West End show during your time in London.

All these things undoubtedly make Soho one of the best places to stay in London for first-time visitors and tourists who want to enjoy one of the trendiest neighbourhoods in the heart of London.

Accommodation in Soho

Budget: Astor Museum Inn – A great hostel located right next to the British Museum and only a short distance from the Soho neighbourhood. They offer a range of different dorms and private rooms and also organise social events so you can meet other travellers.

Mid-Range: Z Hotel Soho  – A cool boutique hotel located right in central London. The rooms have been stylishly decorated and there are a number of great cafes, restaurants and bars nearby. 

Luxury: Sanderson Hotel – A sleek luxury hotel in London that is only two-minute walk from Oxford Street. The hotel has amazing facilities including a modern gym, spa and a restaurant/bar downstairs. The rooms are very spacious and they also have luxury apartments available.

Paddington – Best Place To Stay For Families

Located to the north of Hyde Park, using the lovely neighbourhood of Paddington as a base is a great option if you’re visiting London as a family.

In case you’re not aware, Hyde Park is one of the largest green spaces in London and home to a number of attractions. It is also a wonderful place for children to play if you’re looking to take them somewhere fun.

Though Paddington itself doesn’t have many attractions, it is a pleasant residential area with convenient transport links into the centre of London. Paddington is also a super convenient place to stay if you’re arriving at Heathrow Airport, as the Heathrow Express goes directly into Paddington Station in a fraction of the time it takes to take the underground.

If you’re looking for a pleasant place to explore with lots of nice cafes, the area of Little Venice along the canal also calls Paddington home and it’s not an area that attracts many tourists.

Also, those who want to explore the famed colourful houses of Notting Hill and the sprawling antique market on Portobello Road will find Paddington well poised for this, as well.

Accommodation in Paddington

Budget: Publove @ The Green Man – if you want to full English experience of staying above a pub then this is a great option! This hostel has been recently refurbished and sits above a London pub that is open 24 hours. Dorms only.

Mid-Range: Hotel Edward – Located a few minutes’ walk from Paddington station, this is a great mid-range hotel that offers basic amenities. 

Luxury: Royal Lancaster London – If money isn’t an issue for your trip to London, then staying at this 5-star hotel will undoubtedly be an amazing experience. It’s located close to Hyde Park, has a range of luxury rooms and several high-quality restaurants and cafes on site.

Shoreditch – Best Area for Nightlife

Once considered the dodgy part of London, gentrified Shoreditch is now arguably the most trendy part of England’s capital. This is a great place to stay for first-time visitors to London who want to experience the city’s best nightlife, hip restaurants and cool cocktail bars.

Whilst Shoreditch might be best known for its evening activities there is also plenty to keep you occupied throughout the day including exploring the famous Brick Lane and Spitalfields Market or gazing at all the street art that lines Shoreditch’s streets.

There are plenty of street art walking tours that you can take that will take you to some of the most iconic artworks in the area while also giving important historical context to the area.

Shoreditch is without a doubt one of the coolest parts of London and potentially the best area to stay for young people and those into a cool, “alternative” scene.

Despite being further away from West London, there are still some famous landmarks located close to Shoreditch such as the Tower of London, St Paul’s Cathedral and the City of London.

Though it has been gentrified for some time, Shoreditch is still a super cool area with a lot to offer visitors.

Accommodation in Shoreditch

Budget: Prime Backpackers Angel – This hostel is located in Angel just a few minutes walk along the canal to all the action in Shoreditch. They offer a range of dorms and private rooms and organise regular events that make it easy to meet people while you’re in London.

Mid-Range: The Hoxton – A boutique hotel with funky and stylish rooms, located only a few minutes from Old Street Tube Station. Downstairs is a popular bar and restaurant that gets busy on weekends, however, the rooms are completely soundproof. 

Luxury: Batty Langley’s – A stylish hotel located within a few minutes walk of Liverpool Street Station. There are a wide range of rooms including double rooms and suites making it the perfect luxury option in Shoreditch. 

Camden – Best Area for Live Music

Whilst these days Shoreditch might be considered London’s capital of cool, if you’re primarily interested in listening to live music during your evenings then it’s worth staying in Camden.

In a lot of ways, Camden is quite similar to Shoreditch with its own set of cool markets to explore, hip eateries to try and bars to have a drink at.

However, what makes Camden stand apart from the rest of London is its live music scene. There are plenty of historic venues where world-famous artists such as Prince, Blur, Coldplay and many more have performed. There are also plenty of venues where lesser-known artists can play music and you will find something every night of the week if you look for it.

Camden has also produced many musicians, most famously Amy Winehouse who has a statue dedicated to her in Camden Market.

The sheer music history in Camden makes it the best area to stay for tourists who want to immerse themselves in live music and see as many gigs as they can during their stay in London!

Accommodation in Camden

Budget: Smart Camden Inn Hostel – This hostel offers both dorms and private rooms and is located close to Camden Town Station so you’re close to all the action in this part of London. =

Mid-Range: Selina Camden – A great mid-range hotel, located in the heart of Camden. They offer a range of standard double, family and single rooms with the option to include breakfast in your nightly rate. 

Luxury: Kimpton Fitzroy London – A lavish high-end hotel with a striking exterior located in Russell Square. Another great place to consider if money isn’t a factor! 

There’s a reason why London is one of the most popular cities in the world for travellers. The sheer number of neighbourhoods in the British capital can make it difficult to decide on the best place to stay in London for tourists.

However, the fact of the matter is that you’ll never be able to see all of London in one visit and therefore it’ll probably only be a matter of time before you return and get a chance to experience a different London neighbourhood.

Are you planning to visit London? Have any questions about any of these neighbourhoods? Let us know in the comments below! 

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About Michael Rozenblit

Michael is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Both solo and with his partner, Maggie, he has travelled to over 50 countries across the globe and has a particular affinity for the Balkans and Eastern Europe. He’s lived in numerous countries worldwide but currently resides in his hometown of Melbourne, Australia. Read more about Michael

Hi Ravi, What are your thoughts on The Tower Hotel?

Sorry Michael what do you think of The Tower Hotel?

Hi there…Im heading over to LHR in Dec…can you reccommend me the best place to stay? Which area? Hotel or Apt? Not so pricey pls..Im travelling with my wife and son…will be in LHR for about 1 week. And i will continued my journey to Paris…so i need to stay somwhere near to the Rail Stn… Thanks for your help.

Hi Azman, you can easily get the metro to Kings Cross Station from almost anywhere in London for your journey to Paris. Paddington or Knightsbridge are good options for families as well as being close to the famous tourist attractions.

Hi Mr Michael

i am planningUK tour including Scotland and Wales in 1st and 2nd week of December with family ,i need your help on must see places in UK for about 7 days Thank you

Hi Ravi, check out this article for itinerary ideas: https://www.theworldwasherefirst.com/london-scotland-ireland-itinerary/

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Where to Stay in London for a first time visit? An insider’s guide 2024

Where to stay in London England, for a first time visit (or even second/third)? This is a question we receive many times. Therefore, we created this guide.

We wanted to make it very easy to understand. This London city guide includes the best areas for first-time visitors, families and couples.

We even included a big map with all neighborhoods and handpicked hotels for couples, families, and friends.

(This guide is always up to date, the last updated May 2024.)

But, let’s go to the most important question first. After, we will explain the answer in detail:

Question: Where to stay in London for a first-time visit?

Answer: Central London (Zone 1-2)

Why do I recommend to stay in Central London?

Sticking to Central London for a first-time visit makes it easy to get to know the transport links and move around the city quickly and painlessly.

Make sure you read my guides to one week in London as well as best places to eat in London . All my guides are handwritten and from my own experience.

For the even more curious, here is another fun guide to 37 unique experiences in London .

Please scroll down for our handpicked hotels and hostels , for the ones on a budget.

To help you identify the best neighborhood to stay in London based on your preferences, our recommended areas (as well as the top sights) are highlighted in this map below:

• Shoreditch (in purple)
• West End (in blue)
• Mayfair (in red)

Please note: those are not the exact district borders. I just tried to simplify this information.

Why these areas?

As well as being central areas of London, these are extremely easy to access via the main train stations and airports.

In this article, we wanted to give you all the information you need for your London trip whether you stay in London for 3 days, 5 days, or more.

We cover many things, from the best locations to what to see in London.

Skip to your interest point or keep reading to be fully prepared for your London trip:

• Luxury Traveler
• Design Lover
• Solo Traveler
• Nightlife-seeking traveler
• Budget Traveler
• Top London sights
• Things to do in London
• London neighborhood Guide
• Safest area to stay in London
• How to move around

1. Best areas and handpicked hotels for …

As we delve into the best London neighborhoods to stay, it’s worth noting that the city center is an ideal choice for first-time visitors.

I also understand that different travel styles match different needs.

You will notice some areas are excluded or added to the previous recommendation depending on what kind of traveler you are. It is not the same going with the family than partying with friends, right?

Let’s see which are the best areas to stay in London depending on which way you are traveling and my handpicked hotels.

Continue scrolling or pick your travel type on the menu:

1.1 Families 1.2 Couples 1.3 Luxury Traveler 1.4 Design Lover 1.5 Groups 1.6 Solo Traveler 1.7 Nightlife-seeking traveler 1.8 Budget Traveler

1.1 Families

Discovering the best place to stay in London for families. While London is often bustling – whether its traffic or party-goers there’s always a bit of background noise – however, there are areas of London that suit a family stay.

Also, you need an area that is easily accessible and close by to family-friendly attractions.

Therefore, the answer to where to stay in London for families is primarily West London. 

In particular, the best area to stay in London with family is West London, which includes neighborhoods like Chelsea, and Notting Hill. These areas are not only quieter but also offer easy access to family-friendly attractions, parks, and museums, making them ideal for a family visit.

However, we have also found some excellent options below:

This map shows you the areas, recommended for families:

Handpicked London places to stay for families

It is very important to be flexible and comfortable while traveling with a family group. That is why the best option would be to look centrally located hotels offering great quality service. For budget options, there are also some amazing hostels in London for families with Family Rooms.

The Ampersand

Within a few minutes of the family favorite Natural History Museum and Science Museum, The Ampersand Hotel has a large selection of family rooms that include:

• complimentary cots and extra beds,
• small kitchenettes,
• free soft drinks,
• children’s toiletries and bathrobes,
• activity packs

The hotel also offers discounted family menus including a kids Sci-Fi (science) afternoon tea! Have a look at the photo below. You see the beautiful, tent with the bed on the left for the little ones.

This is our definitive answer to where to stay in London with kids!

St. James Hotel and Club

The St. James Hotel also offers a ‘kids stay for free’ deal for a minimum of two nights as well as a dedicated children’s concierge service whilst being in a fantastic location and providing a luxurious stay for the parents.

It is very close to the Buckingham palace, approximately 5-minute walk.

In a walking distance, you have:

• London Eye, and
• Victoria Station

The inner garden of the hotel is an additional benefit, great to sit there and have a glass of wine in the evening.

The Kensington Hotel

Each of The Doyle Collection’s hotels in London are simply beautiful but The Kensington Hotel is perhaps the most romantic.

Set in a 19th century West London townhouse, the hotel combines grand decor with a vibrant atmosphere with plenty of corners to cozy up in.

The rooms are beautifully furnished and the hotel restaurant offers one of the best afternoon teas in the city.

Gir Lion Lodge, London Zoo

For a London hotel with a difference, treat the family to Gir Lion Lodge where guests can sleep over at London Zoo.

Yes, you can overnight at the London Zoo!

As well as after-hours tours, a two-course dinner, and free zoo entry, families will wake in the land of the lions to the sound of the big cats’ roar!

1.2 Couples

London can be an extremely romantic city, perfect for a couple’s city break. If you’re wondering where to stay in London for couples, the city offers a variety of charming and intimate spots.

There isn’t particularly one set area of London more suited to couples. Below is a selection of hotels best suited to a romantic getaway, each offering a cozy night’s stay.

This map shows you the best area to stay in London for couples:

Handpicked accommodations for couples

When traveling as a couple it is very important to spend time together.

Look for a more intimate accommodation.

That is why staying at hotels during your trip is perfect. You won’t have to worry about cleaning or cooking… just enjoying your time in London!

Shangri-La at The Shard

What could be more romantic than waking up to one of the best views the city has to offer?

Stay at the Shangri-La Hotel at the top of London’s tallest building and you’ll be treated to sunrises, sunsets and a night’s sleep above the clouds.

Rooms come with skyline panoramas (book an iconic view room for the famous bathtub view) whilst the 52nd floor Gong Bar and infinity pool are not to be missed.

The Rookery

Minutes from the design hub of Clerkenwell and Farringdon, The Rookery is a romantic hideaway in an era gone by.

Dark wooden furnishings, open fires and four-poster beds make you feel that you’ve stepped back in time at this boutique hotel.

The Blackbird Hotel

A flawless pub hotel in Central London made with great care, taste, and creativity.

The quirkiness and small scale of The Blackbird are a welcome difference from the usual chain and business hotel.

That is why it is a great option for couples willing to visit the city.

The rooms are not very spacious but big enough to have a comfortable stay. The room comes with some free supplies in the fridge.

Blackbird is located nearby Earl’s court road.

You will find in a walking distance:

• Natural History Museum
• Albert Museum
• Royal Albert Hall
• Olympia Exhibition Centre
• Stanford Bridge

Despite the busy area, the nights are quiet. Ideal for visiting the city!

Grab a bite to eat in the restaurant or a drink at the bar. Of course, WiFi is free.

Tip: make sure you take the breakfast at the hotel (which is included with the room rate) at least one day.

They offer a generous breakfast selection including:

• fruit cereals,
• pastries and
• fruit juice

As well as hot menu and hot drinks.

1.3 Luxury Traveler

London is jam-packed with some of the world’s best restaurants, designer shops and luxury hotels from boutique properties hidden down a narrow street, to renowned 5* names.

So where to stay in London for the luxury traveler?

Most areas of the city have a handful of impressive hotels but you’ll more likely find traditional luxury in the following districts:

• Kensington and Chelsea

This map shows you the areas, recommended for the luxury traveler:

Handpicked accommodations for luxury traveler

Luxury in London means not only a stunning hotel but many services that will make you feel great.

High-end restaurants, swimming pools, and concierges that will help you take a cab, plan your day or suggest great restaurants in the city. Below you find my personal best luxury London Hotels. The website lesboutiquehotels.com lists the absolute best boutique hotels London has to offer.

The London Edition

Thanks to our users Maria, I needed to update this guide with this absolute amazing Luxury Hotel: the London Edition !

I would go with The Limited Edition, for basically three reasons:

• Location: SOHO! You are downtown, and you have everything around you, including the famous British Museum (which I recommend; it takes at least 3 hours to visit). The district is Fitzrovia, with famous Oxford Street, Theatreland and Piccadilly Circus just 10 minutes walk away
• Elegance and Design Personally, I am a fan of classic meets modern, and The London EDITION combines it perfectly, in my opinion.
• Roof top terrace and Balcony with views I adore beautiful city views and from many of the rooms you have great views over a part of London. I just love this!

Just in case you are still not convinced, The London Edition is home as well to a Michelin starred restaurant and 2 fantastic cocktail bars.

When you think of the most luxurious hotel, nothing quite springs to mind like London’s Claridges Hotel .

The famous residence has been home to everyone from royals to A-listers for over 150 years and its glamour never goes out of style.

Located in the heart of Mayfair its famous British service is a must for the luxury traveler.

• The Langham

For a West End location, luxury travelers are invited to The Langham , a London icon on Regent Street.

The truly British hotel is famous for its beauty as well as a collection of opulent dining options including Roux at the Landau.

Four Seasons Ten Trinity Square

The Four Season’s Ten Trinity Square , the most recent London opening, is located in the heart of the City, overlooking main attractions:

• Tower Bridge,
• Shakespeare’s Globe and the
• Tower of London

The magnificent building is as classic inside, with an impressive lobby that speaks elegance.

Number Sixteen

With contemporary design and luxurious fabrics and furnishings, Number Sixteen is a top choice for the luxury traveler who wants to stay central in London.

It is located in a quiet street, yet maximum of 2 minutes from a metro stop.

The attention to every detail is impeccable: from common areas designed for lingering, to RikRak linen spray to support restful sleep.

They do have a restaurant and a lovely garden are lovely with great food.

1.4 Design Lover

With various districts for architecture, art, and culture, London is a hub for design both old and new.

Personally, I love a great design-led hostel. It can be anything from Hipster to Boutique Hotel. Below I share with you my favorite design hotels in London too.

Over the years different areas of the city have grown in terms of hotel openings and popularity.

Therefore the best places to stay for design travelers are:

• Clerkenwell

This map shows you the areas, recommended for the design-led traveler:

Handpicked accommodations for the design traveler

Yet again, I admit it, I love design hotels. I have looked all over the place and tested several central design hotels in London. Here’s the verdict.

The Curtain

One of East London’s newest residencies, The Curtain is a characterful hotel not dissimilar to those of New York and New Orleans.

The dark, woody interiors are met by indoor gardens as well as a private members-only club and rooftop pool.

Southern vibes come into play at Red Rooster, a vibrant chicken and waffles restaurant.

Zetter Townhouse

Possibly London’s best boutique hotel, Zetter Townhouse is located in Clerkenwell, one of the city’s most thriving design districts.

Eccentricity is Zetter’s vibe – you’ll find bizarre decor around every corner as well as cocktail bars and games rooms.

The hip Ace Hotel in the heart of Shoreditch attracts many trendy travelers.

Complete with co-working spaces, an underground comedy club, sauna and extremely popular restaurant Hoi Polloi, it’s a firm favorite among designers.

Groups can have an abundance of fun in London – as well as there being plenty of bars and restaurants to hang out in, there’s so much to do for stag dos, families, friends and parties.

Whilst there isn’t a particular area of London best suited for groups to stay in, there are some recommended hotels perfect for over 4 people near the best areas to stay in London:

This map shows you the areas, recommended for groups:

Handpicked accommodations for groups

Apartments work always best for groups, as they need flexibility and space. I mention also some hotels for those groups seeking more individual spaces.

Wilde Aparthotel

Suitable for both long and short stay, the Wilde Aparthotel is perfect for groups located in the center of Covent Garden.

Inspired by Oscar Wilde, the hotel rooms and apartments are simply stylish and are walking distance from many London attractions.

Ravensbourne House

For groups who want a home away from home, head to one of Ravensbourne House , a self-catering apartment located very near central London.

It is a one-bedroom apartment that can cater up to 6 adults.

There is a kitchen with a microwave and a fridge, a washing machine and a bathroom with air dryer.

Hyde Park is just 10 minutes walk from Ravensbourne House and there is a metro stop very near the apartment.

Novotel London West

If you want the hotel experience than the Novotel brand is a great choice for groups.

The Novotel London West hotel located next to Hammersmith station offers personalized service for bookings of 10 or more rooms including private dining and even your own entrance!

1.6 Solo-Traveler

London is a city that can easily be explored by a solo traveler!

Wander around a museum, picnic in the park or shop til you drop – there’s plenty to do.

For hostels we share our top recommendations below for “ budget traveler ” but if you want a single room in one of London’s cool hotels, we recommend three of our favorites below.

And for those wondering where to stay in London on a budget, the following sections will guide you to affordable yet comfortable options that won’t break the bank.

This map shows our favorite areas to stay when traveling alone in London.

Handpicked accommodations for solo travelers

Traveling solo does not mean feeling solo. You can enjoy your time in your room and join tours, visit museums or meet up with more people on a bar.

Looking to find friends easily and cheap rooms? Then here you have the 3 best hostels in London .

If you prefer a more intimate room here are the hotels I suggest.

The Hoxton, Holborn

The hip Hoxton hotel brand is perfect for a solo traveler. We recommend the Holborn location minutes from the West End, which offers ‘shoebox’ rooms perfect for short stays and solo trips.

As well as a guaranteed good night’s sleep, The Hoxton includes a free breakfast bag with each stay, supermarket price drinks, and free WiFi.

Z Hotel Gloucester Palace

Spread over 6 townhouses in Marylebone, the Gloucester Palace Z Hotel is a favorite for solo travelers.

The cozy rooms are super stylish and excellent value.

Strand Palace

In the heart of the West End, the Strand Palace offers single rooms for each category.

The 4 Star Hotel also offers an onsite gym, restaurants and complimentary Wi-Fi.

Palmers Lodge Swiss Cottage

Boasting charm, comfort, and creativity in a  beautiful Victorian Grade II building is the Palmers Lodge Swiss Cottage .

Aside from its eco-friendly efforts and the super cool décor the property also offers fascinating history and design of the building.

Moreover, the hostel is very perfect for those traveling solo since they provide dormitories and private rooms. Each unit comes with its own privacy curtain and free beddings. Also, the smaller shared dorms have their very own tea and coffee station to add to that super cozy feeling.

And if you’re up for fun and adventure then you should look forward to their organized pub on-site and regular gigs of live music.

1.7 Nightlife-seeking traveler

If you’re wondering where to stay in London for nightlife, you’ll be pleased to know that the capital city is famous for its vibrant scene, ranging from top DJ’s to underground bars and all-night raves.

For those wondering where to stay in London for the best nightlife experience, we’ve identified some key districts where the night truly comes alive.

If you want to stay in the heart of the nightlife areas, we recommended the following districts:

Located in Central London in between Oxford Circus, Tottenham Court Road, and Leicester Square, Soho is packed with bars and clubs.

Streets such as Old Compton Street and Wardour Street were the original destinations for gay nightlife and so many clubs are now aimed at gay culture including the famous G-A-Y .

The East London neighborhood is lively well into the night and is a favorite for its quirky bars and clubs such as Callooh Callay and Nightjar .

Expect creative, theatrical cocktails, themed bars and dancing all night in Shoreditch.

Located South of the River Thames, Brixton attracts and an edgy young crowd who like to party into the early hours.

The Prince of Wales is a multi-floor club with a terrace month perfect for summer nights.

Handpicked accommodations for nightlife-seeking travelers

If you are going to a party, you will need some time to recover.

Not having to worry to inform about your plans, or what time you have to get up, the best option is to get a room at a cool hotel or a party hostel.

For nightlife with a side of luxury, there’s no better place to stay than the cool party hotel, The Ned , located in the heart of the City of London.

The 5 Star Hotel has its own members club as well as 9 restaurants and an indoor spa to relax the next day!

The Dictionary Hostel

For a late night in Shoreditch, sleepover at The Dictionary Hoste l in the midst of East London’s nightlife scene.

As well as its key location, the hostel has its own events, games rooms, bar crawls and discounts on London attractions.

Compare prices and read reviews at : Booking.com | Hostelworld

One of London’s most fabulous party locations is Radio Rooftop, the 360 degree rooftop bar atop the ME London Hotel .

For those who want to party into the early hours, book a room at this fabulous Strand location.

1.8 Budget Traveler

London isn’t just for the rich and famous – there is plenty of free activities and budget attractions as well as plenty of cool hotels and hostels to stay in.

Like many cities, the further out of the center you stay, the less you’ll pay so areas such as:

• Walthamstow, and

However if you’re keen on staying in Zone 1-2, we recommend some options below:

Handpicked accommodations for budget travelers

I also have a few on my own recommendations. Here are the best places to stay in London on a budget.

Z Hotel Soho

The Z Hotel brand pride themselves on affordable luxury and that’s why we think the Soho location is a perfect pick.

In the middle of the city, this hotel is a characterful hotel with compact stylish rooms minutes from the West End.

Located by Kings Cross, the favorite backpacker hostel Clink78 is great value and set in an incredible old courthouse where The Clash band once stood trial!

Clink78 is one of the best budget places to stay in London.

Their own onsite club, the Clash Bar, is a popular pick and the rooms even have old prison features.

In the vibrant East London neighborhood of Dalston, the Luxury Inn is a highly rated bed and breakfast with family-run service and historical charm.

It is a great place to stay in London for a family on budget.

Self-service breakfast, a help-yourself kitchen and courtyard garden make you feel right at home.

2. Top Sights (and their locations)

There are so many things to do in London for every kind of traveler.

As well as the famous sights such as Buckingham Palace and the London Eye, there’s plenty of hidden gems and classic favorites. We share here our top 10 sights not to miss!

Top 10 sights in London

The top ten sights in London are:

• The tower of London
• A West End Show
• an Afternoon tea
• Brick Lane and Shoreditch
• St. Paul’s Cathedral
• Borough Market

More great sights to see in London are:

• The National Gallery
• Tate Modern
• Shakespeare’s Globe
• Westminster Abbey
• The London Dungeon
• Trafalgar Square
• Oxford Street
• The View from the Shard

You see, the major sights in London are dotted all around the city. It is almost impossible to visit all these sights just by walking.

Good news, getting around London is very easy. Below we talk about moving around London.

2.1 The Tower of London

You can’t come to London without a trip to the famous Tower of London .

As well as exploring the royal fortress, make sure to book a tour of the Tower Bridge where you can walk over the adrenaline racing glass walkway and watch the bridge open for passing ships.

2.2 A West End Show

You can’t go wrong without seeing a West End show in London.

There are so many to choose from and whilst it might be daunting looking at tickets, we promise it’s easy to book!

If you want a bargain and are happy to wait till the last minute, head to Leicester Square in the morning and queue at the TKTs box, or download the TodayTix app for a chance to win £20 rush tickets.

As well as seasonal shows, all-time favorites are:

• Les Miserables
• The Lion King

2.3 Afternoon Tea

For a truly British experience, drink tea and eat cake at one of London’s best afternoon teas.

You’ll find it on every corner in cafes and hotels however for those who want to feel rather royal there’s nothing like afternoon tea at Claridges Hotel .

For extra glamour, choose the champagne tea – just book in advance!

2.4 Brick Lane and Shoreditch

Whilst there’s endless things to do in central London, we highly recommend going east to explore Shoreditch, the hip and happening neighborhood of London.

As well as being a favourite destination for restaurants and bars, Brick Lane is famous for its vintage shopping, tasty curries and graffiti culture –

you might even spot a Banksy piece on your visit!

2.5 A Picnic in Hyde Park

There are so many large parks to choose from in London:

• Victoria Park for East London markets
• Holland Park for West London’s peacocks
• Japanese gardens
• St James’s Park for the famous pelicans

But if you want a classic London experience, we recommend taking a picnic to Hyde Park, London’s biggest green space.

Go on a sunny day for a walk, relax and even canoe around the lake – although get there early to avoid long queues!

Why not rent a bike and cycle around?

2.6 St Paul’s Cathedral

Don’t miss one of London’s most beautiful buildings – St Paul’s Cathedral.

As striking as it is on the outside, save time to go inside too either on a self-tour or by attending one of many events held at the Cathedral.

If you are visiting in the winter season, we highly recommend booking to see a Christmas concert, a truly festive experience.

Tickets are booked for free online and released at 10am on various days – check online to make sure you don’t miss out.

If you want a full visit for the Paul’s cathedral ( including a panoramic view from the Dome) with no queues, then the skip the line ticket will be your friend.

2.7 Sky Garden

One of our favorite free attractions is London’s Sky Garden, an indoor paradise on the top of the 20 Fenchurch Street building in the City.

We recommend booking your free tickets online about 1 month before your trip to ensure entry although walk-ins are sometimes allowed.

Or if you wish to combine your visit with a meal or drink, simply book a table at one of the garden’s restaurants or bars.

It’s also worth going at sunrise or sunset for even more of a beautiful view!

2.8 Southbank

The River Thames is what brings London together, so come rain or shine it’s worth a visit.

The best place to start is at Southbank where you’ll find:

• the National Theatre,
• a summer/winter market,
• Somerset House,
• the London Eye and
• various riverside restaurants

On a sunny day, walk east past Shakespeare’s Globe and onto Tower Bridge.

2.9 Borough Market

Foodies won’t want to miss a visit to a market and whilst there are plenty to choose from nothing quite beats Borough Market.

You’ll find everything from fresh oysters to burgers and beer among the home of London produce.

Visit Wednesday – Saturday to make sure each stall is open and be prepared to queue for favourite dishes such as pasta from Padella.

2.10 The Kensington Museums

London is home to hundreds of museums covering everything from cartoons to zoology, but nothing quite beats the Kensington collection.

Start at the Natural History Museum where you’ll see Hope the whale among hundreds of other creatures, before having fun in the Science Museum and then checking out an exhibition at the V&A.

Make sure to get there early, especially on a weekend, and check out what’s on

There’s plenty of exhibitions!

Of course there is plenty more to see in London than the above.

Here you have our favorite things to do in London that you should not miss.

3. Things to do in London

Of course London is plenty of things to do, but if you are looking for some alternative things, here is our fav list:

3.1 A Junkyard Gallery

Explore the neon treasure trove at God’s Own Junkyard , a gallery in Walthamstow with its own Rolling Stone’s Cafe.

Important: There is an entrance free.

3.2 Flower market

Buy cheap flowers and plants at Columbia Road Flower Market, taking place on a Sunday (go later between 2-4pm for discounts and a quieter crowd).

For families, crossover Hackney Road to the City Farm where you can feed the ducks, donkeys and sheep!

3.3 Enter to Harry Potter’s world

Or at leat pose at Platform 9 and ¾ at Kings Cross Station.

Better yet, take the train from Euston Station to Watford to visit the Warner Brothers’ Studio Tour .

3.4 Walk over Greenwich

Walk over the O2 Arena in Greenwich where you’ll see 360 degree views over the City.

It can also be done at sunset and twilight for a twinkling climb.

3.5 Visit the Magnificent Seven

London’s collection of famous cemeteries that are surprisingly more beautiful than spook.

Don’t miss the Highgate Cemetery where Karl Marx can be found.

3.6 Go back to Childhood

Explore Pollock’s Toy Museum in Fitzrovia, a quirky gallery that contains six tiny rooms packed with vintage board games, dolls, the world’s oldest teddy and a 4,000 year old mouse!

3.7 Mooch around The House of Minalima

House of Minalima is a graphic design print shop created by the artists behind the design for the Harry Potter movies.

You have a free exhibition space with Harry potter themed rooms, framed prints and actual props of the paper art from Harry Potter.

You can even grab a limited edition!

3.8 Discover London’s Graffiti

The only legal graffiti in London is Leake Street, a tunnel running under Waterloo Station which is an ever-changing canvas.

Nevertheless, remember there are more Graffiti around the city which are worth to spot, including a Bansky.

3.9 Find the seven noses of Soho

A collection of sculpted noses stuck on random streets and walls in Soho originally for an artist’s project.

3.10 Join a Hip Society

Have a cocktail at The Last Tuesday Society , a museum/bar in Hackney complete with the strangest collection of curiosities including a lion in a top hat and two-headed lamb.

4. London Neighborhood guide (to understand the differences)

So when it comes to the question on where to stay in London as a tourist, the areas place a big role. In this section, we walk you through the different neighborhoods in London.

This will give you a pretty good idea on what’s the best choice for you and good areas to stay in London.

London is primarily divided into the North, South, West and East, each with their own style.

Within these areas are then the different zones which are shown on the London Underground.

Zone 1 and 2 being central London – and key neighborhoods which are detailed below.

We already revealed the best neighborhoods to stay in London during your trip, but here we wanted to go in detail to the rest of the section so you can have a better understanding of the city.

Just as a reminder here you have our recommended areas on the map (with the Top sights of London):

But let’s check all the other quarters in London.

4.1 East London

East London is regarded as the more artistic, young and hipster area of London.

Here you’ll find famous graffiti from the likes of Banksy, vintage shopping, quirky cafes and boutique stores.

The most popular areas are Shoreditch, Liverpool Street and Hackney which have great places to see including:

• Spitalfields Market,
• Victoria Park,
• Brick Lane and

4.2 West London

Opposite to the East, the West of London is seen as more opulent with big terrace houses, fancy hotels and lots of green space.

Kensington and Chelsea are where you’ll find the museums, the Saatchi Gallery and Hyde Park whilst Notting Hill is home to the famous carnival and plenty of boutique shops.

Closer to the river, Hammersmith and Putney are also lovely areas to explore with plenty of riverside pubs for a Sunday lunch.

4.3 North London

North London varies in style, from the rock and roll streets of Camden to the beautiful Regents Park.

Here is where Euston and Kings Cross meet whilst London Zoo and Camden Market are popular attractions.

Highbury and Islington is a great area for bars and nightlife, whilst further North, Hampstead and Alexandra Palace offer lovely parks and events throughout the year.

4.4 South London

Similarly the South offers something for everyone from below the river.

Most popular is Brixton which is home to a large Caribbean population, offering a young and fun nightlife with lots of festivals and clubs.

Clapham is also a favourite among many for its bars and pubs, whilst Greenwich is more family friendly – don’t miss Cutty Sark and the Royal Observatory.

More central is Waterloo and London Bridge where you can explore the sights along the River Thames including the London Eye and Tower Bridge.

4.5 The West End

The centre of London, known as the West End, covers areas such as Soho, Oxford Circus, Piccadilly Circus, Leicester Square and Charing Cross.

This is where the most popular attractions are including:

• the National Portrait Gallery,
• Covent Garden Market,
• Regent Street shopping and the
• West End theatres.

There is plenty to do here with restaurants, bars, cafes and pubs around every corner for every budget.

5. Safest area to stay in London

London is predominantly a safe place to visit and stay, but like all big cities there are pickpockets to watch out for.

Some basic tips to avoid being pick-pocketed:

1. Don’t keep anything valuable in your backpack. 2. Limit what you carry. 3. Put locks on your zippers. 4. Don’t put anything in the back pocket. 5. Keep bags in front of you when on public transit. 6. Do not leave your belongings unattended.

The safest places to stay in London are predominantly the more affluent areas:

Of course these are also the more expensive areas and busy neighborhoods in North and East London are also safe to stay in.

Here you have the hand-picked accommodations in the safest areas in London:

6. Traveling around London

Traveling around London via public transportation is particularly easy once you get to grips with the Underground Map .

The underground is split into a variety of lines, the main ones being:

• Circle Lines

Each has its own colour and shows how each station can connect to another.

You can also pay for travel in London with a contact-less card so there is no need to buy an Oyster card or travel card which can often be more expensive.

You can also travel by bus, black cab taxi or even Uber.

Looking for something convenient and easy to move around the main city sights?

Then the hop-on hop-off bus will be your best (transport) friend.

To check how to move around the app Citymapper comes highly recommended.

Type in your destination and it will show a variety of ways to get there complete with journey time and cost.

It’s also worth noting that children under 11 years old travel free in the city.

Below we list frequently asked questions. Check them out.

As always, you can ask us directly as well. please use the comment section below. This way we can answer in public and all readers can benefit from your question. In fact, your question helps you, us and other readers.

What is the best area to stay in London?

Our recommended areas (as well as the top sights) are highlighted in this map below:

• Central London (Zone 1-2)

Please check our map for best area to stay in London. We also included our favorite hotels and apartments.

Where should I avoid staying in London?

It is better to stay central in Zone 1-2 as well as Shoreditch, West End and Mayfair. According to Churchill Security, the most dangerous areas in London are:

• Westminster
• Hammersmith and Fulham

Please check our map for safest areas to stay in London.

Where to stay in London for the luxury traveler?

The best Luxury Hotels in london are:

• the London Edition
• London’s Claridges Hotel
• Four Season’s Ten Trinity Square

8. Summary Where to stay in London

There you have all the information about the best accommodations in London and the best London area to stay for tourists.

Are you traveling around Europe? Then check:

• Where to stay in Amsterdam
• Paris, the best places to stay
• Best Coffee Shops in Barcelona
• Where to stay in Florence, Italy

Please also check out our detailed guides to:

• London Itinerary for 7 days
• Unique things to do in London
• Where to eat in London

Are you planning to go to UK? Check the best UK attractions for families to visit.

Any Questions?

Do you have questions? Doubts?

Please please please drop me a comment below or directly an email here.

In fact, your questions help me to make this article better. So I help you to help me.

Therefore, bother me!

Safe travels!

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We’re taking a family trip to England for the holiday and looking for the perfect place to spend our last night. Flying into LHR from Edinburgh on Sunday @ 1 PM, departing out of LHR the next day at 4 PM. This will be the last stop on a 10 day vacation with my husband and 2 adult kids. My first inclination was to stay somewhere near the airport, but as we’ll have nearly 24 hours, I’m re-thinking this, especially because there doesn’t seem to be a great option for a luxury hotel (or any hotel). So I’m back to square one. I want to stay somewhere nice, but don’t want to hassle with public transport with our luggage unless its a one-stop situation. Looking for something easy to and from the airport, nice accommodations, preferably with spa, with some sights nearby.

Sorry that was long. Appreciate any ideas & your time.

All the best, Kimberly

Hi Kimberley (Love that name btw!!),

this is a great, no, a fantastic question. Thanks for reaching out. So, I think it is a good idea that you will go downtown. 24 Hours is a good time, and you can see a few sights! However, the transport to the Airport London LHR can be tricky and time-consuming. Here you should take the Heathrow Express – and NOT a taxi or bus! With the bus or taxi you may be missing the flight. I once went to LHR with a backup of 4 hours and I reached my flight only because it was delayed 20 minutes. The traffic jam was ridiculous! Therefore, take the Heathrow Express.

The Express leaves from “London Paddington”. So we want to find you a nice place close to Paddington. Now, that should be easy! The beautiful Claridge’s is just a 15 minutes walk or 5 minutes cab ride from Paddington away. Family rooms are available, as well as Spa and wellness center.

Ever closer to the train station at Paddington is Royal Lancaster London , 5 Star Hotel. It does not have a Spa though, but GORGEOUS views! I would go with Royal Lancaster and enjoy sightseeing from here. The location gives you more time to see the city.

Sightseeing: I see two options for you and your family. You can take the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus and see as much as you can. Depending on the time of year, this is 100% worth it since it is a covered bus. The 2nd option for you would be to make a simple list of sights you want to see and go to visit them straight away. This could be anything from Big Ben to London Eye, Tower of London or British Museum. The British Museum is free and you can “quickly” visit in about 2 hours.

Sorry, that was long too 🙂 Matt

Hello, I’m a 49 year old woman looking to book my first solo vacation soon (January / February) and am looking for any suggestions for nice places to dine where I won’t stick out like a sore thumb as a solo traveler. Also, any other tips or suggestions would be fabulous!

Thank you! Shannon

Hi Shannon,

this is fabulous! You will love London! You can find all our tips for spending one week in london here . As for restaurants, we have this specific guide on best places to eat in London .

If you want to stay in a place to meet people, you might consider the Palmers Lodge Swiss Cottage or Hillspring. Especially in the Hillspring you have families and groups. At Swiss Cottage there is more solo-travellers of all ages usually. Other hostels are typically more for backpackers and may be more party-oriented.

Hope that helps 🙂 Matt

Thank you for the great information you have provided. My husband and I are returning to London in March. He will be working at Excel London, so I will be on my own during the day. I want to stay close to shopping for gifts, clothing and antiques- anything I will not see at home in US. Could you recommend the best area to stay? A good (clean) hotel that won’t break the bank? I had rather spend my money shopping! Thank you, Dawn

awesome and fair enough!

So there is a few best places for shopping London: 1. Oxford Street is considered the heart of the city’s shopping. This is the more pricey area though with many 4 and 5 Star Hotels. I like the Z hotel Tottenham , it is reasonably priced!

2. Knightsbridge Area (south of Hyde Park) I love that area, and you should check it out too. Yet, the hotels here are pricey. A hotel can be around 1000$ per night. There is The Capital which starts from 350$.

My tip for you: If you really just want a good, clean hotel that is cheap, I recommend the Meininger Hotel London Hyde Park . It is a simple, casual hotel, clean and good location!

It is very well connected to the rest of London too.

I hope that helps 🙂 Matt

We’re 4 US seniors traveling to London for two days … first visit. We prefer a queen or king bed but have heard that some hotels mean a queen when listed as a double. Is this true?

yes, this is absolutely true! Please check the exact description when booking any hotel in London. It will state if the room is one or two. And what the size is. King and Queen Beds are sizes of a bed, but always double beds. I am sending you now an email!

Hope that helps! Matt

My family and I are flying into London-Gatwick for the Cubs game which is being played at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. Our flight gets in at 10:50am and they moved the game up from 6:10pm to 3:00pm. Is four hours enough time to get to my hotel (i have not booked yet but I plan on staying in West End) and over to the stadium. Also, I will be in London for three nights, would you recommend I stay in West End? It will be my wife and I along with our 17 year old daughter. Thank you in advance for your help.

Hey Brandon,

I sent you an email =)

Greetings from Pennsylvania, USA! My husband and I will be visiting London from June 19 through 24 prior to a transatlantic crossing on the Queen Mary 2. We are Marriott loyalists and have points for an award stay. I’m wondering which of the following Marriott properties would be the best to stay at for the 5 nights prior to the voyage. We will be 67 and 72 respectively at the time of this vacation. Thank you for your help.

The Knightsbridge Luxury Hotel The Limited Edition JW Marriott Grosvenor House

or any other Marriott’s in London.

Your help and suggestions are very much appreciated!

Thank you so much for your wonderful questions, this is a fantastic one!

I would go with The Limited Edition , for basically three reasons: 1. Location: SOHO! You are downtown, and you have everything around you, including the famous British Museum (which I recommend; it takes at least 3 hours to visit)

2. Elegance and Design! I am a fan of classic meets modern, and The London EDITION combines it perfectly, in my opinion.

3. Roof top terrace and Balcony with views I adore beautiful city views and from many of the rooms you have great views over a part of London. I just love this!

You can book The London EDITION directly at Booking.com here .

Your Queen Mary 2 transatlantic crossing sounds absolutely amazing, enjoy it!

I am sending you as well an email right now!

Safe travels and take care, Matt

Hello, we have a all day event in Finsbury Park, we are in town for a week. Should we just stay near Finsbury Park? Should we stay somewhere else and commute to Finsbury Park? We are traveling next July and it is just the two of us. This will also be our first time to London.

Finsbury Park is in North London and it is only a 20 minutes metro ride from The British Museum, for instance. London-speaking: it is close!

If you only go to Finsbury Park for one full day, I would stay around SOHO and around The London EDITION Hotel . For me personally, this is the absolute best location in London.

You can then take the metro from Piccadilly Heathrow and in 20 minutes you are there. It is easy, cheap and fast.

Hope that helps 🙂

Please have a look as well on the map I have created. It helps you planning!

Safe travels, Matt

Hello and thank you for the helpful information. Next June 2022 I will be returning to London since my first time in 1991. I loved it then. This time I will be in London for two days prior to a cruise out of Stockholm. My traveling companion has never been to London. I know that two days is very limited so we would like to make the most of it.

I am having a little bit of trouble deciding between two hotels in which I have reserved. First, I reserved at the Park Grand London Kensington. My other reservation is at Hotel H10 London Waterloo. They both seem like nice hotels with great upgraded rooms.

Please help me decide. What are your thoughts? I have read a lot about Kensington as a nice/safe area to stay, however, I have read relatively little reference areas south of the Thames.

Thank you very much.

Personally, I would go for the Hotel H10 London. Why? Because of the location! Then you can walk at night around The London Eye and you can east at the Borough Market, one of my favorite places.

Hope that helps 🙂 Enjoy London! Matt

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Avoid These Tourist Traps In London And Visit These Destinations Instead

O ne of the world's greatest cities, London is packed with tourist attractions so impressive that you'll want to add them all to your itinerary. From the Tower of London to Buckingham Palace to the Churchill War Rooms, the list of unmissable landmarks seems endless. Don't worry, though -- it's possible to visit most of them in just a two-day trip . When you're on a tight schedule, it's important to avoid time- and money-wasting tourist traps in favor of visiting sites that are worthy of your attention. 

Whether it's an overrated and overpriced wax museum, a kitschy dungeon experience, or a super crowded viewpoint, there are many places to avoid visiting in the U.K.'s heady capital. The confusing part? Some of them top multiple lists of must-see attractions. That's where we come in. 

As someone who lived in this captivating English city for six years, I have first-hand knowledge of the biggest tourist traps to avoid when traveling to London. Plus, I can offer more impressive (and often less costly) destinations to visit instead. Don't want to take my word for it? No problem. I combined my first-hand knowledge with reviews and suggestions from other locals to create this list.

Read more: 50 Underrated Tourist Destinations Around The World

Skip Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tours And Ride A London Bus

While hop-on hop-off bus tours can be a convenient way to explore a big city, they often come with a hefty price tag. If the tour is based in London, you can expect to pay over $50 per adult for a one-day pass. Instead, board a London bus, which will cost less than $7 for a day of travel. Bus fare for one ride is about $2 and the daily cap is under $7. To pay for their ride, visitors must use a contactless card or an Oyster Card, the visitor's version of which can be purchased online and mailed to your home before you leave.

Double-decker London buses offer spectacular city views, with many routes passing right by London's landmark attractions. One of our faves is the historic Routemaster Bus 15, which we suggest boarding at the Tower of London. Hop on at Great Tower Street (Stop TT) and ride west to Charing Cross Station. Be sure to sit up top for the best views along this heritage route -– you can't miss St. Paul's Cathedral and Trafalgar Square. 

Bus 24 is another great option for sightseers. Hop on at Victoria Station and ride it to Camden High Street. Along the way, you'll pass Westminster Abbey, the Horse Guard's Parade, Trafalgar Square, and Downing Street. Grab a bite at Camden Market when you disembark or stay on until you reach Hampstead Heath where you can catch unbeatable views of the city.

Skip Madame Tussauds And Visit Buckingham Palace

It may tout itself as a top London attraction, but Madame Tussauds would be more honest if they said they were the top rip-off site. Booking in advance will save some money -- the standard online rate for an adult begins at just over $47 versus the walk-up price, which begins at almost $60. But that's still a lot of quid to dish out for wandering around an overcrowded and noisy space filled with okay-ish wax replicas of A- and B-list celebs. Yes, it's fun to take photos with the royal family and fool friends into thinking you met them IRL, but is it worth it? We don't think so.

Instead, we suggest visiting Buckingham Palace for a potential King Charles III sighting. Realistically, you probably won't spy a royal outside the palace, but at least you'll see a historic monument up close. Celebrities more your thing? Book a reservation at one of the city's most popular restaurants. Chiltern Firehouse has hosted acting greats Jennifer Lawrence and Bradley Cooper as well as soccer superstar David Beckham. 34 Mayfair is another good bet for great food and celeb spotting. Imelda Staunton and royal family members have all eaten here.

Skip Changing Of The Guard And Visit The Queen's Gallery

While you should add Buckingham Palace to your list of must-see London tourist attractions, you may want to avoid a visit during the Changing of the Guard. This formal ceremony marks the change between the old guard (on-duty soldiers) and new guard (soldiers taking over duty) for the royal palaces. Marching with a band from Wellington Barracks to the Palace, the new guard will arrive at the palace at about 10:45 a.m. A well-known event, this is a big tourist draw, which means you can expect hefty crowds queuing up an hour or more in advance, as well as pickpockets who arrive to take advantage of the chaotic atmosphere. This tourist trap, which takes place every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday, is one you'll be happy to miss. Sadly, watching this famed ceremony these days feels more like witnessing an overhyped marching band than it does an esteemed historic ritual.

Instead, ditch the crowds and glimpse art from the Royal Collection in the Queen's Gallery or visit the Royal Mews , where you can see the royal stables and the 260-year-old Gold State Coach used at King Charles III's Coronation. The Mews are open Thursday through Monday from early March to early November. Neighboring St. James Park is another interesting place to visit. One of London's famed Royal Parks, it is bordered by three palaces and boasts a fabulous view of Buckingham Palace in particular.

Skip Platform 9 ¾ At King's Cross Station And Visit Warner Brothers Studio Tour London

If you're traveling with a Harry Potter-obsessed kid, you may want to visit Platform 9 ¾ at King's Cross Station. But if you're alone, or with other adults who couldn't care less, we advise you to skip this overrated tourist trap. If you're already planning to be in King's Cross Station and have time to scope out this attraction, that's one thing; but if you're traveling there with the sole purpose of visiting this site, think twice. 

Set between platforms 9 and 10 (obvs) this point of interest includes nothing but a brick wall denoted with a sign. Stuck into the wall is part of a trolley loaded with fake suitcases and an empty owl cage. Those hoping for a quick photo and to score some Potter swag will be pleased;  the Harry Potter Shop at Platform 9 ¾ is open daily, even on bank holidays, and it sells everything from wands to clothes to makeup. 

For those who'd rather have an unforgettable and truly magical Harry Potter experience, though, head to Warner Brothers Studio Tour London -- The Making of Harry Potter in nearby Leavesden. Instead of merely looking at a wall, visitors can board the Hogwarts Express, "fly" on a broomstick, walk through the Great Hall, and explore the Forbidden Forest. Step foot in Diagon Alley, try a Butterbeer, or check out some of the film's famous props and costumes. You won't be sorry you visited.

Skip London Dungeon And Visit The Tower Of London

No matter how much the kids beg you to visit the London Dungeon, stay strong and just say "no." This kitschy tourist trap is a waste of your hard-earned money (tickets start at over $37 for adults) and it's so hokey you'll roll your eyes more times than you can count on both hands. This pitiful attraction is peppered with costume-clad actors who like to scream and cackle and its two rides (the Drop Dead: Drop Ride and the Tyrant Boat Ride) will make you wish you were at Walt Disney World; even "It's a Small World" would be more enjoyable. An escape room has also been added to increase the venue's income stream –- it costs $153 for a private game for six people.

Want a historic experience with a side of chills? Head to the Tower of London instead. There, you can tour the Torture at the Tower Exhibition, where you can get up close and personal with the stretching machine (a.k.a. the rack) and other ancient torture devices in the Lower Wakefield Tower. The Bloody Tower is another point of interest you won't want to miss. The most infamous prison on the grounds, this is where you'll learn about the alleged murder of two young princes -– Edward V and his little brother Richard –- by their uncle, Richard III.

Skip The London Bridge Experience And Visit Churchill War Rooms

Looking for a good spooking? Do yourself a favor and skip The London Bridge Experience. A tourist trap designed to bring the city's macabre history to life with the help of actors with a penchant for jump scares, you can expect to meet zombie-like versions of ghastly heavyweights Jack the Ripper and William Wallace during your visit. Tickets cost about $37 for the experience, which takes anywhere between 35 and 50 minutes. That means you could be spending more than $1 a minute. Entry fees also include a trip to the London Tombs, deemed the U.K.'s "best scare attraction," according to their site . Zombified dentists, doctors, and creepy clowns await visitors in the lower vaults of this venue, ready to pounce and scream in your face.

Instead, we suggest visiting the Churchill War Rooms. Also located underground, this fascinating historic facility is part of the Imperial War Museums. Located in the basement of Whitehall, this once-secret complex was used by former Prime Minister Winston Churchill, top government ministers, and military planners to conduct meetings and develop plans during the country's war effort during World War II. Known as the Cabinet War Rooms, this clandestine spot was used daily during the war, until August 16, 1945. Or experience that stomach drop feeling by walking the glass floors at Tower Bridge. Set nearly 138 feet above the Thames, the views are both terrifying and impressive. Tickets cost under $16 per adult. 

Skip The Sherlock Holmes Museum And Visit The Sherlock Holmes Pub

We don't recommend visiting the Sherlock Holmes Museum unless you have a detective-obsessed kid who doesn't realize that the famed character is fictional. Set inside a Georgian townhouse at 221B Baker Street in Marylebone, this four-story museum has been open since 1990. Inside lie antique furnishings mentioned in the books and pretty creepy-looking mannequins. Tickets cost over $21 which isn't exorbitant, especially for London, but considering you won't be there long (the museum's quite small), this seems a bit of a waste.

Instead, head to The Sherlock Holmes  in St James. Self-described as a "Victorian-themed public house," this watering hole features a recreated version of the famed fictional detective's apartment upstairs. The entire pub is dotted with references to Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's beloved books, making it easy to feel as if you're within the pages. Plus, there's a beer garden –- the museum certainly doesn't have one of those.

Skip The SEA Life London Aquarium And Visit The London Zoo

You'll find everything you'd expect to see at the SEA Life London Aquarium. From penguins to sharks to turtles, they're all there. And as far as aquariums go, this is a pretty good one. But when you're in one of the world's greatest cities that lies on the banks of a river, not an ocean, there are plenty of better things to see. Standard tickets to the Sea Life London Aquarium cost $24 online or $51 at the door. Again, that's pretty on par for London attractions, however, it's a steep price to pay for a tourist trap. 

Instead, visit London Zoo in Regent's Park. The oldest scientific zoo in the world, this family-friendly attraction was opened in 1828 for fellows of the Zoological Society of London. In 1847, the public was invited to visit. Today, the zoo is home to 14,0000 animals including a giant, 425-pound silverback gorilla, Sumatran tigers, and Linne's two-toed sloths. While tickets aren't cheap (an adult will cost about $40 to visit on a weekday), it's easy to spend a whole day here. Or, if you aren't willing to part with that much cash, visit the smaller, and lesser-known, Battersea Park Children's Zoo . Adult tickets are more reasonably priced, at $16. There are over 100 animals at this little zoo, including wallabies, meerkats, otters, and lemurs, and plenty of opportunities to interact with animals like coatis, donkeys, and goats.

Skip The Shard And Visit Level 10 At The Tate Modern

There's no denying that The Shard is impressive. In fact, it's one of the most spectacular buildings in the world . The viewing platform was opened by the queen on February 1, 2013, with the main restaurants (Aqua, Oblix, and Hutong) following suit that summer. Set across the Thames from another bucket-list-worthy London building, the Gherkin, this engineering masterpiece towers 1,016 feet above the city and boasts 11,000 glass panels. 

Dubbed a "vertical city," there's plenty to do inside, like spend serious coin on a meal with a view, or zip up one of the 44 elevators to the viewing platform. That 360-degree view will cost you, though -- about $36, or more if you add a glass of champagne. And if you visit on a day that's rainy or misty (honestly, London is often both of those things), you're basically paying for a ride in a lift.

Instead, head to Level 10 at Tate Modern, where you can enjoy a drink or snack (including sandwiches and salads) while ogling the impressive view of the Thames, St. Paul's Cathedral, the BT Tower, and Blackfriar's Bridge. You won't have to pay a thing unless you choose to grab a bite or a warm cuppa. The Skygarden at 20 Fenchurch Street is another must-visit for a free skyline vista. The highest public garden in London, this leafy space is as stunning as its views are remarkable.

Skip The London Eye And Visit Hamstead Heath

We are well aware that some of you will disagree with this addition to our list of tourist traps to avoid when traveling to London, but hear us out. Yes, the London Eye is iconic. Yes, it offers fantastic views of the city. And yes, it's deemed a top London attraction you won't want to miss . That said, visiting this popular landmark can cause more headaches than enjoyment. First created as a temporary point of interest, this 443-foot-tall, "cantilevered observation wheel" is the largest of its kind in the world, according to its website . And if you catch a ride on one of its 32 pods on a sunny day, you can see up to 25 miles in all directions. The problem is that thousands of others have the same idea, which means you could stand in line for more than two hours on a particularly busy day. Standard tickets start at over $32 online or more than $57 for a walk-up.

Instead, visit Hampstead Heath for a unique city view you probably never knew existed. Parliament Hill stands over 321 feet tall, making it one of the highest natural points in the city. If the weather is ideal, you can see to the Gherkin, St. Paul's Cathedral, and the Houses of Parliament. Speaking of the Gherkin, it's another great spot to enjoy unparalleled views. Grab a drink and snack at Iris Bar at Searcys at the Gherkin , then relax with a side order of stunning vistas.

Skip Harrods And Visit Peter Jones And Liberty

Harrods is to London as the Colosseum is to Rome -– a historic icon that's become synonymous with the city. The world's most famous luxury department store, this Knightsbridge institution is impossible to miss -– it's eight floors tall and an entire block long, not to mention over one million square feet in size. Inside, you'll find 20 restaurants, a beauty salon, a bank, and 300 separate departments selling over 5,000 brands. You'll also see price tags so high you might suffer sticker shock. Due to its notoriety, Harrods is often packed with tourists, making it difficult to enjoy the plush interior.

If you're hoping to shop during your London holiday, there are plenty of excellent places to visit instead. Sloane Square is home to the Peter Jones & Partners department store. Owned by John Lewis, this vast shop is filled with enough enticing merchandise that you'll find it tough to leave empty-handed. Grab a bite at The Top Floor Restaurant (on the 6 th floor) for captivating views of Chelsea and beyond.

Liberty is another recognizable landmark located on Regent Street. A heritage-listed building; this stunning Tudor-style store is as beautiful outside as it is indoors. Built between 1922 and 1924, it is worth a visit, if only to admire the impressive architectural features (the price tags here are also quite shocking).

Our Ranking Methodology

Having lived in London for six years with two young children, I visited pretty much every tourist attraction the city has. From renowned points of interest like the Tower of London to remarkable museums, I've seen the top sightseeing destinations multiple times, including many kitschy tourist traps I wish I'd skipped. To create this list, I used my experiences at these attractions to determine which locales are tourist traps that should be avoided and I included alternatives that are more than worthy of your time and money. I also consulted reviews from other locals and travelers, as well as their tips, to ensure the list is solid.

Read the original article on Explore .

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Deep Beneath London, Onetime Bomb Shelters Will Become a Tourist Attraction

Used for spying, a phone exchange and more over the years, a semi-secret web of tunnels in central London could open to the public in 2027.

By Claire Moses

Reporting from 98 feet below street level in London

There’s a locked door on the eastbound platform of the Chancery Lane station of the London Underground. The door is unassuming, sturdy and white.

Behind it is a wide set of stairs leading to a roughly mile-long maze of tunnels built in the 1940s that were first intended to serve as a World War II shelter and later used for espionage, the storage of 400 tons of government documents and telecom services.

Welcome to the Kingsway Exchange tunnels, set roughly 100 feet below street level in the center of London, sprawling beneath the Underground’s Central Line. Soon they could enter a new chapter: Angus Murray, the owner of the complex, who bought the tunnels last summer, has applied for planning permission to the local authorities together with the architecture firm WilkinsonEyre to turn the tunnels into a tourist destination that could handle millions of people a year.

Mr. Murray’s London Tunnels is planning to invest a total of 220 million pounds (about $275 million) on restoring and preserving the tunnels, as well as adding technology for art installations and other attractions. Mr. Murray hopes to open the complex in 2027, and said that it would be able to host temporary art exhibitions, fashion shows and more.

At the moment, entering the tunnels requires riding a small elevator tucked behind a side door in an alleyway off a wide street in central London. (Visitors to the attraction would use a different, bigger entrance, Mr. Murray said.)

When the elevator doors open, you step into a World War II-era tunnel — one of 10 civilian shelters proposed by the British government after the beginning of the Blitz, the eight-month bombing of London by the Germans that started in September 1940. The tunnels were never used as shelters. By the time they were completed in 1942, the Blitz was over.

During the Cold War, the British government instructed its telephone department, which later became British Telecom, to set up a secret communications system in the tunnels that could survive a nuclear attack. The famous hotline between the Kremlin and the White House ran through the complex, according to the project’s website. Some of the phone exchange’s equipment in the tunnels still survives today, even though it hasn’t been used since at least the 1980s.

“The idea was that it would provide a degree of protection,” said Martin Dixon, a trustee for Subterranea Britannica , a charity that documents and tries to preserve underground spaces.

“If the Cold War had turned into something more serious, it would have allowed communications on some level to continue,” Mr. Dixon, who joined Subterranea Britannica about 40 years ago, said.

The tunnels under the Chancery Lane station of the tube are more than a mile long and in some places have a diameter of almost 25 feet. Those dimensions make them among the largest sets of tunnels built for people in a metropolitan city, Mr. Murray said.

“They have a fascinating history,” he said.

For a group of Post Office and telecoms workers in the decades after World War II, the tunnel complex became a workplace, some aspects of which have survived. In one room, the stuffy smell of an old carpet is inescapable. Another still holds the remnants of a canteen. Yet another has fake windows framing images of nature as decorations. There are still offices, as well as rooms where workers could spend the night.

Some parts of the tunnels are lined with fake walls, and doors with nothing behind them. The effect is not unlike watching a scene from the dystopian Apple TV+ show “Severance .”

A bar where postal workers could drink is also still there, and Mr. Murray said he hoped to revive it and make it London’s deepest underground bar.

The tunnels’ communication operation became obsolete in the 1980s, and in 2008 British Telecom put the tunnels up for sale . BT employees used to go down into the complex up until the 1990s to inspect for fire safety and other conditions. The tunnels were otherwise vacant.

Many details of the new attraction still need to be ironed out, but Mr. Murray said the cost of the experience would probably be in the same price range as that of other major tourist sites in London. (The Tower of London’s entry fee is about $40, and Westminster Abbey’s is about $36.)

Mr. Dixon, of Subterranea Britannica, said he was excited about the prospect of the Kingsway Exchange turning into an attraction — provided it’s safe and the history is preserved.

“I’ve seen thousands of underground spaces, from the mundane to the spectacular,” he said. The Kingsway Exchange is particularly interesting, he added, because of all the different functions it had. “It played its part in World War II, and was ready to play its part in the Cold War.”

Claire Moses is a Times reporter in London, focused on coverage of breaking and trending news. More about Claire Moses

NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

London is no longer a 24-hour city — and it’s seriously impacting tourism

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Once upon a time, London was one of the nightlife capitals of the world. Now, its social scene is in crisis.

As Londoners flocked to polling stations yesterday to vote in the 2024 mayoral race , a key topic on a lot of people’s minds will be the state of the capital’s nightlife – which has not only taken a beating in recent years, it also features prominently in each candidate’s manifestos.

If re-elected, Sadiq Khan has pledged to create a new London Nightlife Fund and London Nightlife Taskforce, as part of his 24-hour London vision to bolster nighttime culture and hospitality.

Other candidates, including Tory candidate Susan Hall, have advocated for an expansion of the Night Tube on other lines. Others have proposed a levy on big stadiums to help smaller businesses compete, and even a ‘hail and ride’ system for buses.

And while the issue of course impacts the some 8.9 million people who call the city home, it also has a huge affect on tourism and those who visit to experience the buzz that was once on offer.

Post-pandemic problems

There are various reasons why Central London’s nightlife has been hollowed out, but the most obvious one is Covid-19 . Beyond the series of lockdowns and the fact that people quite literally could not leave their homes, its lasting effect is palpable.

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Over 3,000 nightclubs, bars and pubs in the city have permanently closed between March 2020 and December 2023, according to research by the Night Time Industries Association (NTIA).

As NTIA’s chief executive Michael Kill explains: ‘Pre-pandemic, over 300 million nightlife tourists flocked to the UK every year, with London commanding an estimated 25% of this traffic.’

A change in habits and the rise in hybrid working has no doubt also contributed to the reduced numbers in the city centre.

Indeed, a 2022 survey revealed that Thursdays really were the new Fridays, as more people took advantage of working from home towards the end of the week.

All this to say; it can feel quite light on the ground in town when the sun sets – especially for tourists staying in the heart of Zone 1.

Michael adds: ‘We are globally renowned for culture, particularly counter-culture, which has a huge contribution to London’s vibrant cultural tapestry and the UK’s allure. 

‘Any losses in these sectors would not only devastate our economy but also erode the essence of our identity. It’s imperative we safeguard and support them.’

The toll on tourism

‘Nighttime economy businesses play a vital role in our cultural and economic landscape,’ Michael says. ‘Events, nightclubs and venues in the capital are not just entertainment hubs; they are essential drivers of domestic and international tourism.’

Laura Evans-Fisk, head of digital engagement at eurochange , also notes how many iconic venues like G-A-Y Late and Printworks have closed down in London, which would have previously been a big draw for international visitors, as well as natives.

London’s early closing times also continue to confuse people who visit. On Reddit , in a thread in the London page titled ‘why does everything close so early’, user thefirstofhisname11 observed: ‘Coffee shops close at 5-6, pubs close at midnight or 2am, clubs rarely stay open after 4am.’

They added: ‘This is in stark contrast not only to my native Budapest, but a lot of other European cities I’ve been to. What is going on?’

A contributor in the same thread, known as rodney_furnival, added: ‘Was my biggest surprise when I visited.’

So, can London reinstate its 24/7 status?

The question of whether London is still a ’24-hour city’ was hotly debated earlier this year, after the London Mayor’s office made a bold claim about its status in March.

The post read: ‘London is leading the world in its 24-hour policy with other global cities looking to us for inspiration.’ 

The hashtag #LameLondon then proceeded to trend on the platform, with many users sharing their frustrations at the lack of buzz.

Pictures of signs saying ‘no drinks outside after 9.30pm’ were shared as others called out the fact the Night Tube only runs on Fridays and Saturdays, and on the Central, Victoria, Jubilee, Northern and Piccadilly lines. The Tube also generally runs until around midnight.

London nightlife is practically nonexistent. We are a country of busybodies, killjoys and curtain twitchers. #lamelondon pic.twitter.com/oe9oq514E2 — 🥑🗽🏗🏘️ Na₂Ca(CO₃)₂•5H₂O (@Gaylussite) March 5, 2024

Laura tells Metro.co.uk that compared to other European cities, London’s early closing times and the limited Night Tube options means it’s actually falling behind.

‘In cities like Paris, you can expect to see people drinking cocktails in the city’s squares until way after midnight, but in London, many pubs and bars close their doors before twelve. Historically, this has coincided with the last Tube, so people can get home,’ she says.

‘There are certainly cities in Europe that have more regular public transport systems in the early hours. For example in Madrid , the Metro runs until 1.30am every day (even weekdays), although it is not 24 hours.’

Perhaps, then, extending the cut-off time for the last Tube home would promote a growth in nighttime activity.

Laura also notes that things have changed during the current cost-of-living crisis: ‘If you ask any local, they would likely say that London isn’t a 24-hour city. This is largely due to very expensive drinks prices (you can expect to pay around £7 a pint in London, and up to £20 for a cocktail), staying out until the early hours could end up costing a fortune.’

Lower costs would certainly benefit the consumer.

Another consideration, owing to broader cultural shifts and our relationship with alcohol, is that a heavy night out isn’t always in the cards for everyone. For this reason, surviving clubs are ‘trying to adapt’ to the changing landscape by offering more than just booze.

‘Fabric recently introduced a corner shop and pizza station inside its club, assumingly to cater to those who are less interested in drinking alcohol and to make it more of a “multi-purpose” destination,’ Laura says.

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‘In terms of whether London’s nightlife scene can be saved, that is difficult to predict,’ she adds.  

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London travel news LIVE: Train strike disruption to hit rush-hour tomorrow as Aslef walkout cripples network

Rail services on some of London’s busiest commuter routes have been brought to a standstill as drivers launch a fresh strike in a near two-year long pay dispute.

Members of Aslef at operators including those running services into the capital such as Southern, Southeastern and South Western Railway are walking out for the day.

Affected operators are running no trains on the vast majority of the network.

Strikes will be held on Wednesday and Thursday at different operators , while drivers are also banning overtime until Saturday which is also causing disruption.

Passengers are being urged to check before attempting to travel by train this week.

Operators hit by today’s strike include Greater Anglia, Thameslink and Southern (including Gatwick Express), Southeastern, South Western Railway, c2c and GTR’s Great Northern.

These strikes will likely impact services running tomorrow as well, with several operators warning they will not be able to immediately resume their usual timetable with disruption expected first thing.

It comes after traffic was brought to a standstill in both directions on the M25 near Epping due to a vehicle fire.

An air ambulance was at the scene of the van fire, on the clockwise carriageway around a mile from junction 27, about 12.45pm on Tuesday.

One lane has since-reopened but traffic is still moving slowly.

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Congestion persists on M25 near Enfield

Traffic monitoring site Inrix is still reporting congestion on the M25, where one lane remains closed.

Minor delays to Northern line

Most Tube line delays have cleared up but there are still minor delays on the Northern line.

Essex Police on M25 fire:

A spokesperson said: “We were called to the M25 between junction 27 and junction 28 shortly after midday following reports of a vehicle fire.

“Officers assisted Essex Fire and Rescue with road closures and two people have been taken to hospital with minor injuries.The road remains partially closed.”

Lane re-opens on M25

One lane has re-opened on the M25, where a van caught fire between J27 M11 and J28 A12 (Brentwood / Brook Street Roundabout.

The clockwise lane is still closed and the anticlockwise is now flowing - but slowly.

M25 closure in pictures

No estimated re-open time for m25 yet.

The M25 is closed in both directions between J27 (M11 J6 / Epping) and J28 (Brentwood / Romford) due to a vehicle fire.

Authorities do not yet know when lanes can be re-opened.

Blackwall Tunnel delays cleared up

The severe delays to drivers approaching Blackwall Tunnel have now cleared up.

Exit ramp to the M25 clockwise closed

The exit ramp to the M25 clockwise closed and queueing traffic due to vehicle fire on M11 both ways at J6 M25. Congestion to J7 Harlow southbound.

A van fire has closed the M25 clockwise. M11 traffic can only join anticlockwise.

Severe delays for 11 miles on M25

Road blocked and severe delays due to van fire on M25 both ways between J27 M11 and J28 A12 (Brentwood / Brook Street Roundabout).

The fire is on the clockwise side with a full closure. Also stopped anticlockwise for the Air Ambulance.

Man dies after Dartford Crossing incident

A man has sadly died after this morning’s incident at the Dartford Crossing.

Essex Police said: “Officers were called to the QEII bridge at around 9am this morning following a concern for welfare report.

“Emergency services were in attendance and sadly, a man was pronounced dead at the scene.

“His family are aware.

“The bridge was fully closed and has since been re-opened.”

WestJet's St. John's-to-London route goes live — sparking anger over affordable air travel within N.L.

1st direct european route since 2019 now flying until october.

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Newfoundland and Labrador is connected once more to Europe with a direct flight to the United Kingdom this summer, but government subsidies of the St. John's-to-London route has one Labrador MHA demanding closer attention to the high cost of travel within the province.

The newest WestJet route, which flies three times weekly from May until October, will run for the next three years. It's the first time a direct intercontinental route has been offered in Newfoundland since 2019.

"It's a vast geography and it's difficult to get here unless you take an airplane," Alexis von Hoensbroech, WestJet CEO, told reporters Thursday in St. John's.

"So there's obviously demand, and we are happy to support this demand."

WestJet  halted its St. John's route to London in 2018 . Its return was delayed due to a pandemic-fuelled pilot shortage, but the route had always been in high demand before the pandemic, von Hoensbroech said.

The airline hinted at the possibility of more European routes appearing in the future if this season generates enough business.

"We hope this runs well. And if it runs well, maybe there's room for more," von Hoensbroech said.

Tourism Minister Steve Crocker said the flight to London represents a unique opportunity for U.K. tourists, who can now fly to St. John's for a weekend trip.

He also said the province was looking for more direct routes to Europe — and eyeing Germany in particular, given new business connections in the wind energy industry.

Germany is also the second-largest market for incoming tourists, Crocker said.

Provincial travel a sticking point

But with the province thinking globally, Labrador West MHA Jordan Brown says people in smaller communities would be better served by government attention turned inward.

"We're spending so much emphasis on subsidizing other people's vacations, but here in Labrador we can't get any attention on the constant rising costs of interprovincial travel," Brown said, pointing out that a trip from Labrador West to St. John's can cost over $1,500.

Crocker told reporters Thursday the government is looking at travel inside the province as a separate issue, unrelated to securing leisure routes to the mainland and beyond.

Brown disagreed, arguing the government should implement a task force to introduce more affordable options for intraprovincial travel.

"It is the same issue. It's about travel, it's about connectivity," Brown said. "We can't get an answer from this government on anything interprovincial." 

This year's budget includes $3.75 million earmarked for several airport authorities to use as they see fit.

It's not known how much public money was used to subsidize WestJet's London route; Crocker says that number was part of an agreement between the airline and the St. John's International Airport Authority.

Von Hoensbroech also did not disclose the amount but told reporters such agreements weren't unusual and were supposed to be short-lived.

"When it comes to new routes, it's pretty common across Canada that there's some risk-sharing at the beginning," he said.

"Every route has to be sustainable in its own right, and there shouldn't be routes that receive constant subsidies."

No Halifax route on horizon

WestJet has also recently installed new direct flights between St. John's and Calgary, and Deer Lake and Toronto.

But its old direct route between St. John's and Halifax likely isn't coming back any time soon.

"We did this for quite some years and it did not work out very well because this market … [is] pretty overserved," von Hoensbroech said, adding WestJet's fleet also contains aircraft too large for regional routes. 

"Regional flying within eastern Canada is not a strategic priority for us anymore."

• Why flights between Newfoundland and Europe have Labrador Inuit shaking their heads
• WestJet linking St. John's to Hamilton, taking over old Swoop route

The CEO said its new strategy appears to be working: its newest flights out of St. John's are doing booming business.

"So far routes to Calgary and Gatwick are selling very well," he said. "Very promising."

Download our  free CBC News app  to sign up for push alerts for CBC Newfoundland and Labrador.  Click here to visit our landing page .

Corrections

• A prior version of this story said WestJet stopped its London-Gatwick route after the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. It cancelled the route in early 2018. May 06, 2024 9:09 AM NT

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Malone Mullin is a reporter in St. John's who previously worked in Vancouver and Toronto. News tip? Reach her at [email protected].

• Read more articles by Malone Mullin

With files from Patrick Butler and Henrike Wilhelm

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Martin Odegaard has perfect Arsenal response to Erik ten Hag mind games ahead of Man United

Martin Odegaard had the perfect response when quizzed by football.london regarding Erik ten Hag's Arsenal jibes ahead of Manchester United clash

• 07:00, 6 MAY 2024

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It feels like an age since Arsenal scored two late goals to break Erik ten Hag and his Manchester United team after a dominant performance with 17 shots to the visitors' ten, more possession and the bigger opportunities. Eight months on and the two sides prepare to meet once again, this time at Old Trafford on Sunday with so much on the line for the Gunners.

Arsenal know a win will guarantee that the title race will indeed go to the final match of the season whilst their rivals Manchester City still have three games to play knowing if they pick up maximum points the title is theirs yet again. Interestingly, Ten Hag has seemingly struggled to forget the clash back in September and has referenced the offside Alejandro Garnacho goal and Rasmus Hojlund’s arguable penalty in what could be double figures in terms of interviews and press conferences.

After the game Ten Hag told BBC Sport: “I think we deserved to win this game but you don’t always get what you deserve.” The statistics, eye test and analysis would say differently.

In February, again unprovoked, the Dutch coach brought up the fact he believes his side should have beat the Gunners. “I think we can beat any opponent,” he said.

“Away or home. Sometimes away, we have to believe more. We could have won in Arsenal. We actually deserved that win.”

Then in March, he brought up the game again after they beat Liverpool. “It could be,” Ten Hag said when asked if the derby win would be a turning point.

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“But we have missed so many opportunities. For instance, at Arsenal, was it the fourth game of the season? We should have had a penalty for a foul on Rasmus Hojlund.”

These are but a sample of the entire collection of mentions and references that Ten Hag has made, clearly affected by the result from early on in the campaign. From an Arsenal perspective, they can put to bed any suggestions of there being some superiority that is not represented by the table.

Speaking to Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard after the 3-0 win over Bournemouth this weekend, football.london asked if the persistent name checks Ten Hag has made to the Gunners was any additional motivation for the trip. “Honestly, no,” the Norwegian said. “I don’t think so.

“It’s like any other game we are playing for at the moment. I don’t think we need any extra motivation at the moment.

“I think there is enough there. We know what we are playing for. We know the task. We have to win every game and that is what we are going to try to do.”

Now, Mikel Arteta has often used narratives to provide something of a metaphorical kick to his side. Using Ivan Toney’s tweet for instance which was revealed during Amazon’s All or Nothing documentary covering the 2021/22 season. It seems that Ten Hag presents the perfect opportunity for some inspiration despite the club’s captain stating otherwise.

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More than 10,000 London black-cab drivers launch £250m Uber lawsuit

Individuals could win £25,000 or more if they are successful in claim Uber broke taxi booking rules

More than 10,500 of London’s black-cab drivers have launched a £250m legal case against Uber, accusing it of breaking the capital’s taxi booking rules and deliberately misleading authorities to secure a licence.

The case, which has been filed in the high court in London by the litigation management firm RGL, resurrects a claim first raised five years ago, related to the way the ride-hailing app operated in London between 2012 and 2018.

Cabbies allege that Uber allowed drivers to take bookings directly from customers rather than through a centralised system such as those used by minicab services, in a direct breach of private hire rules.

They allege Uber was aware of the rules and deliberately misled Transport for London (TfL) about its booking model in order to obtain an operating licence and take business from black-cab drivers.

Uber has denied the allegations and says the claim is unfounded.

The drivers, who are being advised by the law firm Mishcon de Reya, argue in their suit that they faced unfair competition, and lost out on customers and income, as a result.

Garry White, a black-cab driver of 36 years, said: “This claim seeks justice and fair compensation on behalf of cab drivers across London. Uber seems to believe it is above the law and cabbies across London have suffered loss of earnings because of it. It is time they were held to account.”

RGL said that if the cabbies were successful in their claim they could secure more than £250m, with individuals potentially winning £25,000 or more.

An Uber spokesperson said: “These old claims are completely unfounded. Uber operates lawfully in London, is fully licensed by TfL , and is proud to serve millions of passengers and drivers across the capital.”

It marks the latest bout of legal trouble for Uber. In March, the San Francisco-based company reached an A$272m settlement (£142m) to compensate taxi and hire-car drivers who said they lost out when the company “aggressively” moved into the Australian market.

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That class action, which was launched five years ago, was filed on behalf of 8,000 taxi and hire-car owners and drivers, who argued that Uber X launched in Australia with the intention of hurting their business. The suit also alleged that the company used unlicensed cars with unaccredited drivers in a “conspiracy by unlawful means” and misled regulators.

Dale Forwood, a black-cab driver of 12 years, said he hoped the London case would bring justice for local cabbies. “I am delighted to see this claim being filed today and that we will finally have our day in court,” he said. “Having seen for myself the harm that Uber’s unlawful behaviour has caused to hard-working cabbies, I look forward to justice being served.”

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