Where To Stay In London As A First-Timer: 9 Best Areas + Hotels (2026)

Too many “where to stay in London” guides give you twenty neighbourhoods and no concrete answer. So here’s mine upfront: on your first trip, stay in Zone 1 (or Zone 2 right by a Tube station) and don’t let a cheap room lure you out to Zone 5. The hours you’ll lose on the Tube aren’t worth the savings. That’s the simple version. The fun part is picking which corner of Zone 1 or 2 suits you.

I’ve been coming to London for years and I’ve eaten, drunk and walked my way around every area below. These are the neighbourhoods I’d send a friend to. For each one you’ll get what it’s really like, the honest downsides, the best things to do, the Tube lines you’ll use and hotels for every budget.

Short on time? Use the cheat sheet below, or skip straight to Where NOT to stay.

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Where To Stay In London

Borough & Bankside

Where to stay in London for: Street Food, Convenience

Borough isn’t featured on many guides when talking about where to stay in London and I’m sorry but that is criminal. Borough is a whole vibe that ticks a lot of boxes for first-timers in London. Part of the London Borough of Southwark, it’s conveniently located to many of London’s iconic attractions like the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, The Shard, and the legendary Borough Market.

This is a historical neighbourhood with narrow streets, old style buildings and cosy pubs. It strikes the perfect balance of being located so close to central London but not feeling like it at all. Away from London Bridge station and Borough Market this whole area feels local.

If you’re a foodie you’ll be spoilt for choice. The 1000 year old Borough Market is the most popular food market in London, with over 100 stalls. The sausage rolls from Ginger Pig and the Pulled Pork sandwich (called the best one) from the Black Pig should be non-negotiable on your London food itinerary. On top of Borough Market there are many top rated restaurants around here and Bermondsey Street is home to plenty of trendy cafes and restaurants. There is also Borough Yards, where one of the coolest cinemas I have visited is, The Everyman.

A huge pro of staying in Borough is that you are close to the river for walks, boat rides or getting some cool photography shots. The views here are iconic with St Paul’s Cathedral and the City skyline, especially at sunset looking across to Westminster.

The old riverside street of Shad Thames is nearby, this quirky area still has the large industrial brick warehouses, cobblestones streets and iron overhead walkways of its Victorian days. However long gone are the factories, instead boutiques, restaurants and high end apartments take their place. You can get amazing views of Tower Bridge from here too.

Things To Do In Borough & Bankside

• See the views from The Shard
• Eat your way around Borough Market and Borough Yards
• Visit the cafes and galleries of Bermondsey Street
• See the iconic bridges: Tower Bridge, London Bridge, & Millennium Bridge
• Browse the art at Tate Modern
• Walk across Millennium Bridge to St Paul’s Cathedral
• Visit one of London’s newest indoor food markets: Tower Bridge Collective
• Wander the cobbled alleyways of Shad Thames
• Catch a play at Shakespeare’s Globe

Cons Of Staying In Borough & Bankside

Although you have the riverside to stretch your legs, there is unfortunately a lack of green space. So if you’re someone who likes to recharge from the city hustle then your choices are limited to small parks like Potters Fields Park. The area around Borough Market can get very busy, it’s difficult to just pop down to the market and grab a bite to eat, it takes time to enter, then to slowly move through the crowds to a stall, followed by a long wait and the prices in this market are steep.

My Borough & Bankside Hotel Picks

Budget | St Christopher’s London Bridge: On the high street a few metres from Borough Market, with Borough and London Bridge stations on the doorstep. Mix of capsules, shared dorm rooms and private rooms.

Mid-range | The Mad Hatter Hotel: a 19th century former hat factory just 150 metres from the Thames, with the Tate Modern a 6 minute walk and Shakespeare’s Globe 9 minutes away. It also has a proper British pub downstairs known for handmade pies.

Luxury | Shangri-La The Shard: Set high above London on floors 34 to 52 of The Shard, right beside London Bridge station and moments from Borough Market. Its rooms are among the largest in London, decorated with elegant chinoiserie touches, sumptuous Frette linens, heated bathroom floors and floor-to-ceiling windows with breathtaking views of the Thames, Tower Bridge and St Paul’s. Head up to level 52 for a swim in London’s highest hotel infinity pool, then enjoy cocktails at GŎNG, the highest hotel bar in Western Europe.

Borough & Bankside Transport Links

Underground: London Bridge (Jubilee, Northern), Borough (Northern), Southwark (Jubilee)
Trains: Thameslink, Southern and Southeastern from London Bridge
Zone: 1

South Bank

Where to stay in London for: families, walkability, riverside views, iconic landmarks

To the west of Borough & Bankside is South Bank, it’s an easy walk along the Thames between each area. Although they are close, they offer different things.

South Bank is more modern, with wider roads and a large number of theatres and galleries. Known for its brutalist architecture with large concrete buildings like the South Bank Centre and National Theatre, it doesn’t feel as historic as other areas of London. However it’s one of the liveliest places in London, there is always something going on down here with pop up events throughout the year. Whether it’s your first time to London or not, chances are that you will be passing through here, it has one of the largest concentration of attractions in the city.

What I adore about South Bank is its walkability, you can reach a lot of notable places on foot from here. Neighbouring Borough Market, the Shard and Tower of London are 20-30 minutes, while Westminster is just a walk across the bridge and Buckingham Palace a further 20 minutes from there and Covent Garden is also just a 15 minute walk. It’s also an enjoyable walk, rather than trudging the city’s streets you have space, air and memorable views.

If you’re visiting London with kids South Bank is one of the best areas to stay for families. Kid friendly attractions like SEA LIFE, London Dungeon, Shrek’s Adventure, and the London Eye are all here. River cruises and the Uber Boat by Thames Clippers stop here which also offer a more relaxed activity if the kids are tired.

Things To Do In South Bank

• Have a bite at South Bank Street Food Market
• Take a spin on the London Eye
• Walk along the riverside
• See a show at the National Theatre
• Head up the OXO Tower for river views
• Check out all the artwork in the Graffiti Tunnel
• Catch a gig or exhibition at the Southbank Centre
• SEA Life Aquarium
• Shrek’s Adventure
• London Dungeon
• Take a boat trip down the Thames for views of Westminster and Tower Bridge

Cons of Staying In South Bank

It’s one of the busiest, most touristy parts of London, so don’t expect a quiet neighbourhood feel. The riverfront restaurants lean toward chains with tourist prices, so it’s worth heading a few streets back for better food. Hotels here also tend to come with a premium price tag for the location.

My South Bank Hotel Picks

Budget | Point A Hotel: smart, budget-friendly base right across from Lambeth North tube, with the London Eye, Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament all a short stroll away. The rooms are compact, minimalist and modern, with mood lighting, power showers, air conditioning and free high-speed Wi-Fi, so you get everything you need for a great night’s sleep at a price that leaves more to spend exploring London.

Mid-range | The Wellington Hotel: set in a grand marble-fronted Edwardian pub directly opposite Waterloo station, The Wellington puts the London Eye and the South Bank within easy walking distance. Downstairs, the beautifully preserved bar has a magnificent ceiling memorial to the Battle of Waterloo and serves refined pub classics, craft beers and live sport. Upstairs, comfortable air-conditioned rooms range from cosy singles to luxury doubles and family rooms, with a highly rated breakfast to start your day.

Luxury | Park Plaza: at the foot of Westminster Bridge on the South Bank, just a few minutes’ walk from the London Eye and Big Ben, with a vast glass atrium overlooking the Thames and the Houses of Parliament. Its spacious, modern rooms include studios and suites with stunning views of Big Ben or the London Eye. After a day of sightseeing, you can unwind in the full-service spa, take a dip in the indoor pool or dine at one of the hotel’s restaurants.

South Bank Transport Links

Underground: Waterloo (Bakerloo, Jubilee, Northern, Waterloo & City), Southwark (Jubilee), Lambeth North (Bakerloo)
Trains: South Western Railway from Waterloo, Southeastern from Waterloo East
Zone: 1

Notting Hill

Where to stay in London for: Couples, market lovers and travellers wanting a charming, village-like feel

We all know it from the Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts film, it’s one of London’s prettiest and most photogenic areas and it has a relaxed, almost village-like feel that’s a lovely contrast to the busy centre. If you’ve ever pictured London as rows of pastel-coloured houses, leafy streets and cosy neighbourhood cafes, Notting Hill is probably what you had in mind.

Portobello Road Market is the main attraction here. On Saturdays, it stretches for over a mile with antiques, vintage clothes, street food and bric-a-brac and during the week it’s a smaller local market with fruit, veg and food stalls. The streets just off Portobello Road are where you’ll find the famous rainbow-painted houses.

Notting Hill is also brilliant for green space. Holland Park, with its peaceful Japanese Kyoto Garden, is on one side and Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park are just a short walk away on the other. Add independent bookshops, boutique hotels and great brunch spots and it’s an easy place to slow down and enjoy London at a gentler pace. Maybe it’s the film, but the whole area feels oh so charming and romantic, couples will love it as a base.

Things To Do In Notting Hill

• Browse Portobello Road Market (biggest on Saturdays)
• Photograph the pastel houses
• Holland Park and the Kyoto Garden
• Kensington Gardens and Kensington Palace
• The Notting Hill Bookshop
• Catch a film at the Electric Cinema
• Rummage through decades of packaging at the Museum of Brands
• Vintage Shopping (Y2K especially)
• Notting Hill Carnival (August bank holiday weekend)

Cons of Staying In Notting Hill

Notting Hill is a little out of the centre, so you’ll need the tube to reach most of the big sights and journeys to places like Tower Bridge or Borough can take 30 minutes or more. It’s also one of London’s more expensive neighbourhoods and there are fewer large hotels, so you’ll mostly be choosing between pricier boutique stays and smaller guesthouses. Evenings are fairly quiet, which is not ideal for nightlife lovers.

Saturdays on Portobello Road get very crowded and Notting Hill Carnival brings over a million people to the streets over the August bank holiday weekend, which is amazing if you’re going but best avoided if you’re not. And remember that the famous pastel houses are people’s homes, so be respectful when taking photos.

My Notting Hill Hotel Picks

Budget | Ravna Gora B&B: charming 23 room B&B directly opposite Holland Park tube, with leafy Holland Park on the doorstep and Portobello Road Market, Notting Hill and Kensington Gardens all within a stroll. A well-kept hotel with spacious, spotlessly clean rooms, and you can start the day with breakfast and end it with a drink at the hotel bar.

Mid-range | Ruby Zoe: located at Notting Hill Gate, an easy walk from Portobello Road Market, Kensington Palace and Hyde Park. Its bright, playful design draws on Notting Hill’s Caribbean heritage and the colours of 1970s Portobello Road. Rooms range from cosy “Nest” rooms to spacious “WOW” rooms, all soundproofed and focused on high-end essentials, and the lively ground-floor bar has its own vinyl store and live gigs from up-and-coming bands.

Luxury | The Portobello Hotel: set in two elegant Victorian townhouses in the heart of Notting Hill, The Portobello Hotel has more than 50 years of rock ‘n’ roll history, with guests over the years including Johnny Depp, Kate Moss and Alice Cooper. Every room is individually designed with lush wallpapers, rich colours and antiques from Portobello Market, and the best rooms have roll-top Victorian baths, four-poster or circular beds and views over the private Stanley Gardens. Breakfast is included, and a 24-hour honesty bar is open just for guests, making this one of London’s most memorable places to stay.

Notting Hill Transport Links

Underground: Notting Hill Gate (Central, District, Circle), Holland Park (Central), Ladbroke Grove and Westbourne Park (Hammersmith & City, Circle)
Trains: Elizabeth line and Great Western Railway from nearby Paddington
Zones: 1 (Notting Hill Gate) and 2 (Holland Park, Ladbroke Grove, Westbourne Park)

Westminster

Where to stay in London for: families, iconic landmarks

Westminster is postcard London. The landmarks synonymous with London like Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey are all within a few minutes’ walk of each other and Buckingham Palace is just a stroll away through St James’s Park. If your London itinerary is centred around the big landmarks then Westminster puts you on their doorstep.

Staying here means you can see the biggest sights early in the morning or late in the evening, before the tour groups arrive and after they’ve left. Let me tell you, Westminster Bridge between 10 AM and 8 PM is hectic. There’s nothing quite like walking past a floodlit Big Ben on your way back to your hotel in the evening when the crowds have dispersed. It’s also a great base for families, since everything is walkable and the grand royal parks give kids room to run around.

Getting around is easy too. Westminster station connects you to the Jubilee, District and Circle lines, and Victoria station is close by for trains to Gatwick Airport and day trips to the south coast. Hop across Westminster Bridge and you’re on the South Bank with the London Eye, riverside walks and plenty of places to eat.

Things To Do In Westminster

• Tour Westminster Abbey
• See Big Ben
• Explore Tate Britain (free)
• Peek down Downing Street
• Watch the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace
• St James’s Park
• Trafalgar Square

Cons Of Staying In Westminster

Westminster is mostly government buildings and offices, so once the daytime crowds head home it can feel quiet and a little lifeless in the evenings. The restaurants near the big sights are mostly traps and chains and there’s very little nightlife, so you’ll probably find yourself heading to Covent Garden, Soho or the South Bank for dinner and drinks. Hotels here are also pricey for an area that goes quiet after dark. For better value, look at nearby areas of Pimlico or Victoria, which are only a short walk from the sights.

My Westminster Hotel Picks

Budget | Beverley Apartments London: Tucked away on a quiet residential street in Pimlico, The Beverley Apartments are an easy walk from Victoria Station and Pimlico tube, with Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament all within reach on foot. These recently renovated apartments give you space to spread out, with kitchens (including a dishwasher and oven), flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi, and some units have a private terrace overlooking the courtyard. With options for families and groups and a 24-hour front desk, it’s a comfortable, great-value home base for exploring London at your own pace.

Mid-range | hub London – Westminster Abbey: Just a few minutes’ walk from Westminster Abbey, the Houses of Parliament and the Churchill War Rooms and right by St James’s Park tube, hub by Premier Inn Westminster Abbey puts London’s most famous landmarks on your doorstep. Its smart, contemporary rooms are cleverly designed, with a luxury bed, touchscreen controls for lighting and temperature, a powerful monsoon shower, a 40-inch TV and free superfast Wi-Fi, and “Bigger” rooms with king-size beds are available if you want extra space.

Luxury | The Clermont: a grand Grade II listed railway hotel from 1862, right beside Victoria station, The Clermont puts Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey and the West End theatres showing Wicked and Hamilton just minutes away. Guests are greeted by a stunning lobby with grand columns and a sweeping marble staircase, and the stylish contemporary rooms have subtle period touches, hand-crafted beds and flat-screen TVs, with family rooms available too. Enjoy afternoon tea in the elegant Tea Lounge, or relax with hearty British dishes and a jazz soundtrack in The Soak’s velvet booths for a stay full of Victorian glamour.

Westminster Transport Links

Underground: Westminster (Jubilee, District, Circle), St James’s Park (District, Circle), Victoria (Victoria, District, Circle), Embankment (Bakerloo, Northern, District, Circle)
Trains: Southern and Southeastern from Victoria
Zone: 1

In London for a while? Swap the city for the quintessential British seaside experience in Brighton. My detailed guide covers all the best things to do in Brighton →

Covent Garden & Soho

Where to stay in London for: nightlife, convenience, the West End

Covent Garden and Soho are neighbouring areas of London, they tend to be on everyone’s itinerary and even if they are not, you’ll somehow wind up here at some point. Sitting side by side in the heart of the West End and split by Charing Cross Road, they cover almost everything a first-timer to London could want, all within walking distance.

Covent Garden is the West End by day. Its cobbled streets and market square are full of street performers, boutique shops and cafes, while Seven Dials and Neal’s Yard offer quirkier independent stores. This is also Theatreland, so staying here means you can catch a West End show and stroll back to your hotel afterwards, no late-night tube needed. Bliss! The atmosphere around here is especially nice at Christmas, when the streets are heavily decorated.

Soho is the West End by night. Its tangle of narrow streets is packed with some of London’s best restaurants, cocktail bars and late-night spots, from atmospheric small plate joints to the good old classic British pub. Whatever you want, you’ll find it here. Chinatown is just to the south, Carnaby Street is on its western edge and Old Compton Street is the heart of London’s LGBTQ+ scene.

The West End is a huge area, it’s not just Covent Garden and Soho, it includes Mayfair, Piccadilly Circus as well.

The location is excellent for sightseeing too. Trafalgar Square, Leicester Square and the National Gallery are a few minutes away, Westminster and the South Bank are an easy walk, and with the Elizabeth line at Tottenham Court Road, you can reach Heathrow directly.

If you’re feeling like you want to splurge, Mayfair and Marylebone are close by, these are elegant neighbourhoods where you’ll find designer boutiques, fine dining restaurants, the famous Selfridges, along with one of the most beautiful food markets I’ve been to – Mercato Mayfair, inside an old church.

Things To Do In Covent Garden & Soho

• See a show in the West End
• Try some street food in Chinatown
• Browse the shops and cafes on Carnaby Street
• See performers at Apple Market
• Shop till you drop on Oxford Street
• Take a moment to immerse yourself in art in Outernet London
• Walk through Leicester Square
• See the neon lights of Piccadilly Circus

Cons Of Staying In Covent Garden & Soho

Covent Garden & Soho are two of the most expensive areas to stay in London and rooms tend to be small for the price. It’s also busy and noisy almost all the time: Covent Garden square is packed with tourists during the day and Soho’s streets stay lively well past midnight, especially at weekends. There are also many tourist trap restaurants in Covent Garden and around Leicester Square so it’s worth eating a few streets away from here.

My Covent Garden & Soho Hotel Picks

Budget | Zedwell Capsule Hotel: Sleep above the bright lights of Piccadilly Circus at Zedwell, the UK’s largest capsule hotel, inside the historic Grade II listed London Pavilion and just seconds from the West End’s theatres, restaurants and nightlife. Each private, soundproofed cocoon is made from sustainable wood and fitted with a Hypnos mattress, Egyptian cotton sheets, adjustable ambient lighting, charging points and a lockable door, with female-only floors available. With rates from around £30 a night, it’s an unbeatable way to stay right in the centre of London for a fraction of the usual price.

Mid-range | Wilde Aparthotels: inspired by the life and work of Oscar Wilde, this stylish aparthotel sits right on the Strand, a short stroll from Covent Garden, Trafalgar Square and the West End theatres. Its studios combine boutique-hotel comfort with the freedom of your own apartment, with kitchens, touch-control air conditioning and lighting, rainfall showers, sumptuous Hypnos beds and playful touches like Wilde’s books by the bedside. Floor-to-ceiling windows fill the rooms with light, making it the perfect base for living like a Londoner in the very heart of the city.

Luxury | Broadwick Soho: glamorous, Michelin Key boutique hotel in the heart of Soho, steps from the West End theatres, Bond Street shopping and some of London’s best restaurants. Designer Martin Brudnizki has filled its 57 rooms and suites with Jazz Age opulence, bold colours, vibrant patterns, antiques and Frette linens, and many rooms have private balconies, with artworks by Francis Bacon, Andy Warhol and Bridget Riley throughout the hotel. Top off your stay with cocktails at Flute, the rooftop bar with a covered wraparound terrace and views over Soho.

Covent Garden & Soho Transport Links

Underground: Covent Garden (Piccadilly), Leicester Square (Piccadilly, Northern), Tottenham Court Road (Central, Northern, Elizabeth), Piccadilly Circus (Piccadilly, Bakerloo), Oxford Circus (Central, Bakerloo, Victoria)
Trains: Southeastern from nearby Charing Cross
Zone: 1

Camden

Where to stay in London for: music lovers, markets, budget

Most people just visit Camden for a few hours, but it’s actually a great base for a trip to London. This is one of London’s quirkiest areas that is considered the birthplace of British punk in the 70s and Britpop in the 90s. It’s colourful, loud and unapologetically alternative, with giant sculptures almost crawling out of buildings that are covered in graffiti, and of course the punkish locals.

The heart of the area is Camden Market, a maze of stalls selling vintage clothes, records, art and street food from all over the world. The masala fries from Funky Chips are as good as everyone says. You can easily lose half a day grazing your way through it. Camden also has a lively nightlife with legendary live music venues like the Roundhouse, KOKO, the Electric Ballroom and the Jazz Cafe, plus plenty of pubs where you can catch up-and-coming bands. I enjoyed The World’s End, a large grunge bar with some nice food.

Away from the centre, Camden also has a peaceful side. Regent’s Canal runs through it and you can follow the towpath west to Little Venice or east to King’s Cross. It’s one of my favorite walks in London, the houses here are beautiful, as are the houseboats. Primrose Hill is just a short walk away, which has one of the best free views of the London skyline and Regent’s Park and London Zoo are on your doorstep.

Hotels here also tend to be better value than in central London, and the Northern line gets you to the West End in around 10–15 minutes.

Things To Do In Camden

• Eat and shop at Camden Market
• Walk along Regent’s Canal
• Climb Primrose Hill for a view of the London skyline
• Regent’s Park
• London Zoo
• See a gig at the Roundhouse, KOKO or the Electric Ballroom
• Catch live jazz at the Jazz Cafe
• Take a Canal boat trip to Little Venice
• See the Amy Winehouse statue

Cons Of Staying In Camden

Camden is outside central London, so you’ll need the tube to reach most of the big sights. It gets extremely crowded at weekends, when the market draws huge numbers of visitors and Camden Town station can be exit-only on busy Sunday afternoons, so you may need to walk to Chalk Farm or Mornington Crescent instead. The area is lively late into the night, so it can be noisy and some streets feel a bit rough around the edges after dark. It’s not the best fit for anyone looking for a polished, upmarket stay.

My Camden Hotel Picks

Budget | The Camden Town Hotel: a minute’s walk from Chalk Farm tube and an easy stroll from Camden Lock Market, this small, friendly hotel puts you right in the middle of Camden’s buzzing markets, music venues and nightlife. Its clean, simply furnished single, double and twin rooms come with tea and coffee makers and free Wi-Fi, and there’s a 24-hour front desk plus an adjoining café with breakfast.

Mid-range | The Wesley: in a beautifully converted 1824 chapel in the Camden Town Conservation Area, The Wesley is a short walk from Camden Market, Regent’s Park and Euston, with both Camden Town and Mornington Crescent tubes about 6 minutes away. Its 38 stylish, eco-friendly rooms were refurbished using sustainably sourced materials and decorated in warm colours, with air conditioning, a desk, a safe, flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi.

Luxury | The Black Cap: Stay above one of London’s most legendary venues: the Black Cap on Camden High Street, a historic 1889 pub and drag cabaret that has been at the heart of Camden’s LGBTQ+ scene for decades and reopened in 2026 after an 11-year campaign. Upstairs, just six boutique bedrooms offer quirky, characterful rooms with fabulous décor, a world away from a standard hotel. Catch a show, enjoy a drink in the Shufflewick Bar, then head straight up to bed, with Camden Market and Camden Town tube just steps away.

Camden Transport Links

Underground: Camden Town, Chalk Farm, Mornington Crescent (all Northern)
Overground: Camden Road (Mildmay line)
Trains: Avanti West Coast and London Northwestern from nearby Euston
Zone: 2

Kensington

Where to stay in London for: families, museums, parks

Kensington’s tree lined streets have rows of grand white stucco Victorian buildings, charming mews, upmarket restaurants, bars and designer shops. This is London’s fancy side and you can feel it. This is where celebrities and ambassadors live (we actually spotted an iconic Liverpudlian musician and his high-fashion daughter here).

Museums are on your doorstep with Exhibition Road running through it with some of London’s most famous museums located here like Natural History Museum, Science Museum and Victoria & Albert.

The mews here make you feel like you’re walking down a charming countryside village with cobblestone paths and dreamy two-storey terraced houses. I am always amazed how pockets of a city can feel so like another world to what surrounds it. My favourite London mews was the colourful Kynance Mews which is draped in plants, but other mews to check out are Drayson Mews, Osten Mews, the long Cranley Mews and Stanhope Mews. They are easy to miss so save them to your map so you can spot them if you’re in the area.

Bordered by Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens, which offer 253 hectares (625 acres) of green space that is dotted with landscape gardens, monuments and ponds. Hyde Park is also where Winter Wonderland happens, making Kensington the best place to stay for Christmas Market access. Harrods is nearby, so if you love a designer this will be your sanctuary, sadly my budget only stretched to the food hall which is also worth checking out.

Next door, Bayswater has the same grand buildings at lower prices.

Things To Do In Kensington

• Wander Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens
• Spend a day at the Natural History Museum, Science Museum and V&A (all free)
• Find the many mews, especially Kynance Mews
• Catch a concert at the Royal Albert Hall
• Kensington High Street
• Graze your way around the Harrods food hall

Cons Of Staying In Kensington

Kensington is one of London’s most desirable places to live, so expect the prices to match that demand. It doesn’t offer the same edge that other London neighbourhoods do, this is a posh place. Cheap eats are hard to come by.

My Kensington Hotel Picks

Budget | Brit Hotels Earls Court: tucked into a Victorian building on a residential Earl’s Court street, this hotel is seven minutes on foot from Earl’s Court tube and close to Kensington High Street, the Design Museum and South Kensington’s great museums. Its 43 rooms are bright and spotless, with air conditioning, in-room safes and fast Wi-Fi, and guests can unwind in the hotel’s garden and terrace. Reviewers keep coming back for the friendly staff and easy Tube links across the city.

Mid-range | The Exhibitionist: behind the façade of an Edwardian townhouse in South Kensington, three minutes from the Tube and moments from the V&A, Natural History Museum and Science Museum, lies one of London’s most daring art hotels. Eight gallery spaces showcase contemporary exhibitions that change throughout the year, and each of the 37 rooms and suites is individually designed, from bold statement pieces to playful one-off creations like the Trash City and Jimmie Martin suites. Many rooms have their own balcony overlooking Kensington, and the cocktail bar keeps the creative energy flowing well into the evening.

Luxury | The Kensington Hideaway: on elegant Kensington High Street, 4 minutes from High Street Kensington tube, this boutique hotel has the Design Museum on its doorstep and Kensington Gardens a pleasant walk away. Reopened after a 2025 makeover, its 59 bedrooms are each inspired by a famous author with links to Kensington, with plush carpets, soundproofing and free Wi-Fi. Guests can start the day with a continental breakfast and wind down in the cosy bar.

Kensington Transport Links

Underground: South Kensington and Gloucester Road (Piccadilly, District, Circle), High Street Kensington (District, Circle), Knightsbridge (Piccadilly), Earl’s Court (Piccadilly, District)
Zone: 1

City Of London (Square Mile)

Where to stay in London for: business trips, weekend hotel deals

No, I’m not referring to the entire city of London, just 1.12 square miles of it. The City of London, or the Square Mile as it’s often called, is London’s financial district and where London was founded almost 2,000 years ago. Just across London Bridge from Borough and Bankside, it’s home to glass skyscrapers and office blocks.

I’m not going to lie and tell you this is London’s most happening area. It’s not. But, architecturally it offers an incredible contrast that you can’t find anywhere else in the city. Skyscrapers tower over the oldest part of London: Roman walls, Wren churches, medieval lanes and the stunning Victorian Leadenhall Market. The juxtaposition of these two things is jolting. The main street is lined with big banks and office buildings but veer down an alley and you’ll find cobblestones and historic buildings.

It’s also a really convenient place to stay. You can walk to St Paul’s Cathedral and the Tower of London, cross the river to Bankside and Borough, or head north to Shoreditch and Brick Lane. Liverpool Street station is served by the Underground, Overground and National Rail, with the Elizabeth line running direct to Heathrow and the Stansted Express to Stansted Airport.

Things To Do In City Of London

• Climb up to the Whispering Gallery at St Paul’s Cathedral
• Sky Garden (free, book ahead)
• Wander through Leadenhall Market
• Explore the ruined church garden of St Dunstan-in-the-East
• See the Gherkin and the City skyline
• Climb the 311 steps of the Monument
• See the Crown Jewels at the Tower of London (nearby)

Cons Of Staying In City Of London

The area is very busy Monday to Friday during the day, but it quietens down from about 7pm and weekends are dead. The streets are empty and many bars, restaurants and shops (including much of Leadenhall Market) close. We went for drinks on a Monday and struggled to find anywhere with a buzz. We ended up at Be At One – Monument, and it was closing at midnight while the bars ten minutes up the road in Shoreditch were just getting going. If you want an after-work pub buzz, Thursday and Friday are your best bet. However, business hotels often drop their prices, making the City a great-value base for a weekend of sightseeing, but you won’t find many boutique hotels here.

My Square Mile Hotel Picks

Budget | hub London – Tower Bridge: on Great Tower Street this smart hotel puts the Tower of London three minutes away, with Tower Bridge, the Thames and Sky Garden all within easy reach on foot, and Tower Hill tube around the corner. Its rooms make clever use of compact space, with a luxury bed, a monsoon shower, a 40-inch smart TV you can stream to from your phone, touchscreen controls for lighting and temperature, and handy under-bed storage. Some rooms even look out towards the Shard, and with air conditioning and an on-site restaurant, it’s a stylish, wallet-friendly pick for sightseeing in the City.

Mid-range | Club Quarters: surrounded by the City’s cobbled lanes, ancient churches and traditional pubs, Club Quarters on Gracechurch Street sits within easy walking distance of the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, the Shard and Liverpool Street. Its 203 rooms are dressed in Egyptian cotton sheets and premium bedding, with a work desk, in-room safe and free Wi-Fi, and some Superior rooms come with their own kitchenette. Guests also have a fitness centre, a welcoming lounge, complimentary coffee and laundry facilities, so it’s well suited to longer stays as well as quick city breaks.

Luxury | Pan Pacific: rising above One Bishopsgate Plaza in the City, Pan Pacific London is ten minutes on foot from Liverpool Street, Brick Lane and Sky Garden, and close to the Tower of London. The 194 rooms and 43 suites blend contemporary British design with calming Asian minimalism, with Deluxe rooms of almost 400 sq ft and suites that come with butler service, some with panoramic views of the Gherkin. Highlights include an 18.5-metre infinity pool, a dedicated wellbeing floor with saunas, steam rooms and spa treatments, and Singaporean flavours at Straits Kitchen, making for a stay of pure, polished indulgence.

Square Mile Transport Links

Underground: Bank (Central, Northern, Waterloo & City, DLR), Monument and Tower Hill (District, Circle), St Paul’s (Central), Liverpool Street (Central, Circle, Hammersmith & City, Metropolitan, Elizabeth)
Trains: Greater Anglia from Liverpool Street, Southeastern from Cannon Street
Zone: 1

Shoreditch

Where to stay in London for: nightlife, vintage shopping

Shoreditch may not be the classic first-timer pick. You won’t find Big Ben or Buckingham Palace on your doorstep. But if you’d rather stay somewhere with character than next to the tourist crowds, this corner of East London might be exactly what you’re after. It’s just outside the City of London and within a few minutes’ walk the glass skyscrapers disappear, giving way to an edgier side of London. This is the East End, a bold section of London with vibrant street art, independent shops and some of the best food and drink in the city.

Around the corner is Brick Lane, famous for its curry houses, vintage shops and markets. Don’t leave without a salt beef bagel from Beigel Bake, which is open 24 hours. Get lost in the Brick Lane Vintage Market, the stuff here is incredible, they have a section just for Burberry trench coats. Other great spots are Serotonin Vintage Ldn for more designer thrifts and Two One Two Collective which has a curated collection.

Shoreditch, just to the north, is where London’s creative crowd hangs out. The walls here are covered in some of the city’s best street art and the area is packed with cocktail bars, rooftop terraces, coffee shops and restaurants. Come night time, it’s one of London’s liveliest nightlife spots. The whole area is drenched in this edgy hipster vibe, it feels like every single effortlessly chic person in London is here.

The area is at its best at the weekend, especially on Sundays, when Brick Lane’s markets are in full swing and the Columbia Road Flower Market fills the street with buckets of flowers and a lot of people. I cannot emphasise how many people come here, but it’s full of energy.

Spitalfields is a stone’s throw and is the more historic of the two. Its centrepiece is Old Spitalfields Market, a Victorian covered market full of independent stalls, vintage finds and street food. The streets around it are lined with beautiful Georgian townhouses, and the white spire of Christ Church Spitalfields towers over them. The arancini from Arancino of Sicily were perfect crispy balls of rice overflowing with cheese.

Things To Do In Shoreditch

• Browse Old Spitalfields Market
• Grab a salt beef bagel on Brick Lane
• Go vintage shopping on Brick Lane
• Hunt for street art (or join a street art tour)
• Visit Columbia Road Flower Market on a Sunday
• Eat and drink at Boxpark Shoreditch
• Step back in time at Dennis Severs’ House
• Shop the independent boutiques on Redchurch Street

Cons Of Staying In Shoreditch

There aren’t many classic landmarks nearby, so you’ll be using the tube to see the big sights. The nightlife that makes Shoreditch fun also makes it noisy, especially on Friday and Saturday nights, and some streets feel a bit gritty after dark. Brick Lane and the markets get very crowded at weekends.

My Shoreditch Hotel Picks

Budget | Berkley Apartments: on Rivington Street, among Shoreditch’s galleries, street art and late-night bars, Berkley Apartments is about 15 minutes on foot from both Brick Lane and Liverpool Street. Its 20 air-conditioned apartments come with kitchens equipped with an oven, stovetop and microwave, plus flat-screen TVs, safes and free Wi-Fi, and some have a separate bedroom and washing machine. It’s also pet-friendly, so you can bring your four-legged friend and cook, relax and live like a local in one of East London’s coolest neighbourhoods.

Mid-range | Boundary: created by the late Sir Terence Conran inside a Victorian printworks, Boundary is 3 minutes from Shoreditch High Street station and surrounded by East London’s creative scene. Each of its 17 rooms honours a different design legend or movement, from Bauhaus to the Eames to a Scandinavian room with an Arne Jacobsen Egg chair, and the corner rooms are flooded with light from six large sash windows. Head up to the rooftop orangery and garden for drinks with sweeping views of the City skyline, or start the day at the Albion café downstairs.

Luxury | The Hoxton: The original Hoxton sits on Great Eastern Street, 6 minutes from Old Street tube, with Shoreditch’s markets, galleries and nightlife on every side and Liverpool Street less than a mile away. Its open-house lobby, with roaring fires and exposed brickwork, buzzes from morning to night, and the hotel hosts a programme of local music and arts events. Rooms range from snug Shoebox and Cosy to Roomy, plus a handful of one-of-a-kind Concept rooms, all with big comfy beds, rain showers, mini-fridges and free Wi-Fi, and pets stay free, so the whole family can join the fun.

Shoreditch Transport Links

Underground: Liverpool Street (Central, Circle, Hammersmith & City, Metropolitan, Elizabeth), Old Street (Northern), Aldgate East (District, Hammersmith & City)
Overground: Shoreditch High Street and Hoxton (Windrush line)
Trains: Greater Anglia from Liverpool Street
Zone: 1

Where NOT To Stay In London

London doesn’t really have any major red flag areas where tourists will be certain to run into trouble. Sure, London has crime, phone snatching is a real problem in busy central areas, so keep your phone away from the kerb. But violent crime is rare in the areas tourists stay in.

That being said not every area of London is a good place to stay for a trip. Some areas have nothing going on, are too far from the main attractions or are just downright a nuisance at night.

East London (Hackney, Tower Hamlets and Stratford): I love East London. It’s creative, full of character and has so many nice food spots, but it can be awkward for first-timers. Parts of Hackney rely on the Overground rather than the Tube and Stratford is mostly Westfield, the Olympic Park and new-build towers, so it lacks the character people come to London for. Save it for your second visit, or for a day trip to explore its bars. Although Shoreditch is in Hackney and Spitalfields is in Tower Hamlets, they are the exception because they sit right on the edge of the City.

South London beyond the river (Elephant & Castle): South of Borough and the South Bank, the neighbourhoods become more residential and less geared to visitors. Elephant & Castle has great transport links, but it’s in the middle of a long regeneration project and feels more like a busy transport hub than somewhere you’d want to come home to each evening. Personally, I just didn’t like the vibe.

Outer London (Zones 5 and 6): As a tourist, there isn’t much to see out here and you can expect long Tube and train journeys every time you head into central London. Accommodation is often cheaper, but the extra travel time and fares can eat into those savings fast.

Leicester Square: It’s central, but it’s loud, crowded and full of drunk party-goers at pub closing time. It’s not dangerous, but I wouldn’t choose to be there at half eleven on a Saturday night, there are much better spots.

Croydon, Tottenham and similar residential areas: You’ll often spot cheap hotels in places like Croydon, Tottenham, Wembley, Barking and Ilford, and on paper the transport links look good. Fast trains from East Croydon reach London Bridge and Victoria in around 15 minutes and the Victoria line runs from Tottenham straight into the West End. But these are everyday working neighbourhoods rather than places built around visitors, so there’s very little to see on your doorstep, the high streets can feel tired, and heading back late at night isn’t as relaxed as it is in central London. Event days add another catch: when Spurs play at home or there’s a big gig at Wembley, the stations and streets around them are packed. Unless you’re in town for a match, a concert or to visit friends, I’d spend a little extra to stay somewhere more central. You’ll save hours of travelling and get to walk home past the sights instead of a retail park.

Map Of Where To Stay London

Where To Stay In London Hotel Tips

bits & bobs

• Air conditioning isn’t standard. Summers are getting hotter and many older hotels only have a fan. Filter for air conditioning if you’re visiting June–August.
• Old buildings often mean no lift. Townhouse hotels (Notting Hill, Kensington) can have steep stairs. Check before booking if you’ve heavy bags or accessibility needs.
• You don’t need an Oyster card. Tap in and out with the same contactless card or phone and fares are capped daily. Just don’t switch between cards.
• The Night Tube runs Fridays and Saturdays on the Central, Jubilee, Northern, Piccadilly and Victoria lines. Handy if you’re staying in Soho, Shoreditch or Camden.
• Not every station is step-free. If you have mobility needs or a pram, check TfL’s step-free map against your hotel’s nearest station.
• Book early for summer, Christmas and big event weekends. Prices can jump during Wimbledon, major Wembley gigs and Notting Hill Carnival.

Where To Stay In London FAQ

What is the best area to stay in London for first-time visitors?

For a first trip, stay central. Covent Garden, Soho, the South Bank and Westminster put you within walking distance of most of the big sights, including Big Ben, the London Eye, Trafalgar Square and the West End theatres. You’ll save time and money on transport, and you can head back to your hotel easily between sightseeing and dinner.

What is the safest area to stay in London?

Most central neighbourhoods tourists stay in are safe, including Kensington, Westminster, Marylebone, Covent Garden and the South Bank. The biggest risk for visitors is phone snatching and pickpocketing in busy areas, so keep your phone away from the edge of the pavement, especially when checking maps on street corners.

Which London zone should I stay in?

Aim for Zone 1, or Zone 2 near a Tube station. Most of London’s main attractions are in Zone 1, so staying there means shorter journeys and more time actually seeing the city. Zone 2 can offer better-value hotels while still keeping you within 15 to 20 minutes of the centre.

Where should I stay in London on a budget?

Look at areas just outside the most expensive parts of the centre, like King’s Cross, Earl’s Court, Pimlico, Paddington and Camden. They have good Tube links and more affordable hotels. Budget chains like hub by Premier Inn and Point A are also good options in central locations if you don’t mind a smaller room.

Where is the best place to stay in London for nightlife?

Soho is the classic choice for bars, clubs, cocktail spots and late-night restaurants, with the West End theatres on its doorstep. For a trendier, more creative scene, try Shoreditch, which is full of rooftop bars, street art and independent music venues.

Is it better to stay north or south of the River Thames?

Most visitors stay north of the river, where you’ll find the West End, Soho and Covent Garden. But the South Bank and Bankside are excellent alternatives, with riverside walks, the London Eye, Tate Modern and Borough Market, and they’re only a bridge away from the north bank.