London, the UK’s capital, is a massive city with distinct suburbs and neighborhoods, each offering unique experiences. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this guide will help you choose the best place to stay in London.
London is one of the most fascinating cities to visit, with over a thousand years of history. It boasts incredible architecture such as the Houses of Parliament, historic pubs, and unchanged narrow backstreets. Despite living near London, I’ve often stayed in the city for convenience. In this guide, I’ll share the best places to stay in London, whether it’s for a night, a weekend, a week, or longer.
Looking for great shopping, budget accommodations, a romantic getaway, or family-friendly stays? This guide covers it all. Plus, no matter the weather, there’s always something to do in London. Let’s explore the best neighborhoods for your stay, including top accommodations and Airbnbs.
Best Areas to Stay in London:
Covent Garden
Located in London’s West End, Covent Garden is buzzing with activities. Here, you can shop at local markets, catch a movie, see a show, or enjoy fantastic restaurants and bars. It’s ideal for first-time visitors. Key attractions like Leicester Square, Trafalgar Square, and Oxford Street are nearby.
Accommodation Options in Covent Garden:
1. Covent Garden Triplex: A large two-bedroom townhouse with a spacious roof terrace, located in the heart of Covent Garden.
2. Flat in Covent Garden: A cozy two-bedroom apartment with modern amenities.
3. Floral Street Theatreland: A spacious two-bedroom apartment near Covent Garden Piazza, surrounded by boutique shops and cafes.
Southwark
Known for the iconic Borough Market, Southwark is a foodie haven. Open daily, it has a variety of stalls and pop-up restaurants. Southwark also features historic pubs and diverse restaurants. Close to London Bridge and the Thames, it’s easy to access other parts of the city.
Accommodation Options in Southwark:
1. Loft Style Apartment: A one-bedroom loft conversion on Borough High Street, full of character.
2. The Great Suffolk Affair: A spacious two-bedroom duplex apartment on Borough High Street.
3. Quiet Double Bedroom: A budget-friendly private room, just minutes from Borough tube station.
Soho
Soho is the place for nightlife, with abundant bars, restaurants, and nightclubs. Located in London’s West End, it’s close to many attractions like Leicester Square, Covent Garden, and Oxford Street.
Accommodation Options in Soho:
1. 1 Bed Flat: A charming one-bedroom flat in a Georgian building.
2. Private Room in Rental Unit: A unique apartment adorned with human skulls, not suited for children.
3. Apartment in Soho: A modern, peaceful apartment with all amenities, close to Leicester Square station.
Shoreditch
Shoreditch is hip and trendy, known for street art, quirky bars, and fascinating restaurants. It’s great for those who enjoy an eclectic vibe and free activities.
Accommodation Options in Shoreditch:
1. Entire Rental Unit: A budget-friendly studio apartment on the famous Brick Lane.
2. Loft with Terrace: A quirky loft in an old exotic animal warehouse.
3. Sunny Architect and Artist’s Flat: A bright double room with a balcony in the heart of Shoreditch.
South Kensington
Perfect for families, South Kensington is home to fascinating museums. Key spots include the Science Museum, Natural History Museum, and Victoria and Albert Museum. It’s also close to great food spots and is easily accessible via the Piccadilly Line.
Accommodation Options in South Kensington:
1. South Kensington Penthouse: A two-bedroom penthouse with a large roof terrace and garden access.
2. South Kensington Style: A newly refurbished two-bedroom apartment, ideal for small families.
3. Large 3-Bed South Kensington: A stylish three-bedroom apartment, perfect for larger families.
Stratford
For budget stays, Stratford is excellent. Known for the 2012 Olympics, it offers easy access to the city and East Anglia. There are diverse dining options and great shopping at Westfield Centre.
Accommodation Options in Stratford:
1. Private Room in Rental Unit: A clean and modern budget-friendly room near Stratford station.
2. Private Room in Home: A beautifully furnished room in a Victorian house with solar panels.
3. Theatre Square Apartment: A spacious apartment with a terrace and home cinema.
London Bridge
Ideal for sightseeing, London Bridge has great transport links and numerous attractions like the Shard and Tower Bridge. It also offers excellent dining options like Borough Market and traditional British pubs.
Accommodation Options near London Bridge:
1. Central 5th-Floor Flat: A stylish modern apartment with views of Tower Bridge.
2. Private Room in Loft: A character-filled loft near London Bridge station.
3. Cozy Central 1-Bedroom Flat: A newly renovated, bright one-bedroom apartment close to main attractions.
Bayswater and Notting Hill
These neighborhoods are culturally rich and centrally located, with easy access to London’s highlights and multiple tube stations. They’re great for exploring Buckingham Palace, Westminster Palace, and major museums. The area’s green spaces and the vibrant Notting Hill Carnival are also big draws.
Accommodation Options in Bayswater and Notting Hill:
1. Modern Apartment near Hyde Park: Ideal for couples or solo travelers, with a fully equipped kitchen.
2. Three Bedroom Flat in Bayswater: Great for families or groups, with multiple bedrooms and bathrooms.
3. Affordable Apartment in Notting Hill: Located near Portobello Market and Ladbroke Grove station.
FAQs on Staying in London:
Best Areas for Tourists:
The West End, including areas like Soho, Covent Garden, and Leicester Square, is excellent for tourists. It offers markets, boutique shopping, top dining, and key landmarks.
Areas to Avoid:
Avoid areas south of the River Thames or outside the Circle Line at night. Greenwich, Peckham, Tottenham, and Hackney are not recommended for safety.
Safest Areas:
Suburbs like Richmond, Kingston-Upon-Thames, and Harrow are the safest but are not close to tourist spots. The City of London and West End are generally safe but watch for pickpocketing.
Shopping Districts:
Oxford Circus and Oxford Street are top shopping spots. Mayfair and Fitzrovia offer high-end shopping.
Summary:
London has diverse areas, each with its own charm and things to do. Whether you’re drawn to the artsy Shoreditch, the foodie haven of Borough Market, or the buzzing nightlife of Soho, the city has something for everyone. With the 24-hour transport network, you can easily explore multiple areas during your stay. No matter where you choose to stay, this guide will help you plan an amazing trip to London.
