WHERE TO STAY IN LONDON 2024 : 7 BEST AREAS, MAP AND HOTELS FOR ALL BUDGETS
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This post is about where to stay in London including the neighbourhoods and hotels for all budgets
Are you visiting London, England for the first time and wondering where to stay in London? Deciding on the best area to stay in London can be very overwhelming, particularly if you don’t know the city that well.
The capital of England is a pretty huge, sprawling city with so much to see and do and there are so many amazing areas of London to choose from.
I remember my first visit to London as an adult nearly 25 years ago and I was so confused as to where to stay. If you’ve never been to London before, it’s pretty daunting to try and navigate through which area is the best for your budget and the best for you and whoever you’re travelling with.
Planning your trip? Use my favourite resources!
🏨 Accommodation : I recommend Booking.com
✈️ Flights : for the cheapest flights, I use Skyscanner
🚗 Rental Car : I recommend Rental Cars
🛡️ Travel Insurance : for the best deals I rely on HeyMondo
LONDON CHECKLIST
✅ An excellent pair of walking shoes for all the walking you’re going to do around the capital.
✅ A hoodie or warm sweater to stay warm in the cold British winter.
✅ A decent raincoat as it rains quite a lot in England.
✅ A good quality compact camera to record those Christmas memories.
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This post is about where to stay in London including the neighbourhoods and hotels for all budgets
If you’re after some help in creating a memorable London trip and making the most of your stay I’ve narrowed down some of the best areas of London to stay in. All are fantastic but depending on your own preferences you can choose the one that suits you the best. Not only that but I’ve give you fantastic accommodation choices in each area - from budget hostel stays to luxury 5 star living, I’ve got you covered.
After reading this guide you should have a good idea of where to stay in London depending on your interests, group size, budget and what you want to experience the most.
I really recommend staying in central London, especially if it’s your first visit to London - number 1 on my list or Southbank (number 3) that’s just south of the river close to alot of tourist attractions but if you don’t have the budget to stay in these more expensive areas you may want to check out the other options.
If you’re struggling with what to pack for London this London packing guide can help.
Let’s get started looking at the best areas to stay in London.
CHARING CROSS - BEST AREA TO STAY FOR YOUR FIRST TIME TO LONDON
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Central Location
The area around Charing Cross is the perfect place to stay for your first time in London. It is ideally located between touristy areas of Covent Garden and Oxford Street. Charing Cross is a major train station in London and the neighbourhoods surrounding it of Covent Garden and Soho give you easy access to the most popular places in central London.
Whether you’re in London for sightseeing, theatres, museums, shopping, dining or anything else this area has it all.
Charing Cross is as central as it gets in London. It is located in the heart of the city, within walking distance of many of London's most famous attractions, making it incredibly convenient for first-time travellers.
Around Charing Cross you’ll find the famous Trafalgar Square and the National Gallery and London’s most famous theatres around Leicester Square. The beautiful Covent Garden is a short walk away where you can enjoy the historic street performers. Big Ben and Westminster Abbey are less than 15 minutes walk away with Buckingham Palace only an additional 5 minutes stroll. Across the River Thames you can walk to the London Eye in 10 minutes and stroll along the beautiful South Bank.
Easy Access to Public Transportation
Although many places are within easy walking distance of Charing Cross, you may want to venture on to the London Tube. Charing Cross railway station is a major transportation hub which connects you to various parts of the city and beyond. You can easily hop on the London Underground's Bakerloo (brown) and Northern (black) Lines, as well as numerous bus routes, to explore the city with ease.
Iconic Landmarks
As a first-time visitor to London, you'll undoubtedly want to check off some of London's most famous landmarks. Charing Cross is within arm's reach of the National Gallery, home to priceless art and the famous Nelson's Column at Trafalgar Square. The West End theaters, where you can catch world-class shows, are also just a stone's throw away.
Dining and Shopping
Charing Cross is a bustling area with plenty of dining and shopping options. From fine dining to cozy cafes and quaint pubs, you'll have no trouble satisfying your taste buds.
Covent Garden is just a 4 minute walk from Charing Cross and it is the perfect place to find unique gifts with lots of boutiques and independent stores. There are also many bars and restaurants you can enjoy.
Oxford Street is nearby and is Londons most famous shopping street. With over 90 flagship stores and 1.5 miles of shops, Oxford Street is the perfect place in London to shop if you love high street brands. Bond Street is nearby if designer labels are more your thing. When in London you simply must take a trip to Harrods for the ultimate luxury shopping experience. Harrods is just a quick 10 minute ride west on the Piccadilly (purple) line from Leicester Square. (Get off at Knightsbridge).
Leicester Square has shops, restaurants and some of the best theatres in London and is only a few minutes walk from Charing Cross.
Accommodation Options
Accommodation options in this part of London can really vary from reasonably cheap and cheerful to luxury 5 star hotels so there’s something here to suit most budgets. You won’t particularly find crazy cheap accommodation in this area or hostels so if you’re on a tight budget you may be better to look at a different location. If you're convinced that Charing Cross is the place to be for your first London adventure, take a look at some of these accommodation options for various budgets:
£££££ Corinthia London - the ultimate London luxury
£££££ The Savoy - a legendary hotel with timeless elegance
££££ The Clermont London Charing Cross
CAMDEN - BEST PLACE TO STAY FOR MUSIC LOVERS, HIPSTERS AND BUDGET TRAVELLERS
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Alternative and Bohemian Vibes
If you're a hipster, a music enthusiast, or a budget-conscious traveller, Camden is the place to be in London. This vibrant neighbourhood in the north of London offers a unique blend of culture and music.
Camden is synonymous with alternative and bohemian culture. With its street art, eclectic boutiques, and quirky markets, it's a hipster's paradise. Wandering through the neighbourhood feels like stepping into an art installation, with surprises around every corner.
Camden Market
Camden is, of course, home to the world famous Camden Market and the place where Britain’s punk movement began.
For budget travellers and shopaholics, Camden Market is a treasure trove. From vintage clothing and handcrafted jewellry to international street food stalls, you'll find unique and affordable items to take home as souvenirs.
Street Performers and Art Galleries
Camden's streets are filled with street performers, adding to the neighbourhood's creative energy. If you're an art lover, don't miss the eclectic art galleries showcasing everything from contemporary to avant-garde art.
Live Music and Entertainment
Camden is renowned for its live music scene and when the sun goes down it’s time to hit some of the best entertainment venues London has to offer. Venues like the Roundhouse and Electric Ballroom host concerts from up-and-coming bands to world-famous artists. You can catch a live show every night of the week, and many are reasonably priced. The area has a rich musical heritage with bands and artists such as Jimi Hendrix, The Vaccines, Snow Patrol playing in the area.
Dining Diversity
Camden caters to various tastes, and budget travellers can indulge in affordable street food and international cuisine. Try dishes from all over the world at Camden Market, from Japanese gyoza to Ethiopian injera. It’s a great place to stay with friends and have a relatively cheap time in London - particularly if you do stick to the street food stalls for meals.
GOOD TO KNOW: Camden Town is around 15 minutes via Tube to central London so you’ll need to take public transport to see most of the classic London tourist attractions. If it’s a nice day and you’re feeling energetic it’s about an hours walk through Regents Park to get to Leceister Square. This is the main reason why it’s a great budget option when you visit London.
Accommodation Options
There are tons of budget accommodation options in Camden which is what makes it such a great place for those on a tighter budget to stay. There’s a great mix of reasonably priced B&Bs and quirky hostels. There are some more expensive hotels in the area too if you want to splash out a little.
BOOKS TO READ ABOUT LONDON
Lonely Planet Guide to London a fantastic guide book detailing all you need to know about visiting the UK capital.
Kids London Travel Guide is a wonderful book for kids to discover all about London.
SOUTHBANK : PERFECT FOR AMAZING VIEWS AND SIGHTSEEING
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South Bank is one of my personal favourite places to stay in London. It’s the ideal place to stay in London for sightseeing, amazing views over the River Thames and great family-friendly experiences.
Unparalleled Sightseeing
South Bank is a hub for some of London's most iconic landmarks and attractions, making it an ideal base for sightseeing. You'll be within walking distance of the world-famous London Eye, the historic Tower Bridge and the magnificent Shard. Explore cultural gems like the Tate Modern and Shakespeare's Globe Theatre, all while enjoying picturesque riverfront walks. There’s also SEA LIFE, Shrek’s Adventure and the London Dungeon. Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey are just across the bridge and all the major tourist attractions can be reached pretty easily and quickly either by foot or public transport.
Incredible Riverside Views
For those who crave incredible vistas, South Bank offers some of the best panoramic views of the city's skyline. Watch the sun set over the River Thames and witness London's landmarks illuminated at night. Stroll along the riverside promenade and take in the beauty of the city's architecture and the peaceful flow of the river. Wandering along the South Bank is one of my most favourite things to do in London at any time of year as there is lots of street entertainment and lots of things going on. I particularly love it at Christmas time with the markets and festive cheer.
Family-Friendly Activities
South Bank is a great location for families with a wide range of child-friendly activities in easy reach. Visit the Sea Life London Aquarium, where kids can get up close with marine life. The London Dungeon and Shrek's Adventure are also nearby for a dose of family fun. The open spaces and playgrounds along the river provide the perfect setting for a leisurely family picnic. I many fond memories of when my son was younger spending hours at the wooden playground with the London Eye as a back drop.
Transport Links
The transport links to the rest of London are excellent with Waterloo Station nearby. You have the usual options of the bus and London Tube as well as the hop on hop off London bus and you have easy access to the Thames River Cruises.
Riverside Dining and Entertainment
There are so many dining options in South Bank that offer an array of culinary experiences for every palate. Enjoy a meal at one of the many riverside restaurants or indulge in street food at the bustling Southbank Centre Food Market. Due to the proximity to the river it’s a great option to take an evening dinner river cruise which will give you a new perspective on the city as you dine. For entertainment, catch a family-friendly show at the Southbank Centre or enjoy open-air performances in the summer.
Accommodation Options
££££ London Marriott Hotel County Hall offers stunning views out to Big Ben and a swimming pool
KENSINGTON : BEST PLACE FOR A LUXURY LONDON STAY
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For those seeking the epitome of opulence and refinement, Kensington stands out as the premier destination in London. Renowned for its upscale ambiance, designer boutiques, and proximity to exclusive attractions, here's why Kensington is the ultimate choice for a luxurious stay:
Designer Shopping Paradise
Kensington is synonymous with luxury shopping, as it has some of the world's most prestigious designer stores. From the iconic Harrods to high-end boutiques featuring the latest fashion, this neighbourhood is a fashionista's dream come true. Indulge in shopping sprees at names like Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Dior, all within walking distance.
Michelin-Starred Dining Experiences
As well as high end shopping the neighbourhood also boasts an array of Michelin-starred restaurants, offering exquisite fine dining experiences. From innovative British cuisine to international flavors, Kensington ensures a gourmet adventure for those with discerning tastes.
Cultural Extravagance
Luxury extends beyond material indulgence in Knightsbridge, as it is home to cultural gems such as the Victoria and Albert Museum, The Natural History Museum and Imperial College London. Immerse yourself in art, history, and design, all within a refined and sophisticated setting. The Saatchi Gallery, showcasing contemporary art, is also nearby for those with an appreciation for the avant-garde.
Bonham’s Auction House is nearby too which is one of the oldest fine art and antique autioneers in the world.
Kensington has beautiful architecture down almost every street. Make sure you check out Pont Street which has Dutch-style red brick houses and the cobblestoned Ennismore Garden Mews which appeared in the Alfred Hitchcock movie ‘Frenzy.’
Hyde Park Retreat
Kensington is a short walk to the sprawling Hyde Park, providing a serene escape amidst the city's hustle. Take leisurely strolls, visit the beautiful rose garden, enjoy boat rides on the Serpentine, or simply bask in the tranquility of this royal park, offering a peaceful retreat in the heart of London.
Accommodation Options
£ Astor Hyde Park Hostel a great hostel with beds in shared dorms for around £20 - a steal for the area!
££££ The Pelham London - Starhotels Collezione
NOTTING HILL : GOOD FOR ROMANTIC BREAKS AND CHEAP GETAWAYS
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Notting Hill, with its enchanting streets, vibrant colors, and romantic atmosphere, is an ideal destination for couples seeking a romantic break in London. Here's why this eclectic neighbourhood is perfect for kindling romance:
Portobello Road Market - A Romantic Adventure
You can explore the world-famous Portobello Road Market, known for its antique shops and unique finds.
Notting Hill has cobblestone streets lined with beautiful, pastel-coloured houses that create a picturesque and romantic setting. Take leisurely strolls hand in hand, discovering the beauty of this iconic neighborhood.
Intimate Cafes and Restaurants
Notting Hill is known as one of the hottest neighbourhoods in London for foodies. It offers a variety of intimate cafes and romantic restaurants.
There is the two Michelin-starred The Ledbury which was on the list of the World’s 50 Best Restaurants in 2022. You can find some of the UK’s best (and most expensive) restaurants here.
Romantic Parks and Gardens
You can escape to Holland Park which is a serene green space within easy walking distance. Enjoy the Kyoto Garden, complete with peacocks and beautiful landscaping, providing a romantic retreat in the heart of the city.
Notting Hill is home to iconic film locations from the romantic movie of the same name. Visit the famous blue door or immerse yourselves in the cinematic charm of the Electric Cinema for a touch of movie-inspired romance. This cinema is a Grade II Listed building and is one of the oldest working cinemas in the UK. It’s also one of the most romantic - where you can decide to enjoy your movie from an armchair, sofa or even a velvet bed!
Accommodation Options
£ Urbany Hostel London - bed in dormitory
GREENWICH : GOOD FOR MUSEUMS, LOCAL ATMOSPHERE AND LOW BUDGET TRAVELLERS
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Greenwich is a perfect base a little outside of Central London. It is nestled along the banks of the River Thames, is a charming and historic neighbourhood that offers a unique blend of culture, history, and a tranquil atmosphere. Here's why Greenwich is a fantastic place to stay in London:
Rich Maritime History
Greenwich is steeped in maritime history and you could easily spend a fews days just exploring the Maritime Greenwich World Heritage Site, the Royal Observatory, the Queen’s House and the Royal Naval College. You can stand on the Prime Meridian, where east meets west, and explore the fascinating history of navigation here.
Then there’s the iconic Cutty Sark. You can explore this historic sailing ship that once ruled the waves. The ship has been meticulously restored and transformed into an award-winning museum, providing insight into Britain's maritime past.
Beautiful Greenwich Park & Riverside Walks
Greenwich Park, one of London's oldest royal parks, offers a lush and tranquil escape. You can enjoy a leisurely stroll, a picnic, or simply relax while taking in panoramic views of London from the top of the hill.
Greenwich is situated along the picturesque River Thames, offering charming riverside walks. Enjoy the peaceful ambiance, take in the views of passing boats, and indulge in the serenity of this waterfront location.
Shopping & Greenwich Market
There are plenty of independent boutiques and a fantastic market in Greenwich. Greenwich Market is a vibrant and eclectic hub where you can find unique crafts, antiques, and delicious street food. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere and explore the diverse range of stalls. Even though you’re still in London when you’re shopping in Greenwich it feels like you’re in a little village due to the cobblestone streets and friendly vibe.
The O2 Arena, a world-class entertainment venue, is located in Greenwich. Catch a concert, enjoy a comedy show, or dine in one of the surrounding restaurants for a lively evening.
Accessibility to Central London
Despite its serene atmosphere, Greenwich is well-connected to central London. The DLR and Thames Clippers provide convenient transportation options, ensuring you can easily explore other parts of the city. Keep in mind it is about 20 - 40 minutes into other more centrally located tourist attractions depending on where you’re going.
Accommodation Options
£££ The Brookmill
CITY OF LONDON : GREAT FOR HISTORY, LANDMARKS AND BUSINESS TRAVELLERS
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The City of London, often referred to simply as "The City," is not only the financial heartbeat of London but also the real heart of London and vibrant and dynamic area with a rich history and a modern edge. Here are several reasons why the City of London is a great place to stay:
Historical Landmarks
The City is the most historic part of London, home to many historic sites and landmarks that offer a glimpse into London's past. In the city you’ll find the Tower of London, St Paul’s Cathedral, London Bridge, Tower Bridge and the Monument.
Iconic Skyline
The City boasts an iconic skyline defined by a mix of historic and modern architecture. From the historic St. Paul's Cathedral to the modern skyscrapers like The Shard, the views are both impressive and diverse.
Financial Centre
The City is Londons financial centre with The Bank of England, Lloyd’s of London and countless other banks and financial institutions.
As there are so many offices in the area during the week it’s incredibly crowded with people in suits heading to and from work but at the weekend it’s like a whole different place and you can usually have the whole place to pretty much yourselves to explore.
Accessibility to the rest of London
Due to the excellent transport connections and proximity to London the city is a really good place to stay for sightseeing in London. There are lots of hotels with excellent views of Tower Bridge. There aren’t any really cheap hotels in this area but there are several amazing mid budget hotels with stunning views.
Accomodation Options
£ St Christopher's Liverpool Street bed in dorm room
££ Marlin Apartments London City - Queen Street
So there is my guide to the best places to stay in London.
There is everything on offer in London from cheap hostels, affordable apartments and B&Bs to affulent areas for a luxury getaway. London really is a great city to visit with so much to do and accommodations for every type of traveller and every budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days do you need in London if it is your first visit?
If it is your first time in London, we recommend spending at least three days here. That gives you just enough time to see the main highlights of London. More time allows you to day trip out of the city or more thoroughly explore the neighbourhoods and museums in London.
What is not to be missed on a first trip to London?
If it will be your first time in London, be sure to visit St. Paul’s Cathedral, the Tower of London and Tower Bridge, the British Museum, Westminster Abbey, stroll across Westminster Bridge and up The Mall to Buckingham Palace, go shopping at Covent Garden, have afternoon tea, and get a bird’s eye view of London from the London Eye, Sky Garden, and/or the View from the Shard.
What is the best month to visit London?
The best time to travel to London is in the warmer season between March and October. Summer (end of July and August) is the busiest time with big crowds.. For mild weather and less people you should visit London in the spring or autumn. The best months to visit London are April and May and September
What’s the best way to tour London?
The best way to explore London is by focusing on one neighbourhood or area at a time and walking between the main tourisit attractions that are all close to each other. For bigger distances use the London Tube, hop-on hop-off buses or river cruises.
Do you tip in London?
Yes, it is customary to tip 10 to 15% at restaurants and tip taxi drivers and bellhops one to two pounds for their assistance.
What are the best free things to do in London?
Many museums in London are free, including Tate Modern, The National Gallery, and the British Museum. Other free things to do in London include watching the Changing of the Guard, strolling across Westminster Bridge and the south bank of the River Thames, enjoying the view from Sky Garden, seeing Piccadilly Circus and Trafalgar Square, and window shopping along Regent, Oxford, and Bond Streets.
Is London worth visiting?
London is one of the best cities in the world and definitely worth visiting. London has something to offer all types of travellers from famous landmarks, world class museums, theatres, royal history and amazing tourist attractions. It’s a bucketlist destination that everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime.
Top 10 London Experiences
Information About London
LONDON ITINERARY: In our article The Perfect 2 Days in London you’ll find a detailed itinerary for exploring London. If you only have one day in London you can find out the most important things to fit into your day in this 1 Day London Itinerary.
LONDON TRAVEL ADVICE: Here are the important things to know if it will be your first time in London. Included in this article are all my best hints and tips for visiting London for the first time. The Best 49 Things to do in London article will help you plan your London itinerary. If you’re wondering what foods you should try when in London read this Best British Foods You Have to Try.
WHERE TO STAY: If you’re unsure on the different areas in London and where would be best to stay make sure you read this Best Places to Stay in London article.
PACKING FOR LONDON: If you’re wondering what you should pack when visiting London read this Packing for London and the Rest of the UK Guide.
LONDON AT CHRISTMAS: For an overview of the best things to do in London at Christmas here are 15 things to do in London at Christmas. I also have guides to the best Christmas lights, best London Christmas window displays and best Christmas markets in London. Learn how to put it all together in this great London Christmas Itinerary.
More Information for your Trip to the UK
If you’re struggling to decide other places to visit in the UK read Best Cities to Visit in the UK
I also have many other UK city guides and which you can read by clicking on the links.
ENGLAND: How to visit Liverpool from London, visit best beaches near Liverpool and find out the best things to do in Liverpool, must sees in Manchester, make the most of your time in Brighton. Visit the Roman city of Chester or head to the stunning Lake District.
SCOTLAND: Discover the best things to do in Edinburgh
WALES: Llangollen
Read all of my articles about England in the United Kingdom Travel Guide.
LONDON ESSENTIALS
Planning a trip to London? Here are some of the resources and tools I personally use to organise my travel plans to anywhere in the UK.
FLIGHTS : Find the best deals on flights to London using Skyscanner.
VISAS : Use iVisa to check if you need a tourist visa for the UK and apply for an expedited visa online. Use OneWayFly to obtain proof of onward travel/hotel reservation for your visa application if needed.
TRAVEL INSURANCE : Insure your trip with my preferred insurance for single trip and annual cover HeyMondo
AIRPORT TRANSFER : Pre-book your hotel transfer from Stanstead Airport, Gatwick Airport or Gatwick Airport
ACCOMMODATION : Find the best hotel deals in London on Booking.com.
BUS TICKETS : It is easy to book your transport once you’re in London but if you’d like to book in advance you can buy private transfers online through Bookaway .
DAY TRIPS : Find the best city tours and day excursions in London on Viator or Get Your Guide.
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