When we began planning a two week trip to London, the first topic we deeply explored was where to stay in London. Quickly, we realized two crucial points.
Firstly, London is immense! Similar to Paris, the true scale of London is difficult to grasp until arrival and realizing excursions marketed as “perfectly walkable” require an hour by map. We recently resided in San Francisco, minuscule in assessment.
Second, where you decide to stay will influence the rest of your trip. Staying in the hustle and bustle of a place like the West End will feel very, very different than saying in, say, Hackney, which is much more residential and low key.
Ultimately, we decided to stay in three different parts of London over the course of our trip, and this confirmed those two points. Staying in Southbank felt vastly different than staying in Camden!
In this guide, weβre going to do our best to use our encounters and research to help you decide on the best place to stay in London for your particular style, budget, and preferences. Whether youβre looking for a budget-friendly stay (to the extent that those even exist in London, which is a very pricey city to visit), or youβre looking for a splurge, weβll try to help you find the right place for you.
In the guide below, you will locate each of the important details needed to make your decision regarding where to stay during your trip to London. We will start with sharing our personal lodging experience from our journey and the area where we resided, then move on to outline six excellent neighborhoods. For every neighborhood, we will provide advantages and disadvantages, highlights of the region, and some lodging options that stood out to us for distinct reasons.
Ultimately, the objective is to assist you in identifying which area makes the most sense given your needs.
Sound good to you? Letβs get into it!
Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post, like hotel links, are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, we make a little bit of money if you click through and book. That being said, we would never recommend something to you that we donβt stand behind 100%.
Where to Stay in London: 6 Great Places to Stay for First Timers
Before delving into specific places to lodge in London, we have a few general considerations about selecting accommodations.
Weβre strong believers that the optimal way to do it is to initially pick the neighborhood you want to stay in, then pick a place within that neighborhood. Thatβs what youβll see below β weβve organized this guide to first cover the neighborhoods, then recommend some cool places to stay within each neighborhood.
Donβt have time to read the entire guide? Here is a brief overview.
- If exploring central London and sampling high-quality eats and drinks are priorities, lodging in Southbank is recommended. This zone earns top marks for access to sights across Core London and nearby dining/nightlife, though riverfront eateries here may disappoint. Modern high-rises and corporate complexes dominate the upscale ambiance. We stayed at CitizenM Bankside, beloved for affordable chic worldwide and Southbank`s original outpost. Two splurgy optionsβ the Hoxton and Sea Containersβthe latter offers dazzling Thames vistas from some rooms.
- If you wish to be at the center of all the action, stay in Covent Garden. While popular with tourists, the central location and superb public transportation connections will make navigating London quite simple. Plus, itβs filled with excellent bars, restaurants, coffee shops, and shopping outlets.
- If exploring outside the norm and seeking a vibrant locale, focus your search northeast to Shoreditch, an area exuding youthful energy. Numerous vintage shops, hip coffeehouses, nightlife venues, and impressive street art pieces lend to its progressive atmosphere. Gentrification proceeds apace here. The CitizenM hotel in the district was our original planned lodging before opting instead for Camden further northwest.
Where We Stayed in London
It makes the most sense to commence this guide with our own experience remaining in London.
We were in London for just about two weeks on our last trip β our first in over a decade (for Alysha, since she was five years old) β and decided that because London is enormous, we wanted to stay in three different areas to experience the different parts of the city.
Those three areas β which youβll find in-depth analysis below β were Southbank,Camden, and the City of London (near the Tower of London).
Located in the region known as Southbank, our lodging in Citizenm Bankside served as a nice, affordable base (affordable in the sense that nothing in London is truly inexpensive) for exploring most of Central London. CitizenM is our favorite hotel chain worldwide
For more regarding why, you can study our previous stay in Seattle here, which demonstrates unexpectedly comparable aspects to our stay in London. Almost as if they designed each property so any hotel chosen delivers consistent experiences.
The core concept of these rooms is that they are small yet excel at facilitating a good night`s sleep through blackout curtains, soundproofing, and extremely comfortable beds. Items like a coffee maker, iron, and other amenities found in other hotel rooms are relocated to common spaces, allowing the room costs to be decreased.
Overall, we would strongly advise it. They have two other locations in London – one near the Tower of London, and one in Shoreditch – which would also make for good options in somewhat different neighborhoods.
The second location we stayed was Camden, which we somewhat believed would have a more restful part of the city, with a more suburban feel, but was absolutely not and was just as raucous as most of Central London with an unequivocally younger (and hipper) crowd. We needed to get some work done while we were in London, so we opted for an apartment with tons of space to spread out.
We chose to stay at Mirabilis Apartments, and would recommend it based on the nearby location to both transportation and attractions. The apartments provided comfortable sleeping, a full kitchen, and relatively spacious accommodations considering London.
The final place we stayed in London was in the City of London, which is the old town of London on the site of the original Roman city. You wouldnβt know it though because many of the buildings burned down in the 17th Century and were bombed during World War 2, so many of the buildings here are really modern.
This area is essentially Londonβs financial center, and the location right along the Thames with access to the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, and St. Paulβs Cathedral is excellent. The downside is that, since the neighborhood contains many offices, numerous businesses close on the weekends (though not all).
We wished for a housing unit here too, so we reserved one at COVE Cannon Street, which is somewhat akin to a hotel regarding the check-in practice and 24 hour reception (you can abandon your bags!), but the rooms have kitchens and notably more space.
We enjoyed it, and we walked to Tower Bridge, St. Paulβs, and Spitalfields Market from here.
Southbank & Bankside: Our Top Pick in London (Where We Stayed)Β
We divided our time in London so that we had four days in three diverse areas. We chose this approach for two rationales. Initially, London is immense, and relocating to be more central to a particular part of the city would reduce travel time. Secondly, we enjoy experiencing different facets of a city, and staying in a couple distinct places afforded us the chance to do just that.
We spent our first four days in London staying in Southbank, and we absolutely loved it.
Weβre technically combining a few different areas here β Southbank, Bankside, and Southwark β what weβre attempting to communicate is that staying anywhere along this stretch between Westminster Bridge and Tower Bridge is an excellent location for exploring London.
Initially, the area alongside the southern bank (hence the name) of the Thames River is impressive. Over the course of your London schedule, you should definitely make certain to walk the entire distance from Tower Bridge to Westminster Bridge.
Secondly, it`s easy to access basically everywhere in Central London from here, and there are plenty of amazing places to visit nearby (like Borough Market).
Essentially, itβs central, packed with bars and restaurants, and is home to our favorite walk in London. Whatβs not to appreciate?
The design is quite modern and, to use an imperfect term, technology-focused. Coming from San Francisco, known for pioneering technology advancements, we repeatedly noticed similarities between groups of tech employees we passed in Southbank to those back home, prompting double takes of “are we really in London?β
Still, in our view the pros outweigh that con, and we would strongly advise it for most travelers.
Pros and Cons of Staying in Southbank / Bankside
Pros
- Itβs central.Being near the river is a pleasant amenity, and Southbank has that benefit. Youβll be able to walk to places across the river like the Tower of London and Westminster Abbey.
- Itβs conveniently located. For those places that arenβt within walking distance, youβll be well-connected via public transportation to the rest of the city between buses and the Underground, which has helpful stops at Waterloo Station, Southwark, and the Tower of London.
Cons
- It Has Become Rather Sterile.Regretfully, parts along the southern bank of the Thames have developed to closely resemble other significant urban areas worldwide with contemporary skyscrapers, specialty coffee shops, and additional features.
- Costs can be high. While London tends to demand higher prices generally, some areas here notably inflate costs. However, river and skyline views partly drive those expenses. A few affordable spots exist as discussed below.
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Southbank Highlights
Here are a few things not to miss on the south bank of the Thames.
Borough Market: We aimed to check out practically all of the various outdoor food markets we could discover in London, and this is undoubtedly our preferred. Itβs half food stalls with ready-to-eat meals, half specialty shops like English cheese, Spanish grocery stores, and Italian wine shops. Specifically, we love Horn Ok Please (both the chai and the dosas), Black Pig (remarkable sandwiches β NOT gluten free), and Monmouth Coffee.
The Tate Modern: A widely renowned museum centered around modern art that does not charge admission fees (though voluntarily contributing is suggested to aid their mission and ongoing initiatives). Even for individuals not especially partial to modern artistic works (myself included!), exploring the exhibits provides an enlightening experience. A highlight of freely accessible cultural destinations is facing minimal pressure to thoroughly immerse in exhibits until drained of energy. They feature a 10th floor overlook with marvelous city scapes (including of St. Paulβs Cathedral across the Thames River), but it has temporarily closedβcheck here for updates on accessibility.
The Walk from Westminster Bridge to Tower Bridge: Exploring from one end to the other merits a half day due to all that can be seen and done along the route. Starting at one end allows progressing at a leisurely pace while photographing sights, eating lunch at Borough Market, and briefly visiting the Tate to rest from walking. Weβd do this mid-morning walk beginning at Westminster Bridge to hit the market for lunch.
The Globe Theatre: I really want to see a performance at the Globe Theatre on the banks of the Thames, which has been fashioned to resemble Shakespeareβs iconic venue. They focus mainly on works of Shakespeare, some with a slight fun twist. Check here to see whatβs on when youβre in town.
Origin Coffee Roasters: One of London`s premier coffee shops, this offshoot from the famous roaster in Cornwall is beneath the railway line near the Southwark Tube station. Friendly baristas craft single-origin coffees as either espresso or filter brews.
Hawkes Cidery: We truly enjoyed this place. The individuals were extremely welcoming, the cider is incredible, and itβs right there in Central London, blocks from Tower Bridge. Itβs a great spot to immerse oneself in the world of English cider, and they have a few guest taps in addition to their own ciders on tap to feature some other companies doing inventive things with apples and pears.
The Best Places to Stay in Southbank / Bankside
Here are some places to stay in the area that caught our eye, including where we spent our first four nights in London.
CitizenM Bankside (Where We Stayed): The Best Mid-Range Hotel in London
We have developed a deep affection for CitizenM hotels, having stayed in multiple places on different continents over the past few months (at the time of writing). Including four nights at the CitizenM Bankside to start our trip to London.
The experience provided by their hotels has proven remarkably uniform – as though by intentional design – with check-in, accommodations, and check-out proceeding seamlessly and thoughtfully in a manner deemed unimaginable. Additionally, costs remain fairly reasonable!
Departing from traditional hotels` standard models, CitizenM reconceptualized the meaning of “hotel”, removing what comes to mind – aging rooms (with iPod docks), ironing boards, unhelpful staff – and transforms it, reinventing the definition.
Hereβs a fairly brief summary of why we appreciate their hotels. For a more in-depth perspective on what staying at a CitizenM Hotel is similar to, read our review of their Seattle location.
It initiates with booking. They offer precisely one type of room β a compact area with an immense, comfortable king bed β so there`s no analysis paralysis around whether you want the standard, the standard-plus, or the plus-plus-standard room category.
Check-in occurs through screens in the lobby (though a helpful staff member is readily available to address any issues or answer questions), allowing selection of the building side and floor for one`s room.
In regards to the rooms, they were meant for a specific purpose which they completely fulfilled. That single aim? Providing an excellent night of sleep. Dark curtains to block out light, temperature control via tablet, and large comfortable beds were key aspects. Visitors frequently don`t rest well in hotels due to light, noise, and odd beds, yet one sleeps like a baby at CitizenM since they addressed even light entering below the door! Truly astonishing!
We should mention the very large and extremely comfortable bed.
The disadvantage here is twofold. One, smaller rooms mean very little privacy, so these rooms are probably best for close friends and couples. Two, they only have one room configuration, so families who all want to stay in the same room probably should look elsewhere.
While the rooms are compact, they have remarkable common areas β like the huge, open lobby that they refer to as the βliving room,β which provide a place to hang out other than on the bed.
Sea Containers: A Splurge with Stunning River Views
If youβre looking for an extravagant experience in London, Sea Containers is at the top of our list because some of their rooms offer incredible views of the river (be sure to reserve a room with a river vista!).
This hotel is directly on the south bank of the Thames, and it`s a great location for exploring both sides of the river thanks to Blackfriars Bridge, which is right outside the doors of the hotel.
Theyβve planned the hotel to feel like a 1920βs transatlantic cruise liner, which is a fun theme given the waterside location. In the rooms, youβll find huge windows, elegant black and white designs with bursts of color, and incredible views of Londonβs skyline.
Standard rooms are more than 300 square feet β tremendously big β and they have studios and suites with even more space. Some rooms even have balconies overlooking the Thames. Thereβs also a rooftop bar and restaurant with even better perspectives of the London skyline.
This is not a budget stay, by any means, but if youβre looking for a splurge for a special occasion, this is our top pick in London.
Native Bankside: Stylish Apartments on Southbank
If youβre looking to stay in Southbank and want the additional living space and comfort that an apartment provides, take a look at Native Bankside.
We considered this place, but couldnβt turn down our first love, CitizenM, so we saved Native for a trip to the area at a later time.
Like many of the serviced apartments popping up all over the world, Native is a company that is combining the convenience and service of remaining in a hotel with the extra space and access to a kitchen that you get with an apartment. Plus, 24/7 reception means staff are always on hand to help (and more importantly, to give you a place to leave your bags!).
The structure is a former tea warehouse in what used to be an industrial area, and they`ve meticulously restored it to bring it into the 21st century.
To be honest, their smallest rooms arenβt significantly bigger than a hotel room, but theyβre cleverly designed with pull-out dining tables and a stovetop to give you more amenities than you get in a hotel. Somehow β and Iβm still perplexed how β they fit both a dishwasher AND a washing machine into a 300 square foot room. Amazing.
Larger room options are also available β including studios, one, and two bedroom apartments β and they utilize space efficiently well. All rooms include stovetops and ovens/microwaves. As the apartment sizes increase to one bedroom, more space is provided.
The location is right on the southern side of Southwark Bridge, within five minutes` travel of the excellent Borough Market, and a brief walk from the City of London and St. Paulβs Cathedral.
Covent Garden: The Best Location for First Timers in London
As we spent time exploring Londonβs West End, we came to the conclusion that there are only certain parts of it that we`d truly recommend.
The West End generally refers to the area east of Westminster and north of the Thames, just west of the border of the original City of London that originates back to Roman times. It includes sub-neighborhoods such as Covent Garden, Holborn, and Soho.
Itβs the central hub for entertainment β particularly theater β in London, and is home to multiple important cultural sites like the National Gallery and the British Museum. Itβs also the place to be in London if you want to do some shopping, with all sorts of global brands vying for attention along the vast majority of streets in the West End.
Those qualities, along with its extremely convenient location and plethora of public transit connections, make it an excellent spot to stay, particularly if itβs your first trip to London, or if you only have a day or two to explore the city.
You might have already surmised which area weβd opt for within the West End based on the name of this section.
Itβs Covent Garden. Though, we will say, we also like Holborn (the northeast section of the neighborhood), and will feature a few accommodation options to stay in Holborn in the list below.
Covent Garden holds more charm than other areas of the city like Soho with its wide avenues lined by designer stores. Its narrow cobblestone roads and twisting alleyways imbue it with far greater character while still positioning visitors centrally in London. We believe you`ll find Covent Garden a more interesting place to stay.
Pros and Cons of Staying in Covent Garden
Pros:Β
- Itβs charming. With cobblestone streets (that unfortunately caused us to trip frequently, for some reason) and an eclectic blend of architectural designs, this remains the most picturesque area of busy London, at minimum based on our view.
- It is conveniently walkable.If you reside here, you will have many of the main sights in London close by β Leicester Square, Trafalgar Square, Big Ben and Westminster Abbey, and more. Additionally, if you are willing to walk a bit farther, you will be within walking distance of Southbank, Mayfair, and Hyde Park too.
Cons:Β
- It doesnβt get much more costly than Covent Garden.London is an expensive place to visit already, and Covent Garden is perhaps the most expensive part of the city. There are a few more affordable options, but it still will not be low-priced.
Covent Garden Highlights
Despite its modest size, Covent Garden contains many activities, sights, dining establishments, and places to imbibe.
Seven Dials Market: In a city with nearly limitless selections of food markets, this one ranks among the top. Bonus: Itβs open for both lunch AND dinner, unlike many which are just for lunch. Donβt miss El Pollote and their guava-glazed chicken wings.
Chai Guys: Situated in Seven Dials Market, this location deserves its own section. Their original store is at Spitalfields, which is where we first found them. Alysha is an avid chai drinker, so we basically split our time between seeking out the best coffee in London, and savoring the different chais we could obtain our hands on. When you order chai at home in the US, it`s commonly a chai latte, and it`s usually overly sweet and not at all spicy. Not so in London, and particularly at Chai Guys! We loved their Kadak Chai, which is a little more creamy than the traditional Masala (which is also fantastic). Highly recommend!
Monmouth Coffee: One of the original coffee shops in the city, this establishment is worth exploring for the wide assortment of different coffees available. You can get an espresso-based beverage (when in London, enjoy flat whites), or you can select their filtered coffee, which varies depending on the season and the staff`s current preferences. We appreciate that they`ve completely done away with disposable takeaway cups, so get your coffee to drink there, or invest Β£5 in a reusable takeaway cup (which you receive back when returning it).
The Apple Market & Jubilee Market: Adjacent to one another, these are two cool covered markets right in the heart of Covent Garden. Thereβs a mix of temporary stalls and permanent shops to explore, and every time we walked by there was an abundant variety of entertaining street performers set up around the market.
Trafalgar Square: While this area may not precisely be considered Covent Garden, it is nonetheless a significant attraction for visitors, located in central London. Dominated by a monument honouring Admiral Horatio Nelson, a renowned British naval commander who defeated Napoleon, the square also overlooks Big Ben and is near the National Portrait Gallery, which contains numerous artworks and may be toured at no cost.
The Best Places to Stay in Covent Garden
Below are some lodging options near Covent Garden worth considering.
Page 8 Hotel: A Stylish Hotel in a Great Location
If choosing lodging in Covent Garden, the top option in our view would be Page8 hotel. Situated at the southwestern corner of the area, a few blocks from Trafalgar Square and surrounding theaters, it offers a contemporary, stylish space in an excellent location.
Page Hotels (there are currently two of them at the time of writing, London and Hong Kong) are built for βUrban Explorersβ in their own words. What, exactly, does that mean? Great question!
As two individuals who are probably within the intended audience for this hotel, hereβs our perspective.
Similar to our favorite hotels, they have a philosophy that merges comfortable, compact rooms with expansive common areas ideal for connecting with likeminded travelers, or merely reading a book and watching the world pass by.
Accommodations here average in size, though larger room options with more room to relax are available. Families traveling together benefit from family rooms containing two queen beds.
You wonβt find all the amenities in your room that you may get at a more conventional hotel, but they have integrated some of the most necessary things that we will not compromise on, like comfortable beds and soundproofed rooms.
Free tea and coffee are also provided in the room, which is an amenity often omitted elsewhere, and the vintage Marshall speakers offer a fun touch.
As far as common areas go, theyβve done a good job designing them to be full of light and warmth, which makes it an inviting place to hang out rather than a place youβre trying to get out of as quickly as possible to either reach your room or head into the city.
There is a coffee bar (not unexpectedly) for a swift early morning caffeine boost (if the room`s coffee isn`t to your liking), and every surface in the common spaces and rooms is abundantly stocked with a selection of coffee table books that will have you wishing you had more cultured tastes in coffee table literature in your own home.
The Z Hotel Covent Garden: An Affordable Stay in London? Impossible!
Z Hotels is a chain of mid-range hotels in London (with some other locations in the UK) that offers a blend of style, affordability, and great locations. With these three aspects satisfied, we believe the Z Hotel Covent Garden would make an excellent home base for exploring London.
However, there is an important point to note. In order to provide both style AND affordability, you will need to be alright with smaller living spaces and fewer amenities than what you may receive at true luxury hotels (BYOFS β bring your own fluffy slippers). Itβs comparable to CitizenM β our favorite hotel chain globally β in that regard.
The room wonβt include a phone, safe, mini-bar or fridge. However, you will find comfortable beds and various entertainment options on the TVs, along with air conditioning for those few days per year when you may need relief from London`s heat.
The rooms are small, but theyβre extremely well thought out, with enough space for a couple to comfortably stay without feeling cramped. They also offer family rooms with multiple beds, though it`s worthwhile noting most rooms are designed for 1-2 people primarily.
NoMad London: A Stylish Luxury Hotel in the Heart of the West EndΒ
NoMad Inns are constantly fashionable, and their (somewhat new) hotel in London is no exception. The construction is historic, formerly housing the police station and the Bow Street Magistratesβ Court at points in history, and it has been fastidiously transformed to blend history and modernity in every facet.
Situated just a couple blocks from the Covent Garden Underground station, the hotel provides easy access on foot to most of Westminster and the West End theater district, while the Tube offers rapid transit elsewhere in the city. Be sure to use the elevators rather than climbing the 15 stories of stairs from the platform – trust the recommendation.
By London norms, quarters are quite spacious, with smallest measuring around 250 square feet and larger still. All lodgings include some type of sitting area, although more premium, extensive rooms incorporate a more robust place for socializing beyond the bed.
The NoMad would be a great choice if looking for a touch of luxury while traveling to London, though it certainly isn`t inexpensive.
COVE Arne Street: Serviced Apartments, Perfect for Groups of All Sizes
We remained at their location on Cannon Street in the City of London with COVE, and were highly impressed from the beginning to the end of our stay. We typically prefer lodging in flats, but we avoid temporary rentals in urban areas if possible, and appreciate the advantage of round-the-clock reception that hotels offer.
COVE Arne Streetoffers a comparable experience to their other location where we stayed, but itβs right in the heart of Covent Garden, which is arguably a more charming and fascinating location than the City of London.
Choose from one, two, or three bedroom apartments that can accommodate between 2 and 10 guests (if some don`t mind sleeping on the sofa bed).
The beds are comfortable (in our experiences), the kitchens are nice (and stocked with everything you need to cook, for the most part), and itβs a spacious and comfortable space to hang out in.
If wanting the amenities of an apartment in London, this would be the recommendation (along with their other location in the city which is where we stayed).
The City of London: Super Central and Well Connected (Where We Stayed)
This area of London presented a big contradiction to us during our visit. We spent the final four days of our trip here.
On one hand, this is the historic center of London, where the city of London was located back in Roman times (then it was known as Londinium), perched on the north bank of the Thames.
A remnant of the initial wall remains standing, and you can learn about London`s history through the excellent (and complimentary!) Museum of London.
What perplexes us is the actuality that this place is additionally the most present day part of London. The financial locale, if you will, is situated here, and is loaded up with enormous current skyscrapers. Typically, when you hear βold town,β what comes into your thoughts is charming tight streets and more established structures. Not here!
Why, you inquire? The answer is complex, but we learned at the aforementioned Museum of London that it was partially due to the fact that large swaths of the City of London have burned down over the past few centuries, starting with the London fire in the 17th Century that leveled three quarters of the city, and more recently the Blitz in World War 2, which also did significant damage to buildings in Central London.
Those disasters, akin to a wildfire, did two things.
Initially, they led to tremendous human suffering (in the forest fire analogy, I guess it would be living being suffering) and led to the loss of many historic structures that used to be present.
However, it could be argued that those events also set the stage for London`s modernization seen today, just as a forest fire often ushers in new growth from ashes, similar to how the city appears now.
Anyway, that provides enough background about the fascinating history of the City of London, so you`re probably wondering why we chose to include it here.
It earns a mention due to the central location and excellent transportation links to key London sights. You`ll be within walking distance of Borough Market, Tower Bridge and the Tower of London, and Spitalfields and Brick Lane.
There are also multiple Subway lines running directly through the neighborhood, along with plenty of bus options to take you anywhere else you may need to go.
Pros and Cons of Staying in The City of London
Pros:Β
- The location is excellent.A clear reason the Romans chose this area as their city center is its close proximity to the river along with landmarks today such as the Tower of London, St. Paulβs Cathedral, and Tower Bridge among others.
- The connections to other areas of the city. With numerous Underground lines traversing the region (namely the Central and Circle/District lines), a variety of bus routes facilitating travel in any heading, and access to river transportation, there are plenty of alternatives to reach wherever you necessitate beyond walking distance. During rush hour β about 8:00-10:00 am and 4:00-6:00 pm, those choices are EXCEEDINGLY crowded though, be cautioned.
- The environment on weekdays. On warm weekdays in the afternoon hours, many will discover crowds of employees leaving their offices and heading to the local pub, where they stand outside on the curbside with a cold beverage and their companions (mates) and enjoy a pint or seven. Which is a fantastic setting. Weekends, on the other hand…
Cons:
- Itβs very quiet on weekends. Because this area is mainly office buildings, itβs completely empty on the weekends. We donβt mind that at all, but it does mean that many of the coffee shops, restaurants, and pubs are closed on weekends (particularly Sundays), so youβll need to go elsewhere.
City of London Highlights
St. Paulβs Cathedral: The largest place of worship in London, itβs certainly worth the cost of admission for climbing up to the golden gallery extremely high at the top of the dome, where youβll have excellent views over London. Additionally, the First Duke of Wellington and Admiral Horatio Nelson (renowned for outwitting Napoleon repeatedly, among other naval accomplishments) are also buried in the crypt.
Rosslyn Coffee: Among my favorite coffee establishments in London profiled here, Rosslyn was conceived by an Irishman and Australian aiming to blend coffee house and Irish pub atmospheres. Staff exude warmth and hospitality, while the coffee options satisfy but avoid overwhelming choices.
The Museum of London: We found this relatively compact museum, situated close to the surviving portion of the Roman wall, to be quite worthwhile. It offers a helpful overview of London`s frequently turbulent history that set the stage for the city to develop into one of the premiere metropolitan areas globally (and one of the most diverse culturally). It altered some of our perceptions regarding London. For example, hailing from America, we generally don`t consider London (or the UK) as having faced domination by outside forces, but London has had outsiders dictating its destiny for most of its timeframe until the past four or five centuries. Spending an hour or two there at the beginning of your trip can provide a baseline level of comprehension.
The Tower of London: Undoubtedly worth exploring, the Tower of London houses the Crown Jewels and splendid perspectives of Southwark across the river. Originally constructed as a strategic structure along the waterway, it became a royal residence, was transformed into a gruesome prison, and has since developed into a staple on essentially any London itinerary.
The public rooftop areas: There are several public (and private) rooftop terraces and gardens in the City of London worth visiting. We enjoyed One New Change, which is likely one of the most popular options due to the excellent perspective of St. Paulβs Cathedral. Another good choice is the Garden at 120.
The Best Places to Stay in the City of London
Here are some places to stay in the City of London that stood out to us.
CitizenM Tower of London: Our Favorite Hotel Chain in an Incredible Location
If you missed our lyrical description about CitizenM in the previous Southbank section, refer back to learn why CitizenM is our forever favorite hotel chain around the world.
Weβve stayed at multiple CitizenM properties around the world (including the one in Southbank), and they consistently deliver an excellent night of sleep at an affordable price every single time.
Rather than discussing CitizenMβs offering, letβs focus on this particular hotel, which has some great features that actually take it a step above the usual CitizenM Hotel.
First is the situation. Itβs quite literally next door to the Tower of London, walkable to Tower Bridge and St. Paulβs Cathedral (among other things), and well connected via public transportation like buses and the Underground.
Second is the rooftop bar with views of the City of London and Tower of London. We had intended to visit this location based on the suggestion of staff at the Southbank location, but unfortunately we did not make it happen.
Third is the scenery observable from some of the lodgings. Whichever direction one gazes, spectacular views are practically assured from the exterior rooms, though the quarters surveying the Tower and Tower Bridge are likely the finest of the collection.
CitizenM consistently offers great value, which is their model, and the additional features at this location make it an excellent choice for staying in London.
COVE Cannon Street: Stylish Apartments, Perfect Location (Where We Stayed)
We lodged there for our final days in London, pleasantly surprised by the quality.
We regularly opt for apartment rentals when traveling as a pair due to two key factors.
Firstly, Matt has Celiac Disease and necessitates eating strictly without gluten, which denotes having access to cooking facilities is virtually indispensable (although London is loaded with amazing gluten free cuisine, which you can read about in our guide to gluten free London eateries).
Secondly, the additional space is beneficial when youβre doing work on the road (which we usually are). We can only endure working on the bed in a hotel room for so long before it becomes tiresome.
However, lodging solely within personal flats (especially temporary rentals) have a number of sizeable disadvantages, like the inability to leave bags if one arrives before the scheduled check in period, and the lack of on-site staff available to assist with issues that may unexpectedly arise. With COVE, you benefit from the best of both possibilities! They combine the convenience of remaining at a hotel with the extra living space and access to a kitchen that you secure by staying in an apartment.
One accommodation located along Cannon Street is the COVE Cannon Street. This property provides 24 hour reception, allowing guests to store luggage upon arrival, which is beneficial when considering lodging alternatives. In addition, the staff are consistently welcoming and helpful, offering local pointers to enhance the visiting experience. On check-in at this residence, approximately ten minutes were spent engaged in pleasant conversation with the cordial front desk personnel.”
Housing options range from studios (we stayed in a superior studio that was perfect for our needs), to one bedroom apartments – all designed efficiently with full kitchens including ovens and dishwashers, and in-unit washing machines.
Those traveling in groups of 3-6 individuals should consider their other location in Covent Garden which provides two and three bedroom units in another highly convenient area.
Remaining in this location also means you will be literally across the street from the top coffee shop in London β Rosslyn Coffee β where you can get your morning caffeine dose before heading out. Additionally, it is just two blocks from St. Paulβs Cathedral!
Shoreditch: Best for Hipsters, Artists, and Nightlife
We have never seen such a large number of vintage stores concentrated in one area as we did in Shoreditch. And that says a lot about this trendy neighborhood in northeast London and the transformation it has experienced over the past decade or so.
At one point, Shoreditch was completely independent from the city of London, but gradually over the years the boundaries of London have continuously expanded, absorbing former outskirts along its journey to become the city it has become today.
Even the backstory of Shoreditch is somewhat unconventional. It rose to prominence because in the 16th Century, some politicians thought prohibiting performances (and theaters) in London was a good plan. Imagine what they`d think seeing London today!
So, in order to meet the continued demand despite the ban, new theaters were built in places like Shoreditch and Southwark, which were outside of the city limits at that time and thus outside its jurisdiction. In the 19th and early 20th centuries, it was a legitimate rival to the West End as the center of Londonβs arts scene.
Following the Second World War, where extensive destruction occurred across large sections – including significant housing demolitions, the rebuilding process took longer than elsewhere in London. Globalization also led numerous factories to relocate out of the area. This left many empty industrial structures, creating the distinctly βindustrial-chicβ feel seen throughout now vacant buildings.
Since then, the story of Shoreditch is similar to many other intensely gentrified areas in major cities around the world.
Initially, artists moved to the area, generating demand for businesses catering to their preferences. Eventually, housing prices escalated dramatically, displacing many original locals and even those artists. A more affluent group followed, bringing different enterprises aligning with their divergent needs.
We`ve witnessed similar trends in cities we`ve resided, such as the Mission District in San Francisco, or Capitol Hill in Seattle.
In our minds, the account of Shoreditch feels quite similar to those stories, and while we think there are numerous cool places to see, eat, and drink in the area, it`s worth remembering the background behind how those places came to be. If you desire to know more about its history and gentrification, read this.
Note: For brevity, we`ll discuss Spitalfields and Shoreditch together although they`re technically distinct areas, with enough similarities to discuss jointly rather than separately.
Pros and Cons of Staying in Shoreditch
Pros:
- Itβs trendy. We`ve never seen so many antiquated stores as we did on Brick Lane. And they have an entire store dedicated to plant based cheeses (with an excellent name, we might add β La Fauxmagerie).
- The weekend markets are really enjoyable. There are two excellent markets in this area, and we went to both twice because we liked them very much. First is Spitalfields Market, which is open daily but is at its best on Saturdays at the arts market, when itβs filled with stalls selling all sorts of fun items (thereβs food, arts and crafts, and more). Second is the Sunday Upmarket on Brick Lane, which has an incredible food section with stalls serving meals from all parts of the globe. Despite the name, itβs open both Saturday and Sunday.
- The Food and Beverage Scene is Excellent. Even without those two markets, the food and drink scene in this area is fantastic. Dishoom (a popular Indian restaurant chain) has a location here, and there are so many bars which makes this one of the better places in London to head to after dark.
Cons:
- It is busy, loud, and boisterous.This area is not a location off the beaten path. It remains full of individuals at most hours of the day. Due to nightlife, it can also be loud after dark.
- Urban transformation. While gentrification has largely taken place in Shoreditch, it`s wise to consider as you select lodging. A few decades ago, this was a relatively impoverished part of London that saw dramatic increases in housing costs due to tourist and local popularity, displacing many original inhabitants.
Shoreditch Highlights
Participate in Whitewater Rafting on the White Salmon River. I once held a job with a rafting company in the Pacific Northwest, and the White Salmon, with its class III and IV rapids, is one of the best in the region. Youβll meet across the gorge from Hood River and meet Portland Rafting Company for a ~3.5 hour whitewater adventure. Theyβll provide all equipment required, snacks, and exceptional guides. Highly recommended. Click here to check prices, reviews, and availability.
Spitalfields Market: Just south of Shoreditch and a few blocks off Brick Lane, this is the place to be on Saturdays. The interior enormous open hall contains temporary stalls selling everything from pop-up cards which we enjoyed purchasing multiple of to send home, to arepas and bao buns. There`s an excellent variety of food and beverages we like Guasa for arepas and Chai Guys for chai, and it`s worth spending time perusing the stallsβyou never know what you might happen upon!
Origin Coffee: One of my preferred coffee shops in London (despite their origins from Cornwall in southwest England), they have gifted baristas and excellent coffees sourced straight from farmers, to whom they expend a lot of time and effort building long term relationships.
The Columbia Road Flower Market: An abundance of flowers of all colors, shapes, and sizes on display just northeast of Shoreditch. It gets EXTREMELY crowded, so try to arrive early (plus youβll have the best selection if youβre actually buying flowers). Itβs on Sundays 8:00 am to 2:00 pm.
All the bars: Thereβs an endless number of hip cocktail lounges in Shoreditch and around it, as you might expect. The Cocktail Trading Co for speakeasy vibes. Bounce for boozy ping pong. Junkyard Golf for mini golf in a fun environment (yes, with booze).
Camden: An Offbeat & Hip Place to Stay
As we mentioned above, we split our 12 day trip into three blocks of four days each to experience a few different areas and have multiple home bases for exploring London since itβs so big.
Camden was our middle phase of four days away, and was easily the farthest location from Central London where we remained. As we were strolling alongside the Regentβs Canal on our second last day in Camden, Alysha turned to me and expressed βthis portion has truly felt like an entirely different tripβ (than the initial four days in Southbank).
And I have to say, I completely agree.Β
I will also say that Camden completely diverged from our expectations. We entered it thinking it was going to be a charming, suburban, more low-key part of London. We were basically zero for three on those three things.
It`s undeniably residential, and we walked past several different schools around pick up or dropoff time, when hundreds of caregivers were collecting children from school (side note: is there anything cuter than a young kid with a British accent?).
It`s also highly trendy and artistic β with many tattoo parlors, vintage shopping, and the constantly bustling Camden Market β and it has long been viewed as one of London`s punk, alternative, counterculture areas. Now, Shoreditch has somewhat assumed the label of the hipster part of London, but Camden remains on that list of trendy neighborhoods.
In addition to Camden Market, which is likely the second most famous market collection in London (after Borough Market), there are a few other spots nearby that we would suggest checking out in the neighborhood. The area is directly next to Regent`s Park and Regent`s Canal runs straight through the center of the neighborhood.
It`s somewhat farther out, though well-connected to central London via the Tube and several bus lines reaching the core tourist region in around 20 minutes, where attractions and culture abound.
Pros and Cons of Staying in Camden
Pros:Β
- Itβs an enjoyable place to spend time. Between the park, Primrose Hill, and the market, this is really an exciting neighborhood. Outside of those things, there are some good coffee shops, bars and pubs, and other hidden gems that most tourists in London probably never get to experience.
- It offers better value than Central London.Costs are lower than in areas like the West End, while not reaching budget levels of places like Italy, Spain, and Portugal.
- Itβs well associated.Between the Northern line running through the local area which takes you directly into Central London, and the way that youβre inside strolling separation of Kingβs Cross, youβll have the option to arrive where you have to go relatively effectively.
Cons:Β
- It necessitates additional travel time and effort. Despite good transit connections, expect 25-30 extra minutes minimum reaching sights like Tower Bridge and St. Paulβs Cathedral. For shorter trips or initially, somewhere more central may suit one`s needs better.
- Lodging options are somewhat limited.As it has a more residential nature, there are really not that many hotels (particularly right in the heart of Camden near the market).
Camden Highlights
Letβs start with the obvious, Camden Market.Β
There are a few distinct sections that make up the market, and weβre going to discuss them collectively since theyβre all within just a few blocks of each other. Here are some spots we enjoyed and think you will too.
- Maize Blaze: A contemporary interpretation of Colombian cuisine (we spent six weeks in Colombia, and absolutely RELISHED it), they have a restricted menu available at the stall here that has bowls with various toppings. If you are searching for things like arepas and fried plantains with a sweet chili marinade, you can find them at their kitchen just a few blocks away (youβll have to order online for pickup).
- Arepazo / Arepa Venezuelan Kitchen: To be perfectly honest, I am unaware of the precise name of this stall. However, I do know that it is the place to obtain arepas at Camden Market. The pabellon, a pulled beef, was some of the finest we sampled in London, and the lively atmosphere at the stand with the booming music and dancing chef were superb.
- Kolkati: Not gluten free, but Alysha saw it at Broadway Market (another market worth visiting) and decided she had to try it. So she finally got it here at Camden Market. They make kati rolls, which is a street food staple of Kolkata that consists of fillings (either meat and extras or paneer) wrapped in bread.
- Pamban Chai & Coffee House: Tea enthusiasts, especially those partial to rose chai like Alysha, should be sure to visit this establishment. Her favorite chai from their time in London was from here, and they sampled many styles of chai while traveling in the area. Flight options allow trying multiple varieties!
Beyond the market (really, markets), here are a few spots in Camden that we enjoyed.
Regentβs Park / Regentβs Canal: The huge greenspace just west of Camden Town, and the waterway that runs along its northern boundary, are a lovely way to spend part of a sunny afternoon in the northern area. We walked all the way from Notting Hill along the canal back to Camden, and it proved a pleasant journey (particularly through Little Venice). At one point, as we got closer to Camden, we realized we were traversing across the water from the London Zoo (which is situated in the park), and started seeing warthogs and African hunting canines from the other side.
Primrose Hill: A pleasant neighborhood just northwest of the center of Camden, this is the place to go for great perspectives of the London skyline from the top of the hill.
Hackney / Bethnal Green: Low Key + Local Vibes = LOVE
We visited East London twice for the fantastic Broadway Market (go on Saturday for an excellent variety of street food!), and walked away on our second trip deciding that, if we ever relocated to London, this is where weβd prefer to live.
Why?
Firstly, the Broadway Market is truly remarkable. Although itβs somewhat farther for most people to get to over a day or two in London, if you enjoy street food and farmers markets, itβs worth the relatively brief journey.
Second, itβs actually not very far from the primary tourist sights in Central London (and even closer to trendsetting Shoreditch). A number of buses operate straight downtown, and Bethnal Green Station connects you to the Underground to get around in that way, if youβd favor.
It achieves an equitable balance between a residential atmosphere connoting relative calm while lining scenic strips with active bars, cafes, boutiques and restaurants.
And did we mention Broadway Market?
That said, if it`s your first time in London and you want to hop between all the popular sights along the river, this may not be the best option for accommodations.
Pros and Cons of Staying in Hackney / Bethnal Green
Pros:Β
- Itβs low intensity and serene. If youβre looking for a less busy experience than staying in bustling central London, this is a good spot for you. Itβs more residential, and though tourists occasionally wander up here (such as us), the crowd skews heavily towards Londoners.
- Itβs relatively affordable. For what you receive at the two locations below (spoiler: there aren`t many accommodation options, which is a downside), the cost is relatively reasonable compared to more central areas in London.
Cons:Β
- Itβs farther out. For those wondering where to stay on a first visit to London, this may not be ideal. It would take 20-30 minutes to reach places like the City of London and the West End, which isn`t necessarily a dealbreaker but also isn`t optimal if most of your time will be spent downtown.
- There are only a limited quantity of locations available to stay. Since itβs significantly more residential β almost like a suburb within the city β there truly are only two places to stay in the area. Both are surprisingly pleasant considering the location, but you wonβt have as many choices as other neighborhoods in London.
Neighborhood Highlights
Broadway Market is our number one highlight here, but there are some other spots that are absolutely worth exploring.
Paradox Coffee: One of my preferences, this compact coffee shop offers a wide array of beans sourced from roasters in Europe and the UK. They propose diverse filter coffee alternatives and a guest espresso for those seeking something bolder and more novel than their standard espresso. And they meticulously brew every cup – one flat white and one filter I had there were remarkably good. Ozone Coffee, located south of the market, also merits a visit.
Columbia Road Flower Market: Every Sunday, Columbia Road is transformed into THE destination to visit in London. The street, lined with shops, bars, and eateries on one side, features a long row of vendors stretching several blocks who all offer seasonally fresh blooms in an array of hues and types. Though jam-packed, it`s worth a visit. You can also walk from there to Broadway Market.