Best Areas to Stay in London
London is a city that’s always evolving, so when it comes to finding a place to stay, consider this more of a ‘rough’ guide. Each central neighbourhood, from Soho to Covent Garden, offers its own unique charm, and new spots to check out seem to pop up all the time! If you’re keen on shopping, visiting Christmas markets, catching a West End show, and ticking off iconic landmarks like St Paul’s Cathedral, Buckingham Palace, and Westminster, you’ll find that central London is very walkable and well-connected by bus and underground. Think about areas like Soho, Covent Garden, Clerkenwell, and anywhere along the river for a prime central experience.
Camden and the area around King’s Cross also offer fantastic accommodation options. It’s a great base for visiting nearby Regent's Park. If you fancy a trip to the O2 Arena, Greenwich Observatory, or the Cutty Sark, consider staying in Greenwich or Canary Wharf. For a bit more charm, you can venture out to elegant Blackheath or look for budget-friendly spots in Deptford.
In the west, Richmond, Twickenham, and Teddington are all great places to stay if you want easy access to Kew Gardens, Hampton Court Palace, Wimbledon, and Richmond Park. These areas are not only picturesque, boasting lovely parks and historical sites, but they also have good transport links to central London, making them perfect for exploring at your leisure.
Hotels Near Popular Attractions
London is bursting with attractions, so as soon as you know the must-see spots on your list, you can look for hotels nearby. Staying in Kensington or Chelsea places you right in the heart of some of the city’s most loved museums, like the Natural History Museum and the V&A Museum, as well as a host of fabulous dining and shopping options. These areas are ideal for visits to both Kensington Palace and Buckingham Palace, and you’ll have easy access to the city centre for catching that West End show.
If you’re visiting London for the first time, you’ll likely want to experience Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the London Eye. A stroll along the South Bank and over a famous bridge, like Tower Bridge, is a must! For a stay that balances convenience with value, check out hotels on the South Bank, as well as options in Lambeth and the recently up-and-coming Battersea. These areas let you soak in all the key sights without sending your wallet into a tailspin.
Family Hotels in London
Planning a family trip to London doesn’t need to be overwhelming! The best way to find suitable hotels is to pinpoint the attractions you intend to visit and consider how much travel you’re willing to do. Tube journeys can add up, and they can be tiring for little ones as you zip around the city.
Waterloo, Bankside, and Covent Garden are all popular with families because they’re central and easy to navigate. Battersea is another great option if you want proximity to the museums and parks in Kensington, without the Kensington price tag! Some of the best hotels can also be found near wonderful parks. For instance, Belsize Park is wonderfully positioned between Hampstead Heath and London Zoo, plus it’s convenient for Camden while being less crowded. Areas like Cambridge Heath, Bethnal Green, and Bow are equally lovely for visiting Victoria Park.
Where to Find Cheap Hotels in London
Surprisingly enough, finding a cheap hotel in London isn't too difficult! One strategy is to stay just outside the city centre, but close enough to a tube or overground station. North Acton on the central line is a solid option; you can often find rooms at places like the Holiday Inn Express for under €100 a night.
Hostels are also a fantastic way to save some cash. The Walrus Bar and Hostel is located right across from Big Ben, with beds often going for less than €40 a night. If you prefer a budget yet central option with easy access to a train station, consider the hub by Premier Inn London King's Cross. It boasts compact, modern rooms, just a stone's throw from Granary Square.
Aldgate East is also a great area that's convenient for places like Spitalfields, the Tower of London, and The City. It’s become quite popular for affordable stays, with four-star options like Leman Locke available for around €100 a night.
Where to Stay as a Solo Traveller
If you’re visiting London on your own and looking for a lively, safe spot that’s easy to access, consider staying around Granary Square or St Pancras. Shoreditch remains a favourite for nightlife among younger travelers and offers easy access to fantastic shopping in Spitalfields.
In the summer, head to Dalston or Cambridge Heath for a taste of local life. You’ll find an array of cool shops and bars without the skyscraper chaos, plus you'll be
