The best neighbourhoods and hotels for tourists in London: How to choose the perfect place to stay while travelling
Every traveller should visit London at least once in their life. Although in reality, there are many more interesting locations than are necessary for a single trip. Places associated with British royalty, the perfect afternoon tea, world-famous landmarks, historical heritage dating back to the Roman era, excellent shopping and cultural diversity: London offers everything you need for an exciting trip and plenty of great places to stay while you're there.
London is one of the world's largest metropolitan areas, so if you're planning a trip here, you should consider several factors to choose the best neighbourhood. To choose the perfect place to stay in London, you should consider the location of attractions, places you are going to visit, and proximity to the underground. For example, you can choose hotels near transportation lines that serve most of the sites on your itinerary to reduce the number of transfers. If you are arriving in London by plane or need to leave on an early flight, research what means of transportation you can use to get to the airport from your temporary accommodation. Of course, renting a car or taking a cab is convenient but also more costly. Be sure to look nearby for well-rated restaurants, cafes, bars and clubs and other entertainment if you are interested in a vibrant nightlife. All of this will help you choose the perfect place to stay when travelling to London to minimize hassle and get the most out of your trip.
Mayfair
One of London's chicest neighbourhoods, Mayfair offers great options for travel accommodations that will appeal to adults and children alike. Buckingham Palace is a short walk away, and the charming green streets are filled with high-end fashion boutiques and upscale stores. The neighbourhood is adjacent to three royal parks - St. James's Park, Hyde Park and Green Park - so there are plenty of interesting routes to walk and get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. You can visit art exhibitions at the National Gallery and find places with tasty treats like Fortum & Mason's. This prestigious neighbourhood still maintains comfort and affordability for travellers.
The Mayfair Townhouse
One of London's most stylish new generation hotels has a prime location in the heart of the Mayfair district. It is the choice for modern travellers for a comfortable stay with services worthy of an upscale hideaway and a warm environment. Mayfair Townhouse is based on Georgian-style mansions and combines historic furnishings with modern design. The décor is bright but understated, matching the general atmosphere of the neighbourhood. The hotel has 172 rooms of various classes and layouts, including several suites with access to the courtyard and garden. The heart of the hotel is the Dandy Bar, where you can dine all day, spend an entertaining evening perusing the carefully selected list of classic and avant-garde cocktails, and meet for breakfast and morning coffee.
What's notable
Fitness room with personal trainer, complimentary mini-bar and sweets, and Noble Isle bath products.
Price range is $$$$.
The Dorchester
One of London's most luxurious hotels boasts significant historical heritage, premium amenities and superb park views. The iconic hotel in the centre of Park Lane has been welcoming guests since the 1930s. This five-star hideaway with elegant décor and luxurious amenities offers truly stellar accommodations in its guest rooms, including signature suites and a pair of chic penthouses. Amenities for travellers span the Dorchester Rooftop Restaurant with a beautiful panorama of Hyde Park, gourmet afternoon tea, and a spa with an indoor pool.
What's notable
Butler, nanny and pet-sitting services, luxury cars for guests, luggage unpacking and packing services, and private tailor.
Price range - $$$$.
Covent Garden
If it's your first time travelling to London, the central location will help you explore its different corners. Of all the London neighbourhoods to stay in the British capital, Covent Garden fits the bill. It encompasses many attractions and is close to many West End theatres. Getting to other areas will also be convenient due to the fact that many subway lines run through Covent Garden. There are also endless museums, pubs, stores, restaurants and markets in the area. You'll be able to find fun things to do within a couple of minutes' walk of the hotel, so you'll be able to make the most of your trip.
NoMad London
One of the best places to stay in London is an iconic 19th-century building that draws the source of its atmosphere from its history and location. The building is a landmark building that housed the Magistrates' Court and police station. It opened not too long ago - in 2021 - and is a branch of the New York brand, which is evident in its design. Complementing the glamour and comfort with English history, it offers luxurious rooms and three grand suite options. Step down from your room to the NoMad restaurant in the glass conservatory or the casual Side Hustle, showcasing a love of Southern California cuisine.
What's notable
Wellness and spa treatments from Ricari Studios and Katie England, and Côté Bastide bath products.
Price range is $$$$.
Henrietta Hotel
This stylish, comfortable boutique hotel near Covent Garden Market offers a secluded getaway in the thick of the city's action. It has 40 rooms, which are housed in two townhouses. They are relatively small but stylishly decorated: each room is unique and combines marble, fabric panels and handmade headboards. Larger groups can stay in adjoining rooms. The hotel has an Italian restaurant, Da Henrietta, and a small, charming cocktail bar.
What's notable
24-hour room service, babysitting, and a customizable mini-bar.
Price range is $$$$.
Southbank
The Southbank on the south bank of the Thames has joined the ranks of neighbourhoods worth staying in while travelling in London in recent years. Much of this increasing popularity can be attributed to the fact that it is home to famous museums such as the Tate Modern Gallery, many interesting bars, pubs and charming restaurants, as well as popular attractions such as Borough Market and the London Eye. You can also reach Soho and Covent Garden and their iconic sites, Big Ben and Tower Bridge, in a few minutes. It's a good choice for individual travellers, who will appreciate the abundance of restaurants and food stalls near the market, and family trips. There are plenty of hotels in the area to suit all budgets.
The Hoxton, Southwark
Popular hipster brand Hoxton has marked its presence in south London by offering a laid-back fashion aesthetic. It has resonated with a young audience. The Hoxton, Southwark, is their third London hotel. Beyond the bustling lobby, guests will find a choice of 192 modern and comfortable rooms. The rooftop is home to the hotel's main attraction, Seabird Restaurant and Bar, one of the most popular outdoor spaces in London, so a table here is worth booking in advance. Several tube and bus lines run near the hotel.
What's notable
In-room mini-fridge with tea, milk and coffee, free international calls and bicycles, and Blank's own line of toiletries.
Price range is $$$$.
CitizenM London Bankside
It's impossible not to include CitizenM in Southbank in the list of the best neighbourhoods and hotels in London for modern travellers. Here, travellers will find smart technology, comfortable beds and designer furniture. All amenities are conveniently managed via a smartphone app: from check-in and menu browsing to controlling in-room systems. This hotel is chosen by business and leisure travellers alike. There's a restaurant and a bar, but there are also fine dining establishments like Lantana and Caravan Bankside nearby. Borough Market, Shakespeare's Globe and the Tate Modern Gallery are all within walking distance.
What's notable
Decorative in-room lighting, movie and book library, and buffet breakfast.
Price range is $$.
Sea Containers London
Among London hotels worth staying at, this one stands out for its unique location and breathtaking river views. Sea Containers London sits on the banks of the Thames, and the chic design makes you feel like you're travelling on a 1920s transatlantic cruise ship. The rooms and suites have a contemporary feel and the furnishings are bespoke. The hotel has everything you need for a busy stay, including a spa, one of London's best cocktail bars, Lyaness, two restaurants and the magnificent Curzon Cinema in the basement, where new movies are shown at weekends.
What's notable
Gym open 24 hours a day, Peloton concierge service and a private movie theatre.
Price range is $$$$.
Marylebone
For discerning travellers in search of a local vibe in London, central Marylebone is among the best neighbourhoods. Here, it's worth strolling down the charming main street and visiting the Sunday farmers' market. The city's best green spaces Regent's Park and Hyde Park, the Sherlock Holmes Museum and the Wallace Collection art museum, are withing walking distance. The neighbourhood boasts a variety of trendy restaurants such as, Chiltern Firehouse, Kol and Lurra. Therefore, its hotels are popular with travellers looking for places for special occasions.
The Prince Akatoki
Travellers who prefer something luxurious yet quaint can choose this five-star hotel inspired by Japanese hospitality and design. It is located just off Oxford Street and provides a measured stay in the heart of the city. The rooms are elegant, with minimalist decor not typical of English hotels. For larger groups and families, there are connecting rooms and impressively large suites. Continuing the general theme, the hotel's restaurant, Tokii, serves Japanese cuisine, and the cosy Malt Lounge & Bar offers Japanese whiskey and sake tastings.
What's notable
Gym, in-room yoga mats, MALIN+GOETZ bathroom amenities, allowance of pets, and evening tea service.
Price range - $$$$.
Treehouse Hotel London
One of the best central hotels known for its superb views of London, located in the heart of Oxford Circus. The modern rooms are notable for their quirky details and windows so massive that some room types have comfortable window seats. There's an excellent pizzeria downstairs, Pizzeria Mozza, and the hotel also features Madera, a restaurant serving unique interpretations of Mexican cuisine and cocktails. The most impressive panorama can be found at The Nest rooftop bar.
What's notable
Dog-walking and dog-sitting services, Nespresso coffee machine, and Paddington Bear stuffed toys throughout the hotel.
Price range is $$$$.
Chelsea
If the purpose of your trip to London is to explore the local atmosphere and interact with its people, it is worth staying in one of the neighbourhoods that are not yet crowded with tourists. This is a place for a relaxed and luxurious vacation with step-by-step access to some iconic landmarks. Here you can visit an exhibition at the Saatchi Art Gallery, the famous Harrods department store or a play at the Royal Court Theatre before strolling through the high-end boutiques and restaurants on King's Road.
11 Cadogan Gardens
The cosy boutique hotel next door to Sloan Square provides guests with a secluded sophisticated stay. The hotel consists of 34 rooms, 22 suites and 6 luxury apartments with historic details in the interior. Each of the rooms has an upscale casual design. Start the day here with breakfast at Hans' Grill downstairs before heading out to see the sights nearby, including the Victoria and Albert Museum, Buckingham Palace and the Saatchi Gallery. The hotel also serves classic afternoon tea.
What's notable
24-hour gym, babysitting services, Nespresso coffee machine, and Noble Isle bathroom amenities.
Price range - $$$$.
Beaverbrook Town House
This vibrant luxury hotel near Sloane Square is full of fun and inspired by London's theatres. Travellers who are connoisseurs of the arts won't have to search long for a good place to stay in London. The five-star hideaway Beaverbrook Town House, housed in two Georgian townhouses, will enchant them with its charm. It is one of the newcomers on the London hotel scene as the hotel opened in 2021. The rooms have a warm and slightly quirky ambiance to match the overall theatrical mood. The hotel has a Japanese restaurant, Fuji Grill, and a gorgeous Sir Frank's Bar decorated with an art collection.
What's notable
Bamford bathroom amenities, complimentary minibar, and partnership with KXU gym.
Price range - $$$$.
Shoreditch
One of London's trendiest neighbourhoods for a tourist to stay in, Shoreditch is attractive for its vibrant nightlife and bustling art scene. A stay here will allow you to enjoy street art, bars and restaurants with cuisine from around the world and vibrant nightclubs. The subway will take you to major tourist attractions within minutes. This is a great choice for those looking for a busy vacation and want to enjoy the local atmosphere by visiting the Columbia Road Flower Market and Broadway Market.
Mondrian Shoreditch
This hotel with a rooftop pool has an understated air of luxury, much like its surroundings. It would suit travellers looking for a less touristy accommodation option. Rooms are chic, with an understated modern design, and many have views of the cityscape. There are several restaurants, such as Christina's, an all-day cafe and a cocktail bar, and Marlin's On The Roof, a glitzy Hollywood-inspired restaurant and a bar with a rooftop pool. Some of London's most luxurious establishments, such as Brat and Dishoom, are just around the corner.
What's notable
Spa treatments,a pool and a 24-hour gym with Peloton bikes.
Price range is $$$$.
Nobu Hotel London Shoreditch
One of two Nobu hotels in London, it has an understated industrial design that will appeal to guests who prefer modern minimalism. It has 164 rooms and suites with sophisticated and elegant decor, creating an environment that is both tranquil and comfortable. The lively centre of the hotel is naturally the Nobu restaurant, but in addition to it, there is a cocktail bar and a fitness centre. The restaurant has an outdoor terrace from which you can enjoy views over London before taking a stroll around the neighbourhood, which is filled with interesting local cafes, trendy eateries and bars.
What's notable
In-room spa, 24-hour fitness centre, Japanese tea service and Natura Bissé bath amenities.
Price range is $$$$.
Notting Hill neighbourhood
Among the neighbourhoods to stay in during a trip to London, Notting Hill is worth considering for travellers who want to avoid typical tourist areas. It attracts the flamboyant atmosphere of fans of visiting art galleries rather than mass entertainment, and is filled with an abundance of local restaurants and boutiques. Hotels here tend to be smaller and more secluded, which is great for young couples and individual travellers.
The Portobello Hotel
Notting Hill's bohemian charm is epitomized by the Portobello Hotel, which offers a rock 'n' roll vibe and unique accommodation. It is located on a quiet green street and features two neoclassical mansions. The hotel has 21 rooms with original and dramatic aesthetics: for example, in one of them, you can find a round bed and a vintage Victorian bathroom. You can have breakfast on the first floor or order room service and spend the evening in the cosy lounge in the lobby. This is a good option for where to stay in London for sightseeing and local culture.
What's notable
Exclusive spa package at Cloud Twelve Wellness Spa, Green & Spring bath products, and Honesty Bar overlooking a private garden.
Price range is $$$.
The Lost Poet
A tiny boutique hotel in a Victorian townhouse on Portobello Road will make its guests feel at home even when travelling far away. It has only 4 rooms, but each boasts unique decor in signature colours and antique furnishings. This is a place for an intimate stay. If you're travelling with a large group, you can rent the whole hotel. It's also a good choice for couples. For an even more intimate stay, you can stay in the Muse, a suite with two levels, a private bath, and a rooftop terrace. The hotel doesn't have its own restaurant, but you'll find everything from local eateries to Michelin-starred restaurants outside its doorstep. Notting Hill Arts Club, the Serpentine Gallery of Modern Art, the green fields of Kensington Gardens, and Hyde Park are all nearby.
What's notable
Self check-in, keyless access, complimentary breakfast, and Nespresso coffee machines.
Price range is $$.
The bottom line
Whether you're travelling to London on your own, as a couple, or with a group of friends or family, you'll be able to find plenty of good places to stay. Central areas like Marylebone and Covent Garden are great for first-time visitors or families. Notting Hill and Shoreditch will provide visitors with a local atmosphere off the beaten tourist track. To get a taste of the ambition and grandeur of this ancient city, stay in its historic, world-renowned luxury hotels, such as The Dorchester. And for a more casual setting, choose a boutique hotel like Beaverbrook Town House for a homely atmosphere.
What to know before travelling
London is a pedestrian-friendly city. It is easy to get around without vehicles, strolling through its many parks and green spaces. Transport For London's public transportation system is well developed, with buses, trains and subways to get you wherever you need to go. Take care of comfortable shoes and, of course, don't forget an umbrella.
You can admire the magnificent panorama of the city for free. Book a free ticket to the Sky Garden on its official website and enjoy a breathtaking 360-degree view from the 43rd floor of the Walkie-Talkie.
You can also save money on tickets to London's museums. The British Museum, Tate, Natural History Museum and National Gallery are all free, excluding special exhibitions.
How hotels were chosen
In order to suggest good hotels in different areas of London, several criteria were considered: reputation, hotel history and design, location, room and hotel amenities, and general ambience. An added advantage was the variety of dining options, unique services such as spas, pools and rooftop restaurants. Recent traveller reviews on topical resources also formed an important part of the evaluation.
