For many people, London feels like a big city that’s impossible to navigate. But with the right insider knowledge, it’s actually a compact city that’s easy to understand. In fact, there are plenty of hidden gems you might not know about if you don’t live there or spend every second of your time in the capital.
For anyone who loves everything about this historic and vibrant city, but finds it difficult to know where to stay while visiting, here is my insider guide to the best places to stay in London.
Best Places to Stay in London
Best for first-time visitors – The West End
Many people believe that The West End is London, a lively, packed and busy area. There is no question that the West End, home to Covent Garden, Piccadilly, and Leicester Square, is one of the best places in London to sightsee and shop. In addition to West End theatres, however, the West End has a lot to offer.
There is always something to do day or night in the West End of London, whether it is seeing a play, hearing music, or keeping busy. The West End is the best part of London to stay if you are visiting for the first time, of course if you want to see a play.
Best for tourists – Westminster
Many London visitors begin their visit at Westminster, where they can see sights such as Westminster Abbey, Parliament, Trafalgar Square and the National Galleries. Because of this, Westminster is a wonderful London location for tourists.
It’s a short walk to the West End in Westminster, and there are excellent public transport connections to most parts of London. Westminster is widely considered to be the best place to stay in London if you want to see the sights.
Best for tourist attractions – South Bank and London Bridge
London Bridge is an excellent starting point for exploring London because of its central location and good public transit connections. Despite London Bridge not being the first location that comes to mind when thinking about staying in Central London, it is an excellent choice.
Best for nightlife – Soho
Soho is the finest place to stay in London for nightlife, if you’re looking for a great time with your friends. Soho itself has a number of clubs and late-night bars, as well as being close to some of London’s liveliest clubs.
Soho has undergone a transformation over the last decade, turning it into one of London’s most vibrant areas. In the past, this part of central London was rather seedy. Soho still has a lot of activity, with some of London’s finest dining and drinking establishments. If you’re seeking great nightlife and you’re wondering where you should stay in London, Soho is the place to be.
Best for families – Kensington
Museum Mile really lives up to its name, since it houses three of London’s greatest museums: the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the wonderfully diverse Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A).
There are so many museums to visit for free in Kensington, making it a great place to stay if you’re travelling with children. It may be a little more expensive, but the benefits make it worthwhile. You can also easily reach the centre of London using the underground or bus.
Instead of visiting museums, try living like a local and taking a leisurely alfresco coffee in the summer before enjoying a gourmet meal at a high-end restaurant.
Best for the local experience – Shoreditch
If you want to experience East London like a local, then Shoreditch is one of the finest areas to stay in London. In reality, Shoreditch is one of the finest locations in London, period. Although there are luxurious hotels and trendy pubs, many Londoners reside, sleep, and play there as well.
If you want to venture beyond the glitzy London we all know, Shoreditch is the place to stay. This East London district is home to a variety of down-to-earth bars, cool cafes, pop-up eateries, and other activities.
With so many luxury hotel openings over the last few years, Shoreditch is now awash with accommodation options. Whether you’re a tourist or a local, Shoreditch is the place to stay in London if you want to experience the authentic local scene.
Best for the luxury clientele – Belgravia, Mayfair and Victoria
In London, Mayfair, Belgravia, and Victoria are three adjacent neighbourhoods. However, for tourists, they are known for their affluent residents and outstanding addresses. Although Buckingham Palace is one the main tourists attractions, there is a large variation of things to see in this wealthy area.
Mayfair is named after the May Fair that used to be located there until the 18th, but its fairground days are long behind it. Some of London’s finest hotels and most exclusive restaurants are located here, as are the high-end shops and restaurants.
It’s not the smartest place to stay in London if you’re on a budget, but this area certainly has a lot to offer if you’re looking for luxury.
Best for combination of activities and lower prices – Marylebone
Despite being close to West End hotspots, Marylebone is a laid-back part of London. It is one of the best places to stay in London because there is so much to see and the prices are lower.
Since the 17th century, Marylebone has been London’s social scene hub, home to offbeat museums, trendy restaurants, and traditional pubs.
Marleybone may not be the place to stay in London on a budget, but it provides so many chic and quirky experiences that it makes for the ideal spot to stay for a distinctive, luxurious experience in the city. Paddington is just down the road and has a few nice hotels and is a cheaper area to stay.
Best value – Shepherd’s Bush
London’s top location is also its biggest bargain, thanks to its decent proximity to the city’s main tourist’s spots and its Tube access. However, its more residential atmosphere makes it less pricey, making it perfect for those seeking for a cheaper place to stay in London.
In addition to being a terrific place to dine and shop, Shepherd’s Bush is a fantastic location to stay in London with children, since it has a calm and residential feel.
It may not be the ideal location if you are staying in London for the first time but if you’re on a budget, but this is a great option.
