Best Places To Stay In London In 2023 – Area Guide + Map | Anywhere We Roam
From regal boulevards to gritty neighbourhoods, elegant shopping to vibrant nightlife, discover the best places to stay in London to experience the capital in all its glory.
Planning a trip to the capital can be an exhilarating experience, but with so many neighbourhoods to choose from, finding the best place to stay in London can be a daunting task.
From the iconic landmarks of Westminster to the trendy streets of Shoreditch, each area has its own distinct charm and offers a different experience.
Whether you’re looking for world-class museums or historical sites; the city’s most happening food scene or the latest fashion trends, London has something for everyone.
Our guide will help you decide where to stay in London to get the most out of one of the world’s greatest cities.
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IN THIS GUIDE
WHERE TO STAY IN LONDON
MAP | LONDON NEIGHBOURHOODS & WHERE TO STAY
The map below splits London into nine different areas. We have recommended three or four different places to stay in each area. The first hotel listed is towards the budget end, the second is mid-market, and the last is a premium or luxury property.
How to use this map / Click on the top left of the map to display the list of locations, then click on the locations to display further information. Click on the top right corner of the map to open a larger version in a new tab or the star to save to your Google Maps.
1 – WESTMINSTER
Best place to stay for a royal experience in the heart of London.
Located in the heart of the city, Westminster is the royal and political core of the capital. Experience the history and grandeur of Britain in this very walkable region, nestled along the northern bank of the River Thames.
Westminster is renowned for its famous landmarks including Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey, where coronations and royal weddings have taken place for centuries.
The Churchill War Rooms is an underground bunker that once housed the British government during World War II and Horse Guards Parade is the ceremonial stomping ground where the Trooping of the Colour takes place.
HIGHLIGHTS OF WESTMINSTER
In a nutshell — Westminster has the important London landmarks and a wide range of accommodation including the odd, good value hotel.
BOUTIQUE HOTEL
THE GUARDSMAN
Only opened in October 2020, staying at this boutique hotel feels like you are part of a well-kept secret. More private members club than London hotel, it oozes sophistication on the edge of St James’s Park.
GRAND TRADITION
THE GORING
A grand hotel that feels like a stately home. The Goring has an elegant style with a large private garden, smartly decked doormen and a Michelin-star restaurant.
2 – SOHO & THE WEST END
Where to stay in London for nightlife, theatre, and restaurants.
Soho and The West End are two of London’s most dynamic and exciting neighbourhoods, known for their vibrant entertainment and cultural diversity.
Soho is an urban district with narrow streets that are bursting with energy day and night. Enjoy independent theatres, live music venues, art galleries as well as some of London’s best bars, pubs, and clubs.
The food scene in Soho is continually evolving with restaurants by celebrity chefs through to local, trendy street food markets. Regent Street and Oxford Street form the retail centre of the capital.
Adjacent to Soho, The West End is London’s theatre district. See world-class productions in iconic theatres staging everything from musicals to plays and ballet performances.
HIGHLIGHTS OF SOHO & THE WEST END
- Catch a legendary West End show or an indie performance in Soho.
- Visit the National Portrait Gallery – our favourite free gallery in London (currently closed for renovations).
- Eat Dim Sum in bustling Chinatown.
In a nutshell — Soho and The West End is a very busy part of London. It’s a great place to stay to be in the centre of it all, but if you are looking for peace and quiet, this is probably not the area of London you are looking for.
GOOD VALUE
THE Z HOTEL STRAND
It’s not easy to find decent-value London hotels near the West End, but Z Hotels have a few with the pick being on The Strand.
OLD WORLD CHARM
HAZLITT’S
In the heart of Soho, I’ve walked past this hotel many times and never known it was there. Oozing old-world charm across four Georgian townhouses, it has a wood-paneled library, leather-bound books, and antique furniture.
QUIRY BOUTIQUE HOTEL
L’OSCAR LONDON
On the northeastern corner of Covent Garden, this exquisitely designed boutique hotel is opulently decorated with purple pouffes and black walls trimmed with gold. It’s somewhere between 1920s glam and Studio 54.
3 – MAYFAIR
Best place to stay in London for grand hotels and elegant luxury.
Mayfair is a refined neighbourhood known for its upscale atmosphere, exclusive boutiques, and opulent Georgian architecture.
Located beside Soho, leafy streets and grand squares exude a timeless charm. Mount Street is one of the world’s most luxurious shopping destinations, flanked by the iconic Connaught Hotel on one side and the Grosvenor House Hotel on the other.
The neoclassical Burlington Arcade is considered the precursor to modern shopping malls and Ritz London is one of the most elegant addresses in town.
Mayfair is also the heart of fine dining in London with a whopping 16 Michelin-starred restaurants. Sketch Lecture Room & Library has 3 stars, La Gavroche has two and the cool Hakkasan Mayfair has one.
HIGHLIGHTS OF MAYFAIR
- Shop in exclusive boutiques and high-end fashion houses on New Bond Street.
- Enjoy a traditional afternoon tea at The Beaumont.
- Relax in Mayfair’s green spaces including Grosvenor Square or Brown Hart Gardens.
In a nutshell — Mayfair hotels are not cheap, but it’s a great place to stay in London to be surrounded by grandeur.
RARE APARTMENT
9 HERTFORD STREET
A complete apartment in the heart of Mayfair. It sleeps up to 4 people, using fold-out beds in the living room. It’s a great place to stay in London for families with young kids.
ST JAMES BOLTHOLE
THE STAFFORD
Opened in 1912 and with a premium address in St James, the Stafford has maintained its elegant grandeur for over a century. It’s great restaurant and stylish art-deco bar are a stone’s throw from Green Park.
GLAMOROUS OPULENCE
CLARIDGE’S
One of the most famous and glamorous hotels in London, Claridge’s is still serving kings and queens, prime ministers and presidents, plus A-list celebrities. It’s not cheap but it might be that once-in-a-lifetime treat you’ve been waiting for.
4 – MARYLEBONE, FITZROVIA & BLOOMSBURY
Best place to stay in London for a neighbourhood feel in a central location.
Marylebone and Bloomsbury are two neighbourhoods in central London that are steeped in history, intellectual heritage, and timeless charm. Situated in the West End, you’ll find cultural landmarks, picturesque streets, and a vibrant atmosphere.
Marylebone has a refined character and village-like vibe with boutiques and independent shops filling Georgian townhouses along Marylebone High Street. The area includes the renowned Wallace Collection, a private art collection open to the public.
Bloomsbury has a rich literary history. Russell Square and Bedford Square were once home to famous literary heavyweights, Virginia Woolf and E.M. Forster. Today, get a taste for the country’s written works at the British Library.
Nearby, the British Museum has a vast collection of art and artifacts from around the world.
HIGHLIGHTS OF MARYLEBONE & BLOOMSBURY
- Take a guided walking tour of the British Museum to explore one of the oldest museums in the world.
- Shop at the iconic Selfridges Department store.
- Experience the village-like charm of Marylebone at Opso – a fantastic Greek restaurant.
In a nutshell — The streets of Marylebone, Fitzrovia, and Bloomsbury feel like a local neighbourhood while only a 15 to 20 minutes walk from many of the best sights in London.
GOOD VALUE
MARYLEBONE INN
It’s not easy to find decent-value London hotels in Marylebone, but the Marylebone Inn ticks most boxes. It’s just a few minutes’ walk from Baker Street tube station.
NY ICON IN LONDON
THE STANDARD LONDON
The Standard Hotel has been an icon in the meatpacking district of Manhattan for over a decade. In 2019 it brought its cool interiors to London, conveniently located near Kings Cross Station where the Eurostar arrives from Paris.
PRESTIGIOUS LUXURY
THE LANGHAM LONDON
Just off Regents Street, The Langham has provided world-class service for 150 years. It’s old school style with black and white marble floors and pillars decked with flowers. Don’t miss the cocktails at the Artesian Bar.
5 – SOUTHBANK & BOROUGH
Best place to stay in London for riverside vibes and gastronomic delights.
Southbank and Borough are two vibrant neighbourhoods along the southern bank of the River Thames. Both offer a blend of cultural experiences, river views, and some of the best food in London.
Southbank is famous for cultural institutions, including the Tate Modern, showcasing contemporary art, and the modernist Southbank Centre, hosting a variety of performances and exhibitions. Take a stroll along the Thames Path, enjoying views of landmarks such as the London Eye and the Tower Bridge.
Borough, just a stone’s throw away, is a culturally diverse inner-London hub. Explore the bustling Borough Market, savouring delicious street food or indulging in artisanal products.
HIGHLIGHTS OF SOUTHBANK & BOROUGH
- See a world-class performance at the National Theatre.
- Stroll the South Bank perusing the South Bank Book Market with views over to St Paul.
- Stock up on produce at Borough Market.
- Admire the incredible collection of street art at Leake Street Arches.
In a nutshell — The Southbank has a great range of hotels at various price points and walking over the bridges spanning the Thames is a great way to get to the top London sights.
GOOD VALUE
THE MAD HATTER HOTEL
A good value hotel in Southwark with a hearty breakfast and decent-sized rooms. It’s just back from the South Bank and near the National Theatre and Tate Modern.
WHY NOT NAUTICAL
SEA CONTAINERS LONDON
Set right on the South Bank of the Thames, this hotel has one of the best locations in the city. The design is all things nautical, and the décor feels like you may be on a grand liner.
BREATHTAKING VIEWS
SHANGRI-LA THE SHARD
Occupying levels 34-52 of the Shard, this 5-star hotel has unparalleled views of the city, uniquely designed guest rooms and the highest bar in London.
6 – CLERKENWELL & THE CITY
Where to stay in London for hipster scenes amongst modern skyscrapers.
Clerkenwell and The City, are two distinct neighbourhoods that showcase London’s rich history, architectural beauty, and bustling financial centre. It’s the best place to stay in London for a captivating blend of old-world charm and modern sophistication.
Clerkenwell, with its cobbled streets and historic buildings, is known for its creative vibe, design studios, artisanal shops, and hip restaurants. Explore the fascinating Clerkenwell Green and nearby, the iconic St. Paul’s Cathedral, a masterpiece of English architecture.
The City – London’s financial district – gleams with modern architectural like the Gherkin and the Leadenhall Building. Explore Leadenhall Market, a beautiful covered market dating back to the 14th century and immerse yourself in the grandeur of the Bank of England.
HIGHLIGHTS OF CLERKENWELL & THE CITY
- Climb to the Whispering Gallery in St Paul’s Cathedral, the circular walkway which hugs the base of the dome.
- Get the best views over London from the Sky Garden– London’s highest public garden.
- Take a guided tour of the Tower of London to see the Crown Jewels.
In a nutshell — The city might not be the obvious choice to stay in London as a visitor, but the new Elizabeth Line can whisk you into the West End and Mayfair in 5 minutes.
BOUTIQUE HOTEL
THE ROOKERY
A warren of dark and moody rooms, this atmospheric London boutique hotel is right next to the bars and restaurants of Farringdon and only a short walk from St Pauls.
ECCENTRIC TOWNHOUSE
THE ZETTER TOWNHOUSE
Perched overlooking a cobbled square in Clerkenwell, this wonderfully quirky Georgian townhouse is packed with all sorts of Victorian curios. There’s not a surface without some strange object on it.
1920’S CLASSIC
THE NED
A spectacular hotel, located in the former Midlands Bank HQ, packed with intriguing architectural designs. Its ten restaurants and bars make it hard to leave.
7 – SHOREDITCH & EAST LONDON
Best place to stay in London for edgy-cool and cultural energy.
Shoreditch and East London is a dynamic corner of the city, bursting with creativity, street art, and a thriving cultural scene. Nestled in the eastern part of London, these enigmatic neighbourhoods have undergone a remarkable transformation.
Shoreditch is renowned for its street art, cool galleries, and independent shop. Brick Lane, a vibrant street with vintage shops, curry houses, and market stalls. The surrounding streets are full of hip bars, live music venues, and clubs.
In East London, discover the multicultural neighbourhood of Spitalfields, where history blends with contemporary trends. Visit the Old Truman Brewery, a hub of creativity hosting exhibitions, markets, and pop-up events.
HIGHLIGHTS OF SHOREDITCH & EAST LONDON
- Stroll the Columbia Road Flower Market on Sundays to grab some flowers and peruse the independent shops.
- Take a fascinating Street Art Tour, learning about the movement and discovering the best Banksys.
- Have a cocktail in the super cool Discount Suit Company.
In a nutshell — The East End is not very central for seeing the main sights, but for an artsy and urban destination in London, it’s hard to beat.
GOOD VALUE
THE Z HOTEL SHOREDITCH
It’s not easy to find decent-value London hotels near Shoreditch, but the Z hotel has good clean rooms just a short walk from Hoxton Square.
HIPSTER HOTEL
CITIZENM SHOREDITCH
This East London hotel marries stylish designer furniture with modern artworks and a trendy vibe. A great hipster outpost in the heart of Shoreditch.
PLUSH PERIOD TOWNHOUSE
BATTY LANGLEYS 360
This Georgian terraced house on a cobbled street in Spitalfields is set under the glass and steel of the city. Inside its gloriously plush with crushed velvet, wood-panelled walls, and rows of old books.
8 – PADDINGTON & NOTTING HILL
Where to stay in London for budget hotels and an eclectic local neighbourhood.
Paddington and Notting Hill are two picturesque neighbourhoods in West London with historic architecture and charming tree-lined streets.
Paddington is known for its Victorian architecture and canal views. Explore streets lined with colourful townhouses centred around Paddington Basin and Little Venice.
Notting Hill is famous for its vibrant energy and contributions to pop culture. Immerse yourself in Portobello Road Market, where you can browse antiques, vintage clothing, and street food stalls.
Stroll through the leafy streets admiring the beautiful pastel-coloured houses that have become an iconic backdrop for films and photography.
The inner west has excellent dining options especially in the morning, with brunch in Notting Hill the perfect way to kick start a day of sightseeing.
HIGHLIGHTS OF PADDINGTON & NOTTING HILL
- Walk along the canals in Paddington, stopping off at local pubs in Little Venice.
- Shop for antiques and vintage collectables on the Portobello Road Market.
- Photograph the colourful houses in Lancaster Road, Notting Hill’s most colourful street.
In a nutshell — There are lots of cheapish hotels wedged between Paddington and Notting Hill making it a great place to stay in London for finding a bargain.
STYLISH MODERN ROOMS
THE HAYDEN
A cool pub with well-priced rooms just a few minutes’ walk from Hyde Park & the boutiques of Westbourne Grove.
BOUTIQUE HOTEL
THE LASLETT
A wonderful stylish boutique hotel in a Grade II listed white-fronted Victorian Townhouse near the trendy cafes of Hillgate and the antiques of Portobello Market.
9 – SOUTH KENSINGTON & CHELSEA
Best place to stay in London for grand museums and stylish living.
South Kensington and Chelsea are two of London’s most prestigious neighbourhoods. Located in the inner west, south of Hyde Park, they are known for their grand white pillared architecture, world-class museums, and refined atmosphere.
South Kensington is home to an impressive array of museums. Marvel at the treasures of the Victoria and Albert Museum or delve into the scientific wonders of the Natural History Museum. Stroll through the picturesque Kensington Gardens, stopping off at the palace on the way to the Royal Albert Hall.
Chelsea offers high-end boutiques, stylish accommodation, and a vibrant arts scene. Visit the iconic King’s Road, then soak up the exclusive ambiance of Sloane Square, known for luxury shopping and fine dining.
HIGHLIGHTS OF SOUTH KENSINGTON & CHELSEA
- See art and design from the past 3,00 years at the Victoria & Albert Museum.
- See a show or take a guided tour of the Royal Albert Hall.
- Pick up some tasty morsels at the Harrods Food Hall.
In a nutshell — On the edge of central London, Chelsea retains its upmarket village feel. It’s a great place to stay for independent shopping, lazy lunches, and mews pubs.
10 – LONDON AIRPORTS
London airports have great facilities and some very good accommodation options if you’re flying early or late and need somewhere to stay.
HEATHROW AIRPORT
Heathrow Airport is 16 miles west of central London. Trains from Heathrow arrive at Paddington Station. The Heathrow Express takes 15 minutes, runs every 15 minutes and costs around £37 for a return ticket or £25 for a single. The Elizabeth Line – a new underground line – takes 30 minutes and costs £12.80 each way.
HEATHROW
COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT
This new property is just 3 kilometres from the terminal building with stylish rooms and all the facilities you need for a stopover. Some rooms overlook the runway.
GATWICK AIRPORT
Gatwick Airport is 28 miles south of the city centre. Trains from Gatwick arrive at Victoria Station. The Gatwick Express takes 30 minutes and costs around £38 for a return and £19 for a single, although discounts are possible if you book online.
STANSTED AIRPORT
Stansted Airport is 40 miles north of London. The Stansted Express arrives at Liverpool Street Station in the City. Journey time is 50 minutes, and it costs around £16.50 for a single or £30 for a return.
STANSTED
HAMPTON BY HILTON
The Hampton by Hilton is a 5-minute walk from the Stansted terminal near the train station making it very easy to get into central London.
LUTON AIRPORT
Luton Airport is around 34 miles north of London. The Luton Airport Express arrives at St Pancras International Train Station in Kings Cross (near Marylebone & Fitzrovia) and takes 45 minutes. The fare is £10 for a one-way ticket or £20 for a return. The train station is a 5-minute shuttle from the airport terminal.
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