A capital city packed full of world-class architecture and history situated within a multicultural metropolis brimming with unique experiences, London is the vacation destination of choice for an unforgettable adventure of a lifetime.
With so much on offer, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. We’ve put together this guide of the best areas to stay in London to get you started. From luxury Kensington to buzzing Covent Garden, they are all centrally located, so you’ll be right in the heart of the action and ready to adventure.
Best areas to stay on vacation
Pimlico
Located ever so slightly west of the city centre is Pimlico. Still, within easy reach of all of the must-see spots but with a more chilled neighbourhood vibe, Pimlico is a great location to get the best of both worlds. Start your day right with a proper full English breakfast from the infamous Regency café just around the corner.
When you’ve eaten the best sausage, bacon, and eggs of your life, take a short stroll down the river, hop on the tube or climb aboard a riverboat to reach all of London’s top destinations. After a long day of sightseeing, gladly wave the hustle and bustle goodbye as you relax in a quieter spot.
Westminster
Head down the river from Pimlico, and you will find yourself in the heart of London’s most iconic tourist destinations. Staying in Westminster means the likes of Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, and 10 Downing Street are on your doorstep. Sitting proudly on the bank of the Thames, you can capture those must-have photo opportunities from your bedroom window.
Bustling with people from all over the world you’ll find yourself swept up in a little bit of London magic as you walk the streets.
If you’re after a little bit more peace and quiet, have a wander to St James’s park to relax in front of Buckingham Palace. You never know, you might even get a glimpse of the Queen!
Covent Garden
If you’re in town to take in the world-renowned theatre in the city's West End then Covent Garden could be the spot for you to stay. Located just minutes from London’s most famous theatres you could be singing along to The Lion King, sobbing at Les Mis or dancing to Mamma Mia and only need to take a gentle stroll back to your hotel to rest your head for the night.
By day we recommend taking in some of Covent Garden’s open-air restaurants and cafes while watching the street performers who entertain pedestrians on the main square.
Kensington
For a taste of luxury head to Kensington, one of London’s famously extravagant neighbourhoods. Here you’ll find boutique shopping, two royal parks and some of London’s most famous museums. Take in the world’s leading museum of design, art and performance at the Victoria and Albert Museum, learn about dinosaurs and fossils at the Natural History Museum and get your green space fix with a stroll in the Kensington Gardens.
After all that exploring we highly recommend treating yourself to an afternoon tea fit for a queen at the Orangery restaurant located in the grounds of Kensington Palace.
Hammersmith
Music lovers will be at home in Hammersmith with two of the city’s most famous music venues, the Eventim Apollo and Shepherds Bush Empire, nearby. If you need a little retail therapy, this area of west London also features the ginormous Westfield shopping centre. With hundreds of shops, bars, restaurants and leisure facilities it’s a handy stop off if the great British weather is a little wetter than you’d like!
If the sun starts to shine, however, you can take a wander along the river and check out some of the cosy riverside pubs that this area has to offer.
Chelsea
A hot spot for celebrities and full of glamour, cocktail bars and the luxe life, Chelsea is your destination if you’re looking to dance the night away in the big city. Start your evening in one of the area's amazing restaurants before heading to the bars and clubs of the King’s road.
If you require fresh air and a little culture the next day, we can highly recommend a wander to nearby Hyde Park. Covering 350 acres there’s plenty of space to stroll the many paths, relax on a deckchair in the sunshine, row a boat on the lake, play a spot of tennis or, for the extra brave, an open-water swim in the Serpentine!
Battersea
For a bit more of a lesser-known spot, but still super close to the city centre, Battersea could offer what you’re looking for. Located just south of the river you can get your cultural fix with experimental theatre at Battersea Arts Centre or with an exhibition at the Pump House Gallery set within the leafy green space of Battersea Park.
For a slightly wilder adventure in the park, you can entertain the family (and/or your own inner child) by visiting the animals at the Children’s Zoo or swinging from the treetops at Go Ape.
Waterloo
Just the other side of the river from the iconic Westminster, Waterloo is the hip younger sister. Ride the London Eye for breathtaking views of the city centre before taking in the latest blockbuster on the iMax screen at the BFI or a new piece of ground-breaking drama at the National Theatre. On a summer evening, there’s nothing better than soaking up the festival atmosphere of the Southbank with its outdoor cafés, restaurants and bars overlooking the river Thames.
London is a whirlwind of new adventures waiting to be explored by you. Finding somewhere to stay in amongst its busy streets is going to be high on your vacation planning checklist.
Want our advice?
The spot we choose to rest our head at night needs to be near the action, but also feel like a retreat from the fray. Dolphin Square apartments offer just that. Located in Pimlico they’re close to the centre, but once you step through the archways, you are transported to a luxury respite. For the ultimate relaxation after a busy day sightseeing, you can chill out in our onsite spa, treat yourself to dinner in the restaurant and enjoy a comfortable bed in one of our exclusive apartments.
