If you’re visiting London anytime soon, you’ll naturally want to choose the right neighbourhood for your stay. This is because the locality you choose has a direct bearing on the quality of your stay in the city, along with how close you are to major attractions in the UK capital. So, which area should you stay in? Let’s find out more below.
For First-Timers
If you’re looking for holiday serviced apartments in London for your very first visit, look no further than Covent Garden. Here’s why:
● Covent Garden is like Rome’s Centro Storico or the Le Marais in Paris. It’s the oldest part of the city and its cultural hub in several ways.
● You’ll stay centrally with good connectivity to several places. It is also walkable and offers quick access through public transportation facilities.
● There are plenty of restaurants and interesting stores to explore here, along with the fascinating theatre circuit.
● There is the Royal Opera House here for the best shows in town, along with top eateries like The Barbary and Toklas.
● Explore the iconic Covent Garden Market easily on your trip and enjoy the vibrant buzz in this quaint neighbourhood.
For Shoppers
Shoppers will enjoy staying in the prestigious and posh neighbourhood of Mayfair. Here’s why:
● You’ll only be a short distance from Bond Street (big-name designer stores) and Regent Street and Oxford Street (relaxed shopping).
● Some of the city’s top restaurants are present here, including KOYN, Mount St. Restaurant and the Michelin-starred HUMO.
● The architectural marvels are worth viewing along with impeccably manicured gardens.
● You’ll be in the middle of central London, which makes commutes really easy.
● You can also walk to popular areas like Soho without any hassles.
For Authentic Local Experiences
If you’re more into authentic and local neighbourhood vibes, consider choosing Bankside. Part of the Southwark borough, it offers a unique experience during your time in London.
● The atmosphere on the south side of the river will wow you, particularly on the weekends, when the City of London’s businesses are closed.
● Bankside is also where you’ll discover several cultural attractions nearby, like the Tate Modern (for modern art), Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre (a reconstruction of the 1599 Elizabethan playhouse) and The Shard (the tallest building in Western Europe).
● You can explore the Borough Market, one of the most popular and oldest food markets in London.
● The Golden Hinde (replica of the ship used by Sir Francis Drake), The Clink Prison Museum and Southwark Cathedral are also present nearby.
● Walk along the River Thames with lovely views of the Millennium Bridge and St. Paul’s Cathedral.
● Stop at the Anchor Bankside (historic pub) and visit the Winchester Palace Ruins on your trip.
● Find top-tier dining options like Sollip and Trivet here, along with easily accessing the South Bank centres for street food along the river.
For Convenience and Time Maximisation
If you don’t have a lot of time on hand and want to maximise the trip, the City of London is the best place to stay in the city. Here’s why:
● You will find easy access to Heathrow Airport and most parts of the city.
● You will also be in the heart of the Financial District with several offices nearby.
● The Tower of London, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Tower Bridge and St. Dunstan in the East are all nearby.
● You will also find several fascinating markets nearby, including the Leadenhall Market, Borough Market and other markets in the Liverpool Street and Shoreditch areas.
● Other nearby attractions include the London Stone, Queenhithe Mosaic, Sky Garden and the Garden at 120.
● You can also explore The Barbican Centre with its performing arts options and unique architecture.
For Food/Dining and Nightlife
For the hippest stay in London with access to amazing food, drinks and nightlife, consider staying in Shoreditch. Here’s why:
● You can visit several markets nearby, including Brick Lane, the Spitalfields Market and the Sunday Upmarket.
● Discover some of the city’s best restaurants, including Lyle’s, The Clove Club and Brat.
● Since you’ll be in East London, there is easy access to several top neighbourhoods like Dalston and Hackney Wick.
● Some of London’s best bars are situated in Shoreditch, with an edgier atmosphere characterising the neighbourhood.
● Vibrant street art and well-known galleries are also present in the neighbourhood.
For Families
Families with children will naturally look for park access to keep the little ones engaged. That’s where staying near Hyde Park can be a good choice. Here’s why:
● You’ll be staying right in the middle of London in Zone 1.
● Green Park and Knightsbridge are both nearby, along with Buckingham Palace.
● Localities like Kensington, Belgravia and Mayfair will also be within touching distance.
● Easy access to acres of green space and playgrounds, along with other attractions within Hyde Park.
Summing It Up
Booking holiday serviced apartments in London should be done strategically, after carefully considering multiple neighbourhoods, something that becomes far easier with a complete guide on London and understanding its neighbourhoods in detail.
Families may consider the area near Hyde Park, foodies may stay in Shoreditch and those looking for convenience can consider the City of London. Shoppers will love Mayfair, while first-timers may put up in Covent Garden. Bankside is also an option for more authentic and local vibes.
Alternatively, first-timers may also consider the Westminster/Victoria stretch with its major landmarks or even South Kensington/Chelsea with the museums and architecture. Nightlife and dining lovers can also consider Soho or Fitzrovia while riverside lifestyles come alive in Southwark/South Bank. Families may also find Marylebone to be a good alternative with its calm environment. For affordable stays, Camden Town is a good choice with its markets, street food and music venues. Compare multiple neighbourhoods based on your trip preferences before finalising your decision. Here’s wishing you a great stay in London!
