How to Spend a Perfect Week in London
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Big Ben, London
London
Historic, iconic, and always at the cutting edge – no two days in London are the same. From the boho chic of Notting Hill to Hoxton’s hipster vibe and Brixton’s multicultural delights, there’s always something new to discover. From north to south, east to west, London and the surrounding cities are waiting to be discovered with the help of our travel guide.
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Places to stay
When it comes to staying in London, it’s often the iconic city centre that springs to mind, but from the capital’s picture-postcard highlights to its leafy green (and lesser-known) suburbs, there are a wealth of regions to discover – and some incredible places to stay.
Want to immerse yourself in the city’s creative vibe? Head on over to east London to explore the hipster hangouts of Hoxton and Shoreditch. Awash with quirky coffee shops, eco-friendly eateries and more nightlife, galleries and pop ups than you can ever imagine – not to mention all manner of stylish accommodation – and you’ll find it’s a hot spot for travellers looking to experience the artsy side of life in the city.
Fancy a high-end taste of tradition? The upmarket style and five-star hotels of west London could be for you. Channel vintage chic at Portobello Market, wander Chelsea’s King’s Road for designer boutiques and elegant wine bars galore, or cosy up in Kensington’s welcoming gastropubs, including the flower-decked Churchill Arms, a local institution.
Arts and history fan? Cross over the Thames and discover the cultural mecca that is south London, from the Tate and the Globe Theatre – two of South Bank’s artsy hot spots – to Clapham’s buzzing café society and Greenwich’s historic pubs, maritime history and lush parklands.
Looking for leafy escapes and rock star style? North London’s where you’ll find it. Go wild swimming on Hampstead Heath, soak up the latest and greatest live acts in Camden, or step back in time and trace the Beatles’ footsteps at Abbey Road studio. From quirky B&Bs to luxury hotels, you’ll find plenty of accommodation options in north London, whatever your style of travel.
Things to do
Days out in London are all about variety and nailing the right mix of gallery hopping, shopping, seeing a show and a traditional pub lunch. Start the day the London way at one of the many markets to soak up a true taste of city life. Savour delicious local produce at Borough Market, snap the ultimate Instagram shot at Columbia Road Flower Market, or explore the mix of shops and restaurants that make Brixton Village Market a local favourite.
London’s staggering array of museums, theatres and galleries are a must for every culture vulture. Visit the world's oldest public museum, The British Museum to see some of ancient Egypt’s best preserved mummies, or get a taste of the modern masters at the Tate. Enjoy world-class theatre at the West End to find cheap seats to shows ranging from critically acclaimed classics to modern dance.
As one of the most fashion forward cities in the world, London takes shopping to another level. And while it's home to many famed high-street labels, real treasures can be found in independent boutiques and vintage stores. Filled with stylish pieces, homewares and art, the carefully curated Alex Eagle Studios is a favourite amongst London's fashion set. For high-end designs at a steal, rummage through the vintage stores along Notting Hill's Golborne Road.
Pints, ponds and posh shops are always high on the list of must-dos in London. You'll find all three in Hampstead Heath. A Sunday roast with all the trimmings is another tradition you can't pass up. End your night 007 style with a tipple from The Connaught Bar's martini trolley.
Where to go
Day trips from London
Venture off-the-beaten track and unlock the energy, colours and culture of Britain’s iconic cities in a way you’ve never felt before. Irresistible nightlife, inspiring live music, tasty street food and awe-inspiring landscapes await you in London and beyond. Whether you’re in town for a few days, a week or a month, find your Great Britain with our suggested itineraries.
Great British rail journeys
Jump aboard and discover the beauty of Britain on a top scenic railway journeys. Steam through Scotland, venture to a holiday resort in Cornwall or explore the beautiful Sussex countryside. It’s the perfect way to travel easily between the nation’s iconic cities and explore the stunning countryside.
Getting around
From the airport: London Heathrow the fastest way to Paddington Station in central London is via the Heathrow Express. You can also take a taxi, Uber, private transfer or a shuttle bus direct to Oxford and Cambridge.
In and around the city: there are plenty of options to get around in London – buses, rail, bike and of course the Tube, a highly effective underground train network. Or the Hop-on Hop-off bus armed with a handy London Pass.
Hire a car, use the overland train or join a tour to explore some of England’s wonderful towns like Stonehenge, Windsor Castle and Bath, Leeds Castle, Oxford, Cotswolds and Stratford-on-Avon.
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