Guest post by Dakota Murphey
London is a vast city made up of numerous distinct neighbourhoods that make it the diverse, interesting and vibrant destination we know and love. No matter what your interests, from food to culture, sport to history, you’ll find something to enjoy in London But knowing where to start when it comes to exploring this city can be a challenge, so we’ve put together the best neighbourhoods in London that are worth visiting so you can navigate the very best that the capital has to offer.
Marylebone
Marylebone is a rarity in that it feels like a secret hideaway nestled within such a busy destination. It’s low-key and relaxed and has elegant streets and charming passageways that are a respite from the hustle and bustle of some of London’s busier neighbourhoods. From the renowned Baker Street and the Sherlock Holmes Museum to Regent’s Park and lesser-known museums such as the Wallace Collection, it’s a neighbourhood filled with culture, beautiful landmarks and great shopping spots including luxury boutiques and chic cafes.
Stay here: Cinnamon Apartment
City of London
If you’re keen to explore London’s fascinating history, the City of London, also known as the Square Mile, is a great place to visit. In addition to some of London’s most iconic attractions, such as the Tower of London and St Paul’s Cathedral, the City of London is also home to the Museum of London and modern structures like the Gherkin and the Walkie-Talkie. It’s a thriving area of London and a hive of activity every day which makes it an exciting place to be. The City of London is also one of the best-connected areas of the capital, with buses, taxis and underground stops as well as a great cycling infrastructure.
Greenwich
One of London’s quaintest areas, set a little further out from the centre, is Greenwich. It’s where we get Greenwich Mean Time from, with its Royal Observatory, but that’s not all you’ll find here in this leafy neighbourhood. There’s also the historic Cutty Sark, the National Maritime Museum and Greenwich Park which offers beautiful views from the top of the hill.
Greenwich also has a great restaurant scene which has become popular in recent years, making it a must for keen foodies who want to sample something a little different. If you’re looking to pick up some unique gifts and souvenirs, Greenwich Market is the perfect spot — this hidden gem is ideal for crafts, antiques and collectables, as well as for seasonal events which are held here throughout the year.
Stay here: Greenwich Hall
Chelsea
Home to a world-famous football club, flower shows and countless swanky bars and clubs, Chelsea is certainly one of London’s most iconic areas and also one of its priciest. This neighbourhood is all about the glitz and glamour of the capital, but it also has beautiful attractions such as botanical gardens and beautiful embankments, as well as traces of its history studded in its streets and buildings in the form of Blue Plaques.
Chelsea is also home to the renowned Saatchi Gallery and the Cadogan Hall concert venue which is home to the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. A well-heeled area of London, Chelsea has numerous pretty squares lined by multi-million-pound homes and, of course, it also has Stamford Bridge which sports fanatics will know as the home of Chelsea Football Club.
Stay here: Juniper Apartment
Notting Hill
Notting Hill is a beautiful area of London and one of its most popular neighbourhoods, thanks to its eponymous film. The pastel-coloured buildings, cute cafes and fashionable streets make it one of the most photogenic areas of London, but Notting Hill is also transformed into one of the busiest and most vibrant when the Notting Hill carnival rolls around. Portobello Road is one of the best-known areas for shopping, lined with vintage shops and markets where you can pick up a bargain or a one-of-a-kind antique, while the Electric Cinema is a beautiful spot to catch a film.
Stay here: Apartment Orsett
Shoreditch
If you’re looking for the coolest area of London, few neighbourhoods can match Shoreditch. This neighbourhood is located in the East End of the city and is relatively central, with easy access to the boroughs of Hackney and Tower Hamlets. Once an area of London to avoid, Shoreditch is now filled with hip bars and restaurants, chic cafes and inspiring street art.
A great place to stay in London if you’re looking for a contemporary lifestyle, Shoreditch is also home to great nightlife and vintage shops, with an effortless cool factor and plenty to explore to keep you occupied during your visit. There are also brilliant cycle routes in this area, so it’s ideal for a guided bike tour where you can take in the sights on two wheels.
West End
The West End of London is an area made up of several neighbourhoods, but it’s a must-see if you’re visiting the capital. From Covent Garden and Bloomsbury to Soho and Chinatown, the West End encompasses several of London’s most renowned areas and attractions. Here, you can visit Piccadilly Circus, Buckingham Palace and Westminster Abbey, as well as iconic museums and galleries, all within walking distance of one another.
The West End is also great for theatre and culture buffs, with a packed calendar of shows and events to explore. Shoppers can wander the world-famous Oxford and Regent Streets, while Covent Garden is home to charming boutiques and market stalls, and Soho is perfect for picking up speciality items at independent stores.
Stay here: Apartment Peyton
Few cities can compete with the diverse mix of cultures, attractions, landmarks and events that London has to offer, and wandering through its many neighbourhoods is the perfect way to experience this diversity for yourself. Whether you want to dive into the London food scene, pick up vintage wares or delve into the cultural side of the city, these neighbourhoods all have their own distinct character, charm, and personality.
From the bustling West End to trendy Shoreditch, the historic City of London to leafy Greenwich, the city offers a vibrant patchwork of areas ripe for exploring. No matter your interests, budget, or desired pace of travel, there is a perfect neighbourhood in London for you. The city awaits your discovery—get out and explore!
That’s our pick of the best neighbourhoods in London. Check out all our city apartments in London or why not head a little further out of the city and stay in a cottage somewhere in the countryside? Our portfolio of homes in the UK includes cottages, farmhouses, manor houses and even castles! And, our friendly concierge team is on hand to help you make your stay as memorable as can be. Contact them now!
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