Table Of Contents

Why Visit London?

London is one of those cities that means something different to everyone. For some, it’s history and royalty. For others, it’s food markets, pubs, neighbourhood walks, and world-class museums. Having lived in London for years, what I’ve learned is this: London rewards travellers who understand how the city actually works.

It’s a huge, fast-moving city made up of dozens of distinct areas, each with its own personality. Done well, London feels exciting, walkable, and endlessly interesting. Done badly, it can feel expensive, crowded, and overwhelming. The difference comes down to planning — knowing where to base yourself, what’s worth booking in advance, and where to slow down and explore.

This London Travel Guide is written from a local perspective, with the aim of helping you experience the city confidently rather than trying to see everything. You don’t need to rush from landmark to landmark to enjoy London. In fact, some of the best moments come from wandering neighbourhood streets, spending time in a proper pub, or sitting in a park watching the city go by.

What This London Travel Guide Covers

This guide is designed to be comprehensive, practical, and genuinely useful. Inside, you’ll find:

• Where to stay in London, broken down by area
• The best tours and experiences worth paying for
• What to see and do, including iconic attractions and free museums
• Local restaurant recommendations, pubs, and food markets
• How to get around London easily and affordably
• The best day trips from London by train

Everything here is based on real experience of living in and exploring London regularly — not a rushed visit or generic checklist. Whether this is your first trip or a return visit, this guide will help you plan a London itinerary that actually works.

Where to Stay in London (Best Areas Explained by a Local)

Choosing where to stay in London is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make — and it has a huge impact on how much you enjoy the city. London is vast, and staying in the wrong area can mean long journeys, wasted time, and unnecessary stress.

I live in London, and when friends or family visit for the first time, this is the advice I always give: stay as central as your budget allows, and prioritise transport connections over hotel star ratings. Below are the best areas to stay in London, explained honestly and practically.

Covent Garden & Soho

Best for first-time visitors

If it’s your first time in London, Covent Garden or Soho are hard to beat. You’re within walking distance of major attractions, theatres, restaurants, and excellent transport links. This is where London feels lively from morning until late evening.

Why stay here:

• Extremely central and walkable
• Great food, nightlife, and shopping
• Easy access to multiple Tube lines

Things to know:
Hotels here are more expensive and rooms can be smaller, but the location saves you time every single day.

South Bank

Best for sightseeing and iconic views

The South Bank runs along the River Thames and is ideal if you want to be surrounded by London’s most famous sights. It’s one of the best areas for walking, especially if you enjoy riverside views and cultural attractions.

Why stay here:

• Close to major landmarks
• Excellent walking routes
• Good transport connections

Things to know:
It can feel quieter at night compared to Soho, but that’s part of the appeal for many travellers.

Kensington

Best for museums, parks, and a calmer stay

Kensington is elegant, residential, and ideal if you want a quieter base while still staying central. It’s particularly good for families and travellers who enjoy museums and green spaces.

Why stay here:

• Close to Hyde Park and major museums
• Well connected by Tube
• Generally quieter and more spacious

Things to know:
Evenings are calm rather than lively — great if you want good sleep, less so if nightlife is a priority.

Shoreditch

Best for food, nightlife, and a creative vibe

Shoreditch is one of London’s most vibrant areas, known for street art, independent restaurants, and buzzing nightlife. It’s popular with younger travellers and repeat visitors who want something less traditional.

Why stay here:

• Excellent food scene
• Lively bars and nightlife
• Creative, modern atmosphere

Things to know:
It’s not as close to the main landmarks, but transport links are strong and the area has real character.

Greenwich

Best for a local feel and longer stays

Greenwich feels like a small town within the city. It’s historic, relaxed, and perfect if you want a slower pace while still being connected to central London.

Why stay here:

• Village-like atmosphere
• Historic sites and parks
• Good transport via train, DLR, and river boats

Things to know:
Travel time to central London is slightly longer, but many visitors feel it’s worth it for the atmosphere.

Local Tips for Choosing Accommodation in London

• Postcode matters more than neighbourhood name — always check walking distance to the nearest Tube station
• Being on a good Tube line is more important than hotel luxury

Best Hotels in London (By Recommended Area)

Choosing the right hotel in London isn’t about finding the cheapest option — it’s about finding the right location for how you want to experience the city. I live in London, and these are hotels I regularly recommend because they combine location, comfort, and value at different budget levels.

I’ve grouped them by area, with a short explanation of why you’d want to stay there, followed by specific hotel recommendations.

Covent Garden & Soho

Best for first-time visitors who want to walk everywhere

If it’s your first trip to London, this is one of the best places to stay. You’ll be close to theatres, restaurants, shopping, and major attractions — and you’ll save a huge amount of time by being able to walk almost everywhere.

More Affordable: AMANO Covent Garden

AMANO Covent Garden is a modern, stylish hotel that offers excellent value for such a central location. Rooms are compact but well designed, making it ideal if you plan to spend most of your time out exploring the city.

Why I recommend it:

• Excellent central location near Covent Garden and Soho
• Clean, modern rooms with good soundproofing
• Great option for couples or solo travellers

Good to know:
Rooms are on the smaller side, which is normal for central London — but the location more than makes up for it.

👉 Check availability & prices for AMANO Covent Garden

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Luxury: Raffles London at The OWO

For a truly special stay, Raffles London at The OWO is one of the most luxurious hotels in the city. Housed in a historic building near Whitehall, it combines heritage, impeccable service, and world-class facilities.

Why I recommend it:

• Exceptional luxury experience in a historic setting
• Spacious rooms and top-tier service
• Ideal for special occasions or once-in-a-lifetime trips

Good to know:
This is premium London luxury — prices reflect that, but the experience is outstanding.

👉 View rooms & luxury packages at Raffles London

South Bank

Best for sightseeing and riverside walks

Staying on the South Bank puts you close to some of London’s most iconic sights, with the added bonus of scenic walks along the Thames.

Park Plaza Westminster Bridge London

This is one of the most practical and reliable hotels in central London, especially for first-time visitors who want comfort, space, and an unbeatable location.

Why I recommend it:

• Steps from major landmarks
• Larger rooms than many central hotels
• On-site restaurant, bar, and leisure facilities

Good to know:
It’s a large hotel, so it can feel busy — but that’s part of the convenience.

👉 See latest deals for Park Plaza Westminster Bridge

Kensington

Best for museums, parks, and a quieter stay

Kensington is a calmer, more residential area that still offers excellent transport connections and easy access to Hyde Park and London’s major museums.

Hotel Xenia

Hotel Xenia is a refined boutique hotel offering a comfortable and elegant stay without the intensity of busier central areas.

Why I recommend it:

• Quiet location with good transport links
• Comfortable rooms and friendly service
• Ideal for couples and longer stays

Good to know:
Evenings are peaceful — great if you value rest over nightlife.

👉 Check prices for Hotel Xenia Kensington

Shoreditch

Best for nightlife, food, and a creative atmosphere

Shoreditch is vibrant, creative, and full of great food and nightlife. It’s especially popular with repeat visitors who want something more modern and less traditional.

The Hoxton Shoreditch

The Hoxton Shoreditch is stylish, social, and very well run. It’s as much about the atmosphere as it is about the rooms.

Why I recommend it:

• Excellent location for nightlife and dining
• Comfortable, well-designed rooms
• Lively lobby and bar areas

Good to know:
It’s not the quietest option — but that’s exactly why many people choose it.

👉 View rooms at The Hoxton Shoreditch

Greenwich

Best for a local feel and relaxed pace

Greenwich feels more like a village than a capital city district. It’s ideal if you want a slower pace while still being well connected to central London.

Novotel London Greenwich

Novotel London Greenwich is a solid, comfortable option offering good value and reliable standards.

Why I recommend it:

• Spacious rooms compared to central London hotels
• Good transport links via train and DLR
• Ideal for families and longer stays

Good to know:
Travel time to central London is longer, but many visitors appreciate the calmer setting.

👉 Check availability at Novotel London Greenwich

My Overall Advice on Hotels in London

If it’s your first visit, stay as central as your budget allows — Covent Garden, Soho, or the South Bank are ideal.
If you want peace and space, Kensington or Greenwich are excellent.
If nightlife and food are priorities, Shoreditch is hard to beat.

Best Tours in London (What’s Actually Worth Booking)

London has no shortage of tours — but not all of them are worth your time or money. Having lived in London for years, my general advice is simple: book tours that either save you time, give you meaningful context, or offer an experience you can’t easily do on your own.

The tours below fall firmly into that category. These are the ones I regularly recommend to visitors because they enhance a London trip rather than slow it down.

Skip-the-Line Westminster Abbey & Central London Walking Tour

Best for first-time visitors

This combined experience gives you fast-track entry to Westminster Abbey, followed by a guided walk through the heart of central London. It’s one of the most efficient ways to understand the city’s political and royal history without queueing for hours.

Why it’s worth booking:

• Skip-the-line access to Westminster Abbey
• Expert guide adds historical context you’d miss alone
• Covers key central landmarks in a short time

Good to know:
This tour works best early in your trip — it helps you orient yourself in the city.

👉 Check availability for the Westminster Abbey & Walking Tour

Tower of London & Crown Jewels Exhibition Ticket

Best for history lovers

The Tower of London is one of London’s most famous attractions, and for good reason. Booking a timed ticket ensures smooth entry and access to the Crown Jewels without unnecessary waiting.

Why it’s worth booking:

• Guaranteed access to the Crown Jewels
• Explore at your own pace
• One of London’s most historically significant sites

Good to know:
Arrive early if you want a quieter experience — it gets busy fast.

👉 Book Tower of London tickets in advance

Skip-the-Line St Paul’s Cathedral Entry

Best for architecture & views

St Paul’s Cathedral is one of London’s most striking buildings, and skip-the-line tickets make a big difference during busy periods.

Why it’s worth booking:

• Avoid long queues
• Access to the interior, crypt, and dome
• Excellent views from the top

Good to know:
There are quite a few steps — wear comfortable shoes.

👉 Check St Paul’s Cathedral ticket availability

London City Highlights Tour (Iconic Black Cab Experience)

Best for short stays & first-time visitors

If you’re short on time in London but still want to see the city properly, this private London City Highlights Tour by black cab is one of the most efficient and enjoyable ways to do it. London’s black cabs are an icon in their own right, and being shown around the city by a licensed cab driver adds a layer of local insight you simply don’t get on large group tours.

Unlike standard bus tours, this experience is flexible, personal, and designed to maximise what you see in a limited time. Your driver-guide knows London inside out — quite literally — and can navigate the city quickly while sharing stories, history, and practical local knowledge along the way.

Why it’s worth booking:

• Travel in an iconic London black cab with a professional local driver
• Private or small-group experience, not a crowded coach
• Covers major landmarks efficiently without long walking distances
• Photo stops at key sights along the route
• Perfect for first-time visitors, couples, or anyone with limited mobility

You’ll pass and stop at many of London’s most famous landmarks, often including areas like Westminster, the City of London, and historic neighbourhoods that are difficult to understand without local context. Because it’s a cab tour, your guide can also adapt the route slightly based on traffic, interests, or weather — something fixed-route tours simply can’t do.

Good to know:
This tour works best as an overview at the start of your trip, helping you understand how London fits together. It’s not designed as a deep historical deep dive, but as a smart, efficient introduction that makes the rest of your visit easier and more enjoyable.

👉 View London City Highlights black cab tour details

ABBA Voyage Experience

Best for music fans & something different

ABBA Voyage is unlike anything else in London. Using cutting-edge technology, it recreates ABBA’s iconic performances in a purpose-built arena — and it’s genuinely impressive, even if you’re not a hardcore fan.

Why it’s worth booking:

• Unique, immersive concert experience
• Optional transport makes logistics easy
• A great evening activity outside central London

Good to know:
Shows sell out regularly, especially on weekends.

👉 See ABBA Voyage ticket options

West End Theatre: The Lion King

Best for evenings & families

London’s West End theatre scene is world-class, and The Lion King is one of the most popular shows for a reason. It’s visually stunning and works well for both adults and children.

Why it’s worth booking:

• One of the best family-friendly shows in London
• Incredible costumes and staging
• Central theatre locations

Good to know:
Seats sell quickly during school holidays.

👉 Check West End tickets for The Lion King

Best London Tour for Families: Harry Potter Studio Tour

Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter

Best for families & Harry Potter fans

For families visiting London — or anyone who grew up with the films — this is one of the most popular day experiences in the UK. The Warner Bros. Studio Tour London takes you behind the scenes of the Harry Potter films, with original sets, costumes, and props.

Why it’s worth booking:

• Immersive behind-the-scenes experience
• Includes transport options from London
• Appeals to both children and adults

Good to know:
This tour sells out far in advance — booking early is essential.

👉 Book the Harry Potter Studio Tour in advance

My Local Advice on Booking Tours in London

• Book skip-the-line tickets for major attractions
• Pre-book in advanced especially during high-season
• Providers like GetYourGuide & Viator* allow you to cancel/amend bookings up to 24-hours before your activity date.

Best Museums & Art Galleries in London (Mostly Free & Worth Your Time)

One of the biggest advantages of visiting London is the quality — and accessibility — of its museums and galleries. Many of the best ones are completely free, and even as someone who lives in London, I still revisit them regularly.

The key is knowing which museums are actually worth your time and how to visit them without feeling overwhelmed. You don’t need to see everything — London’s museums are vast — but choosing a few well can add real depth to your trip.

British Museum

Best for world history & iconic artefacts

The British Museum is one of the most famous museums in the world, and it’s genuinely worth visiting — even if you only have a short amount of time. Its collection spans thousands of years and cultures, with highlights that most people recognise instantly.

Why it’s worth visiting:

• Home to the Rosetta Stone and Parthenon sculptures
• Incredible global history collection
• Free entry

Local tip:
Go early in the morning or later in the afternoon. Focus on one or two sections rather than trying to see everything.

Natural History Museum

Best for families & jaw-dropping architecture

Even if you weren’t interested in dinosaurs, the Natural History Museum would still be worth visiting for the building alone. It’s one of London’s most impressive interiors and a favourite for families.

Why it’s worth visiting:

• Iconic dinosaur skeletons
• Excellent interactive exhibits
• Free entry

Local tip:
Weekends get very busy — weekdays are much calmer if you can manage it.

Tate Modern

Best for modern & contemporary art

Housed in a former power station on the Thames, Tate Modern is one of London’s most striking art spaces. Even if modern art isn’t usually your thing, the scale and setting make it worth a visit.

Why it’s worth visiting:

• Free permanent collection
• Excellent temporary exhibitions
• Fantastic views from the viewing level

Local tip:
Combine your visit with a walk across the Millennium Bridge to St Paul’s Cathedral.

National Gallery

Best for classic European art

Located right on Trafalgar Square, the National Gallery is surprisingly approachable, even for people who don’t usually visit art museums. The collection includes many of the most famous European paintings ever created.

Why it’s worth visiting:

• Works by Van Gogh, Turner, Monet, and da Vinci
• Compact enough for a focused visit
• Free entry

Local tip:
It’s an easy stop between sightseeing — you don’t need to dedicate half a day.

Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A)

Best for design, fashion & decorative arts

The V&A is one of my personal favourites and often underrated by visitors. It focuses on design, fashion, sculpture, and decorative arts — and the variety means there’s something for almost everyone.

Why it’s worth visiting:

• Fashion, jewellery, furniture, and design collections
• Beautiful galleries and courtyard
• Free entry to permanent collections

Local tip:
The V&A is vast — pick a theme (fashion, interiors, photography) rather than trying to cover it all.

Local Advice for Visiting Museums in London

• Most major museums are free, but special exhibitions usually require tickets
• Visit early or late to avoid peak crowds
• Don’t try to do more than one or two museums in a day
• Many museums are close together — especially in South Kensington

London’s museums are best enjoyed slowly. Choose the ones that genuinely interest you, rather than trying to tick them all off.

Where to Eat in London (Local Restaurant Favourites)

London’s restaurant scene is one of the most diverse in the world, but that also makes it hard to know where to start. Rather than overwhelming you with endless options, this section focuses on restaurants I genuinely enjoy and regularly recommend.

These are places that work particularly well for visitors: they’re easy to book (mostly), centrally located, consistently good, and reasonably priced for London, especially given the quality.

Hawksmoor

Classic British cooking & iconic roast dinners

Hawksmoor is known for its excellent British meat and relaxed, no-nonsense atmosphere. It’s especially popular for its Sunday roast, which is often considered a must-try London experience.

Why go:
Top-quality meat, traditional British flavours, and a setting that feels special without being formal.

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50 Kalò di Ciro Salvo Pizzeria

Authentic Neapolitan pizza

This is a great option if you’re craving proper Italian pizza in London. The focus here is on high-quality ingredients and traditional Neapolitan techniques rather than heavy toppings.

Why go:
Light, beautifully made pizza that’s easy to enjoy even after a long day of sightseeing.

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Padella

Fresh, handmade pasta

Padella has built a reputation around simple, expertly made pasta dishes served in a relaxed setting. It’s casual, lively, and ideal for a laid-back but memorable meal.

Why go:
Short menus, outstanding pasta, and excellent value for the quality.

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Smith & Wollensky

American-style steakhouse experience

Smith & Wollensky brings a classic American steakhouse feel to London, with generous portions and a polished dining room. It’s a great option if you’re looking for something familiar done well.

Why go:
High-quality steaks, attentive service, and a comfortable, polished atmosphere.

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Mandarin Kitchen

Traditional Chinese cuisine

Mandarin Kitchen is a long-standing favourite known for consistent, high-quality Chinese cooking. It’s particularly popular for its duck dishes and traditional menu.

Why go:
Reliable, authentic flavours in a calm, unfussy setting.

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Gunpowder Soho

Modern Indian-style small plates

Gunpowder focuses on bold, spice-driven Indian flavours served as sharing dishes. It’s ideal if you want something flavourful and a bit different from classic curry houses.

Why go:
Creative dishes, central Soho location, and a menu designed for sharing.

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The Devonshire

Traditional pub food done properly

The Devonshire is a modern London pub that takes its food seriously. It’s a great place to experience British pub culture without sacrificing quality.

Why go:
Comforting food, excellent drinks, and a lively local atmosphere.

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Cloth

Seasonal British cooking

Cloth focuses on seasonal ingredients and thoughtful British cooking in a relaxed but refined space. It’s a good choice if you want something calm and considered.

Why go:
Ingredient-led dishes, understated cooking, and a quieter dining experience.

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A Local Note on Eating Out in London

• Book ahead where possible — popular spots fill up quickly
• Don’t over-schedule meals; London days are long
• Lunch can be better value than dinner at many restaurants
• Central locations are convenient, but quality exists everywhere

These restaurants are all visitor-friendly, centrally located or easy to reach, and offer excellent quality without feeling like tourist traps.

Best Food Markets in London

London’s food markets are some of the best places to eat in the city. They’re informal, varied, and ideal if you want to try multiple things without committing to a full restaurant meal. I visit these markets regularly, and they’re all great options for visitors who want quality food in a relaxed setting.

Each market below offers something slightly different, depending on your location and what kind of experience you’re looking for.

Borough Market

Classic London market with global food stalls

Borough Market is London’s most famous food market, and for good reason. The quality and variety of food on offer is excellent, ranging from street food to artisan produce and baked goods.

Why go:
Huge choice of international food, excellent ingredients, and a lively atmosphere right next to London Bridge.

Local tip:
Visit on a weekday morning or early afternoon — weekends get extremely busy.

Maltby Street Market

Smaller, more local market experience

Maltby Street Market feels much more low-key than Borough Market and is a great choice if you want a relaxed atmosphere without large crowds. It’s tucked away under railway arches and has a strong local following.

Why go:
Great street food, smaller crowds, and a more neighbourhood feel.

Local tip:
You can pair Maltby Street Market with Borough Market

Seven Dials Market

Indoor food hall in central London

Seven Dials Market is a modern indoor food hall, making it a reliable option regardless of the weather. It’s centrally located and works well if you’re sightseeing in Covent Garden.

Why go:
Consistent quality, wide range of cuisines, and comfortable indoor seating.

Local tip:
Good option for lunch between shopping or theatre plans.

Old Spitalfields Market

Food stalls mixed with shopping and events

Spitalfields combines food stalls with independent shops and regular events, making it a good place to spend a bit more time rather than just grabbing a quick bite.

Why go:
Good variety of food options plus shopping and a lively atmosphere.

Local tip:
Check what’s on — different days have different themes and markets.

Brixton Village

One of the most diverse food scenes in London

Brixton Village is less touristy and offers some of the most exciting food in the city. It’s particularly strong for Caribbean, African, and international flavours.

Why go:
Incredible variety, independent traders, and a genuinely local feel.

Local tip:
Go in the evening — the atmosphere really comes alive after work hours.

Local Advice for Visiting Food Markets

• Eat earlier than usual to avoid queues
• Share dishes so you can try more
• Most markets are cashless — card is fine
• Weekdays are calmer than weekends

Food markets are one of the easiest ways to experience London’s diversity in a short amount of time. You don’t need to visit them all — just choose the one that fits your plans and location.

Good Pubs in London (Historic & Local Favourites)

London pubs are about much more than just drinking. They’re places to slow down, take a break from sightseeing, and experience the city at its most relaxed. Some are historic, some are proudly local, and many haven’t changed much in decades — which is exactly the point.

Rather than listing “the best pubs”, these are good pubs across London that I genuinely recommend. They’re spread across central and residential areas, easy to reach, and ideal for visitors who want a proper pub experience rather than somewhere designed purely for tourists.

Central London & West End

These pubs work particularly well if you’re sightseeing and want somewhere characterful to stop for a drink.

The Harp
A small, traditional pub just off Covent Garden with an excellent beer selection and a strong local feel despite its central location.

The French House
A classic Soho pub known for its atmosphere and history. It’s not flashy, and that’s exactly why it’s worth visiting.

Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese
One of London’s most famous historic pubs, rebuilt after the Great Fire. Full of character, low ceilings, and centuries of stories.

The Blackfriar
An Art Nouveau pub with a striking interior, located just steps from the Thames and Blackfriars Bridge.

The Princess Louise
A beautifully preserved Victorian pub with ornate interiors and a traditional layout that feels increasingly rare.

Ye Olde Mitre
Tucked away down a narrow alley, this small historic pub is easy to miss — which makes finding it even more rewarding.

Jamaican Wine House
Located on one of London’s oldest sites for coffee and wine, this pub is a great stop while exploring the City of London.

North & North-West London

These pubs are slightly less central but very much worth the short journey.

The Pineapple
A friendly neighbourhood pub with a relaxed atmosphere, good beer, and a strong local crowd.

Myddleton Arms
A well-run pub with a mix of locals and visitors, offering solid drinks and a comfortable setting.

Dame Alice Owen
A traditional pub with a community feel, good ales, and a calm atmosphere away from tourist hotspots.

The Sekforde
A proper local pub that feels untouched by trends — ideal if you want something understated and authentic.

Tapping the Admiral
A small, characterful pub near Regent’s Park, popular with locals and known for its relaxed vibe.

The Spaniards Inn
One of London’s most historic pubs, located near Hampstead Heath. Great after a walk, especially on a sunny day.

Aud Shillegagh
An old-school Irish pub with live music nights and a loyal local following.

South & East London

These pubs are perfect if you’re exploring beyond central London.

The Mayflower Pub
A riverside pub with deep historical ties and excellent views over the Thames. One of the most atmospheric spots in London.

Bricklayers Arms
A welcoming local pub with a strong community feel, ideal after a walk along the river or nearby parks.

A Local Note on London Pubs

• Lunchtime and early evening are the best times to visit
• Many pubs are busiest Thursday–Friday after work
• Don’t expect table service everywhere — ordering at the bar is normal
• A quieter pub slightly off the main road is often a better experience

London pubs don’t need to be rushed. Pick one that fits where you are, settle in, and enjoy the slower side of the city.

Good Places to Drink in London (Bars, Streets & Craft Beer Spots)

London’s drinking scene goes well beyond traditional pubs. From lively food-and-drink streets to some of the best craft beer areas in the UK, there are plenty of places to enjoy a drink that feel relaxed, social, and very London.

These are areas and spots I regularly recommend to visitors who want somewhere atmospheric without the formality of cocktail bars or the chaos of nightclubs.

Exmouth Market

Casual drinking with food options

Exmouth Market is one of the easiest places in central London to settle in for an evening. It’s a pedestrian-friendly street lined with small bars and restaurants, making it ideal if you want to move between places without committing to one venue all night.

Why it works for visitors:

• Lively but not overwhelming
• Great mix of wine bars, pubs, and casual restaurants
• Easy to combine food and drinks

It’s particularly good for early evening drinks that turn into a relaxed night out.

Bermondsey Street

Stylish but low-key drinking area

Bermondsey Street sits just south of London Bridge and has become one of the city’s most pleasant areas for a drink. It’s calmer than nearby Borough Market but still full of good options.

Why it works for visitors:

• Good bars and restaurants in one walkable area
• Close to central sights but feels more local
• Easy to pair with dinner or a gallery visit

This is a great alternative if Borough Market feels too busy.

Craft Beer in London (Where to Go)

London has one of the strongest craft beer scenes in Europe, and it’s very accessible — even if you’re only visiting for a few days.

Bermondsey Beer Mile

The heart of London’s craft beer scene

The Bermondsey Beer Mile is a stretch of railway arches packed with independent breweries and taprooms. It’s informal, social, and perfect for an afternoon of brewery hopping.

Why it’s worth visiting:

• Huge variety of beers within walking distance
• Casual taproom atmosphere
• Ideal for weekends or sunny afternoons

Local tip:
Go on a Saturday afternoon and start earlier rather than later — some places close earlier than pubs.

Walthamstow breweries

A more local craft beer experience

Walthamstow has quietly become one of London’s most exciting areas for craft beer. It’s less touristy than Bermondsey and has a strong local community feel.

Special mention: Big Penny Social

Big Penny Social is a standout venue in the area — a huge, modern space combining a brewery, beer hall, and social venue.

Why it’s worth the trip:

• Wide selection of beers
• Spacious indoor and outdoor seating
• Regular events, food pop-ups, and live entertainment

It’s especially good if you’re travelling with a group or want somewhere relaxed but lively.

A Local Note on Drinking in London

• Many bars and breweries are busiest Friday evening and Saturday afternoon
• Casual drinking often starts earlier than in other cities
• Craft beer spots are very informal — standing and sharing tables is normal
• Exploring by area works better than hopping across the city

London’s drinking scene is at its best when you choose an area and take your time rather than rushing between venues.

Getting Around London (Transport Tips from a Local)

Public transport in London is extensive and generally very easy to use once you understand the basics.

Buses are a cheaper option and are frequent across Zones 1–4, but they can be slow during peak traffic, especially in central areas.

The Tube network is usually the fastest way to get around and is impressively efficient for a city of this size. There are 11 lines across the network, with the Northern, Elizabeth, Victoria, and Jubilee lines generally being the quickest and most reliable, while older lines such as the Piccadilly and Central can experience more delays.

The Tube and buses are fully contactless, with fares calculated based on distance travelled and the time and day of travel. If you’re moving around a lot, a day pass can be good value and works across both buses and the Tube. For the most up-to-date information on fares, maps, service changes, and any engineering works that might affect your journey, the best source is the official Transport for London website.

Best Day Trips from London (Easy & Worth the Time)

One of the advantages of staying in London is how easy it is to explore other parts of England. With good rail links and organised tours, you can experience historic cities, countryside villages, and world-famous landmarks without changing accommodation.

While some destinations are easy to reach independently, others are far simpler — and far more efficient — as guided day trips. These are the options I most often recommend to visitors because they maximise what you see in a single day without the stress of planning transport.

Windsor, Stonehenge & Bath Day Trip

Best for iconic landmarks in one day

This full-day tour combines three of England’s most famous sights into one well-organised itinerary: Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, and the Roman city of Bath, including the Roman Baths.

It’s an excellent option if you want to see these highlights but don’t have the time — or desire — to coordinate trains, buses, and tickets yourself.

Why it’s worth booking:

• Covers three major landmarks in a single day
• Transport and logistics handled for you
• Efficient use of limited travel time

Good to know:
It’s a long day with an early start, but you’ll see far more than you could independently in the same timeframe.

👉 View Windsor, Stonehenge & Bath day trip details

Cotswolds & Oxford Guided Day Trip

Best for countryside scenery and classic England

If you’re looking to escape the city and experience a quieter, more traditional side of England, this guided day trip to the Cotswolds and Oxford is an excellent choice.

The Cotswolds is known for its stone villages, rolling countryside, and slower pace of life, while Oxford adds history, architecture, and one of the world’s most famous universities.

Why it’s worth booking:

• Combines countryside villages with a historic city
• Scenic, relaxed contrast to London
• Ideal if Stonehenge isn’t a priority

Good to know:
This tour is more about atmosphere and scenery than ticking off famous monuments.

👉 Check availability for the Cotswolds & Oxford day trip

Local Advice on Day Trips from London

• Don’t overpack your schedule — one day trip is usually enough
• Guided tours save time for places with complex transport
• Trains work well for single destinations like Brighton or Cambridge
• Countryside trips are especially good in spring and early autumn

Day trips add variety to a London itinerary, but they work best when treated as a complement rather than a replacement for time in the city.

Final Planning Tip

If you’re short on time, focus on London itself. If you have five days or more, adding one well-chosen day trip can make your visit feel much more rounded.

Final Thoughts: Planning a London Trip That Actually Works

London is not a city you “do” in a checklist. It’s a place that rewards balance — between famous landmarks and quiet streets, busy days and slow evenings, planned highlights and unplanned discoveries. Having lived here, the biggest mistake I see visitors make is trying to pack too much into too little time.

If you base yourself well, use public transport smartly, book a few key experiences in advance, and leave space to wander, London becomes far more enjoyable. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, there’s always another neighbourhood, market, pub, or museum waiting to be explored.

This London Travel Guide is designed to help you experience the city confidently, avoid common frustrations, and focus your time on what genuinely adds value to your trip — not just what looks good on a list.

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Related Reads

• Cambridge Travel Guide
• United Kingdom Travel Guides
• European Travel Guides