Where To Stay In London (and where not to stay): First Time Visit 2025
Looking for the best places to stay in London?
If you’re wondering where to stay in London for a first-time visit then you’ve come to the right place.
Having lived near London for most of my life, I’ve stayed in some awesome (and honestly, some pretty terrible) London accommodations and I know the best areas to stay in like the back of my hand.
If this is a first-time visit to London then you’ll want to stay somewhere quite central, but you should also bear in mind that central London is one of the most expensive places to base yourself. For this reason, I’ve included a few different options to help suit every budget.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. We also earn from other affiliate programs. This means we may receive a small commission on products purchased through our links at no extra cost to you.
Whichever option you choose, be sure to book in advance. London is a popular destination, and hotels can fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist season. By booking early, you’ll be more likely to get the accommodation that you want.
If you only have a few days in London then you’ll want to stay central so you’re close to all the major attractions – just bear in mind it will be a little more expensive. If you’re on a budget we’ve included some great options below.
Quick Menu For Where To Stay In London
The best areas to stay in London
- The West End – Where to stay in London first time
- Westminster – The best area to stay in London for tourists
- Notting Hill – The best area to stay in London for couples
- Kensington – The best area of London to stay in for families
- Soho – Where to stay in London for nightlife
- Shoreditch – The best area in London for local life
- Mayfair – Best for a luxury stay in London
- Camden – Where to stay in London on a budget
Where should I avoid staying in London?
The Best Areas To Stay In London
The great thing about London is that there is an area to stay for every need. Whether you want luxury or budget, romance or nightlife, culture or great food, you’ll find it in the UK’s capital.
There are also a whole host of different types of accommodation in London. You can stay in a posh hotel, live like a local in a rooftop apartment, or even find something a little more quirky. London really does have it all.
We’ve narrowed down the best areas to stay in London for different needs and activities, and found the best places to meet a range of budgets and requirements.
The West End – Where to stay in London first time
The West End is an umbrella term for some of the central boroughs of London such as Covent Garden, Leicester Square, and Oxford Street.
It’s famously the area where you’ll find lots of London theatres and shows and is a great place to stay if you’re looking for a central location that is still vibrant and full of entertainment.
While it can be expensive, there are plenty of free sightseeing opportunities and shows to enjoy. You can also find some of the best shopping in the city here, as well as a wide variety of restaurants, to suit any taste.
Whether you’re looking to explore the city or just relax in a central location, the West End is a great choice for first-time visitors to London. Because you can reach everywhere so easily from the West End, we’ve included some nearby highlights to enjoy during your stay.
Highlights include
- Buckingham Palace – the official London residence of the British monarch. Get here for the changing of the guards!
- The Tower of London – a historic castle well worth visiting on the north bank of the River Thames.
- Trafalgar Square – a public square in the City of Westminster, central London, known for Nelson’s Column statue and the abundance of pigeons!
- Covent Garden – a district in London known for its shopping, theater, and street performers.
- Oxford Street – a major shopping road in Central London, running from Marble Arch to Tottenham Court Road. You’ll find every type of shop here, from high-end fashion to cheap and cheerful.
Accommodation In The West End
The Savoy
The Savoy is famous around the world and is one of the best hotels in London with a view.
It has been visited by the likes of Sir Winston Churchill, Frank Sinatra, and Katherine Hepburn, so you’re in great company here!
The rooms are exquisite and you can expect only the very best of everything when you stay here.
The Savoy is in the ideal location for anyone visiting London for the first time. It’s just 5 minutes from Covent Garden and close to the upmarket shopping districts of Mayfair and Knightbridge
The Piccadilly London – Leicester Square
In the heart of London’s Theatreland, The Piccadilly London West End is just 350 yards from Leicester Square. This is a 5-star hotel with all the dressings, including a fitness center, boutique bedrooms, luxury bathrooms, and even fluffy bathrobes!
The best thing about this hotel, though, is the location. You’ll be just 5 minutes from Piccadilly circus and among a variety of theatres, cinemas, restaurants, and bars. It’s the perfect place to stay for a first visit to London.
✅ You can find out prices and availability here
Radisson Blu Edwardian – Covent Garden
In the centre of London and perfect for exploring London straight from your doorstep, the Radisson Blu in Covent Garden has all the luxuries you could possibly desire.
There are some lovely London-themed touches in the rooms, like the Smeg Union Jack fridges and the theatre-style make-up mirrors.
The on-site restaurant features a menu of Peruvian and Italian sharing plates, wine, and cocktails. Literally, everything is made fresh on-site, so you don’t need to venture far to find some of the best London cuisines.
✅ You can find out prices and availability here
Z Covent Garden
Although the centre of London is notoriously expensive, this is a bit more of a budget option but without compromising on quality. It’s perfectly situated in a central location, just behind the famous St Paul’s Church.
✅ You can find out prices and availability here
Urban Chic Apartment – Covent Gardens
If you’re hoping for a little more independence and privacy then head to this chic apartment in the West End of London. It’s just a short distance from the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, and Lyceum Theatre.
Each unit comes with a nice seating area, a flat-screen TV, a well-equipped kitchen with a dining area, and a private bathroom. It’s great for saving money on eating out, and you can use the terrace if you prefer to eat al fresco!
✅ You can find out prices and availability here
Westminster – The best area to stay in London for tourists
Westminster is one of the most central and convenient locations to stay in London as a tourist. Many of the major attractions are located within walking distance from Westminster, such as Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, and Westminster Abbey.
In addition, Westminster is well-connected to the rest of London by a comprehensive tube and bus network. This makes it easy to explore all that London has to offer, without spending a fortune on transportation.
Whether you’re interested in history, art, or simply want to enjoy the sights and sounds of one of the world’s most vibrant cities, Westminster is the perfect place to call home during your stay in London.
Highlights include
- The Palace of Westminster is a must-see for any tourist in London and is impressive from the outside
- Take a guided tour to learn more about the history of the building and its inhabitants
- Stop by Big Ben for a photo opportunity – make sure to stand in front of the Elizabeth Tower, not Parliament House!
- Visit other famous landmarks nearby, such as Buckingham Palace, Trafalgar Square, and St. Paul’s Cathedral
Where to stay in Westminster
Rochester Hotel
The Rochester Hotel by Blue Orchid is within walking distance of Buckingham Palace and Westminster Abbey, making it the perfect place to stay in London for tourists.
It’s in a peaceful location, overlooking leafy Vincent Square. Yet it’s close to the action with Victoria’s rail and Tube stations just a 10 minutes walk away.
Guests can dine at The Pavillion, a classic French restaurant serving delicious meals. Or enjoy afternoon tea in traditional English style at Lord’s Lounge Bar.
✅ You can find out prices and availability here
St. Ermin’s Hotel
This is one classy hotel. You enter through a tree-lined courtyard and are plunged into some pretty awesome interior design. The public ballroom is just one of the areas here where you can socialise, work remotely or enjoy high tea.
The hotel is next to St. James’ Park and Tube Station, in London’s Buckingham Palace area, so it’s perfect for exploring. And if you get peckish you can visit the in-house grill which serves modern European food in a relaxed atmosphere.
✅ You can find out prices and availability here
OYO Studios @ 28
This pet-friendly hotel has awesome views of the city and is central to all the main tourist hot spots. You can book some rooms that come with a small kitchenette with a kettle and microwave, so you can eat here if you’d rather save money on eating out.
✅ You can find out prices and availability here
Notting Hill – The best area to stay in London for couples
Notting Hill is the perfect destination for a romantic getaway. The area is full of attractions that are perfect for couples in love, regardless of whether you enjoyed the film or not!
Visit Portobello Road Market and Hyde Park, and if you’re lucky enough to be around for the famous Notting Hill carnival then you’re in for a real treat.
The area is also a great place for sightseeing, with its many Victorian buildings and lively atmosphere. If you are looking for a romantic getaway, Notting Hill is the perfect place to stay.
Highlights include
- Portobello Road Market – this pretty street market sells antiques, clothes, and food
- Notting Hill Gate – a busy street with restaurants, pubs, and shops
- Holland Park – a park with gardens, an open-air theater, and a children’s playground
- Kensington Palace – the former home of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert
- The Royal Albert Hall – a concert hall that hosts classical music performances
Where to stay in Notting Hill
Grand Royale London
This hotel screams old-fashioned romance from the minute you enter. Just a short walk from Notting Hill, the rooms here are varied. Some with modern features and some with a more period feel, including four poster beds and opulent furnishings.
The real highlights of this hotel are in the shared spaces, though. Guests of the Grand Royale London Hyde Park can enjoy breakfast in the elegant restaurant. And check out the Theatre Bar, which has leather armchairs and serves a range of refreshing drinks.
✅ You can find out prices and availability here
The Distillery
The Distillery in London provides adults-only accommodation on the popular Portobello Road.
The rooms here are modern and tastefully decorated with a hint of character and charm. Plus this is a must-stay hotel for gin lovers, with gin tasting on offer and a selection of gin cocktails for sale in the room mini bar.
The only thing to watch out for here is the fact that the rooms are at the top of the staircase, so you’ll have quite a way to carry your luggage!
✅ You can find out prices and availability here
Lovely Hyde Park Large Quiet Flat
Ok, the name of this place isn’t all too impressive but wait until you see it! This is a super cute flat right next to Notting Hill and the perfect place to cozy down for a romantic trip away in London.
This 2 bedroom flat has a garden, free WiFi and a fully equipped kitchen. It’s a great option for anyone wanting to save some money on eating out, or who just wants a little privacy for their stay!
We loved the decor in this place, with light and airy open spaces and a well-designed living area.
You can find out prices and availability here.
Kensington – The best area of London to stay in for families
Kensington is a great place to stay for families who want to experience all that London has to offer.
The area is home to some of the city’s most popular attractions, including Kensington Palace, the Victoria and Albert Museum, and Hyde Park. Kensington is also well-connected to the rest of London, making it easy to get around by public transport.
In addition, Kensington is also home to Kensington Palace, a royal residence that has been in use for centuries. If you’re looking for a taste of London’s royalty, past, and present, there’s no better place to start than Kensington.
And with plenty of hotels and restaurants catering to families, Kensington is the perfect place to stay for a hassle-free holiday.
Highlights include
- Explore the Science Museum. This world-renowned museum is home to countless exhibits on everything from the history of science to space exploration. You could easily spend an entire day here and still not see everything! It’s a great day out for kids too.
- Visit the Natural History Museum. From dinosaurs to minerals, the Natural History Museum has it all. This is another great option for science lovers looking to spend a day immersed in all things science.
- View the collections at the Victoria and Albert Museum. The Victoria and Albert Museum is one of the leading art and design museums in the world. From painting and sculpture to historic art artefacts.
Where to stay in Kensington
Bright 2 Bedroom Apartment
Just minutes away from the Natural History Museum, less than 0.6 miles from Victoria and Albert Museum and a 14-minute walk from Stamford Bridge – Chelsea FC, this apartment is the perfect place for families to use a base from which to explore London.
The 2 bedroom apartment has a TV, an equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and a microwave, and 2 bathrooms with a shower. Towels and bed linen are provided in the apartment.
You can find out prices and availability here.
Ennismore Mews
This is the perfect place to stay for a family or group visiting London. In a central location, Ennismore Mews is tucked away enough not to feel too busy.
It has 5 bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, and a patio with city views. It also has enough comfortable seating for a family to relax here in the evening. You can also rent bicycles through the property and explore London on two wheels!
You can find out prices and availability here.
Knightsbridge Hotel
This 5-star hotel is located in a quiet street in the heart of London and is a fantastic accommodation option for anyone visiting London.
Each room is individually decorated in a fun but tasteful style and has a luxurious bathroom with bathrobes and slippers, a flat-screen TV, and an iPod docking station.
There are family rooms available at this hotel, and kids will love the colourful features throughout!
You can find out prices and availability here.
Soho – Where to stay in London for nightlife
Soho is the perfect place to stay for nightlife, with a huge range of bars and restaurants that are open late into the night and always vibrant, interesting, and heaps of fun.
Soho used to have a bit of a bad wrap, known for London’s slightly seedier scene. While you’ll still find remnants of this if you look hard enough, Soho has become a trendy and alive part of London that’s especially popular with a younger crowd. You’ll never be bored in this area of London.
There are lots of attractions in Soho, so you can always find something to do, whether it’s day or night.
And if you’re looking for a good place to eat or drink, you’ll definitely find what you’re looking for. Whether you’re looking for a casual meal or a night out on the town, Soho is the place to be.
Highlights include
- Get lost in the narrow streets: Soho is full of narrow, winding streets that are easy to get lost in – and that’s part of the fun! Take a stroll and see where you end up; you’re sure to find some hidden gems along the way.
- Sample the international cuisine: Soho is home to many different types of restaurants, so there’s something to suit everyone’s taste. Why not try something new and sample some of the international cuisines on offer?
- Shop til you drop: Shopping is a popular pastime in Soho, with both high-end stores and more budget-friendly options available. Whether you’re looking for a new outfit or just some souvenirs, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for here.
- Catch a show: Soho is well-known for its vibrant theatre scene, so catch a show while you’re in town! There’s sure to be something playing that will suit your taste, from musicals to comedy shows.
- People watching: One of the best things to do in Soho is simply to sit back and people watch. With its busy streets and lively atmosphere, there’s always something interesting going on!
Where to stay in Soho
Ham Yard Hotel
Ham Yard Hotel boasts a central location as well as a fitness centre, a garden, terrace, and sauna. Massages can be arranged on site if you’ve been exploring London by foot.
All the rooms come with air conditioning, a minibar, and iPod-docking station. They also have an en suite bathroom with bathrobes, slippers and either a balcony or a terrace.
This hotel has it all. You’ll just have to make sure you actually leave to explore the surrounding area!
You can find out prices and availability here.
Hazlitt’s
For something a little unique head to Hazlitt’s. In London’s Theatreland, in the heart of the West End, this 4-star boutique hotel offers beautiful rooms with antique furniture, indulgent decor and elegant paneled walls.
Built in 1718, Hazlitt’s period features include chandeliers, Victorian baths, and carved wooden beds. A delicious breakfast is served in the rooms and includes freshly baked croissants and coffee.
You can find out prices and availability here.
The Soho Hotel
Some of London’s best restaurants and bars, cafés, theatres, and nightlife are within walking distance of the Soho hotel, as well as the historic area of Soho Square with a park and garden.
If you don’t fancy venturing out then the hotel has a modern European on-site restaurant, which also offers a breakfast menu and afternoon tea. You can also relax with a drink in the award-winning bar before a night out on the town.
You can find out prices and availability here.
Shoreditch – Where to stay in London for local life
Shoreditch is a great place to stay if you want to experience local life in London. The area is full of markets, shops, and cafes, and it’s always bustling with people. It’s a real melting pot of cultures, with people from all over the world living and working in the area.
You’ll find everything from traditional English pubs to exotic food markets, and you can really get a sense of what it’s like to live in London.
Plus, there are lots of things to do in Shoreditch, so you’ll never be bored. Whether you’re looking for a night out or a quiet afternoon exploring the local shops, Shoreditch is the perfect place to stay for a taste of real London life.
Highlights include
- For the best views of London, head to the top of the O2. This iconic landmark offers breathtaking panoramas of the city, and you can even enjoy a meal or a drink at the on-site restaurant and bar.
- If you’re a fan of street art, Shoreditch is the place to be. Walking around the neighborhood, you’ll see colorful murals and graffiti on every building. Be sure to take your camera so you can snap some photos!
- Shoreditch is home to some of London’s best nightlife. Whether you’re looking for a lively pub or a cool club, you’ll find it here. There are also plenty of restaurants and cafes to keep you fueled for a night out on the town.
- Shopping is another great thing to do in Shoreditch. The neighborhood is full of independent shops selling everything from clothes to books to art. You’re sure to find something unique to take home with you.
- If you’re looking for an inexpensive activity, simply strolling around Shoreditch is a great way to take in the sights and sounds of this vibrant neighborhood. You’ll never get bored here!
Where to stay in Shoreditch
Mondrian
This hip accommodation makes for a rather fancy place to stay in Shoreditch. The public spaces are like pieces of art, and attention to detail is abundant.
One of the best features of this hotel has to be the year-round outdoor pool and terrace, which is a gorgeous place to relax after a day of exploring the city. The staff are also super friendly which adds to the local feel that Shoreditch has to offer.
You can find out prices and availability here.
Crashpads Shoreditch
This apartment is exactly what it says it is – the perfect place to crash on your stay in Shoreditch! Live like the locals and rent a proper London apartment.
Each unit comes with a well-equipped kitchen so you can choose whether to eat out or in, and the WiFi and Netflix will come in handy for anyone wanting a longer stay here.
You can find out prices and availability here.
The Hoxton
The Hoxton is situated perfectly, just a mile from London’s Liverpool Street and 5 minutes walk from other major tube lines. It has a homely feel (if your home was perfectly designed to feel warm and inviting!) and with roaring fires and exposed brickwork, you’ll find it hard to leave.
This is also a great hub to work from, with free printing and faxing services and an hour a day of complimentary phone calls to the UK, USA, Australia, and most of Europe.
You can find out prices and availability here.
Mayfair – Best for a luxury stay in London
Mayfair is one of the most prestigious and well-known areas of London, and it’s easy to see why. From its grandiose architecture to its upscale shops and restaurants, Mayfair exudes elegance and luxury. If you’re lucky enough to find yourself in this part of the city, be sure to explore some of its many highlights.
If you’re looking for a luxurious stay in London, then Mayfair is a perfect choice. This upmarket area is home to some of the most expensive real estate in the city, and it’s full of exclusive shops and restaurants.
The streets are lined with elegant townhouses and five-star hotels, making it the perfect place to enjoy a touch of luxury.
Of course, all of this comes at a price – but if you’re looking for a truly unforgettable experience, then Mayfair is the perfect place to stay.
Highlights include
- Take a stroll through Hyde Park. Hyde Park is one of London’s most iconic green spaces, and it’s right on Mayfair’s doorstep. Whether you want to take a leisurely walk or go for a jog, Hyde Park is the perfect place to get some fresh air. And if you’re there during the summer months, don’t miss out on the opportunity to paddle in the Serpentine Lake.
- Shop till you drop on Bond Street. Bond Street is home to some of the world’s most exclusive designer boutiques, making it a shopper’s paradise. Even if you can’t afford to splurge on a new designer handbag, window-shopping on Bond Street is an experience in itself.
- Treat yourself to afternoon tea at Claridge’s, the perfect English tradition to pass a pleasant day.
Where to stay in Mayfair
Claridge’s – A luxury stay in Mayfair
Claridge’s has made rather a name for itself over the years as one of the best places to stay in London.
The rooms are spacious, luxurious, and sumptuously furnished with a marble bathroom and views over the peaceful terrace.
You can relax in style in the 1930s themed Fumoir, which offers unique spirits and ‘30s-inspired cocktails. Claridge’s is famous for its afternoon teas which are served in the grand foyer, with over 50 varieties of tea and delicious, classic pastries.
But it’s not all traditional here. Claridge’s boasts a modern gym and luxurious spa offering a range of beauty therapies.
You can find out prices and availability here.
The Lanesborough
This 5-star hotel is in London’s Knightsbridge and looks out over Hyde Park. It offers a personal butler service for true English luxury!
Guests at this hotel gain complimentary access to The Lanesborough, Oetker Collection Club & Spa for relaxing in after a day of pounding the streets of London, and The Lanesborough Grill restaurant serves food that guests rave about. You can enjoy breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, and dinner here.
The Library Bar is known for its award winning mixology and selection of pre-French revolution Cognacs.
You can find out prices and availability here.
The Chesterfield Mayfair
This 4-star luxury hotel is in London’s Mayfair, just off Berkeley Square. This hotel is charming and luxurious with all of the modern comforts you could ask for.
One of the highlights is the Butler’s Restaurant which has an AA Rosette award. Traditional Afternoon Tea is served daily and has won the Tea Guild Award of Excellence for the last three years.
You can find out prices and availability here.
Camden – Where to stay in London on a budget
Camden is one of the most vibrant and interesting boroughs in London, and it’s also one of the most affordable.
If you’re looking for cheap accommodation, you’ll find plenty of options in Camden, from hostels to Airbnbs. There are also plenty of cheap places to eat and drink, as well as cheap transportation options.
In short, Camden is the perfect place to stay on a budget. And because it’s so centrally located, you can easily explore all of London’s other boroughs from Camden.
So why not give it a try? You might just fall in love with this vibrant and budget-friendly borough.
Highlights include
- Visit the Camden markets – From art and fashion to food and drink, Camden’s markets have something for everyone. And with over 1,000 stalls to explore, you could easily spend a whole day browsing the stalls and discovering new treasures.
- Catch a gig at the Roundhouse – The Roundhouse is one of London’s most iconic music venues, and it’s situated right in the heart of Camden. So if you’re a fan of live music, make sure to check out what’s on during your visit.
- Stroll along Regent’s Canal – Regent’s Canal is a peaceful oasis in the midst of Camden’s hustle and bustle. Take a leisurely stroll along the towpath and soak up the scenic views.
- Explore Hampstead Heath – Camden may be urban, but it’s also right on the doorstep of Hampstead Heath – one of London’s largest parks. So if you need a break from the city, head to Hampstead Heath for some fresh air and green space.
- Get spooked at Highgate Cemetery – Highgate Cemetery is one of the most atmospheric places in London, and it’s situated just a short stroll from Camden Town station
Where to stay in Camden
The Pack And Carriage
The Pack And Carriage London offers budget accommodation in the centre of London. Every comfortable room has a desk, a flat-screen TV, and a private bathroom. Breakfast is also on offer here daily.
You can find out prices and availability here.
St Christopher’s Camden
This hostel is the perfect budget accommodation to base yourself at for exploring London. With shared bathroom facilities, a luggage room, free Wi-Fi in public areas and a 24-hour reception you’ll have all you could need.
All guests receive a 25% discount on food at the on-site restaurants, plus discount deals on drinks. There is also a comfortable shared seating area to chill out in after a long day of exploring.
You can find out prices and availability here.
Holiday Inn Camden Lock
Holiday Inns are the classic English budget accommodation option and the Camden branch is no different. Camden Town’s bars, restaurants, markets, and music venues, including the Jazz Cafe and the Roundhouse Theatre, are located within walking distance.
Rooms are basic but comfortable, and the hotel offers a mini-gym and on site bar which also serves Starbucks coffee.
You can find out prices and availability here.
Where should I avoid staying in London?
On the whole, London is a safe city and you’d be hard pushed to find somewhere you should avoid staying, especially if you aim for one of the areas listed above.
As we always advise, it’s prudent to be cautious when travelling in a foreign city. Take the usual precautions such as avoiding unfamiliar or dark areas at night time. Parks are best visited during the daytime and stick to well-populated areas around sunset and sunrise.
You should also be careful of pickpockets. Use a theif safe backpack when wondering the tourist areas. We love the Pacsafe range as they’re super secure and there are lots of nice designs to choose from.
Keep a little cash stashed away for emergencies just in case. We use a money belt when travelling so we always have some money on us, and although we haven’t had to use it yet we get real peace of mind knowing we’re covered if the worst happens.
Top tip: We strongly advise against booking with Sykes Cottages and have written a full review of why. Instead, use Booking.com, which have always provided us with top-quality stays worldwide and excellent customer service.
Summary of where to stay in London: First-time visit
London is an amazing city with plenty to offer tourists. Whether you are looking for a luxurious stay in the heart of the city or something more affordable outside of the center, there is a perfect accommodation option for you.
With endless possibilities for where to stay in London, we hope we’ve managed to narrow down your search, or even find you the perfect accommodation! And if you’re looking for something extra extravagant check out these top London hotels with a rooftop pool.
Where ever you end up staying, we hope you have the most amazing visit. Make sure you use our packing list for London so you don’t forget any of the essentials!
