The Big Bumper Guide to Visiting London, Written by a Londoner.

I can’t quite believe that I’ve been writing my blog for 14 years, and I’ve never written a full guide to visiting London…

Until now!

As an almost life-long Londoner (aside from my 4 years in Australia), who has played tour guide to multiple friends and family members visiting from overseas, I figured it was finally time to impart my experience and wisdom onto the internet, and provide you with my ultimate bumper guide to visiting London.

I’m also planning on doing itinerary guides at some point as well, so a weekend in London, 5 days in London etc. So keep an eye out for those.

But for now, here’s the bumper guide on what to see, where to eat, and where to stay (because yes, I love a staycation).

So, ready for the ultimate guide to visiting London?! Let’s go!

How to Get to London

Taxis are ridiculously expensive from airports into London, so I’d always recommend getting the tube/train. However, if you really want to get a taxi, get an Uber so you know the cost in advance.

I once had a Black Cab (taxi) journey from Heathrow to Chelsea cost over £120 because of rush hour traffic, and another time I had a Black Cab journey from London City airport to Heathrow cost £260. Meanwhile, an Uber to Chelsea should only cost around £40.

From Heathrow

If travelling into Heathrow, forget the Heathrow Express. It’s expensive and no quicker than the Elizabeth Line.

The Elizabeth Line is the quickest, cheapest, and easiest way to travel from Heathrow into Central London.

However, if you’re staying in Chelsea/Knightsbridge areas, you’re better off getting the Picadilly Line.

From Gatwick

When flying into Gatwick, do not pay extra for the Gatwick Express. Go through the ‘normal’ train gates, and get the normal train (Southern Rail) to Victoria. You can then get around Central London very easily from Victoria.

If you’re going to East London, get a Thameslink train from Gatwick to London Bridge.

For all of these trains you can just tap on and off with your credit card, don’t buy expensive tickets from tour companies.

Where to Stay in London

London has a hotel for every style and budget, but these are my top picks if you want somewhere truly special.

Traditional Luxury: The Langham, Fitzrovia

Iconic, elegant, and one of London’s most historic hotels, the Langham London is my personal favourite if you want to be in the thick of it and you’re after luxury with heritage (and a fabulous afternoon tea).

The Boutique Option: Sloane Place, Chelsea

A boutique hotel in one of London’s most stylish neighbourhoods, Sloane Place is perfect for a romantic weekend or chic girls’ trip. The location is incredible and you’ll get more of a ‘local’ feel than the other hotels in this list.

For Luxe Shoppers: Park Tower, Knightsbridge

The Park Tower in Knightsbridge is great for shoppers, with Harrods and Harvey Nichols right around the corner. Sleek, modern luxury in one of London’s most exclusive postcodes.

East London Cool: Courthouse Hotel, Shoreditch

Quirky, cool, and right in the heart of East London’s nightlife. A former magistrates’ court turned trendy hotel, complete with rooftop views!

Classic Contemporary: One Aldwych, Covent Garden

At One Aldwych you’re just steps away from the Royal Opera House, the West End, and some of the city’s best restaurants. And, they recently had a swish makeover so it’s extra sleek at the mo.

Where to Eat in London

London’s food scene is world-class, from decadent brunches to Michelin-starred dining and, of course, the quintessential afternoon tea.

Breakfast & Brunch Spots

Finding the best Brunch & Breakfast spots in London is basically a sport, and I like to think I’m an expert, so here are some of my favourites:

• The Standard, Kings Cross – Trendy interiors and inventive brunch plates in a buzzy location. The Standard is perfect for a girls brunch with cocktails!
• Granger & Co, Marylebone – Granger & Co is always busy, always worth it. The ricotta hotcakes are legendary, but I also love the sweetcorn fritters.
• Sunday in Brooklyn, Marylebone – Yes, the pancakes live up to the hype. Their avo on toast is also perfection.
• The Delaunay, Aldwych – A classic, elegant breakfast in a grand Viennese-style café, The Delaunay is perfect if you’re near Covent Garden.
• Christopher’s, Covent Garden – American-style brunch with flair, and a gorgeous setting overlooking Waterloo Bridge. Make sure you get the French Toast or Pancakes!
• Nessa, Soho – Nessa is probably one of the most underrated breakfast spots in London. Dog-friendly and literally every single dish I’ve ever had there has been amazing. The French Toast is life-changing.
• The Wolseley, Mayfair – The Wolseley is one of London’s most glamorous breakfast rooms, with silver service and old-world charm. Very European feel if that’s what you’re looking for.
• Milk Beach, Soho – Australian-inspired brunch in the heart of Soho. Expect laid-back vibes and excellent coffee.
• Larry’s, Trafalgar Square – Cosy and stylish Australian brekky , ideal for a central bite before sightseeing.
• Brickwood, Clapham – A local favourite in South London. Another Aussie brunch spot (can you tell I love an Australian breakfast), with brilliant coffee and hearty brunch plates.
• The Breakfast Club, multiple locations – Quirky, colourful, and always fun, with GREAT pancakes!!

Lunch/Dinner Hangouts:

London’s restaurant scene is vast, but here are my go-tos depending on your mood:

• Rules, Covent Garden – London’s oldest restaurant, famed for its roasts and puddings. Very British, and very special.
• Sushisamba, Covent Garden – Sushisamba provides rooftop views and glamorous sushi with a twist right in the heart of Covent Garden.
• Lima London, Fitzrovia – Fresh, vibrant Peruvian flavours in a chic setting. I visit every time I need my Pervuian food fix.
• Berenjak, Soho – One of London’s toughest restaurants to get a booking at – make sure you book in advance!! Think Iranian kebabs and delicious sharing plates.
• Randall & Aubin, Soho – Randall & Aubin is a Soho institution. A seafood brasserie with buckets of charm (and Champagne), the seafood here is elite.
• Quaglino’s, Mayfair – Quags is one of my favourites. It’s iconic and a little decadent. Live music, cocktails, and fine dining all in one!
• Mercato, Mayfair – A foodie playground in a converted church, with street food stalls and craft cocktails. It’s super unique and well worth visiting.
• The Italian Greyhound, Marylebone – I loveee this place so so much. It’s stylish and modern, and perfect for pizza and pasta in a very chic atmosphere. IMO it’s one of the best Italian restaurants in London!
• Julie’s, Notting Hill – I discovered Julie’s earlier this year, and completely fell in love with it. It’s a neighbourhood gem with gorgeous interiors, delicious food, and a relaxed vibe.
• Dishoom, multiple locations – No list on London food spots is complete without Dishoom. Irresistible Bombay-style comfort food – the bacon naan roll is a London institution.
• Pizza Pilgrims, multiple locations – One of my fave pizza places in London. Think Neapolitan-style pizza that’s affordable, fun, and always delicious.

Check-out my full guide to the best restaurants in London for tourists to visit!

Best Afternoon Teas

Afternoon tea is non-negotiable in London, and these are the ones worth booking:

• The Savoy – Quintessential luxury. It really doesn’t get more iconic…and the food is incredible.
• Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park – One of my favourites! Stylish, refined, and a little bit modern.
• The Goring – Traditional elegance with faultless service and food that just keeps coming. I took my mum here for her 60th and we absolutely loved it!
• The Kensington Hotel – Known for their creative themed teas, I’ve had a few really amazing afternoon teas at The Kensington Hotel.
• AQUA Shard – Book for a Peter Pan themed afternoon tea with a view! You’ll get unbeatable skyline panoramas, and their themed teas are also amazing.
• The Sanderson – Their “Mad Hatter’s Tea Party” is super playful and really fun for all ages.

Read my full guide to the Best Afternoon Teas in London for 2026!

Where to Drink

London has some of the best bars in the world, from secret speakeasies to glamorous hotel lounges.

• Barts, Chelsea – A hidden speakeasy with a 1920s vibe with incredible cocktails. I loveeee Barts and have been going here for years!
• Three Sheets, Soho – Minimalist cocktails, maximum flavour. Honestly a stunning bar.
• Bar Termini, Soho – Italian-inspired and intimate, make sure you book a table as it gets busy.
• The Blind Pig, Soho – Another speakeasy, hidden above Sael London. This is a GREAT date spot.
• American Bar at The Savoy, Aldwych – Historic, glamorous, and consistently one of the world’s best bars.
• Scarfes Bar, Holborn – Scarfes inside The Rosewood Hotel is plush, artistic, and a little decadent.
• Bloomsbury Bar, Bloomsbury – This is honestly such a cute bar, it’s a total vibe and I love the cocktails here.
• Nightjar, Shoreditch – I still miss the Nightjar in Soho, but thee one in Shoreditch is still there and is known for inventive cocktails and live jazz.
• Kaso Rooftop, Shoreditch – Kaso has great drinks with sweeping views, and I also really like their food!
• Mr Fogg’s, multiple locations – Mr Foggs are a group of quirky, Victorian-inspired cocktail bars across London.

What to Do & See in London

London is overflowing with things to see and do, and it’s always sooo much fun getting to play tourist every time my friends/family from Australia and the US come to visit.

These are my essentials for visitors to London – a mix of big-ticket attractions and local favourites!

1. Explore East London

I’m not the biggest East London gal so you won’t find too much on this list in that area.

However, I love the Tower of London!

Start at the Tower of London for unbeatable history and the Crown Jewels. Then, if the weather’s nice, head to nearby St Dunstan’s in the East for pretty photos and a relaxing place to sit for a while.

You can then walk round the corner to Sky Garden for insaaane views over London! Either go to the cafe/restaurant there for lunch, or just pop up to the observation deck.

In the afternoon, visit St Paul’s Cathedral for a full tour – it’s well worth it, I promise (pre-book your tickets here).

2. London’s churches

Talking of St Paul’s, don’t miss London’s Churches and Cathedrals. They’re truly stunning.

I always thought I had to go to Europe (Spain, Italy, France etc) for breathtaking churches, but actually we have sooo many in London.

My favourites are: Catholic Church of Saint James Marylebone (aka, Spanish Place), St Martin-in-the-Fields, Westminster Abbey, Westminster Cathedral, and St. Patrick’s RC Church in Soho.

3. Relax in London’s Parks

Hyde Park is perfect for a summer stroll, boating on the Serpentine, or just soaking up the greenery. In the winter it’s home to Winter Wonderland.

You can also enjoy summer picnics in St James’s Park and Green Park (St James’ is my absolute fave).

Other beautiful parks a little further out are Regents Park, Kensington Gardens, and Holland Park and its Kyoto Garden.

4. Visit Buckingham Palace

While you’re walking through Green Park or St James’s, stop by Buckingham Palace. Make sure you time your visit for the Changing of the Guard!

In the summer months when the King & Queen aren’t there, you can actually go inside the palace which is well worth doing!

Book a ticket in advance, and it’s valid for re-entry for a whole year so you can go multiple times.

5. Stroll around Covent Garden

Covent Garden is probably one of my favourite parts of London, even though it’s super touristy.

Visit the Seven Dials Market, browse boutiques, see street performers, and catch a ballet or opera at the Royal Opera House.

And of course, don’t miss the famous Covent Garden Market building.

6. Kensington & Chelsea’s museums

If you’re a museum lover, then you need to head to the Kensington & Chelsea area.

The Natural History Museum and V&A are my two favourites, but the Science Museum is great for kids, and the Saatchi Gallery & Tate Britain are both perfect for art-lovers.

If you have time, go to a concert at the Royal Albert Hall for peak British architecture and music.

If you’re sticking to Central London, I can highly recommend booking tickets for the Churchill War Rooms.

7. See a West End show

One of my favourite things about living in London is the West End. It’s London’s equivalent of Broadway but is much cheaper than Broadway!

You can either book tickets in advance, or buy them at the Box Office or TKTS booth in Leicester Square on the day.

See one of the classics – Les Mis, Hamilton, Lion King, or Wicked – or book tickets for something new or with a short-run!

Cabaret is my personal favourite.

8. Have a Sunday Roast Followed by Shopping

You cannot visit London and not have a Sunday Roast.

Rules does a fantastic one, or head to a cosy pub like The Clarence in Mayfair (they do great pies).

After lunch, get some exercise and explore London’s famous department stores. Liberty, Harrods, and Selfridges are London icons.

9. Notting Hill & North London

Notting Hill is just a super cute area that tourists always love.

Wander Portobello Road Market on the weekend (but even on weekdays the road is still pretty), and catch a film at the old Electric Cinema which is super unique and in an old theatre.

After Notting Hill, head up to Hampstead and the heath (and go for a swim in Hampstead heath ponds if it’s summer) for a wander.

10. Thames Clipper & Greenwich

A fun (and affordable) way to see the city from the river is by taking the Thames Clipper (now called Uber Boat by Thames Clippers) to Greenwich. Visit the Royal Naval College for Maritime history and spectacular views, and don’t miss the stunning Painted Hall.

When I lived in Chelsea Harbour I LOVED taking the Thames Clipper up and down the river. It was such a lovely way to travel!

Also, my American cousins loved it when they visited.

11. Take a walking tour

London has sooo many amazing walking tours! They’re a great way to see parts of London you wouldn’t usually, and the guides provide a lot of local knowledge.

Why not try this Jack The Ripper Walking tour!

Visiting London in Summer? Check out my guide on how to enjoy a perfect London summer!

And visiting in winter? Check out my guide on Where to See London’s Best Christmas Decorations.

Easy Day Trips from London

Day trip to Richmond & Kew

Although Richmond is in London, you really need a whole day to explore the area, so set this aside for a day trip from London.

Think deer in Richmond Park, long riverside walks, and the beauty of Kew Gardens.

Kew Gardens is one of my favourite places in the London area, it’s sooo beautiful and SO worth visiting. Book your tickets in advance.

Harry Potter Studio Tour

The Warner Bros. Studios Harry Potter tour is an absolute must for fans.

Easy to get to from Central London, it’s unmissable for anyone who grew up with Harry Potter. Spend at least 2-3 hours there, and make sure you enjoy a Butterbeer!

Book your tickets far in advance, as it sells out very quickly!

Visit Windsor

Windsor, like Richmond, is another super cute town on the outskirts of London. It’s where Queen Elizabeth II spent the last years of her life, and is a must-do for any visitors to the UK.

Again, make sure you book your Castle ticket in advance to guarantee entry. Also, don’t miss walking around the town of Windsor after visiting the castle. It’s really adorable with quaint shops and cafes.

The Best City in the World?

London can feel overwhelming, it’s a huge, sprawling city with endless options.

But, that’s also its beauty.

There’s a soul to London you don’t really get anywhere else in the world. I’ve travelled to 55 countries and lived in two countries, and I always return to London…I just don’t think I could ever truly get bored of it.

Whether you’re here for just a weekend or a longer trip, the city has a way of surprising you with moments of magic…a spontaneous busker performance in Covent Garden, a hidden bar tucked behind a bookcase, or the hush that falls as the curtain rises in a West End theatre.

I hope this bumper guide to London, written by an actual Londoner, helps you plan your own trip!