Top reasons to visit London
- Iconic Landmarks: Experience the grandeur of the London Eye and the historic charm of the Tower of London, offering stunning views and rich history.
- Vibrant Shopping: Explore bustling shopping districts like Oxford Street, renowned for its diverse retail offerings.
- World-Class Theatre: Enjoy captivating performances in the West End, known for its exceptional shows and musicals.
- Beautiful Parks: Stroll through London's picturesque parks, perfect for relaxation amidst the urban landscape.
- Diverse Accommodation: Choose from a range of hotels and guesthouses catering to all preferences and budgets.
Find great hotels in London
Discover a range of delightful hotel accommodations in London, from luxurious establishments to charming guesthouses, catering to the diverse needs of every traveller. Whether you're here for business or leisure, you'll find hotels that offer exceptional services, including shopping facilities and a welcoming atmosphere for the LGBTQIA community. Explore top-rated hotels and read reviews to ensure your stay in the vibrant city is truly memorable.
- Park Plaza London Westminster Bridge: Nestled near the iconic Westminster Bridge, Park Plaza London Westminster Bridge is a chic 4-star hotel that boasts a guest rating of 9.0 out of 10. This property is an excellent choice for eco-conscious travellers and business professionals alike. With its eco-certification, the hotel focuses on sustainability while offering a pet-friendly environment. Guests can enjoy amenities such as food and water bowls for pets and a dedicated area for service animals. The on-site dining options, modern fitness centre, and stylish rooms provide a comfortable retreat after a day of exploring London’s attractions.
- The Tower Hotel, by Thistle: Overlooking the iconic Tower Bridge, The Tower Hotel, by Thistle offers a unique blend of comfort and contemporary design, earning a guest rating of 8.4 out of 10. This 4-star hotel is eco-certified, appealing to environmentally conscious visitors. With modern amenities and stunning views of the River Thames, the hotel features well-appointed rooms and a welcoming atmosphere. Guests can indulge in various dining options and benefit from easy access to major attractions, making it an ideal base for your London adventure.
- Strand Palace Hotel: Situated in the heart of London, Strand Palace Hotel is a stylish 4-star establishment with a guest rating of 9.0 out of 10. This eco-certified hotel combines historic charm with modern luxury, perfect for those seeking a comfortable stay. The hotel features elegant rooms, an on-site restaurant, and a fitness centre, catering to both leisure and business travellers. Its central location allows guests to immerse themselves in the vibrant culture and attractions of London, making it a superb choice for your visit.
Where to stay in London
London, a vibrant metropolis, offers an unforgettable experience for every type of traveller. From the historic charm of central London to the buzzing atmosphere of the City of London, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy a family-friendly city break filled with cultural gems or explore nearby regions that radiate warmth and friendliness. Whether you’re seeking urban adventures or leisurely weekends, London and its surroundings promise a rich tapestry of experiences waiting to be discovered.
- London City Centre: The vibrant heart of London, the City Centre is surrounded by iconic landmarks, shopping districts, and cultural experiences. It’s a bustling area where family-friendly activities abound, from world-class theatres to thrilling amusement rides. The streets are alive with energy, making it a fantastic place to explore on foot. Visitors can enjoy the famous tourist precincts and symbolic landmarks that define London’s rich history. With a steady influx of tourists year-round, highlights include the renowned shopping areas and various cultural events that make this neighbourhood a must-visit.
- Covent Garden: Known for its charming cobbled streets and vibrant atmosphere, Covent Garden offers a delightful mix of culture and shopping. This area is particularly popular with families and culture enthusiasts, boasting a famous market and a variety of theatres. The picturesque square is often filled with street performers, making it a lively spot to relax and soak in the surroundings. Though visitor numbers peak in spring and December, Covent Garden remains a lively destination throughout the year. With its blend of shopping, entertainment, and dining, it’s a perfect location for a memorable day out.
- Hounslow: Situated in west London, Hounslow is a bustling city that combines urban living with ample green spaces. This neighbourhood is ideal for families seeking both cultural experiences and outdoor activities. Visitors can explore local markets, enjoy shopping, or catch a show at one of the theatres. Hounslow boasts attractions such as sports facilities and urban parks, providing plenty of options for recreation and relaxation. Though it sees peak tourist traffic in spring and summer, the area's charm and accessibility make it a worthwhile destination any time of year.
Things to do in and around London
Shopping
Discover London’s Westfield London, one of the largest shopping centres in Europe, featuring a mix of high-end retailers and high street shops. For a unique experience, visit Camden Market, known for its eclectic stalls and vibrant atmosphere, offering a wide range of gifts and souvenirs.
Recreation
In London, visit the Akasha Holistic Wellbeing Centre for rejuvenating treatments and a serene atmosphere. Explore the tranquil spaces at The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, offering bespoke therapies and wellness experiences, complemented by stunning views of Hyde Park.
Adventure
Experience breathtaking views of London aboard the IFS Cloud Cable Car, gliding above the Thames. For motorsport enthusiasts, the Arena Essex Raceway offers thrilling races, situated 29.0km from the city. Alternatively, challenge yourself at Stubbers Activity and Adventure Centre with ziplining and ropes courses in a vibrant outdoor setting.
Nightlife
Explore the vibrant atmosphere at The Shard's Aqua Shard for stunning views and cocktails. For a lively pub scene, visit The Old Bank of England, where you can enjoy a pint and traditional pub fare while mingling with locals.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for London
London presents numerous opportunities for budget-conscious travellers. Many attractions, including Hyde Park and Big Ben, are free to enter. For public transport, the Underground and buses are cost-effective options. To save on accommodation, visit between January and March when prices are lower, and consider booking about a month in advance. Sundays tend to be the cheapest days to stay, while Wednesdays are pricier. Use Expedia to find last-minute deals, combine bookings for flights and hotels, and filter for the best prices to maximise savings on your trip.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in London are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to July, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel in London about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in London is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay in London is Wednesday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, including your budget, preferred location, and desired hotel type. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking in London with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in London
London is perfect for family, city, and culture-themed holidays, offering a wealth of attractions such as vibrant streets, urban parks, and historic churches. Visitors can enjoy top sights like the iconic London Eye, marvel at the stunning skyline, and explore a variety of family-friendly experiences. With diverse accommodations available, there's something for everyone in this dynamic city that promises unforgettable memories.
- Hyde Park: Enjoy a leisurely stroll or a family picnic in one of London’s largest and most famous parks. With its sprawling greenery, serene lakes, and vibrant flowerbeds, Hyde Park offers a refreshing escape from the city bustle, perfect for outdoor activities or simply unwinding amid nature.
- Buckingham Palace: Immerse yourself in royal history at the official residence of the British monarch. Witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony and explore the stunning architecture and beautiful gardens that showcase the grandeur of British culture.
- Tower Bridge: Discover the iconic symbol of London, where Victorian engineering meets stunning views. Walk across its glass-floored walkway and learn about its fascinating history and significance as a key crossing over the River Thames.
Best time to go to London
The best time to visit London is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to London
Flying into London offers several airport options. London Heathrow (LHR) is situated 22.5km from the city centre, with nearby luxurious hotels such as Sofitel London Heathrow, 3.2km away, and Fairmont Windsor Park, 11.3km away. London Gatwick (LGW) is 38.6km from central London, with upscale accommodations like Alexander House And Utopia Spa, 8.0km away, and Windfalls Boutique Hotel, 4.8km away. Lastly, London Stansted (STN) is 49.9km from the city, featuring The Linden Stansted, a guesthouse 4.8km away, and the Radisson Blu Hotel, just 322m from the airport. All these hotels provide convenient access to their respective airports.