Top reasons to visit London
- Iconic Landmarks: Visit famous sites like the London Eye, Tower Bridge, and Buckingham Palace, each offering a glimpse into the city's rich history.
- Cultural Experiences: Enjoy world-class theatre productions in the West End and immerse yourself in London’s vibrant arts scene.
- Beautiful Parks: Relax in picturesque parks such as Hyde Park and Regent's Park, perfect for leisurely strolls and picnics.
- Diverse Accommodations: Choose from a variety of hotels and guesthouses, catering to all budgets and preferences.
- Exciting Shopping: Explore renowned shopping districts, from luxury boutiques to quirky markets, offering something for every shopper.
Find great hotels in London
Discover a diverse array of hotel accommodations in London, perfect for every traveller's needs. Whether you're seeking luxury hotels or charming guesthouses, you'll find options that cater to business travellers, shoppers, and those looking for an LGBTQIA-friendly experience. With top-rated hotels and insightful reviews, London promises a memorable stay, whether you're exploring iconic landmarks or indulging in the vibrant local culture.
- Park Plaza London Waterloo: Nestled in the heart of London, Park Plaza London Waterloo is a 4-star hotel that combines modern design with a commitment to sustainability. With a guest rating of 8.8 out of 10, this property is ideal for business travellers and eco-conscious visitors alike. Its pet-friendly policy welcomes canine companions, providing amenities such as food and water bowls. Guests can enjoy an array of facilities, including a fitness centre, a stylish restaurant, and meeting spaces, all designed to enhance your stay while reducing environmental impact.
- Point A London Kings Cross - St Pancras: Offering an affordable yet comfortable experience, Point A London Kings Cross - St Pancras is a budget-friendly accommodation with a guest rating of 8.4 out of 10. This eco-certified hotel is perfect for travellers seeking a green stay without compromising on quality. With its prime location near major transport links, it provides easy access to all of London’s attractions. The hotel features modern amenities and a commitment to sustainability, ensuring a pleasant stay for the eco-aware visitor.
- Zedwell Piccadilly Circus: For those who crave the vibrancy of city life, Zedwell Piccadilly Circus stands out as a 3-star hotel situated right in the bustling centre of London. This property is tailored for urban explorers, with its contemporary design reflecting the energy of the city. With comfortable rooms and essential amenities, guests can unwind after a day of sightseeing. Its location offers unparalleled access to London's iconic attractions, making it an excellent base for any city-themed vacation.
Where to stay in London
London is a vibrant metropolis offering a rich blend of history and modernity, perfect for family and culture-themed vacations. Explore iconic landmarks in Central London, immerse yourself in the City of London’s business buzz, or enjoy a relaxing weekend getaway. Venture into nearby towns for a taste of friendly local atmospheres and budget-friendly options. Each area promises a unique experience, making your trip to London unforgettable.
- City of Westminster: Nestled in the heart of London, the City of Westminster is a vibrant borough renowned for its rich history and cultural significance. Home to iconic landmarks such as the Houses of Parliament and Buckingham Palace, this area offers a plethora of attractions for visitors. The bustling shopping areas and theatres provide endless entertainment options, while the lush urban parks and squares offer serene spots to relax. With a steady influx of travellers throughout the year, especially peaking in March to April and September, Westminster is perfect for family outings and cultural explorations alike.
- The City of London: Often referred to as the Square Mile, the City of London is a historic neighbourhood that blends the old with the new. This area is famed for its financial district, yet it also houses charming markets and symbolic landmarks like St. Paul's Cathedral. Visitors can enjoy a rich tapestry of experiences, from shopping in boutique stores to exploring its vibrant theatre scene. While the number of visitors peaks in January, July, and September, the City of London remains a fantastic destination for families and culture enthusiasts year-round.
- Kings Cross St. Pancras: A hub of transport and culture, Kings Cross St. Pancras is an exciting neighbourhood that draws visitors with its dynamic atmosphere. Famous for the stunning St Pancras International station, this area also boasts a lively array of shopping venues and entertainment options, including theatres and an arena. With local attractions such as urban parks and charming streets, Kings Cross is ideal for family outings and cultural experiences. The peak visitor times in April, July, and September make it a bustling spot, but its charm is ever-present throughout the year.
Things to do in and around London
Shopping
In London, visit Westfield London for a vast selection of high-street brands and luxury boutiques. For a unique shopping experience, explore Borough Market, where you can discover artisanal foods and handmade crafts, ideal for thoughtful gifts and souvenirs.
Recreation
Explore the serene atmosphere of The Mandrake, where luxurious spa treatments and wellness programmes await. Enjoy yoga sessions and meditation retreats at Triyoga, offering a peaceful escape in the heart of the city. For outdoor rejuvenation, stroll through the lush greenery of Hyde Park.
Adventure
Experience breathtaking views of London aboard the IFS Cloud Royal Docks Station cable car, offering an exhilarating aerial journey. For motorsport enthusiasts, Brands Hatch Circuit, located 30.6km from the city, provides thrilling races. Alternatively, dive into adventure at Stubbers Activity and Adventure Centre with ziplining and ropes courses.
Nightlife
Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Fabric nightclub in Farringdon, known for its impressive line-up of DJs. For a more relaxed evening, visit the Jazz Café in Camden, where you can enjoy live performances while sipping on craft cocktails.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for London
To save money during your visit to London, consider travelling between January and March for lower accommodation prices. Utilise public transport like the Underground and buses for cost-effective travel. Take advantage of free attractions such as Hyde Park and Big Ben. For the best hotel deals, book about a month in advance and look for last-minute offers on sites like Expedia. Sundays typically offer the cheapest rates, while Wednesdays are the priciest. Additionally, combining your hotel, flights, and activities into a package can yield further savings.
- 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: The cheapest time to book a hotel in London is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
- 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 tailor your options according to your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay in London with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
Find the best attractions in London
London is an ideal destination for family, city, and culture-themed holidays, boasting a wealth of attractions such as urban parks, churches, and vibrant streets. Visitors can explore iconic landmarks like London Bridge, the London Eye, and enjoy stunning views of the skyline. With experiences tailored for culture enthusiasts and families alike, there’s no shortage of captivating activities to engage in during your stay in this bustling metropolis.
- Piccadilly Circus: Experience the vibrant heart of London at Piccadilly Circus, renowned for its dazzling neon lights and bustling atmosphere. This iconic junction connects major roads and is surrounded by theatres, shops, and restaurants, making it an excellent spot for people-watching and soaking up the city's dynamic energy.
- Marble Arch: Discover the historical significance of Marble Arch, a stunning neoclassical monument. Originally designed as a gateway to Buckingham Palace, it stands as a testament to London's rich architectural heritage, surrounded by green spaces and offering a glimpse into the city's cultural past.
- Hampton Court Palace: Step back in time at Hampton Court Palace, a magnificent Tudor palace steeped in history. Explore its beautiful gardens, impressive architecture, and fascinating exhibitions, providing a unique insight into royal life during the reign of Henry VIII.
Best time to go to London
The best time to visit London can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in London falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. The coolest average temperature in London falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to London
Getting to London is convenient with its major airports. London Heathrow (LHR) is situated 22.5km from the city centre, with excellent hotel options such as the Sheraton Heathrow Hotel (3.2km away) and Radisson RED Hotel (1.3km away), both offering easy access to the airport. London Gatwick (LGW), 38.6km from central London, features hotels like Langshott Manor (3.2km) and Trivelles Gatwick (4.8km). Lastly, London Stansted (STN) lies 49.9km away, with nearby accommodations like The Great Hallingbury Manor (4.8km) and Motts Cottage (9.7km). Each hotel provides transport services to their respective airports, ensuring a smooth travel experience.