Jump To:
About this guide
With a population of over 8 million people, London is the dynamic capital of England. London's iconic landmarks, such as the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, and the London Eye, take travelers on a remarkable journey through time. From global cuisines to diverse neighborhoods, London houses a vast cultural tapestry of endless possibilities for every traveler.
- Best time to travel: June to August and December (peak season), November to February (off-season), March to May and September to October (shoulder season)
- Time zone: Greenwich Mean Time (GMT)
- Currency: Pound Sterling, GBP (£)
- Language: English
- Noteworthy: Chelsea Flower Show (May), Taste of London (June), Notting Hill Carnival (August), London Literature Festival (October), Christmas Markets (November to December)
- Best for: World and Royal History Enthusiasts, Family Trips Foodie Adventures, Literary Lovers and Bookworms, Shopping
Get Away: Getting To and Around London, England
By Air
Travelers can book a direct flight to any one of London's major airports, such as Heathrow International, Gatwick, or Stansted. London's extensive public transport system also ensures easy access and convenience to the city directly from the airports.
By Car
Traveling by car is best for more autonomous travel and renting a car from reputable agencies is available. Remember to plan your route in advance and consider congestion charges and parking fees as London is one of Europe’s busiest cities.
By Public Transit
London has an extensive public transportation network known as the Tube Station. There also are buses and trains throughout the city. Check schedules, and routes and purchase an Oyster card for convenient and cost-effective access to all public transportation.
Explore London, England on Foot
London is a walkable city with a ton of hidden gems, street art, cultural events, and more. Make sure to grab a map and wear comfortable shoes while exploring charming neighborhoods, iconic landmarks, and scenic parks.
Quick facts
Greenwich Mean Time (GMT)
Pound Sterling, GBP (£)
English (UK)
Good For
World and Royal History Enthusiasts
Literary Lovers and Bookworms
Family Trips Foodie Adventures
Shopping
Keep in mind
- Chelsea Flower Show (May)
- Taste of London (June)
- Notting Hill Carnival (August)
- London Literature Festival (October)
- Christmas Markets (November to December)
Gourmet
Gourmet: Places to Eat In London, England
In London's Honor Oak, the Black-owned Grounds & Grapes restaurant comes to life with owners Lee and Latoyah at the helm. From morning flat whites to evening wine, this eatery offers top-quality food and drink to the community.
Founded by Timothy and Victoria Bosworth, Hoxton North bridges London and the North with a warm and artistic touch. The seasonal menu locally sources ingredients to create a classic English breakfast, Mexican Hoxton Huevos, and Greek yogurt parfaits.
For a true South London experience, check out Prince of Peckham for a genuine taste of a creative menu and local Black culture. R&B Thursdays and Bottomless Brunch are some of the calendar events that make this pub a must-see in London.
The vegan hotspot Deserted Cactus comes from the mind of Chef Esme who combines cultural recipes with inventive plant-based ingredients. From Southern fried jackfruit to jerk roasted cauliflower, the generous portions and laid-back dining experience make this a must-visit.
The exceptional fine dining experience at Akoko in London is a deep dive into founder Aji Akokomi’s West African heritage. The flavor innovation, live fire cooking and exotic spices create a culturally resonant menu with unique drink pairings.
At Uncle John’s Bakery, travelers should taste the traditional African recipes passed down by founder Mary Fofia Arthur. For 25 years, their Afro-Caribbean baked goods, like the signature ‘Sweet Bread,’ have been household staples.
With two locations in London, the multi-award-winning Hacha Bar is home to the renowned Mirror Margarita. As the only Agaveria in the city, there's a rotating selection of 25 agave spirits, creative cocktails, and Mexican cuisine.
Stay
Stay: Places To Stay In London, England
The Portobello Hotel in Notting Hill has eccentric charm and luxurious boutique style highlighting the bohemian spirit of the area. A favorite among pop culture icons since 1971, there's comfortable lodging and the Honesty Bar with Portobello Road gin.
The Hari in Belgravia, London, is an environmentally friendly spot for understated luxury and indulgent comfort. Guests are within a short walking distance of iconic places like Chelsea, Kensington, Knightsbridge, Harrods, Buckingham Palace, and Hyde Park.
This hidden gem near Buckingham Palace has 30 elegantly designed rooms, a private lounge, and personalized service. The Hotel 41 Victoria is minutes from Victoria Station for easy access to the city.
Stay at Ruby Lucy Hotel on London's South Bank for old-world charm infused with circus-inspired design. The dark tones and brass accents complement the quirky cocktails and luxurious spaces from the front desk to the suites.
From cozy rooms to a rooftop oasis, the Treehouse Hotel feels like a grown-up clubhouse with skyline views. With the best views of London's iconic landmarks, the warm spaces bring out every traveler’s inner adventurer.
Conveniently near Bethnal Green underground and Shoreditch's vibrant scene, Mama Shelter London Shoreditch has 194 cutting-edge rooms designed by Dion & Arles. Guests enjoy spacious King-size beds, an on-site restaurant, a garden bar, and Japanese-style karaoke rooms.
Play
Play: Things To Do In London, England
This ghostly walking tour in London shares the city's eerie past with travelers who don’t mind a bit of spookiness. Guests learn about hidden legends from a local guide. They also enjoy a Thames River cruise that illuminates the city views.
Memories and magic go together at this Warner Bros. studio tour in London. There are authentic Harry Potter film sets, costumes, and props to see. Guests can enjoy authentic butterbeer while fully immersing in one of London’s most beloved modern storybooks.
This small group walking tour in the Borough Market takes guests to six food spots with delectable treats that highlight the best of British cuisine. It’s a hassle-free way to discover London's best food secrets with an expert local guide.
Marvel at breathtaking vistas of Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, and London's amazing skyline from the iconic London Eye. There are fast-track options available for queue-free access to the view above the Thames River.
This 5-hour London bus tour is an adventure through Westminster and Southbank with 30+ attractions. Guests will enjoy the family-friendly tour with a lively local guide and plenty of photo ops.
For sports fans, this Emirates Stadium tour will immerse them in the world of legends and give them an all-access pass to explore behind the scenes. Along with firsthand insight from matchday experiences, there is exclusive footage and tours available in ten languages.
There’s no better way to create a choose-your-own-adventure than with a London scavenger hunt. Choose from classic treasure hunts or immersive stories, while exploring new sights and learning the city's history.
Step into Shakespeare's world at the historical Globe Theatre on this literary history tour in London. This captivating exhibition led by expert guides delves into 400 years of history showcasing iconic shows and interactive costumes.