Travel
The London Travel Guide
August 15, 2025
We’re all about making bucket lists and finding the fun. Here’s where to stay, eat, and shop across the pond in London, according to Tuckernuck.
The Look
The beauty of London is that there isn’t one look—it’s a city of contradictions in the best way. It’s the birthplace of punk and the home of the royals. Tailored and eccentric, polished but never precious. Stick to tweed accents, dark denim, and the quintessential trench coat. Mix your closet staples with some more edgy pieces you’ve been waiting to wear—it’s all about channeling that old-meets-new energy.
Getting There
Fly into Heathrow (LHR) or Gatwick (LGW)—both offer direct routes into central London via express trains, cabs, or rideshares. Once in the city, skip the stress and hop on the Tube, grab a black cab, or walk your way through the neighborhoods (it’s the best way to discover the hidden gems). Pro tip: download Citymapper for easy, real-time route planning—it’s a Londoner’s secret weapon.
Tea with a Twist
Book afternoon tea at Sketch or Claridge’s for the fashion, flair, and finger sandwiches.
Shop Like a Local
Wander through the boutiques of Elizabeth Street in Belgravia—it's charming, curated, and Kate Middleton-approved.
Walk in Royal Footsteps
Start at Kensington Palace, wander through the surrounding gardens, then stroll down Exhibition Road. You might not spot a royal, but it’ll definitely feel like you did.
Dine at a Proper Pub
Head to The Pelican or The Cadogan Arms for elevated pub fare in beautifully restored interiors. Settle in with a pint and sticky toffee pudding to officially do London right.
Pick a home base that’s stylish and well-situated, from grand classics to posh boutique hotels.
The Milestone
Right across from Kensington Palace, this five-star charmer is straight out of a storybook. Each room is uniquely styled, so you might not want to leave. Don’t miss their award-winning afternoon tea in the Conservatory for an extra-special treat.
The Stafford
Tucked just off St. James’s, The Stafford offers classic British charm with unbeatable access to London’s icons. The American Bar is a cozy spot for a cocktail and a taste of home—bonus points if you score a seat by the fireplace.
The Goring
A true English gem near Buckingham Palace, The Goring mixes heritage with a warm, welcoming touch. The Goring Garden is a dreamy secret spot for an afternoon breather, and their traditional breakfast is worth waking up early for.
Beaverbrook Townhouse
Whimsical and design-forward, this boutique hotel in Chelsea nods to English eccentricity in all the best ways. Every room tells a story—and you're steps from Sloane Street’s best boutiques for one of your own.
Duke's
Classic, quiet luxury a short walk from Buckingham Palace, Duke’s is beloved for its polished service and legendary martinis. The namesake bar inspired James Bond’s “shaken, not stirred”—so naturally, you’ll want to order one.
The Four Seasons at Park Lane
Polished and modern with skyline views, this Park Lane favorite pairs timeless service with a chic edge. Sip champagne in the airy lobby bar, and stroll through nearby Hyde Park for a morning reset or for an evening wind down.
Claridge's
An icon of Mayfair elegance, Claridge’s is all Art Deco glamour and white-glove service. It’s equally suited to stylish stays or lingering over cocktails in the Fumoir. Bonus: the flower arrangements are always a highlight.
The Dorchester
Lively, legendary, and full of personality, The Dorchester is a world unto itself. Dine, drink, or simply people-watch—this Park Lane institution is all about old-school luxury with a vibrant pulse.
Our favorite cozy cafés and white-tablecloth icons worth ticking off your London food tour list.
Breakfast
The Good Life
From cold pressed juices and smoothies to delicious all-day plates, The Good Life offers a healthy array of options that tastes just as good as it looks. The Notting Hill location is especially charming—grab a seat outside if the sun’s out.
Gail's
A neighborhood favorite with locations across the city, Gail’s serves perfectly brewed coffee and freshly baked everything—from crusty sourdough to flaky croissants. Pop in early to snag the good stuff before it sells out.
Hjem
A cozy Danish café tucked away on a quiet Kensington street. Minimalist interiors, top-tier pastries, and excellent coffee or matcha make this the perfect slow morning spot. Order the cinnamon swirl—you won’t regret it.
Anya Café
Created by designer Anya Hindmarch, this cheeky café is part fashion, part food. Think charming cakes, whimsical biscuits, and strong coffee in a design-forward space. It's tiny, so arrive early or take your treats to go.
Lunch
Granger & Co
A sun-drenched Aussie café known for bright, fresh plates and a breezy vibe. Expect queues—especially at the Notting Hill outpost—but it’s worth the wait. Order the ricotta hotcakes or a nourishing bowl and lean into the no-reservations charm.
Cadogan Arms
A polished pub on King’s Road with beautifully done British classics and a stellar Sunday roast. Cozy up in a booth or grab a pint at the bar. This is where locals come to linger over long lunches.
Aragon House
A chic hidden gem on Parsons Green with a lovely garden, seasonal menu, and surprisingly good cocktails. The Sunday roast here flies a bit under the radar—book ahead and sit outside.
Churchill Arms
Decked out in florals and British flair, this Kensington pub serves up solid Thai food in a famously Instagrammed setting. Churchill’s grandparents were regulars—now it’s your turn. Pro tip: go off-peak to avoid the photo-taking crowd.
The Ivy Chelsea Garden
Elegant without being fussy, this King’s Road institution does all-day dining with style. Sit in the orangery or leafy garden if you can, and order a glass of rosé to pair with your crab linguine. Reservations are recommended.
Ottolenghi
Colorful, flavor-packed salads and standout pastries are the name of the game here. The Notting Hill location is a favorite for a mid-shopping bite or a takeaway picnic. Don’t leave without trying the pistachio rose cake.
Daylesford Organic
A farm-to-table favorite straight from the Cotswolds. The café serves seasonal, beautifully plated fare, and the market next door is perfect for picking up goodies for later. Great for a healthy reset between sightseeing stops.
La Fromagerie
A cheese-lover’s dream tucked into a quiet Marylebone street. Order a toastie or salad in the café, then wander through the cheese room. The wine bar is a hidden gem for a midday glass and a charcuterie board.
Afternoon Tea
Prêt-à-Portea at The Berkeley
Afternoon tea meets the runway at The Berkeley, where seasonal treats are inspired by the latest designer collections. It’s fashion-forward, photo-worthy, and best paired with a glass of champagne.
Sketch
Known for its pink velvet chairs and quirky elegance, Sketch serves afternoon tea with an artsy twist. Come for the scones, stay for the powder room—it’s just as iconic as the tea.
Claridge's
Classic, refined, and downright lovely, afternoon tea at Claridge’s is a rite of passage. Think delicate finger sandwiches, warm scones with clotted cream, and a tea list that reads like a novel.
Petersham Nurseries
Tucked away in Richmond, this dreamy garden café is a countryside escape just outside the city. Tea here feels like a secret—surrounded by greenery, antiques, and a Michelin-starred menu if you want to linger longer.
Dinner
Kitty Fisher’s
Tucked into charming Shepherd Market, this cozy candlelit Georgian townhouse is your date-night dream. It’s all velvet banquettes, flickering light, and refined British plates—book early and ask for a corner table.
Daphne's
This neighborhood Italian spot feels like a scene out of a Nancy Meyers movie. With white tablecloths, fresh flowers, and a lively crowd, it's equally great for a long lunch with family or pasta-filled dinners with friends.
Trishna
A Marylebone gem known for its coastal Indian cuisine and Michelin star pedigree. The vibe is relaxed yet refined—perfect for a night of standout seafood and world-class wine. Ask to sit near the windows.
The Pelican
One of the West London spots to know, this elevated pub serves perfectly executed British classics in a warm, wood-paneled setting. Stop in on a Sunday for a proper roast—or swing by later for a nightcap by the fire.
NOPI
Ottolenghi’s Soho outpost delivers big Mediterranean flavors in a bright, minimalist space. Great for sharing plates and discovering something unexpected—don’t skip the signature Valdeón cheesecake.
Gymkhana
With dark wood paneling and clubby vibes, this Mayfair institution serves bold, Michelin-starred Indian fare. Go for the tasting menu and let the chef guide you through the hits. Bonus: the cocktail list is stellar.
Gold
A go-to for Notting Hill locals, this four-story modern European spot is perfect for groups and golden-hour cocktails. The garden room is magic—ask for a table there if you're booking early.
Julie's
Understated and elegant, this Japanese restaurant in Notting Hill is all about the details. Sit at the counter for handmade sushi, fresh sashimi, and standout cocktails. Pro tip: go on a weekday to avoid the crowds.
The Woolsley
Transport yourself to Buenos Aires via Soho with Sucre’s Argentinian-Mediterranean fusion menu. The downstairs Alma Bar is perfect for post-dinner vinyl tunes and late-night cocktails with a little edge.
China Tang
Downstairs at The Dorchester, this glamorous, Art Deco hideaway serves the best upscale Chinese in town. Make it your splurge dinner—or stop by the bar for a Shanghai-style cocktail in a gold-rimmed glass.
Isabel
An opulent escape in Mayfair, Isabel blends Latin and Mediterranean flavors with a stunning mirrored dining room and an always-fashionable crowd. Dress up, stay late, and try the spicy margarita.
The Savoy Grill
Owned by Gordon Ramsay, The Savoy Grill is classic British luxury—think crystal chandeliers, mirrored walls, and tuxedoed servers. Stop by The American Bar for a cosmopolitan, then order the beef wellington for dinner.
Chic rooftops, cozy lounges, and hidden gems made for memorable nights out.
The Connaught Bar
A Mayfair icon where old-school elegance meets mixology magic. Order their signature martini (made from a trolley, tableside) and soak in the mirrored glam. It’s dressy, intimate, and totally worth the splurge.
Sweeties at The Standard
Perched atop The Standard in King’s Cross, Sweeties is a swanky, neon-lit cocktail bar with skyline views and DJ sets after dark. Head up before sunset, grab a booth, and watch the city light up.
The Little Scarlet Door
Hidden behind what looks like a London flat, this speakeasy-style bar in Soho feels like a friend’s (very fun) apartment. Think house-party vibes with better cocktails and surprise dance floors.
Purgatory Bar
Moody and mysterious, this East London haunt serves expertly crafted cocktails in a candlelit, cavernous setting. It’s walk-in only—go early or late, and ask the bartender for an off-menu pick.
The Belvedere
Tucked into the lush Holland Park is this hideaway for elegant cocktails, fine wines, and light Italian bites. With gorgeous fires inside and a beautiful terrace outside, this is a year-round favorite for leisurely sips.
The Rules
The Cocktail Bar at Rules, London’s oldest restaurant, is a gilded-age greenhouse where classic cocktails, crisp champagne, and some of the best steak in the UK meet the historic standards of elegant English dining.
WC
Once a Victorian-era wash closet, now short for wine and charcuterie. This beautifully restored underground spot might be the most unique for crafted cocktails and a standout wine list.
Millie Lounge
Located inside The Ned hotel, Millie’s is an all-day spot that doesn’t sleep at night. We recommend the spicy marg, best enjoyed in a velvet chair with the buzz of live music.
Stylish stops for fashion, home, and gifts—with a little London charm in every bag.
Liberty London
A Tudor-style dream filled with florals, fashion, and finds you won’t spot anywhere else. Start in the scarf room, head to homewares, and don’t miss the curated fashion edits on the upper floors—it’s a true London treasure.
Maria de la Orden
This chic, feminine boutique in Notting Hill is where effortless European style meets London cool. Think striped sets, crisp collars, and vintage-inspired silhouettes. It’s tiny, curated, and full of packing inspiration.
The Blue Door
A hidden gem just off the King’s Road, The Blue Door is a boutique-meets-lifestyle store with a well-traveled feel. Browse homewares, accessories, and charming gifts then pop into nearby cafés for a post-shop pick-me-up.
Summerill & Bishop
Tabletop heaven tucked away in Holland Park. Known for painterly linens, dreamy flatware, and the most beautiful napkin displays, it’s the perfect stop for hostess gifts or a just-because treat for your own table.
From iconic sights to kid-approved fun, London offers something for every traveler.
Tour the Sir John Soane’s Museum
Step into the preserved home of one of England’s great architects. Packed with curiosities, sculptures, and treasures, this quirky Holborn gem feels like a secret. Free entry, no booking needed unless you’re in a group of 8+.
Explore the Victoria & Albert Museum
From couture gowns to ancient ceramics, the V&A is a design-lover’s dream. It’s the world’s largest decorative arts museum, and it’s easy to spend hours here. Stop at the garden café for a mid-museum pick-me-up.
Wander Through the Tate Modern
Housed in a former power station along the Thames, the Tate Modern is a bold, industrial space filled with modern icons like Picasso and Rothko. General admission is free—just book ahead for ticketed exhibitions.
Catch a Show in the West End
The West End is London’s answer to Broadway. From big musicals to buzzy new plays, there’s something for every taste. Book in advance—or try your luck at a day-of box office for a seat steal.
Stroll Buckingham Palace
Snap a photo at the iconic gates or plan your trip for summer, when the State Rooms open to the public. Keep an eye out for the Changing of the Guard and don’t miss the view of that famous balcony.
Visit the Churchill War Rooms
Go underground to the secret bunker where Churchill and his team directed WWII. History buffs will love the immersive museum. Be sure to book well in advance as the guided tours do sell out.
Experience a Football Match
Cheer like a local at a proper football match (aka soccer to us). Whether it’s Chelsea, Arsenal, or Tottenham, the energy is electric. Grab a pint before kickoff and learn a chant or two.
Tour the Tower of London
Spend the morning at this centuries-old fortress and former royal residence and see the Crown Jewels up close. Guided tours are offered daily—go early to beat the crowds and chat with a real Yeoman Warder.
Kid-Friendly Activities
Ride the London Eye
Soar above the skyline in a glass pod on the world’s tallest observation wheel. The slow 30-minute spin gives little ones time to spot Big Ben and wave at boats on the Thames. Book ahead and go early to skip the lines!
Explore the Natural History Museum
From towering dinosaurs to glittering gems, this museum is a favorite for curious minds of all ages. It’s free, fun, and easy to navigate—just pick a zone and dive in. The blue whale in Hintze Hall is a must-see.
Visit the London Transport Museum
Climb aboard vintage buses, trains, and tubes at this hands-on museum in Covent Garden. Kids can stamp their own ticket, explore a fleet of vehicles, and learn how London moves. Great for a rainy-day adventure.
Play at the Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Playground
Inspired by Peter Pan, this Hyde Park playground features a pirate ship, sandy beach, and plenty of space to roam. Designed with imagination in mind, it’s fenced in (yay!) and close to cafés and Notting Hill shops.