London calling! Full of history, style, and royal charm, this European destination never gets old. From tea time to pub fun and everything else, discover our roundup for the best of the best across the pond.
The London Bucket List
Go to Afternoon Tea
We recommend Claridge’s or Sketch.
Pub Drinks & Dinner
Grab pub drinks & dinner at a classic London restaurant spot. We recommend Churchill Arms and The Savoy Grill or Chiltern Firehouse!
Shopping in Town
Indulge in retail therapy. Our favorites are Harrods and Liberty London
Glimpse into the Royal Family
Take a walk through Hyde Park and see Kensington Palace and Buckingham Palace.
Where to Stay
The Milestone
Just across the street from Kensington Palace, you’re sure to get the royal treatment while staying at The Milestone. With each room creatively decorated and with a distinct character along with incredible service, you’ll be tempted to stay inside all day. Enjoy their award-winning Royal Afternoon Tea in the Conservatory for an extra special treat!
The Stafford
Want to be central to all that London has to offer? The Stafford is just minutes away from some of the city's most iconic landmarks with many must-see destinations and activities at your fingertips. Stop by the American Bar for a cocktail or two and a little taste of home.
The Goring
Your traditional English hotel experience awaits at The Goring. With rooms just as charming as the exterior, you’ll wake up refreshed and ready to take on sightseeing adventures day after day. Need a moment of relaxation? Step outside into the Goring Garden, a beautifully hidden space to escape the London hubbub.
Beaverbrook Townhouse
For the boutique traveler, the Beaverbrook Townhouse is just the spot. The eclectic and charming, flamboyant spirit of Lord Beaverbrook is noted throughout each of the rooms, as seen through each space decorated with vintage photographs, bright illustrations, and carefully curated posters. Inspired by the room’s quirky designs? Pop down to Sloane Street for some of the most exclusive shopping and rich history.
Duke's
A short walk from Buckingham Palace, Duke’s beautifully blends charm and luxury, and is known for so much more than its excellent service and impeccable location. A visit to the legendary Duke’s Bar is a London must, best known for their martinis and the inspiration behind the infamous James Bond line “shaken, not stirred.”
The Four Seasons
Conveniently located near Hyde Park, The Four Seasons at Park Lane combines British sophistication with modern style, luxury accommodations, fine dining & more. Be sure to check out fun lobby bar and afternoon tea!
Claridge’s
Set in the heart of Mayfair, Claridge’s embodies understated elegance with an art deco twist. Since the 1850s, Claridge’s has mastered the finer things in life: glam design, delicious dining, and high-grade service.
The Dorchester
A London landmark and destination, The Dorchester is lively, welcoming, and home to many restaurants and bars. They like to call themselves “a village” because of its dynamic spirit and energetic atmosphere.
Where to Eat: Breakfast/Coffee
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.
Gail's
Think of Gail’s as your go-to neighborhood coffee spot. With locations in London, Oxford, Brighton and beyond, Gail’s offers all types of coffee drinks and fresh bread, pastries, and cakes everyday.
Hjem
This Danish coffee shop offers a cozy setting on a quaint Kensington street. From pastries and sourdough sandwiches to matcha or coffee, Hjem is sure to please.
Anya Cafe
Created by designer Anya Hindmarch, this stylish spot serves cakes, biscuits, light fare & coffee.
Where to Eat: Lunch
Granger & Co
Granger & Co is an easy staple for good, fresh food, with multiple locations. It follows the Australian spirit: sunny, easy-going, and generous. Note: they don’t take reservations.
Cadogan Arms
A fun spot on King’s Road, serving pub classics, craft beers, and seasonal cocktails. It’s also a great option for London’s traditional Sunday roast meal!
Aragon House
The charming 15-room boutique hotel features a pub, restaurant, and garden with a delicious Sunday roast.
Churchill Arms
The Churchill Arms is a London classic that serves everything from outstanding beer & cider and wines to authentic dishes from its very own Thai kitchen. Built in 1750, the pub was frequented by Churchill’s grandparents!
The Ivy Chelsea Garden
Located on the bustling King’s Road, The Ivy offers sophisticated all-day dining in a refined, art-filled space complete with a garden terrace and an orangery.
Ottolenghi
No matter where you are in the city, you’re bound to be close to one of Ottolenghi’s locations. With a daily changing menu, there is always something new to try. Stop by the Notting Hill location for exquisite pastries and main entrees to keep you full throughout your next stop around the city.
Daylesford Organic
Daylesford Organic brings a slice of the farm to the city. Fresh produce is delivered every morning from their organic Cotswolds farm, including artisan bread and pastries, seasonal produce, pasture-raised meat, fresh fish and cheeses, soups, and organic wines.
La Fromagerie
Founder Patricia's love of cheese began whilst skiing in Meribel, and today La Fromagerie comprises of three award-winning shops, a successful wholesale business, and two of Patricia’s books. Enjoy lunch in the cafe, a beverage and charcuterie in the wine bar, and pick up fresh produce or cheese in the shop.
Where to Eat: Dinner
The Pelican
The Pelican believes that “a good pub should be the cornerstone of any local community.” A neighborhood staple, The Pelican is known for everything from its upbeat live music nights to its lazy Sunday movies in the Pelican Room.
Kitty Fisher’s
Kitty Fisher’s offers delicious food in a cozy and romantic setting that’s perfect for date night. It’s located in a Georgian townhouse in Maydar’s historic and charming Shepherd Market.
Daphne’s
Daphne’s has a great atmosphere and Italian cuisine. It feels like the right mix of a neighborhood go-to and a fun, New York-like scene, making it a great spot to take both family and friends.
The Wolseley
Renowned today for its spectacular interior, The Wolseley was considered to be London’s first Grand Café. Known for its classic food and seamless service, The Wolseley has earned its reputation as one of London’s most respected all-day café-restaurants, becoming an iconic institution.
Sexy Fish
Dine here for a swanky and fun scene, an art-filled setting, good sushi, a raw bar, and creative cocktails.
Sucre
Since opening in Buenos Aires in 2001, Sucre blends Argentinian and Mediterranean flavors.. Besides the delicious food, Sucre is a fun spot to bring people because of its late-night cocktail lounge tucked downstairs, Alma Bar. Experience crafty beverages, live bands, and old-school vinyl.
Tamarind Mayfair
Indian is a must in London, and Tamarind was one of the first of its kind to win a Michelin star. It still holds it today!
NOPI
A go-to for Israeli/Mediterranean, plus a chic vibe offering a creative menu of Mediterranean dishes.The menu changes according to the seasons, however signature dishes like the coriander seed-crusted burrata and Valdeón cheesecake remain.
Chiltern Firehouse
Chiltern Firehouse is undoubtedly sceney but so worth it. With original features like a fireman’s pole and, the decor has been updated with glamorous additions and always offers a fun atmosphere. In addition, the people watching and perfected brasserie-like menu make a visit here not one to miss.
China Tang
Located in The Dorchester hotel, China Tang has a well-earned reputation for serving delicious, upscale Chinese classics complete with the highest quality of service. Step into old-world elegance as you descend into the ornate, subterranean setting inspired by pre-war Shanghai. If a meal here isn’t in the cards (it’s somewhat of a splurge), hit the swanky bar for cocktails instead.
Gold
This four-floor, modern European restaurant and late-night bar has a trendy feel. Reservations are hard to come by, but this tapas-style spot is nonetheless delicious and a fun spot for groups.
The Savoy Grill
Experience 1920s-style dining and indulge in classic British and French dishes Gordon Ramsay's restaurant. Pre-trip read: The Secret Life of the Savoy: Glamour and Intrigue at the World's Most Famous Hotel.
Trishna
Located in Marylebone, Trishna delivers a contemporary taste of Indian coastal cuisine with an extensive wine list from around the world! The Michelin star food is only part of the experience, as the informal and pared back aesthetic of the interiors offer a sociable neighborhood dining atmosphere, making you feel right at home.
Gymkhana
Inspired by the elite social clubs where members of high society socialise, eat, drink, and play sport, Gymkhana in Mayfair showcases Michelin star classic and contemporary Indian cuisine. Not sure what to get? Try their tasting menu to get a little bit of every flavor!
Isabel
With a stunning dining room and even better tasting food, Isabel is a must for your Mediterranean and Latin cravings. Their signature style from lunch until late night cocktails is complemented by an imaginative food and drink menu that derives from the essence and traditions of both of these cultures.
Casa Cruz
The perfect place for people watching and the sister restaurant of Isabel, Casa Cruz is your spot to sneak off to after the kids have gone to bed. With full cocktail and spirit menus, enjoy a drink or two with some late-night bites to end off the day.mostly for people watching – but also dinner is fine (Mayfair, Notting Hill) – probably wouldn’t take kids.
Sumi
Located in Notting Hill, Sumi offers a selection of carefully crafted handmade sushi and sashimi, made using the freshest and finest quality seasonal ingredients, alongside other traditional Japanese dishes. Pick one (or two) of their beautiful cocktails or hand selected wines to pair with your meal.
Dinings
Whether you’re sitting at the bar watching the chefs prepare your meal or in the dining room experiencing attentive service, Dinings should be on your list for a ‘home from home’ feel. Try one of their many desserts as a sweet way to end your day.
Bocca di Lupo
Classic Italian food on your list of must-haves? With a menu that is updated daily, Bocca di Lupo offers a variety of everyday appetizers, entrees, and desserts to satisfy any craving. We suggest sitting at the Chef’s Counter for a memorable experience!
Luca
Located in Clerkenwell, Luca showcases the best of the British Isles ‘through an Italian lens’ with a carefully curated seasonal menu so that each meal is as fresh as possible. Don’t know what to pick? Try the Ferragosto Menu and enjoy a chef written menu just for you!
What to Do
Tour the Sir John Soane Museum
Discover the extraordinary house and museum of Sir John Soane, one of the greatest English architects, who built and lived in it two centuries ago. The museum remains the same since his death in 1837, and displays his vast collection of antiquities, furniture, sculptures, architectural models and paintings. Open Wednesday to Sunday, 10 to 5. Walk in for free, but visiting with a group of 8 or more requires advanced booking.
Victoria and Albert Museum
Founded in 1852 and named after Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, the Victoria and Albert Museum is the world's largest museum of applied arts, decorative arts and design, housing a permanent collection of over 2.27 million objects, books and archives that span over 5,000 years.
Tate Modern Museum
With over 70,000 artworks, Tate Modern is houses a collection of British and international art from 1500 to today. Discover paintings, sculptures and more by artists like Pablo Picasso and Jenny Holzer. Entry is free except for some temporary exhibitions. Book in advance!
Go to the Theatre
There are so many shows to see at The West End Theatre, staged near the West End of London. Along with New York City's Broadway, The West End theatre is considered to represent the highest level of commercial theatre in the English-speaking world.
Stroll Hyde Park
Hyde Park is a 350-acre historic Royal Park which connects Kensington Palace, Buckingham Palace, and St James's Park. It is a beautiful place for a walk or run!
See Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace has served as the official London residence of the UK’s sovereigns since 1837 and today is the administrative headquarters of the Monarch. Although in use for the many official events and receptions held by The King, the State Rooms at Buckingham Palace are open to visitors every summer. It holds 775 rooms, and the balcony is one of the most famous in the world.
Visit Kensington Palace
Formerly home to the Prince and Princess of Wales, Kensington Palace is a popular visitor destination. Book tickets in advance to walk the gardens and see any exhibitions that will be running during your visit.
Churchill War Rooms
This is one of London’s must-see attractions, housing both the underground center where the British government directed the Second World War and the Churchill Museum. Guided tours are available only on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays.
Visit the Saatchi Gallery
The Saatchi Gallery is a London gallery for contemporary art and an independent charity opened by Charles Saatchi in 1985. It’s conveniently located in Sloane Square, nearby lots of cute boutiques and restaurants.
Go to a “Football” Game
Our soccer is London’s football, and a game is a fun group activity (especially if with locals) if you are in London during the season!
Visit the Tower of London
This historic castle has served many purposes, including a royal residence, military stronghold, a royal mint, prison, and more. Today it houses the Crown Jewels! Tickets required.
Shopping!
Retail therapy is a must in London. Two of our favorites are Harrods for a classic department store, and Liberty London for everything from great fashion to homeware and gifts.
Where to Have Tea
Prêt-à-Portea Tea at The Berkeley
Experience an authentic British Afternoon Tea at Pret-a-Portea at The Berkeley. With changing seasonal treats and an extensive assortment of loose-leaf tea, spend some downtime enjoying the most quintessential British activity.
Sketch
Best known for its millennium pink interiors, this 18th-century townhouse offers a more modern but fun take on high tea. It also transforms into a cocktail lounge every evening.
Claridge’s
Experience traditional afternoon tea here, with variety of finger sandwiches, patisserie and warm scones, and Claridge's jam and cornish clotted cream.
Petersham Nurseries
A visit here is a must! Whether you’re going for tea, lunch, shopping, or just to explore, you’ll fall in love with the charm of Petersham Nurseries. In 1997, Gael and Francesco Boglione moved their young family from central London to Richmond. Today, their property is home to restaurants (including one with a Michelin star!), a home goods and lifestyle shop, deli, and plant nursery.
Kid-Friendly Activities
London Eye
Enjoy amazing 360-degree views over London from the London Eye–the world’s tallest observation wheel. Relax for up to the 30 minutes on this leisurely rotation in one of the 32 high-tech glass pods while taking in the view.
Natural History Museum
Spend the day delving into the history of planet Earth in the Natural History Museum’s galleries, which house unique treasures from the museum’s collection of more than 80 million objects spanning 4.5 billion years. Short on time? No problem. The museum is split into 4 zones - pick one based on what you love.
Museum of Transport
Give the kids a break at the London Transport Museum. Explore the heritage of London and its transport system, and the stories of the people who have travelled and worked in the city over the last 200 years.
Princess Diana Memorial Playground in Hyde Park
Designed to be accessible and inspiring, kids love playing in the teepees, on the beach, and running between the sculptures at the Princess Diana Memorial Playground. Not a far walk from Notting Hill, it’s easy to pop over for lunch and shopping afterwards.
What to Pack
The London look: fashion-forward with a hint of refinement, and always stylistically inclined.