London, the vibrant and historic capital of the United Kingdom, is a city with some of the most enchanting and diverse neighbourhoods. From the gleaming skyscrapers of the City of London to the charming, cobblestone streets of Notting Hill, this sprawling metropolis is a patchwork of distinct neighbourhoods, each with its own unique character and story to tell.
Welcome to our comprehensive guide to the best boroughs in London! Whether you’re planning your first visit to this iconic city or looking to rediscover new hidden gems, this guide will take you on a captivating journey through the neighbourhoods that make London one of the world’s most beloved destinations.
Get ready to wander through centuries-old streets, savour international flavours, explore lush parks, and immerse yourself in this extraordinary city’s rich history and culture. London’s boroughs are like chapters in a fascinating book, each offering a different experience waiting to be discovered.
You can use this guide to help find the best things to explore when visiting a certain neighbourhood in London. Or use it as a directory when deciding on a hotel. Choosing where to stay in a city like London will dramatically change your travel experience. If you’re not a nightlife person, picking to stay in Soho might make you feel totally out of place. If you’re a classical historian, you might feel lost in the hipster mecca of Shoreditch. See what appeals to you and feels like the right choice for your trip.
The neighbourhood of Westminster is just opposite the Thames River, bordered by Green Park to the north and Vauxhall Bridge Road to the Southwest. The area was named after the great Westminster Abbey, the center of religious and political power at the time. Westminster’s architecture is a mix of styles from different periods, reflecting the area’s long and varied history. You’ll find primarily Victorian and Edwardian structures with many historic buildings that date back centuries.
While many tourists come to Westminster, the neighbourhood is filled with local government workers. So there is a lively mix of tourists and locals alike. If you want to escape the tourist crush, avoid the Houses of Parliament. Instead, explore the southern part of the neighbourhood. Here, you’ll find a mixture of exceptional London residences. Surrounding these apartments are charming parks and incredible restaurants and cafes. A blend of modern cuisine and traditional British fare.
Westminster is home to a plethora of amazing London sights and attractions. The Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, and the Jewel Tower surround the River Thames. You’ll find Churchill’s War Rooms, 10 Downing Street along Whitehall Road.
Beside this is the great Westminster Abbey. The Abbey has been a site of worship for over 1,000 years. And inside, you can find the final resting places of many famed monarchs and notable figures from British history.
While Westminster isn’t the best neighbourhood for food, there are some real hidden gems. Yaatra is one of the best modern Indian restaurants in the city, serving up some inventive takes on classical dishes. The Laughing Halibut is where I always recommend people go for a traditional fish and chips. Inside, you’ll find a charmingly retro yet authentic interior. And if you’re a coffee and garden lover, you must check out Jens Jakobsen’s Onion Garden cafe.
Just north of the City of Westminster, sandwiched between Green Park, St. James Park and Trafalgar Square, is the micro neighbourhood of St. James. Despite being small, this gorgeous neighbourhood is home to some of London’s most iconic Royal landmarks. Walking around here, you feel like royalty yourself.
St. James’s Palace, where the borough gets its name, is one of the British monarchy’s most important historic royal palaces. The Changing of the Guard ceremony, a popular tourist attraction, begins it’s route outside St. James Palace. The Changing of the Guard showcases the pomp and pageantry associated with the British monarchy.
Buckingham Palace is one of the most iconic and recognizable landmarks in the United Kingdom. It serves as the official residence and administrative headquarters of the reigning monarch of the United Kingdom. Buckingham Palace’s history dates back to the early 18th century when it was originally constructed as a private townhouse known as Buckingham House for the Duke of Buckingham. Today, Buckingham Palace serves as a working royal residence and a symbol of the British monarchy. While tourists cannot enter the main residence, they can visit the State Rooms during the summer when the King is on holiday. The State Rooms offer a glimpse into the opulence and grandeur of the palace’s interior, featuring exquisite artwork, luxurious furnishings, and historical artifacts.
Nearby is the oasis of St. James’s Park. This beautiful public park has well-manicured gardens, a large lake, and views of several iconic landmarks.
Jermyn Street was one of my favourite streets to window shop along when I lived nearby. This famous shopping street is known for its high-end fashion, vintage grooming salons, bespoke tailors and historic shops. These stores have served the elite of London high society, including the royals! Some of these shops have been here for over a hundred years. Even just browsing inside is like going back in time.
While St. James doesn’t have the largest selection of restaurants, it delights in historic pubs. The most famous is the Red Lion. Hidden along the picturesque Crown Passage, this pub has been open since the 17th century! Supposedly, it was a favourite of the royals as it’s only a stone’s throw from various royal residences. But it’s discreetly tucked away to avoid prying eyes.
Pimlico is an often overlooked neighbourhood in London but one of my favourite hidden gems. It is located just west of Westminster yet is still in central London. It’s a tranquil and charming area known for its colourful Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian architecture, leafy squares, and quiet streets. Pimlico is bordered by the River Thames to the south, Vauxhall Bridge Road to the east, Belgravia to the north, and Chelsea to the west.
Despite being near some of the top sights, the neighbourhood, with its peaceful tree-lined streets, still maintains a small-town feel. Many residential homes in the area were built in the 19th century. They were made for wealthy families and feature elegant columns, intricate ironwork, and grand entrances.
Most sights in Pimlico aren’t on the top of any London “must-see” lists, yet their authentic and intimate ambiance makes them true real hidden gems. My favourite local church to sit in and have a reflective moment was St. Gabriel’s Church. This grade II listed temple was built in 1850 by Thomas Cundy in one of Pimlico’s marshlands. The stone facade is always lush with ivy and greenery, making it feel like an oasis. Many people rave about the squares in Chelsea and Belgravia, but St. George’s Square in Pimlico is just as beautiful and the perfect place for a picnic in the summer. It’s far less crowded than the more popular square in the rest of the city.
While Pimlico might lack big-name attractions, it’s replete with restaurants, even in such a small area! The best place to get a full English breakfast inside a true retro diner is the Regency Cafe. A tried and true spot that has been serving the residents of Pimlico for over 50 years. It’s inexpensive and authentic, and the owner is such a character. For more upscale yet relaxed dining, walk along Wilton Road, where you can find everything from modern British cuisine to top-class Turkish cuisine and charming pubs!
To the west of Westminster is the affluent and fashionable neighbourhood of Belgravia. The area of Belgravia was developed in the early 19th century by the Grosvenor family, who owned the surrounding estates. During this period, it drew in many wealthy families who built elegant, white townhouses featuring ornate balconies, Roman-inspired columns, and fabulous garden terraces. The houses all face several lush garden squares, including Belgrave Square, Eaton Square, and Chester Square. Each of these is a fabulous place to visit for a picnic if you want a peaceful outdoor spot to relax.
Boutiques, high-end department stores, and Michelin-starred restaurants all seem to congregate around here. This isn’t the spot to come if you’re on a budget. But it is a fantastic spot for awe-inspiring eating, wandering the Georgian and Victorian architecture, and window shopping. Since it is such an affluent neighbourhood, Belgravia is considered one of the safest places to stay in London, great for solo female travellers. But, obviously, it isn’t the cheapest.
Elizabeth Street is the street to explore when visiting Belgravia. This enchanting street is lined with boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants. You’ll find everything from designer clothing to artisanal chocolates here. Tomtom Coffee House is my favourite place to grab a drink and people-watch. Their spot right on the corner, outside their adorable shop front, makes for such a cozy stop to relax during your no doubt busy London travels. If you plan on doing any cooking or are just looking to experience a truly one-of-a-kind foodie haven, check out Bayley & Sage grocers across the street. This store highlights incredible gourmet produce from all over the UK and is where you should sample some of the country’s best cheese and specialty meats.
If you stop into Barley & Sage, grab a few items for a picnic and head over to Eaton Square Gardens. The garden is surrounded by stately Georgian and Victorian buildings, many of which are now occupied by embassies and high-end residential properties. The garden was originally laid out in the early 19th century, designed by a renowned architect and builder, Thomas Cubitt. In the center is a large oval lawn surrounded by trees, flowerbeds, and shrubs. Several winding paths lead through the garden, providing visitors with plenty of opportunities to explore and sit on the various benches to enjoy a quiet spot in the middle of the city!
Just southwest of Belgravia is the trendy neighbourhood of Chelsea. In the 18th century, Chelsea quickly became one of the hotspots in London for the upper classes to build fashionable residences. And today, Chelsea is still one of the most fabulous areas to simply walk around and admire these incredible architectural masterpieces. The neighbourhood is home to many stunning Georgian and Victorian buildings, now protected as heritage sites.
But what many people think of when they think of Chelsea is the shopping. Chelsea is also known for its lively retail scene, with many high-end shops, boutiques, and galleries lining the streets. The King’s Road, in particular, is a popular shopping destination, with a range of designer stores, independent boutiques, and trendy cafes.
My favourite place to come to in Chelsea is Pavillion Road. This amazing pedestrianized street is home to sweet food shops and quirky boutiques. The perfect place to relax and enjoy a coffee or tea under the buntings that stretch along the roadway.
The old Royal Hospital Chelsea is on the south edge of Chelsea, along the banks of the Thames River. This historic building is home to the famous Chelsea Pensioners, revered retired soldiers. One of the most popular events held inside the hospital is the Chelsea Flower Show. The Chelsea Flower Show is one of the most prestigious flower shows in the world. Attracting visitors from all over the globe. The show is held in late May or early June. It aims to showcase various garden designs and horticultural displays from some of the industry’s top garden designers and landscapers.
Knightsbridge is one of the smallest neighbourhoods in London. But what it lacks in size, it makes up for in sheer grandeur. We’ve heard this name before, but we really do have architect Thomas Cubitt to thank for transforming what was once a simple rural hamlet into this upper-class residential area. Cubitt had made a name for himself with his work in Belgravia, and his talents were once again employed to build what would become one of the world’s most iconic department stores: Harrods. And to support such an extravagant building, the houses around it needed to be just as lavish. Some of the most impressive Victorian townhouses can be found exploring the side streets off Knightsbridge Road.
One of the most impressive buildings in Knightsbridge is the Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park Hotel. Just walking by, your eyes will go up and up to take in all the glory of this majestic structure. The hotel was built in the late 19th century, originally a residence, but it was recently converted into a hotel. It costs a pretty penny to stay here, and as such, the hotel has been where so many famous guests have visited over the years. This includes everyone from Winston Churchill to the Rolling Stones.
As mentioned, Knightsbridge is also known for its luxury retail. All along Knightsbridge Road, you can find high-end boutiques, designer stores, and department stores like Harvey Nichols. But what everyone comes to Knightsbridge to see is Harrods. Harrods is perhaps the most famous department store in the world, offering an unparalleled selection of luxury goods, from fashion and accessories. In addition to this, they are renowned for their amazing gourmet food hall. While Harrods is perhaps one of the most expensive shopping experiences in London, their food hall manages to be pricey, yet you can still find reasonably priced for the quality. And the food here is truly spectacular and worth a little splurge.
If you prefer something less formal, I always recommend walking around the Knightsbridge Mews’. A mews is a narrow, cobbled street or alleyway in London, often lined with two-storey houses. These were originally the stables where wealthy residents kept their horses and carriage. But today, these structures have been converted into unique homes with some of the most darling and picture exteriors. Since these mews are too narrow for cars, they are pedestrian-only lanes, ensuring they are a peaceful and quiet retreat from the bedlam that is on the high street.
The Royal Borough of Kensington is replete with elegant Victorian architecture, leafy parks and world-renowned museums. It is located west of the city centre, and while it is home to these big-name attractions, it is mainly a luxury residential neighbourhood. Meaning you’ll find this part of town is such a peaceful and quiet place to explore. Many old, historic townhomes have been transformed into trendy hotels. And staying here gives you the feeling of living inside a piece of London’s history.
The neighbourhood has been home to many famous artists, writers, and politicians over the years, including T.S. Eliot, Virginia Woolf, Winston Churchill and Sir Alfred Hitchcock. Their homes are marked with official blue plaques. I find that Kensington is where you seem to find the most dense collection of these blue plaques. You can barely a few blocks without hitting at least a few blue plaques!
I think Kensington is one of the best places to stay if you’re travelling with kids. You are steps from so many different museums and splendid parks in one neighbourhood. Perfect for entertaining kids and adults alike! Just off Cromwell Road is the Victoria and Albert Museum, the Natural History Museum, and the Science Museum of London. For art and architecture lovers, you need to head to Kensington High street, where you’ll find the Design Museum and the Leighton House and Sambourne Houses.
For any royalist, a visit to Kensington Palace is sure to please! This historic royal palace was once the residence of Princess Diana and is now a museum open to the public. Kensington Palace borders the great Hyde Park and adjoining Kensington Gardens. These large public parks are the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the big city. The park has many attractions, including the Serpentine Lake, the Diana Memorial Fountain, and the Albert Memorial. If you’re a music lover, Kensington is where you’ll find the fantastical Royal Albert Hall. It is one of London’s most famous concert venues, hosting many of the world’s most famous musicians and performers. Check their schedule in advance to see what’s playing when you’re in town. There is nothing like experiencing a show inside, so it’s well worth checking out if you have the time.
Perhaps most famous for the film of the same name, Notting Hill is a charming neighbourhood in west London. Although it’s not super centrally located, this tucked-away borough makes up for that with a dazzling array of pastel-hued, quirky architecture, which has become an iconic part of the area.
In the 1980s and 90s, the area became associated with the “Cool Britannia” movement. During this time, British culture and iconography saw a huge resurgence worldwide, influenced by Britpop acts like the Spice Girls, Blur, and Oasis. The Union Jack became a fashion statement, and the iconic style from London’s Swinging 60s was suddenly all the rage. During this era, the film Notting Hill was released, cementing the neighbourhood in people’s minds as a spot for quirky bookshop owners, artists, musicians, and designers.
Notting Hill is home to the world-famous Portobello Road Market, which features a wide range of antiques, vintage clothing, and artisanal foods. The quiet streets come alive on Saturdays, but there is always something for sale in the market throughout the week.
Also hidden in Notting Hill is one of my favourite alternative museums, the Museum of Brands. This quirky museum displays a wonderful collection of historical branding and packaging that tracks the trajectory of advertising throughout Britain’s history. If you are staying in the area, make sure you come on an empty stomach to check out spots like the Cheeky Scone, and the vibrant Sun In Splendour pub, which serves up one of my favourite Sunday Roasts.
This upscale neighbourhood of Marylebone is a great option for first-time travellers to London who want to be close to the action without feeling like they’re in Times Square. The neighbourhood’s name comes from the old parish of St. Mary, which sat beside the river Tyburn. Mary-le-Bow, or “bourne,” meant St. Mary’s on the river. Although the river is now under your feet, its original pathway carved out the grid for the streets above. So if you notice some odd twists and turns of roads, you know you are following the old river.
Marylebone borders Regent’s Park to the north and busy Oxford Street to the south. But instead of feeling overwhelmingly full of tourists, it instead manages to walk a fine line between iconic sights and quiet, charming houses. The streets are decorated with charming Georgian architecture.
Marylebone is where you can find my favourite museum in the city, the Wallace Collection. The Wallace Collection is a museum that houses an impressive collection of fine and decorative arts, including paintings, furniture, and armour. The museum is located in a stunning Georgian townhouse, and the collection once belonged to this family. As such, it feels like such a personal and intimate experience.
Another museum in Marylebone which is worth a visit if you’re a fan of London’s most famous fictional detective is the Sherlock Holmes Museum. The museum is located in a townhouse that has been restored to look exactly as it did in the Victorian era and features a collection of Sherlock Holmes memorabilia. While obviously Sherlock never lived here as he wasn’t real, this museum makes you feel like you are stepping into the novel’s setting, and it’s a great way to imagine London in the Victorian era.
Just across from the Marylebone main street is the great oasis that is Regent’s Park. Regent’s Park spans over 410 acres and includes several attractions, including the London Zoo, a boating lake, and several gardens. It’s a great place to take a walk or have a picnic. Marylebone High Street is a captivating street filled with boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants. It’s a great place to shop, have a coffee or enjoy a meal. My favourite stops along the street are Daunt Books, Chiltern Firehouse, Perfumer H and Boxcar Baker & Deli.
Tucked between Green Park and Hyde Park is Mayfair‘s luxurious and affluent neighbourhood. The iconic Picadilly Street begins on the western edge of Mayfair, just opposite the famous Wellington Arch. Walking through Mayfair, you pass by iconic buildings like the Ritz, Claridge’s, Grosvenor Hotel, and a series of fantastic historic shopping arcades. Mayfair is the place to come for luxury shopping. This neighbourhood is home to several famous shopping streets, including Bond Street and Savile Row, renowned for their high-end fashion boutiques and bespoke tailors.
This neighbourhood is dripping in luxury and features some of the most opulent buildings made by such renowned architects as Robert Adam, John Nash, and William Kent. The architecture is primarily Georgian and Victorian, with a mix of styles that include Palladian, Neoclassical, and Art Deco. One of the most famous landmarks in the area is the 18th-century Hanover Square, which was once the center of social life for London’s upper classes. The square features several Georgian townhouses and a statue of William Pitt the Elder, a famous British statesman.
But for me, the best place to come to shop in Mayfair is Fortnum and Mason. This prestigious department store was founded in 1707 by William Fortnum and Hugh Mason. They made their fortune selling used wax that was being wasted in the royal households. And today, they are one of the world’s most iconic and prestigious retailers. Fortnum and Mason specialize in high-quality British food and drink, particularly tea and biscuits. The store has an extensive range of teas, including its famous Royal Blend, created exclusively for King Edward VII in 1902. The store also has an extensive selection of jams, preserves, and other gourmet food items.
For a splurge, you should see if you can nab a reservation at Claridge’s for their sumptuous afternoon tea. Claridge’s is a luxury hotel that has been serving afternoon tea for over 150 years. Inside their elegant and stylish Art Deco-inspired foyer, you can enjoy a languid afternoon sipping tea with finely cut sandwiches, freshly baked scones and a range of delicate pastries and cakes.
If you’re looking for a spot of culture, head to the Royal Academy of Arts. This is one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious art institutions. It was founded in 1768 by King George III, and its mission is to promote the creation, appreciation, and understanding of art and architecture. The gallery features a collection of over 50,000 works of art, including paintings, sculptures, drawings, and prints dating from the 18th century to the present day. The collection includes works by some of the most important British artists, such as J.M.W. Turner, John Constable, and Joshua Reynolds, as well as international artists like Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci.
Another unique museum that is often overlooked is the Handel & Hendrix Museum. The Handel & Hendrix Museum celebrates the lives and works of two of the greatest musicians that might have never thought of being paired together, George Frideric Handel and Jimi Hendrix. Aside from being prolific musicians, what do these two have in common? Well, it’s, in fact, the very building the museum is housed inside. Handel lived here in the 18th century, and where Hendrix lived in the late 1960s. The museum contains a collection of artifacts and memorabilia related to both musicians, including original manuscripts, instruments, costumes, and personal items. The museum provides a rare insight into their lives and works and is a must-visit for music lovers and history enthusiasts.
London’s Soho neighbourhood is pretty much the Times Square of the UK. It is stuffed to the brim with inauthentic shops and restaurants, most geared towards appealing to American travellers. You’ll find M&M World, the Lego store, Angus Steakhouse, TGI Fridays and, the mark of any tourist trap area, the Hard Rock Cafe. There is no doubt that Soho is lively; it is usually packed to the gills with tourists and pickpockets. In the 19th century, Soho was a pretty sketchy area known for its brothels and music halls. And the area is still one of the most popular spots for bachelor parties and hen dos.
What most people come to Soho for are the theatres! Shaftesbury Avenue is a major thoroughfare in Soho. Lining the streets are dozens of playhouses, making it the center of London’s theatre district. Some of the most famous theatres in the area include the Apollo Theatre, the Lyric Theatre, Sondheim Theatre and the Palace Theatre. These theatres have hosted countless productions over the years. This includes some of the most famous plays and musicals of all time. If you’re willing to brave the crowds in Leicester Square, head to the TKTS booth. Here, you can buy discounted theatre tickets for almost all the shows that didn’t sell out in the West End. It’s a great way to nab cheap tickets to fantastic shows. As long as you aren’t picky about what you want to see.
Ok, so you might have noticed I don’t have the best opinion of Soho, and truthfully, I try to avoid the area as much as possible. But a few gems around here are worth slogging through the crowds to find. The first is London’s Chinatown. Almost all the restaurants in Soho are chain restaurants, so walking into the red lantern-laden streets of Chinatown, filled with such delicious aromas, is a welcome change.
In the 19th century, because Soho had a seedy reputation, the cost of rent here was low. This made it a popular spot for immigrants. And the first Chinese immigrants arrived here when they settled in London. Despite Chinatown being one of the most heavily bombed areas of the city during WWII, their community never stopped thriving and growing. Today, you can find so many delicious restaurants here that are worth your time and money! The ice cream at Chin Chin Dessert Club is one of those hotspots that’s worth the wait.
Another one of my favourite hidden gems in Soho is Kingly Court. The area was built in the 18th century as a series of townhouses, but it was later converted into a warehouse for clothing and textiles. In the 20th century, the building was used as a warehouse for the music industry, and it was even home to a famous recording studio. Today, the building has been transformed into a trendy three-story courtyard featuring an indoor/outdoor food hall. Whether you’re looking for a quick coffee or a leisurely meal, there is something for every taste and budget.
While many of the shops in Soho are pretty touristy, if you’re looking for a gorgeous shopping experience in a wonderfully British store, you need to make a trip to Liberty London. Liberty is a luxury department store founded in 1875. Unlike the modern glass department stores along Oxford Street, Liberty is set inside an iconic Tudor-style building. The epitome of British historic style. It is a staple shopping mall where you can find independent designers and brands from all around the UK.
Many people might think Covent Garden is only the covered market of the same name. But the neighbourhood of Covent Garden actually covers the entire area stretching from Charing Cross Road to the west and Drury Lane to the east. It is bordered on the north and south by the amazingly colourful Seven Dials and historic Strand, respectively.
The name is derived from the fact the land where once was the Convent gardens of St. Peter Church. Founded all the way back in the 7th century. In 1654, after the Reformation and the dissolution of many of the monasteries in London, the area was converted into a small open-air fruit-and-vegetable market.
One historic street that feels like a picture of history frozen in time is along Floral Street. This charming pedestrian street takes its name from the flower market that operated in the 19th century. The old cobblestone pathways are lined on either side by stunning Georgian and Victorian buildings. Narrow brick facades with intricate details like decorative cornices, pilasters, and pediments feel like scenes from a Dickensian tale.
One of the highlights of Floral Street is the beautiful floral displays that can be seen throughout the year. Many of the shops and restaurants on the street have elaborate window displays featuring fresh flowers and plants. Adding to the street’s vibrant and colourful atmosphere.
As mentioned, the biggest attraction in the Covent Garden area is the Covent Garden covered market. This market dates back to the 17th century and is today home to a wide range of vendors selling everything from handmade crafts to fresh produce.
If you’re a book lover, one place you need to check out is Cecil Court. This one-block-long, pedestrian-only street in the heart of London’s West End is known for its unique blend of antique shops, bookstores, and galleries. Most people call this street by its nickname, “Book Row,” due to the many independent bookstores that line the street. To me, it feels like shopping in a bygone era, with both the architecture on the street and the books in the store. It harkens back to the old world and historic London.
If Opera and Ballet are your thing, then a trip to the Royal Opera House is in order. This stunning building has been a hub for the arts in London since the 18th century. Visitors can take a guided tour of the building even if they don’t want to see a show but are dying to visit the sumptuous interiors. The Royal Opera and The Royal Ballet have called this venue home for years, and there is always something really special about seeing a show here.
If you have kids or are a train spotter, a trip to the London Transport Museum is in order. The museum is housed in a historic Victorian flower market building, which has been converted to display the museum’s vast collection. You can get right up close to a wide range of historic vehicles used by London’s public transport system. This includes buses, trams, and underground trains, as well as bicycles, taxis, and other forms of transportation. Visitors can explore the different vehicles on display and even climb aboard a vintage bus. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history of transportation or engineering.
But for me, the best area to explore is Neal’s Yard and the Seven Dials district. Neal’s Yard is a small alleyway which leads into a darling courtyard famous for the colourful and eclectic mix of buildings, bright murals and joyful flower boxes hanging off the walls.
Just to the north of Neal’s Yard is the bustling Seven Dials historic junction. The striking column adorned with sundials marks the spot where seven of the most important streets in London once converged. Making this spot the veritable beating heart of London. While the area certainly has a sordid history, today, it’s bursting with excitement!
Above Covent Garden are the neighbourhoods of Fitzrovia and Bloomsbury. While they are technically different boroughs, so many areas overlap so small it’s easy to pair them together. The neighbourhood is bordered by Euston Road to the north and Oxford Street to the south. Although a small neighbourhood, the area has a rich literary history. Fitzrovia gets its name from Charles FitzRoy. FitzRoy was the land owner in the area, purchased a large manor, and built the iconic Fitzroy Square. Fitzroy Square is the most distinguished of the original buildings in the district. It was designed in part by famed architect Robert Adam. Bloomsbury‘s collection of academic and medical institutions, bookshops and cafes makes for a busy crowd of locals, students and tourists. Elegant Georgian townhouses line leafy Russell and Bedford squares.
The Fitzroy Tavern was a popular public ale house on the corner of Charlotte Street, also named for Charles FitzRoy. The pub became popular in the 1920s for London’s artists, intellectuals and bohemians such as Jacob Epstein, Nina Hamnett, Dylan Thomas, Augustus John, and George Orwell. Today, you can still visit the very same tavern and sit in the spots where these men of history once sat.
One of my favourite hidden gems of Fitzrovia is the old All Saints Church. This beautiful Anglican church was built in the 1850s by architect William White. It is considered one of the city’s finest examples of Gothic Revival architecture. Although small in size, the details in the interior are absolutely mind-blowing. Almost every surface is decorated in patterns or ornamentation. The floor is patterned in tiles, mosaics cover the walls, friezes are painted on the ceiling and walls, and even the timber around the altar is fantastically decorated.
Bloomsbury is home to one of the most popular bakeries in the city, Fortitude Bakehouse. Walking by, if it wasn’t for the line out the door, you might almost miss this unassuming shop hidden behind the blue wooden doorway. You’ll find the most intoxicating aromas of freshly baked bread overwhelm your senses. They might speicilize in sourdough bread, but my favourite morning treats are their light and fluffy morning buns filled with mountains of fresh cream. And for something savoury, you can’t get any more British than a sausage roll! And theirs is one of the best in the city.
One of the main attractions in Bloomsbury is the British Museum, one of the world’s most famous and prestigious museums. While their ownership is a point of contention, the museum features a collection of artifacts and treasures from all around the globe. The most important pieces from their collection include the Rosetta Stone, the Elgin Marbles, and the ancient Egyptian mummies.
On the edge of Bloomsbury, you can visit the great British Library. Located just a few steps from the busy St Pancras Station. It is the largest library in the world, with a collection of over 170 million items! This includes books, manuscripts, maps, newspapers, magazines, prints, and drawings. But for tourists, one of the main attractions inside the library is the exhibition space. This space displays the most important cultural artifacts from their collection. Important literary and historical documents such as the Magna Carta, the Gutenberg Bible, and the original manuscripts of works by William Shakespeare, Jane Austen, and Charles Dickens all can be seen up close and personal inside the library. Free of charge!
Holborn is a historic neighbourhood on the cusp of the Old City of London. As such, many parts of the neighbourhood can be traced as far back as the Roman era and the city of Roman Londinium. Holborn is bordered broadly by South Hampton Row towards Farrington Street and from the Strand north towards Guildford Street. The area became a busy centre of trade during the medieval era when a number of important guilds and trade associations set up their marketplace in Holborn.
In the 19th century, a new kind of trade took up residence in this neighbourhood. And that was the legal profession. Early in the history of London, the law was only taught to the Clergy in the official “City of London.” But in the 13th century, a papal bill went into place that banned the clergy from teaching common law. Henry III followed this up with his degree that no legal education institutes could exist inside the City of London. All the barristers needed to set up shop elsewhere. So they moved their offices, courts and even residences into the nearby hamlet of Holborn.
Lincoln’s Inn, one of the four Inns of Court that regulate the legal profession in England and Wales, was one of the first institutions built in the area. Today, some of the first buildings dating back to the 15th century still remain. A year later, the great cathedral of law, the Royal Courts of London, was built just on the edge of Holborn.
At the very heart of the neighbourhood is Lincoln’s Inn Fields. Lincoln’s Inn Fields is an 11-acre public park featuring relaxing walking paths and a large open lawn surrounded by several notable statues and monuments. The Lincoln’s Inn Society is located adjacent to Lincoln’s Inn Fields and includes several notable buildings, including the Great Hall and the Chapel, which date back to the 15th century.
Also directly across from the park is Sir John Soane’s Museum. Sir John Soane’s Museum is a historic house museum dedicated to the work and collections of the influential British architect Sir John Soane. Before the home was a public museum, it was, in fact, Soane’s home and office. Inside you’ll find a wide variety of objects, including paintings, sculptures, furniture, architectural models, and antiquities from ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome. Soane was a collector of art and artifacts, and his collection reflects his eclectic interests and varied tastes.
The Royal Courts of Justice is an impressive Gothic Revival-style building designed by George Edmund Street in 1882. It serves as the High Court and the Court of Appeal for England and Wales. Anyone from the public can enter and explore the building. And you can even sit in on many of the various court cases inside. This primarily includes civil, criminal, and family law. There are over 90 different courtrooms throughout the building and the fantastical grand central hall. Make sure to stop here to study the ornate archways and intricate detailing.
Holborn was also home to famed British writer Charles Dickens. Today, just like the John Soane museum, the house has been preserved as it was when Dicken lived in the home and opened as a museum for the public. The old Georgian townhouse at 48 Doughty Street is one of the most intimate ways to get inside the head of the writers of such works as “Oliver Twist,” “Nicholas Nickleby,” and “The Pickwick Papers” as they were each written right here inside the house.
The Old Curiosity Shop is a building that dates back to the 16th century. It was originally a tavern called the Queen’s Head and later became a shop that sold antiques and curiosities. Over the years, it has been home to a variety of businesses, including a hat shop, a dairy, and a pet store. But what made this place famous is that this shop was the inspiration for one of Charles Dicken’s novels, “The Old Curiosity Shop,” published in 1840. Recently the shop was purchased by the City of Westminster, and a restoration project began to install a new roof and ensure the building is kept in working order for years to come. The project was expected to be finished in Winter 2023.
In the centre of London, you’ll find an area called, perhaps confusingly enough, the City of London. Also known as the Square Mile, this small but mighty part of town is now considered the city’s financial and business center. Modern skyscrapers hide in plain sight the parts of London that date back to the Roman era when it was founded as Londinium. These Roman ruins are such a peak into the earliest beginnings of the creation of what is now one of the most important cities in the world.
The City of London neighbourhood was devastated by the Great Fire of London in 1666. Despite efforts to contain the fire, it burned for several days. Eventually consuming over 13,000 homes, 87 churches, and many other public buildings. But from the ashes of the fire rose new constructions. Some of the most famous landmarks, including St. Paul’s Cathedral, Mansion House, the Guildhall, the Bank of England and the Monument. Today, you can visit the Monument to the Great Fire of London, a 202-foot-tall column, built to commemorate stories from the great fire.
For first-time visitors, the old City of London is a hub of interest with many historical buildings. One of the oldest landmarks standing on the edge of the City of London is the Tower of London. This historic castle, located on the north bank of the River Thames, was built in the 11th century and has served as a royal palace, a prison, and a fortress. Upon entering, visitors can explore all the Royal bed chambers, the infamous dungeon, the Royal Chapel and the sparkling collection of the Crown Jewels.
Just across from the Tower of London stands the ever-photographed Tower Bridge. This iconic bridge is one of the most recognizable landmarks in London and is a must-see for anyone visiting the city. Visitors can walk across the bridge and enjoy stunning views of the River Thames and the surrounding area.
One of the most important buildings in the city is the enormous St. Paul’s Cathedral. This stunning temple was designed in 1675 by famed architect Sir Christopher Wren, responsible for the architectural appearance of much of the city of London. The building has a rich history and has been the site of many important events, including the funerals of Winston Churchill and Margaret Thatcher.
If you’re looking for somewhere interesting to grab a bite to eat, head over to Leadenhall Market. The market is situated within a Victorian-era building that dates back to the 14th. It’s adorned with ornate wrought iron and glasswork ceilings delicately painted in bright colours and intricate designs. Dining here feels like stepping into a bygone era. Inside, there is a host of restaurants, pubs, and food stalls serving everything from traditional British cuisine to international dishes. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty pie, a gourmet burger, or a taste of global flavours, you’ll find plenty of options to satisfy your cravings.
Too often overlooked, Spitalfields and Shoreditch are my second favourite areas in London. This trendy and vibrant neighbourhood is located in the East End of London and is hipster central. Everywhere you look, there is street art decorating the alleys and storefronts. It feels like living inside an outdoor art gallery. East London was historically where the poorer class of Londoners lived, meaning it was a hub for bohemian artists creating this passionate atmosphere for art everywhere you look. You’ll find fabulous vintage boutiques, artisanal coffee, trendy restaurants and delicious street food!
You can uncover historical landmarks by heading into the neighbourhood of Whitechapel and Spitalfields to the south. This includes the Christ Church Spitalfields, a Georgian-style church, and the Old Spitalfields Market, a covered market dating back to the 17th century. Whitechapel was home to the infamous Jack the Ripper killings. Walking these streets, you’ll find many have barely changed since 1888, and you truly do feel like you have stepped back in time, keeping your eye open for hidden secrets Jack might have left behind…
South Bank and Southwark is an often overlooked part of town for tourists, located on the south side of the Thames River. But sitting on the south side of the River means you are just a bridge across from the most popular tourist sites, and you get this stunning view of the iconic London skyline every time you wake up! I love the Southbank for its more relaxed atmosphere. It feels like there is just a different type of energy on this side of the city.
The heart of the action has to be the famous Borough Market. A market has stood on this side of London Bridge since medieval times, and today, it is a lively marketplace where you can find some of the best street food in the entire city. The neighbourhood is also home to Tate Modern, Southwark Cathedral, Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre and Hay’s Galleria shopping mall.
Exploring London’s different boroughs, from the timeless allure of Kensington to the bustling streets of Shoreditch and the regal grandeur of Westminster, is one of the best ways to dive into this amazing city’s rich history and diverse culture! Every street corner, every market stall, every park bench holds a story, and it’s up to you to uncover them. I hope this guide helps you narrow down where you might want to stay on your next visit to this unforgettable city.
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