What is the most central place in London to stay?
The West End is a major tourist district right in the centre of London. It’s where you’ll find lots of theatres, great shopping, excellent restaurants and buzzing nightlife. High hotel prices reflect the West End’s outstanding central location, and there are many 4-star and 5-star hotels in the area. Covent Garden is considered one of the safest neighbourhoods in London due to its notable police presence. This area is ideal for those who enjoy a touch of luxury, with close proximity to world-famous attractions like the Royal Opera House and Covent Garden Market.For your first trip to London, I recommend keeping things central so you’re close to the top attractions in the city. Covent Garden is a fan-favorite that combines historic markets, great dining options, and shopping just a stone’s throw from some of the best theater shows.West is best, so look at Kensington, Chelsea or Notting Hill. For shopping, restaurants, theatre and nightlife, Soho and Covent Garden are great spots in the centre, while King’s Cross and Camden are lively options, too. And if the river is calling, the South Bank and Westminster are your best bet.Where are the best walkable locations to stay in London? The areas around Covent Garden, Southbank, and Soho are among the most pedestrian-friendly but if you are looking for somewhere with green spaces and nature, Regent’s Park is ideal as it is close to London Zoo.Richmond upon Thames (including areas like Teddington) consistently ranks as the safest borough in London, thanks to its low crime rates (about 72 crimes per 1000 people as of 2024), riverside parks, strong community vibe, and excellent schools.
Where to stay in London for first time visitors?
Top Pick for First-Timers: Covent Garden, Westminster, or Soho. If you want to be in the center of all things London, being within walking distance of many of the city’s top attractions is essential. About the Area Soho is a small neighbourhood in the centre of London that is known for its buzzing and bohemian atmosphere and culture. From nightlife to theatres, restaurants and bars in Soho, it’s the place Londoners and visitors go to enjoy themselves 24/7.WHY STAY IN SOHO & THE WEST END? The West End is one of the busiest nightlife areas in London so if you stay here, you’ll have everything on your doorstep. You can enjoy a great night out, trying Soho’s small wine bars, live music venues, boutiques and excellent restaurants and easily walk back to your hotel.The most popular street is bond street. This area should be avoided by travellers on a budget. Soho: soho is a must on any travellers list when visiting london and especially at night time. Located in central london, it is famous for its trendy restaurants, live music venues, cool bars and clubs.Soho is a district of Westminster, in the City of Westminster in the West End of London. Originally a fashionable district for the aristocracy, it has been one of the main entertainment districts in the capital since the 19th century.
Where not to stay as a tourist in London?
Neighborhoods to avoid in London include Peckham, Elephant & Castle, Brixton, Tottenham as well as certain neighborhoods in East London, such as parts of Tower Hamlets and Newham. These areas have historically experienced higher crime rates, so it’s advisable to exercise caution when navigating them. Some of the safest boroughs in London are Richmond upon Thames, Bexley, Kingston upon Thames, Sutton, and Harrow, with low crime rates. Luxury neighbourhoods like Belgravia, Hampstead, Knightsbridge, Notting Hill, and St. John’s Wood also offer a combination of safety and high-end living.While most parts of London are safe, it’s wise to be aware of specific areas where crime rates might be higher. Neighborhoods to avoid in London include Peckham, Elephant & Castle, Brixton, Tottenham as well as certain neighborhoods in East London, such as parts of Tower Hamlets and Newham.The London boroughs with lowest crime rates revealed: Richmond tops list. Crime statistics released by the Metropolitan police have revealed the safest boroughs in terms of crime across London in 2024.The city’s crime index falls at 55. Europe such as Paris, Athens and Manchester. London is also relatively safe at night, especially in central areas with vibrant nightlife and frequent police patrols. However, like any major city, it’s important to stay vigilant.Most of London is perfectly safe for you to travel through. However for those eager to avoid crime, there are a few boroughs which have been flagged as particular ‘danger hotspots’. These include Hackney, Tower Hamlets, Haringey and Lambeth.