Which area in London is best to stay?
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. Best Area for Sightseeing: Head south of the River Thames to the Southbank neighborhood for hotels close by many sightseeing attractions. Here, you’re near the London Eye, the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, the restaurants at Borough Market, Shakespeare’s Globe Theater, and other popular tourist spots.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.Hotels in Piccadilly Circus The area around London city centre is near some of the city’s most popular tourist attractions, including the London Eye and Trafalgar Square. And finally, there are plenty of great bars, restaurants, and hotels to choose from.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 is the best place 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. 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.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.St James’s borders some of the city’s most popular attractions and is within easy walking distance to London’s West End, making it a great choice for a family-friendly London break. Stay at one of the area’s hotels, and you’ll have the spectacular Buckingham Palace State Rooms & Royal Mews on your doorstep.
How to travel with kids in London?
Children under 11 travel free on most public transport services in London when accompanied by a fare-paying adult, or with a 5-10 Zip Oyster photocard. Children aged 11 to 15 years old can get free or discounted travel with a Zip Oyster photocard, or a Young Visitor discount. When you don’t need a 5-10 Zip Oyster photocard. A fare-paying adult can travel with up to 4 children under 11 free of charge.Travelling with children Children under five travel free with a fare-paying adult. If your child is under 11, they can travel free on: Buses and trams. Tube, DLR, London Overground, Elizabeth line and some National Rail services.Children under 11 travel free on most public transport services in London when accompanied by a fare-paying adult, or with a 5-10 Zip Oyster photocard. Children aged 11 to 15 years old can get free or discounted travel with a Zip Oyster photocard, or a Young Visitor discount.
Is London a good place to travel with kids?
Of all the countries I’ve been to, I think London is the best place for kids of any age. My husband and I took our son to the city when he was a baby, a preteen, and a teenager. The city has many museums, parks, and other activities to entertain kids of all ages. Whether you have the teens in tow or little ones to entertain, there are plenty of things to do in London with kids. Find fun, family-friendly activities, visit iconic attractions and check out the tastiest child-friendly restaurants with our guide to the best things to do in the capital.This post was updated June 2025. London is one of the very best places to travel with children – there are so many fun things to do in London with kids! There is so much variety – everything from world-class museums to outdoor space to live theater, much of which is free. Planning a family trip to London?
Where do most people stay when visiting London?
If you’re wondering where is best to stay in London for sightseeing, then the Tower Bridge and City area has to be an option. For a start you’re right by the famous river, and that in itself makes it feel like you’re right at the heart of things. Whether cozying up beside the fireplace in a pub on a cold winter’s evening or making the most of long summer days in the city’s green spaces, London is perfect to visit any time of the year. If you’re heading to London for the first time, I always recommend three days as the perfect taster trip.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.If it is either a short trip (four days or less) or it’s your first time in London, I’d stay in the trio of central neighborhoods that includes Covent Garden, The City of London, and Bankside/Southwark.For first time visitors, we recommend spending at least four or five days in London, which will give you enough time to get a feel for the city and see many of its main sites. With so much to do and see check out this article on how you can make the most of your time in London!
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. 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.Travelling alone can sometimes be a little risky, and this is certainly true for those who travel at night. Don’t walk alone unless you absolutely have to. If you do have to, then stick to main roads which are well lit. Avoid shortcuts and detours, even if you think they might save you some time.London is generally a safe city – even at night. Almost all of central London is well-lit and I very rarely find myself alone as it’s a 24-hour city. Public transport runs 24 hours a day, too, so it’s easy to get around even after dark.
How many days in London is enough with kids?
If you wondering how many days in London with kids, you could definitely spend a week in London or more and still barely scratch the surface of this incredible city. Still, three days is often the amount of time people have if they’re traveling through Europe, or want to venture out to other parts of the UK. For first time visitors, we recommend spending at least four or five days in London, which will give you enough time to get a feel for the city and see many of its main sites. With so much to do and see check out this article on how you can make the most of your time in London!If London is your only stop and you have the time, stay a week or at least five days. You won’t be sorry. We’ve included a busy five-day itinerary below. If you can stay an extra couple of days, spend the time exploring London’s many neighborhoods, like Notting Hill and Kensington.You could easily spend all 7 days in London or choose to hit up the major cities. We recommend the following budget per person for 7 days in the UK: Budget trip: £400. Mid-range trip: £1000.