Which area of London is best to stay with kids?
Mayfair/Marylebone with Kids The Mayfair/Marylebone areas offer families visiting London with kids a blend of cultural experiences and convenience. Hyde Park, as well as top sights in for families in London and kid-friendly attractions in London like the British Museum and Leicester Square are just a short walk away. 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?Children going to London with Greater Anglia can travel for free if they’re under 5 years or half price if they’re aged 5-15 years old. For families, children can travel from £2 each return with an adult off peak (up to 4 kids per adult). This offer isn’t available if your entire journey is inside London’s Zones 1-6.The city, which is projected to be the top summer travel destination in 2024, is popular among tourists due to its iconic sites, gardens, and history. But if you ask me, London is also the best spot to bring your kids, especially if they range in age.
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. 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.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.If you’re wondering where is the best location to stay in London for a choice of accommodation, then you’ll be pleased to discover that the Bankside, Waterloo and Southwark region has some affordable and impressive options to offer. Including rentals with outdoor space!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.Most places where tourists are likely to stay in London are safe in terms of a very low risk of physical violence. If you want an area that is more residential (which often can feel more comfortable to people not used to big cities), South Kensington or Chelsea might be a good choice.
Where is the safest place to stay when visiting London?
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. 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.If you’re wondering where is the best location to stay in London for a choice of accommodation, then you’ll be pleased to discover that the Bankside, Waterloo and Southwark region has some affordable and impressive options to offer.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.
What area of London is best to stay in for tourists?
Whilst London doesn’t officially have a City Centre, an area called The West End is the center of tourist attractions in London. It is made up of several smaller areas, each with its own character and price. The main areas are Marylebone, Oxford Street, Mayfair, Soho, and we’ll look at each area individually. Oxford Street is a busy shopping street in the West End of London. It spans 1. UK retail, with many independent outlets tucked away down quiet side streets and alleyways.
Where to stay and not to stay in London?
Generally speaking, most areas of London are safe and suitable to stay in but, for peace of mind, we would recommend avoiding areas such as Canning Town, Tower Hamlets, and Hackney where crime rates are notably higher. 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.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. Before you book though, join us on a quick whistlestop tour.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.
Which area is cheaper to stay in London?
Paddington is a great area for budget travelers, offering a range of affordable accommodation and excellent transport links, including the Heathrow Express. The area is lively yet convenient, with easy access to many parts of London. Nearby attractions include Hyde Park, Oxford Street and the Sherlock Holmes Museum. 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.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.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.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.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.