Top Towns London

City Guide

London

London shows no sign of relinquishing its status as one of Europe’s most seductive cities. It truly has something for everyone – a packed cultural calendar, history on practically every street corner, a thriving culinary scene and various green spaces that provide welcome respite from the busy centre. While major tourist sites like Big Ben steal the spotlight, visitors who venture off the well-worn track will be duly rewarded.

When to go:
London’s weather is notoriously unpredictable, but there’s enough to do indoors for that not to matter too much. Temperatures start to become pleasant from April onwards, peaking in August. The cultural calendar is most lively from September to December.

How to get around:
The London Underground and the city’s extensive bus network will get you almost everywhere, but within Zone 1 of the transport network it’s sometimes quicker to walk. Bike-shares are also a great option, costing £2 for unlimited journeys up to 30 minutes, within a 24-hour period. But beware: the city’s narrow, winding roads and traffic congestion mean that travelling on two wheels is not for the faint-hearted.

Where To Stay In London

Green Rooms

Self-described arts hotel with discounted rates for creatives

Where To Eat In London

Carousel

Restaurant, creative hub and events space all rolled into one

Trishna

Michelin-starred restaurant offering upscale Indian dishes

Where To Drink In London

St John

Restored former smokehouse with an extensive list of wines and beers

What To Do In London

Where To Shop In London

Marylebone

A chic neighbourhood with some of the best shops in town

Liberty

A high-end department store in a Tudor Revival building