There’s so much more to London than just the London Eye, Big Ben and the bustling Oxford Street. Dive deeper into the capital and you’ll find an unmethodical bunch of neighbourhoods all waiting to be discovered.
To inspire you for your first or next trip, we’ve pulled together this article which will give you details on the best neighbourhoods to stay in or visit. Whatever you plan to do throughout your trip and whatever your interests may be, London has a neighbourhood that will suit your needs and match your tastes.
Kensington
Whilst the entirety of London is home to some fine museums, Kensington sure does top the list. Here you’ll find three awesome museums including the V&A art museum, the Natural History Museum and the world-renowned Science Museum. If wandering the pathways of a museum is your thing and you love to explore all things science and history, Kensington is the neighbourhood to stay in. But it’s not just about the museums. Kensington is also home to some of the best shops and gardens in London, including Harrods, Harvey Nichols, Hyde Park and of course, Kensington Gardens! Explore throughout the day, go shopping in the afternoon and relax in the elegant gardens in the evening.
The Southbank
If the bridges of London are your thing, be sure to consider the South Bank. Perfect for those looking to wander around and bask in awesome views of the River Thames, the South Bank is convenient for those interested in culture, art and history. The Southbank neighbourhood is also home to some of the most legendary places in London such as the Borough Market, The London Eye and The Shard – all of which are great sites to either marvel at or get awesome views from.
The West End
Whilst this is more of a region than a neighbourhood, it is one of the best areas in London as it is home to many vibrant neighbourhoods. From Chinatown to Covent Garden and Soho to Westminster, this is where all the action happens. If you want to be smack bang in the middle of London’s touristy core, this is the place to stay. Here you can visit some of the most popular sites in the capital such as Piccadilly Circus, the British Museum, Trafalgar Square and Buckingham Palace. Soho is another great neighbourhood in the West End as it is home to the vibrant Oxford Street and Regent Street – both of which are great for those looking to shop!
Notting Hill
If markets are your thing, Notting Hill is the perfect neighbourhood to stay in. Here you’ll find the famous Portobello Road Market which runs along Portobello Road and is home to a wide range of items for sale. Whilst Saturday is the day to come as its busting with traders, the market is open throughout the weekdays too. If you’re in the capital and you’re after antiques, second-hand goods, vintage clothing, street food and so much more, Portobello Road Market is the place to be. Aside from the awesome markets, you can also venture off and explore the remarkable canals and visit the Museum of Brands which is known as one of the most unusual museums in London.
Main Image Credit: Giuseppe Buccola (Unsplash)
Juber Ahmed is our Digital Editor and travel enthusiast with a keen interest in Islamic history and heritage. He travels with his wife to various places around the world and writes about his experiences.
Juber's favourite Quote...
"The World Is a Book and Those Who Do Not Travel Read Only One Page" [Saint Augustine]
