London is a sprawling city with a little bit of everything. Art lovers and foodies would be spoilt for choice, sightseers could spend days admiring history and architecture, and party goers can bask in the welcoming pub culture.
Below is a hand-picked guide of our favorite things in each London neighborhood. Be warned – there is no way to fit all of this into one trip, so try not to over-do it.
Angel/Islington
A midday walk or run along Regent’s Canal will make you feel like you stumbled on London’s best kept secret. If the weather is decent, you’ll see loads of people perched by the canal, sharing laughs, snacks, and a bottle of wine, joking about moving into one of the canalside riverboats. As the sun sets, we recommend heading over to Angel Comedy Club. These guys do stand-up every night of the week, it’s run by local comics, and it’s completely free. What’s not to like?
Brunchin’: Towpath Cafe, Apera & Co
Munchin’: Afghan Kitchen, Ottolenghi
Boozin’: Rosemary Branch, Earl of Essex (outside patio is ace)
City of London
Somewhat confusing, the City of London (or the Square Mile) is the financial district in the centre of London. Ancient alleyways nestle between modern corporate skyscrapers, which makes for noticeable juxtaposition (word of the day).
This area is best explored during the day, and we highly recommend getting started with an early breakfast at the Sky Pod Bar, in the Walkie Talkie Building. Next, walk 15mins to admire and climb St. Paul’s Cathedral. After 528 steps to the top, you’ll be rewarded with one of the best vantage points of London. If you still have some juice left, walk another 15-20mins for more spectacular views – this time of the famous Tower Bridge and the Tower of London.
Shoreditch/Bethnal Green
Think quirky bars and markets, overpriced flat whites, and buzzing nightlife. Shoreditch epitomizes the “used to be dodgy, but now I’m hipster/edgy/expensive” trend. Nevertheless, you’re bound to have a fun time and meet some interesting people here. Head to Brick Lane Market for vintage clothing shops, food stalls and graffiti backdrops to the sounds of v impressive street performers. On Sunday, check out the Columbia Road Flower Market – even if you aren’t feeling floral, it’s a great place for a coffee/pint and some people watching.
Brunchin’: Rochelle Canteen, Fabrique, Curious Yellow Kafe
Munchin’: A Portuguese Love Affair, Chez Elle’s
Boozin’ (speakeasy edition): The Nightjar, The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town
Southbank/Westminster
Royal and elegant, this area oozes class. And tourists… Have a lazy walk along the River Thames and check out the London Eye, Palace of Westminster, and Westminster Abbey. Then, a gorgeous 15min walk through St. James’s Park and you’ll arrive at Buckingham Palace, where you can see the changing of the guards (dates/times here). If it’s a nice day, carry on past Buckingham Palace and you’ll reach Hyde Park, one of the most peaceful and attractive parks in town.
Boozin’: After a long day, rest your feet at the cozy and rustic atmosphere in Gordon’s Wine Bar. If you’re lucky, you can snag a spot in the cave.
Hackney/Haggerston
Artsy and edgy, Hackney has some of the most interesting markets and diverse eateries. Broadway Market might be our favorite market in town. You can find pretty much anything you’re in the mood for, and then walk it over and London Fields.
Munchin’: At Broadway Market, find the Ghanaian Food Truck (not sure the name, but it is delightful). In Hackney, My Neighbors the Dumplings is tasty dumpling house with a basement Sake Bar and Hanging Garden
Boozin’: CRATE Brewery, Netil360 (great rooftop views of London), The Dolphin
Borough/Bermondsey
Borough Market makes everyone’s list, but we recommend going on a weekday to avoid the crowds. In terms of sights, the market is conveniently just a 5min walk to the Shard, the tallest and most recognizable feature of the London skyline. It is also a 15min walk to the modern/contemporary art exhibitions at the Tate Modern. The top floor boasts a fantastic (and free) viewing deck with views across the River Thames, St Paul’s Cathedral, and as far as Canary Wharf and Wembley Stadium.
On the weekend, be sure to hit the Maltby Street Market with an empty stomach. It’s smaller, but the food and vibes are amazing. Plus, it’s walking distance to some of the best local breweries in London. Be sure to grab a scotch egg!
Munchin’ at Borough: Cheesy Potatoes at Kappacasein Dairy, Fresh Mexican at Tacos El Pastor
Boozin’ near Maltby: Partizan Brewing, Anspach & Hobday, Fourpure Brewing Co.
Soho/Fitzrovia
My mind was blown when I found out New York’s SoHo stood for South of Houston, but we’re yet to figure out the background of London’s Soho. Carnaby street literally lights up at night, and the alleys are filled with both designers and indie shops. This area is also proximate to the British Museum and the West End Theatre District. So get curious at one of the world’s largest collections of ancient artifacts, and then hit the town for dinner and a show (if you’re into that kind of thing).
Treat yourself to a night cap at The Blind Pig (above Social Eating House), a swanky speakeasy disguised as an optometrist. Every time, we’ve order the same thing: the “less than perfect” Manhattan and extra dirty martini.
Munchin’: Bone Daddies, Polpo
Boozin’: The Blind Pig (above Social Eating House)
Notting Hill
Quaint townhomes and cafes, cobblestone streets, and the famous Portobello Road Market mean we couldn’t leave Notting Hill off of the list. Its cinematic prevalence has made Notting Hill very touristy, but don’t let that deter you from having a cheeky stroll through this idyllic neighborhood. Between the pastel townhomes and the rose latte at Farm Girl, this place is an instagram haven.
Munchin’: Walmer Castle (great Sunday roast)
Brunchin’: Farm Girl, Egg Break
Sadly, this wraps up our neighborhood guide of things to eat, see, and do in London. It should leave you feeling hungry and curious, but let us know if we missed any of your favorite spots!
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