London 2 day itinerary
London, baby. In Austin Powers the British big smoke was THE capital of cool, and London’s successful bid to host the 2012 Olympics centred around the whole ‘Cool Britannia’ concept.
For many of us – myself included – it’s not only a must-visit on a London 2 day itinerary. Thousands of us Brits, at least, aren’t happy until we’ve ticked ‘living in London’ off the bucket list. I resided in various areas of the capital over a number of years, and I’m so glad I did.
Is a London 2 day itinerary do-able?
Frankly, you could spend 2 weeks, months or even years exploring London. So how do you do London in 2 days? The short, and honest, answer is that you can’t. But you can certainly see some selected highlights during a short London 2 day itinerary – along with getting a real flavour for life in the UK capital along the way.
I worked in travel when I lived in London, specialising in independent travel, and during that time was based in South Bank, Covent Garden, Kensington and Knightsbridge. Now I live in Dorset, but return at least once a year, for a day trip or longer, to get my big city fix.
How do you start to plan a London trip?
You really do need to make the most of each day when planning what to see in London in 2 days. The UK capital is a large, sprawling metropolis, so for those who are short on time it’s best to base yourself close to some of the areas you plan to visit. Read on for more advice on this.
Table of contents
Where to stay in London
Deciding on a London hotel isn’t easy – over a thousand are listed on Trip Advisor! Begin by deciding upon your budget. How much do you want to spend? There are pricier areas within the capital, as well as more affordable options.
Lower down this page, I list ten hotels in London that are reasonably priced, and in different parts of town. They vary a little, but all average at least 4 star reviews on TripAdvisor at the time of writing. You can find out later which areas I’ve chosen and why – or skip to this section and SEE London Hotels HERE.
Getting to London
Flights to London
London is a pretty easy to get to. London Heathrow is the city’s largest airport, and as you can cheaply travel directly into the city by Tube, it’s also convenient. Flights, however may be cheaper if you use another airport. Don’t be put off doing this.
There’s the Gatwick Express and Stansted Express, while London City Airport is fairly centrally located, in the East End, and can be accessed via the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) system. London Luton airport is further out, but there are frequent direct trains into London Blackfriars, Farringdon, City Thameslink and St Pancras stations. They can take under 25 minutes, although you’ll have to take a 10-minute Shuttle Bus ride to Luton Airport Parkway first.
Trains to London
Trains travel from all over the UK and Europe into stations all over London. Thanks to the tube network, it’s easy to get to wherever you’re staying from any London station. For cheaper tickets, do buy in advance.
Getting around London
Travel by tube
Once you have sleep sorted by booking somewhere to bed down for the night, where do you start? How to see London in 2 days? Well… start by taking the tube. As well as being a convenient way to travel, you get a really great glimpse of London life whenever you travel by tube.
It’s also the world’s oldest underground train network. Suited and booted commuters rub shoulders with backpackers and students from all over the globe as well as shop, hospital and hotel staff.
London Transport
I believe that you should really get a feel for any city you visit – otherwise what’s the point? You see the sights, yes, but it’s so much better to really get under the city’s skin.
Which is why I urge you to travel by tube and walk where you can. Take a black cab at least once, just for the experience, if that appeals. Look out for red everywhere – double decker buses, post boxes and phone booths.
The London Pass
If you’re going to make a lot of journeys by tube it’s best to buy a two or three day Visitor London Pass if you can, rather than using a pay as you go Oyster card, contactless ticket or travelcard (a one day London pass). You can save a lot of money by doing so! It may even pay for that first journey from the airport (Heathrow) or train station (any) to your hotel.
A taste of London
Eat London, too. Take afternoon tea at a top London hotel if you can, and don’t miss curry night on Brick Lane. London has such a diverse range of excellent restaurants, serving all kinds of cuisine from around the globe.
Think of the London in two days as a taster – you will never manage to see all of London in that time. There are so many things to do in London… in 2 days? It’s case of focusing in on what you want to see, explore, take photos of and remember. Hopefully it will be enough to entice you back one day.
What to do in London in two days
Where to start on your London itinerary for 2 days? South Kensington. If you’re staying there, so much the better – on this first day at least. If you’re not, take that first tube trip across town to South Kensington. Then hit a museum – there are several within easy reach. Take your pick from the following.
DAY 1
This first day of this suggested itinerary for London in 2 days should be done your way. This is just a guide. For each activity I’ve narrowed it down to three recommended options. Day 1 takes in the museum and market of your choice, as well as Harrods, Hyde Park and dinner in the East End of London. Then, up to you whether you want to party till dawn or head to your hotel for a quick nightcap.
Day 1 morning
Visit the V&A, Science or Natural History Museum
The Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A)
Best for arty types
The V&A specialises in showcasing art, design and the performing arts. It’s on Cromwell Road, South Kensington (Circle, District and Piccadilly lines) being the closest tube. Entry to the main museum is free.
The V&A has an expansive permanent collection that includes well over two million objects. Some 5,000 years of creative endeavour are on display, encompassing architecture, sculpture, furniture, photography, textiles, jewellery, fashion, ceramics, painting, glass, books, theatre and other performing arts.
The Science Museum
Best for interactive displays
London Science Museum is also closest to South Kensington tube, on Exhibition Road. Again, entry is free, but do book your ticket in advance by visiting their website. This museum has a range of innovative galleries – the Wellcome displays medical objects, while the Equinox offers a fully immersive, interactive experience.
This London museum also has virtual reality simulators. If your impression of museums is that of dusty displays, the engaging exhibitions here might just change your mind…
The Natural History Museum
Best for nature lovers
You can also book free tickets in advance of your visit to the Natural History Museum in London. Also in South Kensington, this one’s on Cromwell Road like the V&A.
It’s worth a look just to see the architecture of the building – as well as the latest huge skeleton on display. At the time of writing it’s a blue whale taking pole position in Hintze Hall, flanked by some impressive dinosaur fossils. This is, without a doubt, the London museum for nature lovers.
Day 1 lunch
Knightbridge, Hyde Park and Kensington Palace
While you’re in the west, walk or take the tube (one stop) up to Knightsbridge. Have a look in Harrods – one of the world’s most famous department stores – or Harvey Nichols. Both if you fancy it. Spoil yourself with some goodies from the fabulous food halls, to devour in Hyde Park, which is a very short stroll away. (Tip – don’t buy too much if you’re heading to a foodie market this afternoon!)
If you feel like stretching your legs further, head over to the west of Hyde Park to see Kensington Palace and its gardens, former home of the much-mourned Princess Diana.
Day 1 afternoon
Go to market
For a slice of authentic London life, try a market this afternoon. The following are all good bets. From the foodies’ favourite near London Bridge to cool Portobello Road or central Covent Garden, each of these London markets has its own distinct vibe – and is easy to get to.
Portobello Road
Best for fashionistas
You can easily reach Portobello Road in fashionable Notting Hill on foot from Kensington Palace, or take the tube to Ladbroke Grove (Circle and Hammersmith and City Lines; 5 minutes’ walk to the market) or Notting Hill Gate (Central, Circle or District lines; 10 minutes on foot).
Unless your first day falls on a Thursday or Sunday (if that’s the case swap this afternoon for the next day’s) this vibrant market will be on. Portobello Road market sells antiques, fashion, vintage goods and food.
Borough Market
Best for foodies
This one’s just for foodies. Take the tube to London Bridge (Jubilee and Northern Lines) and it’s right next door. Open daily except on Sundays, Borough sells all sorts of delectable delicacies, and it’s fun just to window-shop (as it were) even if you aren’t hungry. Skimp on lunch today if you want to make the most of this experience.
Covent Garden Market
Best for architecture fans
At this central London market you will see entertainers such as magicians or musicians as you browse the boutiques and stalls. Architecture fans will love the original Market Building, and you’ll discover delightful little speciality shops selling clothes, perfume, homeware, crafts, jewellery and antiques. The closest tube is Covent Garden, and it’s open every day.
Day 1 evening
A curry on Brick Lane
Many cities in the UK have their own curry area, where restaurants serving specialities from the Indian sub-continent are clustered. Brick Lane, close to Aldgate East station (District or Hammersmith and City Lines) is where London’s curry house fans congregate. An ever-changing selection compete cheerily for custom, and locally will all name a different favourite.
Ask at your hotel for a recommendation if you don’t fancy taking pot luck. Some interesting street art decorates some of the walls here, and there are plenty of great bars around the Shoreditch area for post-dinner drinks too. Or you could hop on a local bus to explore Hackney’s late night scene. If you overdid it at lunchtime or Borough Market, no problem, as the restaurants are open until midnight for that post-pub grub fix.
DAY 2
Start with what is consistently voted London’s top attraction, the Tower of London, before taking a ‘flight’ on the London Eye. Treat your senses to an afternoon tea – perhaps with a London bus tour thrown in. End the day by exploring an area that appeals to you – an essential part of making this London trip your very own. It’s you who decides the final cut regarding things to see in London, England in 2 days.
Day 2 morning
Tower of London
Start early, if you’re so inclined, and head to the Tower of London. At the time of writing, this was the number one thing to do on London – according to Trip Advisor. That’s some tall order, when they list well over 2,000 things to do in London. At the Tower you can see the Crown Jewels and step back 1,000 years as you delve into British history. The sheer scale of this city’s – and country’s – past comes to life when you see the iconic Beefeaters and the resident ravens – and hear the tales of times long gone by. Even if you go early, do pre-book your tickets to save long queues. Tower Hill (Circle and District lines) is is the nearest tube station.
Click here to view or book Tower of London tickets
Day 2 lunchtime
I recommend skipping lunch today, to save room for this afternoon’s activity…
The London Eye
Just south of the Thames is the London Eye, one of those must-do London attractions. This is in some ways your secret weapon when you want to see London in 2 days, as this oversized ferris wheel lets you see the entire capital from way up high.
Another bonus of taking the ‘flight’ – as it is sometimes called – is that you get to take a quick walking tour of the vibrant South Bank area while you’re south of the river. Once more, do pre-book to avoid queuing and wasting time on this precious second – and last day in London.
Click here to view or book London Eye tickets
Day 2 afternoon
Afternoon Tea
You simply cannot come to London and not try a proper English afternoon tea. (Unless you’re on a very strict diet.) Dainty finger sandwiches, elegant cakes and fat scones smothered in clotted cream and jam…
In a country often not seen as a culinary nation this really can be a masterpiece. It’s art as well as food and makes for superb photo opportunities.The world is your oyster here, from a Bakery Bus Tour to the Savoy or Scoff and Banter…
The Savoy
Best for a splurge
Top London hotels serve up some of the best afternoon teas, but they’re also some of the priciest. The Savoy is the top pick of these: my bestie runs a venue company and praises it to the skies, and she’s pretty picky after spending so many years working in hospitality!
The Savoy’s Afternoon Tea offers the traditional favourites including finger sandwiches and freshly baked scones as well as signature pastries and cakes that are so beautiful you’ll hardly be able to bear to eat them. The Savoy on The Strand also offers vegan and vegetarian afternoon teas.
It’s not cheap, but it’s an unforgettable experience at this world-famous London hotel. Afternoon Tea is served in the Thames Foyer where the room is flooded with sunlight via a glass domed ceiling. The flavours, sights and sounds make this a sensory experience: gentle piano music and the tinkling of silver on fine china.
Read my full review of Afternoon Tea at the Savoy here.
Scoff and Banter Tea Rooms
Best for people watching
If you fancy seeing the Oxford Circus area while you’re here, perhaps try the highly rated Scoff and Banter tea rooms just off Oxford Street. This centrally located eatery is open all afternoon (1pm to 6pm), so you can start feasting as early or late as you like.
This afternoon tea venue prides itself on providing some little culinary surprises to delight your taste buds, and customers praise the service as highly as the food. If you’re staying at the Radisson Vanderbilt in South Kensington, the Scoff and Banter here also has great reviews for its lunch and dinner menus.
BOOK your table at Scoff and Banter Oxford Street HERE
Brigit’s Bakery Bus
Best for multi-taskers
This afternoon tea bus tour is my favourite. For those who are trying to visit London in 2 days, this is such a delightful experience as well as an efficient use of time. Tourists who’ve tried it are very happy with the food, service and tour.
The tea takes place on a vintage red double decker bus, and you’ll pass those places you didn’t have time to see – including Big Ben, Trafalgar Square and Marble Arch. The tour departs from Victoria coach station, so you could also see nearby Buckingham Palace before or after your tour.
BOOK Brigit’s Afternoon Tea Bus HERE
Day 2 evening
You’re not likely to be at all hungry this evening, so why not use the time to explore the neighbourhood – or attraction – that interests you most? Here are some suggestions.
Westminster
Go and gawp at Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament, by the Thames. From here you can take a pleasant walk along the riverside, or stroll over to see the gates of 10 Downing Street, where the Prime Minster lives. Trafalgar Square is also a little further up, at the end of Whitehall.
West End
Walk or jump on a tube up to the west end. Charing Cross Road is theatre land, while Leicester Square is where all the red carpet film premieres take place. Covent Garden is near this part of town, or head on the other direction up Bond Street to see famous toy store Hamley’s and sixties favourite Carnaby Street en-route to Oxford Street.
If you are hungry, London Chinatown is tucked away just off Leicester Square. Ask any local for directions – of their favourite eatery! If you fancy it, you could also see a west end show this evening.
Camden
Hop on a tube to lively, edgy Camden, which is chock-a-block with cool bars and funky boutiques. You can take a turn by the canal here too. The market stalls are mostly open until at least 6pm, often later during summer.
London Olympic Park
I love to see an Olympic venue – one of the highlights of a girls’ weekend in Barcelona was seeing the Spanish one from the 1992 games. So why not take a trip to Stratford in East London and have a good look around the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park that hosted the 2012 Olympics? I went during the Paralympics and loved it.
South London
Head south to Greenwich, Richmond or Wimbledon. The former is by the river with the Cutty Sark and the home of the Greenwich Meridian Line – aka Greenwich Mean Time (GMT). Richmond has a gorgeous location by the Thames plus lovely local shops and eateries, while Wimbledon has the common and is of course home to one of the world’s most famous tennis tournaments.
Notting Hill
Eclectic Notting Hill somehow manages to fuse gentrification with a down-to-earth, funky vibe. It has the houses of South Kensington combined with the attitude of Camden. A must for Hugh Grant fans!
Highgate
Go north to Highgate.It’s perhaps a less obvious choice, but its cemetery is the final resting place of several prominent people, including writers George Eliot and Douglas Adams, musicians Malcolm McLaren and Patrick Caulfield, and political theorist Karl Marx. Hampstead Heath is also close by.
Last night in London
Wander around, see what you want to and soak up the atmosphere during your last night in London. Do dinner somewhere lovely looking if you are hungry, and why not round things up with a cocktail or two, should you stumble upon somewhere that looks enticing? Stumbling upon some treasure of a spot might just be an unexpected delight of your two days in London.
Packing list for London
So now you know the things to see in London in 2 days. What do you take with you? It can be confusing working out what to pack for London, so check out the following guide. I lived in the British capital for some years, and have also visited as a tourist throughout my life. So I have experience in creating a packing list for London – in summer or winter. I also advised others on this during my years working as a travel consultant in the capital.
London weather
Deciding on your packing list for London does depend largely on the season. The UK has a maritime climate due to its proximity to the coast, and London can sometimes get very cold in winter and extremely hot and stuffy during a summer heatwave. The climate is fairly mild overall, however. Even in one day several types of weather can occur, so it’s best to be prepared. Don’t go without an umbrella – I love this YumSur Windproof Travel Umbrella. It comes in seven options, from stylish plain colours to raindrops, clouds or daisy designs.
SEE the YumSur Windproof Travel Umbrella HERE
Travel essentials
First things first. However you’re getting to London, you won’t get far without a ticket for the plane or train. If you’re from overseas – or even taking a domestic flight – you will need your passport (for ID in the case of the latter). Do check well in advance of travel whether you need a visa. (As an experienced travel agent, I can confirm that is your responsibility, even if you booked via an agent!) Don’t forget a supply of pounds sterling, as well as a debit or credit card for paying and withdrawing funds. If you take any medication, make sure to pack that too. The same applies to glasses or contact lenses. A travel first aid kit is also a great idea – especially if you’re travelling with kids!
VIEW a compact travel first aid kit HERE
Travel insurance
Never, ever, travel without insurance. I have seen first hand how many people have needed to claim on this, from a serious road traffic accident I witnessed an Irish traveller having in Australia to my family’s cases being lost on a flight from Newcastle to Heathrow. I use Cover Cloud, as they offer such a great choice of cover levels at very competitive rates – and their website is so clear and thus a cinch to use.
SEE rates for Cover Cloud Travel Insurance HERE
Bags
Whether or not you want to check a bag, if you’re taking a flight to London, depends on how long you’re staying. For a London 2 day itinerary alone a small carry-on type case or backpack should suffice. If you’re visiting London as part of a longer trip, then you may need a larger suitcase or rucksack. You will also need some sort of day bag.
Backpacks
I’ve had my 35 litre Karrimor backpack for well over two decades now and it’s still going strong. Frankly, I can get enough in that to last me a week or more! I use it a number of times each year, saving my large Karrimor (65 litre) rucksack for trips like a two-week holiday. Why a backpack? They are more ergonomic. I suffer from back pain, and even pulling a light case drags on my back. I’ve turned up even at five-star hotels with a backpack, so there’s no worries on that score.
VIEW the 35-litre Karrimor backpack HERE
SEE a 65-litre Karrimor rucksack HERE
Cross body bags
Minimising spinal strain also comes into my choice of day bag. For a small amount, I use just a cross body bag. If I need to carry more items, then I’ll add a compact backpack and use both. Why not just the backpack? Like any large city, London has its share of pickpockets, despite it being a pretty safe destination overall.
With a cross body bag you can easily keep your eye – and hand – on your valuables at all times. I love this Kipling cross body bag. It holds all the essentials, and comes in a choice of 30 colours or patterns! From classic black or bright red with contrast trim, to purple floral or leather-effect deep blue, there’s one to suit every style.
VIEW the Kipling cross body bag HERE
Daily essentials
As you leave your hotel each day, don’t forget to take any pre-booked tickets with you – to save time queuing as well as money! Other than that, the daily essentials I carry in London are my purse or wallet with cash or bank card, hotel room key, mobile phone with camera, a compact pack of tissues and small bottle of hand sanitiser, travel brush, scrunchie and lip balm.
Compact purse
I don’t use my usual heavier, bulkier purse when I travel – nor when I go for a night out. A small purse is a great investment, and it easily holds several cards and some cash. In real leather, this one comes in eight colour options. It even has built-in electronic pickpocket protection for added peace of mind – and is a real bargain for the modest cost.
SEE the compact leather purse HERE
Camera phone
Although I use an Apple iMac desktop and iPads, I love Samsung phones and have stuck with them ever since the S1 came out. The latest Samsung Galaxy S20 will be my next one when my contract is up!
VIEW the Samsung Galaxy S20 HERE
‘Popper’ hairbrush
I love my Denman compact hairbrush, and agin it’s something I’ve had for years. A daily essential as well as when travelling, this clever brush from a top hair accessory brand ‘pops’ back into place so easily, keeping it clean and as compact as possible to carry.
SEE the Denman Popper travel hairbrush HERE
Silk scrunchie
I use pure 22 momme Mulberry silk scrunchies, as they are SO much kinder to my fine, easily-damaged hair. For me, these funky animal print silk scrunchies from Calidad Home are just the best. Well worth the investment – there’s no going back and I also sleep on a silk pillowcase. Why carry a scrunchie? During hot or windy weather, it’s a real hair saver, and when in summer tying longer hair back can really help keep you cool. Especially on the tube.
VIEW a set of pure silk scrunchies HERE
Hand sanitiser
Since the Covid-19 pandemic began we all want to have a supply of hand sanitiser, right? I buy mine in bulk as it’s cheaper, and a small 50ml bottle is so easy to carry around. Again, this antibacterial hand gel is equally essential when at home or away.
SEE a multipack of hand sanitiser HERE
London travel essentials
So that’s the day bag sorted. What should go into your main case or backpack? Comfortable shoes are top of the list for me. Plus enough clothes – a clean set per day plus extra for evenings out. Lightweight accessories such as jewellery can be useful, as they save you packing too many items. My top tip when packing is to roll (rather than fold) garments. Somehow, it reduces creasing and saves space.
Another tip – don’t pack too much. Stick to two or three pairs of shoes and a fresh set of clothes for each day, with perhaps a pretty top or two for evenings. You can’t go wrong with jeans or leggings – I would take one of each plus three day tops and two evening tops or dresses for a two-night London stay.
A London guidebook
Not everyone carries a guidebook these days – but I always buy one for a trip. I like to keep them afterwards, pride of place on the dining room shelves to remind me of great trips. For me, you can’t beat the good old Lonely Planet London. I’ve used them ever since my year in Australia and late sold them during my travel agent days. Having quite a collection, I’m familiar with their perspective and layout – and I love it.
SEE prices and reviews for Lonely Planet London HERE
Walking shoes
It’s likely that you’ll do a lot of walking in London. Comfortable, durable shoes are thus essential. Since I got my first pair of Skechers memory foam trainers I’ve not looked back, and have so far purchased two further pairs. They look good on anyone, of any age, and come in a choice of appealing colour schemes.
VIEW Skechers memory foam trainers HERE
Travel containers
A set of travel bottles is so useful, meaning you can decant your usual shampoo, shower gel and so on into them, saving money on those pricey small sized ones. This 14-piece set includes spray bottles and pots as well as the standard ones. There’s even a funnel and spatulas for filling them, and a case. Perfect for face cream and hair protector sprays.
SEE a set of travel bottles and tubs HERE
Why you should take a ‘Wonky Weekend’ in London
When planning that two day tour of London, you may well be thinking of a weekend. Friday to Sunday, right? Not necessarily… it can often be a lot cheaper to buy flight or train tickets that depart on Saturday and return on Monday. That’s one of my top tips from my days in the travel trade!
Do you need to tip in London?
How much cash will you have to flash during that visit to London in 2 days? You may have fair idea about the cost of tickets, accommodation, entry to attractions, food and drinks, but do you need to tip in London? How much should you tip in London? Well the UK standard is 10%, going up to 15% for exceptional service. Some places might add this sort of amount as a service charge on the bill too.
If there is a service charge, usual practice is to pay it – unless the service was poor. In that case simple explain why you’re unhappy. Otherwise tips are discretionary and it’s up to you. It’s not expected as it is in the US, but as many cleaners, drivers, waiters and so on are on low wages in a city with a high cost of living, any tip will always be gratefully received.
Hotels in London neighbourhoods
Shoreditch
Best for night owls
If you’ve only got 2 days in London, then make it easy to sample city nightlife by staying in an area close to where it’s all happening. By basing yourself in Shoreditch, you’re within stumbling distance of all the bars and clubs you could desire.
One of the top things to do in London in 2 days is sample an Indian-style curry from the many restaurants that line Brick Lane. So you spend the day sightseeing before choosing an appealing curry house for dinner. Then you can go to all the pubs, bars or clubs you like before heading back to your room for the night.
Another reason to choose a hotel in Shoreditch is the price. London is a notoriously expensive city, and even a two day tour of London might stretch the purse-strings somewhat. The nightly room rates at the hotels in Shoreditch I recommend usually cost from £50 to under £100. A bargain bed in this big British city.
Shoreditch Hotels
Ibis Budget London Whitechapel – Brick Lane
This large hotel has all the basics you need and then some. Cosy rooms with comfortable double, twin or even triple beds, and you can throw in breakfast for just a few extra pounds. If you’re going to see London in two days, why would you spend much time in your hotel anyway?
SEE the latest rates for Ibis Budget Whitechapel HERE.
New Road Hotel
Turn things up a notch at the New Road Hotel, London. This boutique property is located in a former factory building. There are warehouse style rooms and free tea and coffee in the lounge areas on every floor as well as a library, pool table, coffee shop, cocktail bar and restaurant.
FIND OUT MORE about New Road Hotel HERE.
Holiday Inn London – Whitechapel
Rooms at this hotel feature panoramic views over the landmarks of the London skyline – such as Tower Bridge and the Gherkin – via triple glazed windows. There’s a free-to-use gym and complimentary WiFi, as well as Traders restaurant and bar on site.
VIEW current prices for Holiday Inn Whitechapel HERE
Tower Hill
Best for water babies
Head west a little and you’ll reach the next London neighbourhood I recommend – Tower Hill. This area is very central and close to the river. If you’re taking a two day tour of London, it makes sense to be near the calming waters of the mighty Thames once you return to your base each evening.
Rooms in this region tend to cost slightly more than those in Shoreditch, but are generally cheaper than those found further west. Close proximity to the Circle and District lines make getting around by tube a breeze. Have this area more-or-less to yourself on weekends, or witness the city suits heading to work during rush hour each weekday. Hotels in this area tend to be cheaper at weekends too.
Tower Hill Hotels
citizenM Tower of London hotel
This hotel is pretty groovy, baby. And it only takes a minute to reach the nearest tube station, Tower Hill. Guests sings its praises for squeaky clean, well-designed accommodation with Tower Bridge views, as well as high standards of service and super-comfy beds. The city of London is a fascinating neighbourhood to boot.
DISCOVER room rates and availability for Citizen M Tower Hill HERE
Apex City of London Hotel
Located on the delightfully-named Seething Lane, Apex hotel in the city of London offers a warm welcome. There’s a stylish lounge, bar and restaurant area as well as a spa, and rooms come equipped with LCD TV, Sky, free WiFi and luxurious Elemis toiletries.
READ MORE about the Apex hotel, City of London HERE
Hotel Indigo London Tower Hill
Also close to Tower Bridge and the Tower of London is Hotel Indigo. A boutique style property, Hotel Indigo is praised for its helpful staff and contemporary rooms with comfortable beds and great showers, and it rates highly on service, cleanliness, value for money and of course location.
VIEW rates and reviews for Hotel Indigo HERE
Waterloo
Best for walkers
If you’re coming to London by train, then there’s a fair chance you’ll arrive at Waterloo station. This area is in such close proximity to central London that you can wander up the road, across Westminster Bridge and be met with the sight of Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament.
From there, it’s not far at all to many London attractions. This location is ideal for those who want to get around London on foot; walking everywhere is a great way to see the city.
Waterloo hotels
Park Plaza London Waterloo
One of the big draws of this four-star hotel is its gorgeous little bistro, named Florentine, which I simply adore – a real hidden gem. There is also an indoor pool, fitness centre and sauna for guests’ use.
CHECK OUT rates and reviews for Park Plaza Waterloo HERE
H10 London Waterloo
This 4 star hotel has 177 contemporary rooms, and offers great service. With Westminster to one side and the London Eye to the other, this property is perfectly situated. It’s within walking distance of many London attractions and main areas. There are exceptional views over London, including The Shard, and guests can even enjoy expertly mixed cocktails at The Waterloo Sky bar.
READ more about H10 London hotel HERE
Marlin Aparthotel Waterloo
Again, it’s hard to beat the Marlin Waterloo for location. This modern property is also close to Westminster, including the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben and Westminster Abbey, South Bank and the London Eye. Guests say they would return to this sleek aparthotel, which is about the highest recommendation possible. The combination of elegant hotel style accommodation and apartment facilities is certainly an appealing concept.
DISCOVER the central Marlin Aparthotel HERE
South Kensington
Best for classicists
And we’re back to Bond-spoof Austin Powers and Elizabeth Hurley as Miss Kensington. South Ken – as it’s locally known – is another fairly central spot, but it feels a little lived-in too. By people with plenty of money, of course – those cute townhouses are mega-expensive.
Radisson Blu Edwardian Vanderbilt
Located in a typical Kensington-and-Chelsea Grade II listed townhouse, the Radisson Blu Edwardian in South Kensington is close to Gloucester Road tube. It’s also close to the Science Museum, Royal Albert Hall, Natural History Museum, Hyde Park, V&A Museum and Knightsbridge. Rooms are classically elegant and food at the ‘Scoff & Banter’ is modern British.
SEE the latest prices and ratings for Radisson Vanderbilt HERE
The Bailey’s Hotel London
This stylish property resides in a restored Victorian townhouse on Gloucester Road, directly opposite the tube station in central South Kensington. It’s quintessentially English, with period features such as carved stonework, a sweeping staircase and stained glass windows.
READ all about Bailey’s Hotel HERE
Park Grand London Kensington
Guests rave about the standards of service at this plush yet affordable property. The staff are reportedly very helpful indeed, and rooms as clean as you could hope for. It is situated in a quiet spot within walking distance of Earls Court tube station, as well as several shops, and serves great food.
FIND OUT more about the Park Grand hotel HERE
Central London
The Savoy
If you have a little more cash to splash, may I suggest a stay at the Savoy? This iconic London hotel is positioned on The Strand, close to London’s theatre district as well as Covent Garden. It’s the only five star London hotel on the Thames, and is also in the most central location possible. Charing Cross station is the official centre of London, and that’s just along the road. The Savoy serves London’s best afternoon tea, too.
COMPARE rates and reviews for The Savoy HERE
Your London trip
Hopefully, this 2 day London itinerary has give you some inspiration regarding where to stay, getting around, what to do and the things you should bring with you. The aim is to leave you content, but with an appetite for more on a longer future visit. If you never made it back, you’d be satisfied with that you’d seen and done, but you could easily find far more to do when you return.
London is once of the world’s great cities. I may be biased, being English and having lived and worked there. Reader, I even married a Londoner. Enough said. Have fun!
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