Where to Stay – Neighborhood Guide to London

One of Europe’s largest cities, and one of the world’s most popular destinations for tourists, London can at first seem overwhelming, from the transport system to deciding which of the myriad of tourist sites to head to first. Accommodation can make or break a holiday, so deciding which area of London to stay in is crucial, and there are several factors to consider, from price and comfort level to ease of access and the overall vibe. I’ve put together this guide to try and help you figure out which of the British capital’s neighborhood’s you should lay your hat down in for a few days.

Shoreditch

London’s East End has seen a renaissance in the past decade or so. Gone is the dangerous, run-down image of the past, best summed up by the notorious Kray Brothers and grim British soap opera EastEnders. Instead, East London has seen an influx of artsy types enter the area, with most setting up home in Shoreditch. Dive bars, food trucks, independent cafes, socially conscious public art and clubs that are almost too cool for school all characterize this region, and those seeking a more hip, youthful vibe will want to make sure they stay in Shoreditch.

Golder’s Green

Up on the Northern Line and not exactly close to the city center, Golder’s Green is ideal for those who want a respite from the hubbub of the capital. A residential neighborhood with a large Jewish community, Golder’s Green is packed full of cozy bed and breakfasts, where you get a lot more bang for your buck than if you were to stay in the center of London.

Camden

Like Shoreditch, Camden is hip, although slightly more touristy than Shoreditch. Still, this multicultural neighborhood full of bubble tea shops, handcrafted jewelry stalls and gourmet burger joints still has the cool factor. Take a stroll through the streets and you’ll be surprised at what you might stumble upon - and make sure you check out Camden Lock Market for some delicious eats at bargain prices.

Kensington

Museum buffs will want to set up base in Kensington. This upscale neighborhood allows easy access to the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the Victoria and Albert Museum. Stroll through its tree-lined streets, stopping off at chic wine bars and boutiques along the way, and maybe indulge in a bit of celebrity spotting while you’re at it, too.

SoHo

If you intend your holiday to be rainbow-tinged, you may want to consider staying in SoHo. Old Compton Street is the heart of gay life in London, and businesses located in the streets leading off it all fly the rainbow flag proudly. Not too far from the likes of Chinatown and Leicester Square, SoHo provides a great central base for folk who want to be in the thick of the action in Britain’s buzzing capital.

Note: Available plans and coverages may have changed since this blog was published.