Where to Stay in London First Time: 5 Best Neighborhoods & Tips
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If you landed on this blog, I hope that means you are planning your very first trip to London, and I couldn’t be more excited for you! You have picked an amazing city in the UK to visit. And I am incredibly excited to share my recommendations on where to stay in London for the first time. In this guide I will be sharing all of the best neighborhoods and hotels for first timers, so that you stay close to all of the things to see and do in London, are in a safe area, and have great access to transit, and great food.
Introduction: Where to Stay in London First Time
London is an incredible city to visit any time of year, with lots of historic monuments to see. If you are visiting London for the first time, with all of the neighborhoods to choose from, and things to see, it can be a bit overwhelming. Throughout this guide, I will be walking you through where to stay in London for the first time, along with my hotel recommendations, why you may want to stay there, and things to do that are nearby, and some amazing restaurants options. So, let’s dive into where to stay in London.
Where to Stay in London: Neighborhoods I recommend for First Time Visitors
1. Covent Garden & Soho: Theater & Food District
If you are looking to be close to attractions, that are all very walkable, have dining options, museums, and theater options, literally at your doorstep, then the Covent Garden district and Soho (right next door) may be great options for you.
This is a great neighborhood for solo travelers. It is extremely safe, walkable, with endless options of things to see and do. Because this area is walkable and busy, it tends to be noisy at night, with pricier hotels compared to some other areas.
Hotel Recommendations in Covent Garden & Soho
Covent Garden Hotel: A luxurious boutique escape blending classic British charm with modern sophistication. Located in the heart of London’s theatre district, it offers individually designed rooms, a cozy library, and the famous Brasserie Max, perfect for an elegant stay, just steps away from world-class dining and entertainment.
The Resident Covent Garden: Stylish, affordable luxury with a home-away-from-home feel. This modern hotel features beautifully designed rooms with kitchenettes, plush beds, and unbeatable proximity to Covent Garden’s vibrant shops, restaurants, and street performers.
The Z Hotel Covent Garden: A chic, budget-friendly option ideal for first-time visitors. Compact yet contemporary rooms maximize comfort and convenience, and guests love the hotel’s unbeatable central location just minutes from London’s top attractions and transport links.
2. Westminster & South Bank: London Icons
If you want to wake up next to the Big Ben every morning, and be able to walk to amazing iconic London must-sees like the London eye or Westminster Abbey, then you will absolutely want to stay in Westminster or SOuth Bank for your first trip to London.
Picture morning walks with your espresso or tea along the Thames, literally walking to all of the must-sees in London, and having easy access to basically everything you want to see do and eat while in London.
The downside you ask. It’s a very touristy are and it can be quite busy and loud. But for me, having the accessibility, and views, made it 100% worth staying in this area, and if it’s your first time to London, I highly recommend this district for your stay as well.
Hotel Recommendations in Westminster & South Bank
The Royal Horseguards Hotel: A grand five-star property overlooking the River Thames, blending Victorian elegance with modern luxury. Guests love its historic charm, spacious rooms, and unbeatable location near the London Eye, Westminster, and Trafalgar Square—perfect for sightseeing in style.
Park Plaza London Westminster Bridge: Sleek, contemporary, and steps away from Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. This upscale hotel features modern rooms, a full-service spa, and breathtaking skyline views, making it ideal for travelers wanting comfort and convenience in the heart of London.
Park Plaza County Hall London: A family-friendly favorite offering modern suites with kitchenettes and city views. Just a short walk from the South Bank, London Eye, and Waterloo Station, it’s the perfect base for exploring London while enjoying a relaxed, apartment-style stay.
3. South Kensington & Kensington: London Museums
If you came to London to visit all of the museums (which many are free by the way), and you like those quieter evenings, then I would recommend South Kensington as the area you should stay in. This is a great area to stay in if you like those slower and quieter mornings to enjoy your coffee or tea outside, walking around, just enjoying the calmness.
Also, this area is known for its upscale hotels, amazing local cafes that I sat at and just people watched, and you can easily walk to a variety of museums and Hyde Park. If you are looking for minimal nightlife, and quieter days and more of a cultural experience, then Kensington is the area for you!
Hotel Recommendations in South Kensington & Kensington
The Ampersand Hotel: A stylish boutique hotel in South Kensington that perfectly blends Victorian architecture with modern design. Inspired by the nearby museums, each room is uniquely themed, and guests love its vibrant atmosphere, chic décor, and proximity to the Natural History Museum and Hyde Park.
The Kensington Hotel: Elegant and sophisticated, this five-star gem exudes classic London charm. Nestled in the heart of South Kensington, it offers beautifully designed rooms, afternoon tea in its Drawing Room, and exceptional service, which is ideal for travelers seeking timeless luxury and local culture.
The Bailey’s Hotel London: A charming heritage hotel combining 19th-century architecture with warm, contemporary comfort. Located just steps from Gloucester Road Station, it’s perfect for travelers looking for convenience, character, and easy access to London’s top attractions.
4. Bloomsbury & King’s Cross: London Center
If you are into the academia-side of London and want to experience more bookstores, museums, and academia, then Bloomsbury may be the ideal district for you. Bloomsbury is an area full of sophisticated culture and is known to some literary geniuses like Virgina Woolf and Charles Dickens.
Another great aspect of this area is the number of green spaces and parks there are, which is perfect for getting that some inspiration and the creativity juices flowing. You are also only a short walk to the Tube and some of London’s most iconic sights.
Another option is King’s Cross, which is very much an up-and-coming area that is dynamic and has transportation literally at every turn. Because of this, its an exciting re-developed neighborhood with tons of trendy restaurants, boutique hotels, and landmarks that are must-sees.
If you are looking for modern amenities, quick and easy access to public transportation to get you anywhere, and still want to be close to major landmarks, then King’s Cross may be a great area for you!
Hotel Recommendations in Bloomsbury & King’s Cross
The Montague on the Gardens: A charming boutique hotel overlooking peaceful private gardens in Bloomsbury, just steps from the British Museum. Known for its elegant décor, afternoon tea, and warm hospitality, it’s perfect for travelers seeking classic London charm and a tranquil retreat in the city center.
Hub by Premier Inn London King’s Cross: A smart, budget-friendly option offering compact, high-tech rooms designed for comfort and convenience. Since this hotel is located just minutes from King’s Cross and St. Pancras stations, it’s ideal for first-time visitors who want modern style and unbeatable access to transport.
St Pancras Renaissance London Hotel: A stunning landmark hotel that combines Gothic grandeur with contemporary luxury. Set inside the historic St. Pancras International Station, it features opulent rooms, exceptional dining, and a world-class spa, making it one of London’s most iconic stays.
5. Shoreditch & East London: London Nightlife
If you are looking to experience the artsy and creative side of London, and want to see the street art, local shops, and bars, then Shoreditch is probably the area you want to stay in. This area has an edgier vibe and is less touristy compared to other districts in London.
Here you can experience lots of fun food markets, some local and unique cafes, that are very fun for people watching, and this area has a very lively and energetic nightlife.
Hotel Recommendations in Shoreditch & East London
The Hoxton, Shoreditch: Trendy, stylish, and effortlessly cool, The Hoxton captures the creative spirit of East London. With its industrial-chic design, lively lobby bar, and vibrant neighborhood full of street art, cafés, and boutiques, it’s perfect for travelers seeking an authentic, modern London experience.
Montcalm East London: A sleek, contemporary hotel located between Shoreditch and the City, offering luxury with an artistic edge. Guests love its striking architecture, spa, and panoramic skyline views making it ideal for those who want upscale comfort in one of London’s most dynamic areas.
One Hundred Shoreditch: A hip, design-forward hotel that embodies East London’s modern energy. With beautifully curated interiors, rooftop cocktails overlooking the city, and a prime location surrounded by galleries, restaurants, and nightlife, it’s a top pick for stylish travelers and solo adventurers alike.
Conclusion: Where to Stay in London First Time
Regardless of the area you stay in while in London, you are guaranteed to have the most memorable experience. But, finding a neighborhood if you are visiting London for the first time, can only enhance your experience. Between the buzzing district of Convent Gardens, to the academic district of South Kensington, toe the vibrant and energetic neighborhood of Shoreditch, London has a district for you. I hope this guide has helped you to narrow down where to stay in London first time so that you can have a memorable expereince like I do when I visit this incredible city!