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London is one of my favorite cities in the world and one I am constantly asked about. Whether you're planning a luxury London vacation, a family trip to England, a romantic getaway, or your first visit to the city, London offers an incredible combination of history, culture, dining, shopping, royal landmarks, and unforgettable experiences.
If you're searching for the best places to visit in London, the best luxury hotels in London, family-friendly restaurants, afternoon tea, shopping, day trips, and hidden gems, these are my personal recommendations.
Best Restaurants in London
Scott's Mayfair
Best for: Classic London dining, seafood, and people watching
If I could recommend only one classic London restaurant, Scott's would be at the top of my list. Elegant yet lively, it has perfected the art of London dining. Chrisp white table cloths and a doorman sure to charm just about anyone, the seafood is exceptional and the atmosphere feels quintessentially London.
Martino's, Sloane Square
Best for: Ambiance and a chic local crowd
One of my newest favorite discoveries. Stylish, lively, and wonderfully local, it feels like one of those places where Londoners actually go rather than tourists.
Carbone
Best for: Dinner and a glamorous night out
One of the most sought-after reservations in London. Expect old-school glamour, exceptional Italian-American cuisine, and a vibrant atmosphere.
Lilibet's, Mayfair
Best for: Elegant seafood, royal history, and a glamorous Mayfair dinner
One of London's most exciting newer restaurant openings, Lilibet's is located on Bruton Street in Mayfair and takes its name from Queen Elizabeth II's childhood nickname. The restaurant occupies the site where the late Queen was born and offers a luxurious seafood-focused menu in one of the most beautiful dining rooms in London.
The Churchill Arms, Kensington
Best for: Photos, families, Thai food and a quintessential London pub experience
My familie’s local neighbourhood spot, which I have visited countless times over many years. One of the most photographed pubs in London, The Churchill Arms is famous for its spectacular floral displays and charming British character. What many visitors don't realize is that it also serves some of the best Thai food in London in a back part of the pub filled with hundreds of live flowers. The combination of a traditional London pub atmosphere and authentic Thai cuisine makes it one of the city's most unique dining experiences.
Petersham Nurseries, Richmond
Best for: Most beautiful dining experience
Petersham Nurseries is one of the most magical restaurant experiences in England. Located within a greenhouse overflowing with flowers and plants, dining here feels like stepping into a secret garden.
The Thomas Cubitt, Belgravia
Best for: A classic British gastropub, lunch and neighborhood charm
Located in the heart of Belgravia, The Thomas Cubitt is one of my favorite traditional London pubs. The atmosphere strikes the perfect balance between polished and relaxed, making it equally suitable for a casual lunch, family meal, or dinner with friends.
The Ivy Chelsea Garden, Chelsea
Best for: Families, groups, and outdoor dining
A beautiful restaurant that consistently works for every occasion. The garden is especially lovely in warmer months and the menu appeals to both adults and children.
Harry's Dolce Vita, Knightsbridge
Best for: Family dining and Italian food
Harry's Dolce Vita is located just a few minutes' walk from Harrods, Sloane Street, and Hyde Park.
Warm, lively, and welcoming. Families love it and the atmosphere always feels festive.
The Peninsula London
Best for: Date night, cocktails and skyline views
Before dinner, head to the rooftop bar. You’ll head up in a parachute shaped elevator to elegant panoramic views make it one of London's best cocktail destinations.
Nobu Mayfair, Mayfair
Best for: Upscale family dining
Many visitors are surprised to learn that Nobu offers a children's menu, making it one of the easiest luxury dining recommendations for families.
The Cadogan Arms, Chelsea
Best for: Gastro pub dining
One of London's finest gastro pubs and a favorite stop after a day spent shopping in Chelsea.
Electric Brasserie, Notting Hill
Best for: Brunch
The perfect place to begin a morning exploring Notting Hill and Portobello Road Market.
Scott's Richmond, Richmond
Best for: Riverside dining
Located along the Thames in Richmond, Scott's Richmond offers the same polished experience as Mayfair but in a beautiful riverside setting.
Best Afternoon Tea in London
Claridge's
Best for: Classic luxury afternoon tea
The gold standard of afternoon tea in London. Elegant, timeless, and one of the city's most iconic experiences.
Fortnum & Mason
Best for: Traditional British afternoon tea
A quintessentially British institution and a wonderful introduction to one of England's most beloved traditions.
The Goring
Best for: Royal-worthy afternoon tea
The Goring offers one of London's most refined afternoon tea experiences. Overlooking the hotel's beautiful private garden, it feels intimate, elegant, and wonderfully British. It is also famously associated with Catherine, Princess of Wales, who stayed here before her wedding.
Best Luxury Hotels in London
Claridge's
Best for: Classic luxury
If you're looking for the quintessential luxury London hotel experience, Claridge's remains the benchmark. From its Art Deco elegance and legendary service to one of the city's most iconic afternoon teas, it embodies timeless British glamour.
The Beaumont
Best for: Couples
One of my favorite hotels in London. Tucked away in Mayfair, The Beaumont offers a more intimate and discreet luxury experience, making it ideal for couples seeking sophistication without the bustle of a larger grand hotel.
Raffles London at The OWO
Best for: London's newest luxury hotel
A spectacular transformation of one of London's most historic buildings, Raffles at The OWO combines extraordinary architecture with world-class dining and service. Staying here feels like stepping into a piece of British history reimagined for modern luxury.
Beaverbrook Town House
Best for: Feeling like a local
Located in Chelsea, this charming hotel feels more like staying in a stylish London home than a traditional hotel. With its residential feel and prime location near Sloane Square and King's Road, it's perfect for travelers wanting to experience London like a local.
The Lanesborough
Best for: Families and luxury suites
One of the best luxury hotels in London for families seeking larger accommodations and exceptional service. One of the most picturesque hotels in London, expect chandeliers, victorian paintings and wow factor with park views.
The Dorchester
Best for: Service
The Dorchester continues to set the standard for hospitality and attention to detail. Few hotels in the world have mastered the art of making guests feel genuinely cared for quite like The Dorchester. Overlooking Hyde Park on prestigious Park Lane, it has long been a favorite of royalty, celebrities, and international travelers seeking impeccable service and timeless luxury.
The Connaught
Best for: Elegance and Mayfair sophistication
One of London's most sophisticated hotels and a favorite destination for luxury travelers. The Connaught perfectly balances traditional British elegance with contemporary style and is home to the legendary Connaught Bar, consistently ranked among the finest cocktail bars in the world. Its discreet Mayfair location, beautiful interiors, and exceptional service make it one of London's most refined addresses.
The Peninsula London
Best for: Cocktails and skyline views
Waling into this beautiful hotel, the doorman will likely recognise you and even call you by name within hours. The service is top notch, the many restaurants incredible and the attention to detail…stunning!
Best Shopping in London
Sloane Square and Chelsea
Best for: Luxury fashion and local boutiques
If I had to choose one shopping neighborhood in London, it would be Chelsea. Around Sloane Square, King's Road, and Pavilion Road you'll find designer boutiques, British heritage brands, beauty destinations, and charming cafés.
Mayfair
Best for: Designer shopping
Home to Bond Street, Mount Street, and some of the world's most prestigious luxury brands, Mayfair remains London's premier luxury shopping destination.
Best Antique Shopping in London (Check websites for seasonal opening hours)
Portobello Road Market
The most famous antique market in London wrapped along quaint candy collored homes in Notting Hill, this is a must-visit for photos and vintage lovers. Lined with restaurants and food trucks, it’s worth seeing. Get there early- the crowds on weekends can be photo-worthy themselves!
Grays Antique Centre
Located in Mayfair, this historic arcade is filled with fine antiques, jewelry, silver, watches, and art.
The Decorative Fair
One of London's most prestigious antique fairs, attracting dealers and collectors from around the world.
Battersea Decorative Antiques & Textiles Fair
A favorite among interior designers and one of the most respected antique fairs in the UK.
Best Sightseeing in London
Tower of London and the Crown Jewels
If you only visit one historic attraction in London, make it the Tower of London. Home to the Crown Jewels and nearly 1,000 years of royal history, it remains one of Britain's most fascinating landmarks. Tip: Try and book the Beefeater tour- it’s incredible, historic and some of my favorite photos from London!
Buckingham Palace and the Changing of the Guard
One of the world's most famous royal attractions.
Westminster Abbey and Big Ben
Essential stops for first-time visitors and photo spot.
Kensington Palace
A beautiful royal residence located within Kensington Gardens. The gift shop here sells everything from real tea sets to costume tiaras!
Best Things to Do in London for Adults
Jack the Ripper Walking Tour (adults only)
A fascinating night guided tour of London for 18+ years old, you’ll take look into Victorian London and one of the city's most popular evening activities for tourists. I have been on it 3 times with out of town guests and we still can’t figure out who Jack is. Warning: not for the faint of heart…think ghost tour and ghoulish.
Columbia Road Flower Market
One of London's most charming Sunday traditions.
Little Venice to Camden Walk
A beautiful canal walk and one of London's hidden gems.
My Favorite Summer Events in London
Summer is one of the most exciting times to visit London. Some of Britain's most iconic sporting and social events take place during the season.
Wimbledon
One of the most prestigious sporting events in the world and a quintessential British summer tradition.
For those attending Wimbledon, be sure to review my tennis etiquette guide before your visit.
Royal Ascot
A spectacular combination of horse racing, fashion, royal tradition, and British pageantry.
Henley Royal Regatta
A beautiful riverside event known for world-class rowing and timeless British style.
Goodwood Festival of Speed & Goodwood Revival
A favorite for motorsport enthusiasts and lovers of classic British country-house glamour.
Polo at Guards Polo Club
Located in Windsor, Guards Polo Club hosts some of the finest polo matches in the world throughout the summer season. Visitors should check schedules and purchase tickets in advance.
For first-time attendees, I recommend reading my Polo Etiquette Guide before visiting.
Ham Polo Club
Located in Richmond, Ham Polo Club is London's last remaining polo club and offers a wonderfully local and relaxed experience.
Best Day Trips from London
Hampton Court Palace
One of my favorite day trips from London.
King Henry VIII's magnificent riverside palace offers a fascinating look at Tudor history, beautiful gardens, and stunning architecture.
Longleat Safari Park
Longleat is one of the best family attractions in England and one of my favorite recommendations for visitors with children.
Home to one of the world's first drive-through safari parks, visitors can encounter lions, giraffes, rhinos, monkeys, and countless other animals before exploring the magnificent stately home, gardens, and maze.
It's one of those rare attractions that delights both children and adults equally and is absolutely worth the journey from London.
Best Wellness Experience in London
Montrose Clinic, Belgravia
For anyone searching for one of the best luxury facials in London, Montrose Clinic is always at the top of my list.
Located in beautiful Belgravia, the clinic combines advanced skincare technology with highly personalized treatments. The results are consistently impressive, leaving skin refreshed, radiant, and glowing. It is one of my favorite wellness destinations in London and a wonderful addition to any luxury London itinerary.
Best Luxury Country House Hotels Near London
Estelle Manor
Best for: Ultimate luxury countryside escape- child friendly-ish (if you really wanted to bring them!)
One of England's most talked-about luxury hotels. Located in Oxfordshire, Estelle Manor combines the grandeur of a historic estate with the energy of a modern private members' club. The spa alone is worth the visit. While it is child friendly and offers hilariously adorable children’s sized Range Rovers to drive on the vast property, Estelle Manor one of my favorite weekend away trips with just my husband and a great couples spot and I would recommend adults only where possible.
Cliveden House
Best for: Historic grandeur
One of England's most famous country estates, combining magnificent gardens, rich history, and timeless luxury.
Heckfield Place
Best for: Wellness and understated elegance
A favorite among discerning travelers seeking tranquility, exceptional food, and beautiful design.
Beaverbrook
Best for: Families
A stunning Surrey estate offering exceptional service, beautiful grounds, and a relaxed luxury atmosphere.
The Newt in Somerset
Best for: Gardens and countryside charm
One of England's most unique luxury escapes and consistently ranked among the country's finest country-house experiences.
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