Guide to a staycation in London

The Ned is a luxe five star hotel in the heart of the capital. Housed in a Grade I listed building, it celebrates its history with vintage decor in the 250 guest rooms, combined with modern conveniences. A range of facilities are available on-site including a spa, a barbershop, and a variety of bars and eateries.

Stay in the West End at Mimi's Hotel. This place is stylish and filled with rich jewel tones and sumptuous textiles. A range of comfortable luxury rooms are available, from singles for solo travellers to entire suites. Amenities here include rainfall showers, underfloor heating, and air con, plus the hotel has a cocktail bar.

Enjoy a comfortable stay in a design-forward apartment at Rockwell East. There are a variety of smart and modern apartments to suit various types of traveller, including bespoke family suites. The furnishings are sophisticated and there are plenty of services and amenities to ensure you have everything you need throughout your holiday.

Riverside hotel Sea Containers is only a short distance from some of the capital's most famous sights. The rooms here are stylish, with some of them put together by acclaimed designer Tom Dixon. There are fab facilities here too including a spa, a renowned cocktail bar, and a restaurant with great river views.

For a luxury hotel stay with jaw-dropping views of the city, check out Shangri-La The Shard. Situated on floors 34-52 of The Shard, rooms are elegant and luxurious. The hotel is also home to the highest hotel pool in Western Europe, plus other amenities like a bar, restaurants, and a gym and spa.

The Hoxton offers affordable luxury to its guests, with several hotels around the city. The well-curated rooms have a modern industrial look and many have been designed by local artists for a unique sense of style. Each hotel is complete with a choice of eateries and other useful facilities like meeting rooms.

Uncover history at the Tower of London, packed with artefacts and dark stories from the past. Explore the grounds, including the moat and ramparts and check out the fascinating exhibitions here. Amongst the items on display you get the unique chance to see the Crown Jewels.

The London residence of the British monarch, Buckingham Palace is a world-famous attraction and a must-see during a staycation. You can always check out the building from outside and watch the well-known changing of the guard, but during the summer you can also go inside to tour the State Rooms.

Check out Leake Street Arches if you're into street art. This covered tunnel street is packed with urban art and new pieces are springing up constantly – adding your own is welcomed and encouraged. You'll see street artists at work, plus live music performers and atmospheric lighting. A range of venues for food and drinks are nearby.

The Shard is an instantly-recognisable modern landmark. Measuring in at 310 metres, it's the tallest building in the country. On the 72nd floor you'll find the highest observation platform in the capital, offering panoramic views of the city and beyond. You can see land up to 40 miles away.

Trafalgar Square is an imposing square right at the city's centre, commemorating Nelson's victory at the Battle of Trafalgar. It's home to dramatic fountains, Nelson's column, a contemporary art commission on the Fourth Plinth, street performers, and the National Gallery. Exciting events also take place here throughout the year.

The Palace of Westminster, best-known as the home of the UK Parliament, is a world-famous building with a very famous clocktower attached to it. Set next to the Thames, you can check out the architecture or head inside for a tour, which is free for UK residents. You can also watch debates take place from the public galleries.

Visit Neal's Yard and you'll discover a colourful shopping street in Covent Garden. The vibrant buildings here will light up your Instagram and there are plenty of interesting businesses to uncover. Check out the window displays as you wander around or try one of the various options for food and drinks here.

An unmistakable part of the city skyline, St. Paul's Cathedral is the second largest church in the country. This Grade I listed cathedral has one of the highest domes in the world and is still a working place of worship. Daily services are open to the public but you can also visit for a tour of the building.

Iconic department store Harrods is a go-to for luxury shopping. The store's exterior is immediately recognisable and there's an intricate interior too. A number of departments are available here including fashion, homeware, jewellery, tech, and a renowned food hall. Eateries and in-store services like a spa and a hair and beauty salon are available too.

Built in 1879, the Royal Arcade is London's oldest purpose-built shopping arcade. The architecture showcases Victorian design and is crammed with original features. In the boutiques you'll find luxury goods from upmarket retailers. Shop here for confectionary, art, antiques, fine jewellery, and accessories like footwear and spectacles. Seasonal displays make the arcade even more exciting.

Gourmands will enjoy shopping at Fortnum & Mason, an 18th century department store in Piccadilly. It's well-known for high-end food and luxury hampers, but also sells products like homewares and pet supplies. There's an experiential food hub with its own distillery as well as various dining options on-site, including an afternoon tea salon.

Shop for independent brands at Wolf & Badger. This modern department store offers fashion, beauty products, and homewares with a focus on ethical products and slow fashion. You'll discover unique pieces that are made to last, plus in-store there's floristry, styling services, and a café, deli, and wine market.

Brick Lane Vintage Market opens seven days a week and is a treasure trove for vintage fashion and accessories. Vendors from across Europe operate here, selling pieces from the 1920s up to the 1990s. Get rummaging to find unique pieces for men and women, as well as vintage records.

Borough Market has existed for hundreds of years and is a foodie's paradise. At this bustling and popular market you'll find a wide array of vendors selling ingredients from olive oil to fresh bread, as well as street food vendors offering global cuisines. The market also has a varied collection of eateries from budget-friendly pasta to tapas.

In the heart of Greenwich, Greenwich Market is a covered market with retail stores around the outside. If you're looking for distinctive fashion, hand-crafted items, jewellery, or souvenirs, you'll find something here. The market also has a popular street food section offering diverse cuisines including Ethiopian, Vietnamese, and Italian dishes.

Tower London has long been a favourite for shoe shopping in the capital. These award-winning stores are bold and modern. Top brands like Vans, Dr Martens, and Timberland are in-stock here, with styles available for women, men, and kids. You'll also find accessories like hats, socks, laces, and shoe care products.

Grays Antiques began in 1964 as the UK's first permanent covered antiques market. Today this atmospheric centre is host to a diverse array of traders specialising in antiques, watches, fine jewellery, and gemstones. It's a fun place to go if you're just browsing but also a good choice if you're looking for a rare find.

In Stratford you can check out Regency Beauty, an award-winning boutique beauty salon. It's a cute and modern salon, where style-conscious decor is used to create distinctive spaces. There's an exclusive atmosphere and a variety of innovative treatments are offered, including a rejuvenating selection of signature facials, tanning, and hair removal services.

With locations around the city, Duck & Dry is London's premier blow-dry bar. This on-trend place is ideal when you deserve a pick-me-up, offering manicures and blow-dries as well as hair cuts and treatments to refresh your locks. Hot drinks and prosecco are available from the bar during your appointment.

Indulge in luxurious wellbeing treatments with gorgeous views of Hyde Park at Four Seasons Spa. Therapy rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows so you can appreciate the view. Choose a signature spa experience with a gift to take home or combine treatments to create your own ideal package that leaves you feeling refreshed.

Ushvani is a distinctive day spa with a Malaysian influence. Aromas, artwork, and quality treatments create a unique experience here. A variety of facilities are available, including spaces for ladies only and a yoga studio. The spa also offers a range of treatments including facials and traditional massages using Malaysian and Balinese techniques.

Bamford Wellness Spa at The Berkeley is a modern luxury spa with a peaceful atmosphere. This place takes a holistic approach to wellness and uses carefully-formulated British products for treatments. Services like facials and body wraps are offered here and you can also take part in yoga and pilates sessions or use the rooftop pool.

Located moments from Trafalgar Square, Thai Square Spa is housed in a former Turkish baths. This richly-decorated spa is an award-winner, using a mix of Thai, Roman, and Turkish design. Every detail is taken care of to help you relax. You can use the refreshing facilities or try a treatment like a traditional massage or facial.

Housed in an ornate Victorian building, the Natural History Museum is a striking landmark. Many spaces lead off the vast central hall, which is dominated by the skeleton of a blue whale. From fossils and dinosaurs to massive crystals, you'll find a huge range of intriguing artefacts relating to the natural world.

On opposite sides of the Thames, the two Tate galleries are must-visit destinations for art lovers on a London staycation. Tate Modern focuses on modern art whilst Tate Britain tells the story of British artists through the ages. There are free-to-visit permanent collections as well as fascinating temporary shows by a variety of artists. 

Music fans can take in a performance at the Royal Opera House in Covent Garden. This Grade I listed building has one of the largest auditoriums in the city and is home to the Royal Opera and the Royal Ballet. A variety of classic operas and ballets are on here, as well as contemporary dance performances.

In the heart of bustling Piccadilly, the Royal Academy of Arts is one of the capital's major art galleries. It's been around for centuries and a prestigious art school still operates here. You can see exhibitions of names like William Kentridge, Gauguin, and Picasso here, or the annual Summer Exhibition, which is a major fixture of the art calendar.

Experience classical and choral music in a unique environment at St Martin-in-the-Fields. This inclusive Anglican church is renowned for its musical programme, which includes free lunchtime performances and evening concerts. There are family-friendly and educational concerts too so everyone can appreciate music here. There's a café in the crypt for refreshments as well.

With two minimalist sites in London, White Cube showcases some of the world's finest contemporary art. Its name derives from the oft-used term to describe gallery spaces. Changing exhibitions of work by big names like Gilbert & George, Tracey Emin, and Antony Gormley are on display here in a modern environment.

South London's Horniman Museum is an award-winning cultural destination. Founded in 1901, this family-friendly destination has lots to explore including taxidermy collections, an aquarium, ethnographic artefacts, and extensive gardens with great views of central London at their peak. It's also home to the city's oldest nature trail.

Wellcome Collection is a unique destination for curious minds where science, art, and culture intersect. Permanent and temporary exhibitions are here covering a broad range of subjects including medicine, happiness, and plants. There's also a bookshop, a bright and airy café, and a library and reading room with thousands of books.

Perched by the Thames, the National Theatre is one of the country's most prominent performing arts venue. It's housed in a Grade II listed Brutalist building. Both new and classic plays are on here, with work by established and up-and-coming talent. On-site there's also a bookshop, exhibition spaces, and several dining options.

Blast along the river on a Thames RIB Experience. These high-powered speedboats are the fastest in London and let you see the sights as you zoom along on a choice of routes. Each boat is equipped with a powerful PA system so you won't miss anything. Souvenir photos are available too.

The oldest scientific zoo in the world, London Zoo is an enduringly popular attraction. It's fun for the whole family – you can see creatures from big cats to penguins. Lots of activities and events take place too, including things for children. The zoo has a number of eateries but you're also free to bring a picnic.

The London Eye is the city's most visited attraction and draws in millions of visitors each year. This famous observation wheel sits on the bank of the Thames and offers you glorious views during a 30 minute ride. The clear pods ensure you don't miss a thing. You can also book special experiences like private pods.

The imposing Monument to the Great Fire of London is a recognisable landmark but you can also climb all the way to the top and take in impressive views of the capital. There are 311 stairs along the way. Once you reach the peak you'll get unique photo opportunities and a memorable sight to take in.

Sky Garden, the highest public garden in the city, is a popular place to observe great views of London whilst surrounded by lush plants. Set on the 36th floor of the Walkie-Talkie building, you can soak up the atmosphere and enjoy the unique view. Bars and eateries are on-site, plus there are events like early morning yoga sessions.

Discover the city with a walking tour from Free Tours on Foot. You can pay what you like for these experiences. A variety of tours are offered in English, and sometimes other languages too, covering a range of different themes. From checking out the major sights to discovering the political scene in Westminster, there's something for everyone.

North London's Highgate Cemetery is a spooky destination best-known as the resting place of Karl Marx. This atmospheric place is packed with history and is rumoured to be stalked at night by a vampire. Visit here to see impressive Victorian architecture and mausoleums, as well as the burial places of many famous figures.

Enter a unique Old West town at Phantom Peak. This immersive experience in Canada Water has indoor and outdoor spaces and is suitable for all ages. Meet the local characters, play games, solve mysteries, and enjoy shopping, food, drinks, and entertainment on-site. Dressing up for the occasion in a steampunk style is encouraged. 

London's pasta lovers flock to Padella. These modern pasta bars have a simple approach, specialising in fresh hand-rolled pasta served with a choice of sauces and fillings like cacio e pepe or chicken liver, sage, and marsala. The menu changes regularly. Various drinks are available including classic aperitifs and Italian wines.

Pied à Terre is a big name on the food scene, having held a Michelin star longer than any other restaurant in the UK. Fine food is celebrated here with seasonal menus, events, and masterclasses. Choose from à la carte options or indulgent tasting menus. Carefully-sourced ingredients are used for modern French dishes with a global influence.

There's some major hype around Dishoom and you'll typically see a queue extending from the entrance. Get a table and you can sample Indian street food in a lively but tasteful setting. Food is available all day, including an Indian twist on a fry-up and the group's signature slow-cooked black daal.

Try a classic London meal at Goddards at Greenwich. Founded in 1890, this old-school spot has a traditional white-tiled dining room and serves traditional pie and mash. Go for the classic minced beef or try another option, including vegetarian and vegan recipes, served with mash and liquor or gravy. Jellied eels are also on the menu.

Opened in 1871, Rock and Sole Plaice is one of the capital's oldest chippies. The dining room has a classic look with white tiled walls but you can also eat outside. The fish here is sustainable and carefully-sourced and the menu offers a simple choice of fish, chips, pies, and vegetarian dishes.

OTT restaurant Jacuzzi is a venture from the Big Mamma Group. If you love indulgent Italian meals then you won't want to miss this. The restaurant spans four floors with a botanical mezzanine and a surprising disco toilet. The menu features decadent Italian dishes including pizza and pasta and an indulgent chocolate fondue.

Often touted as one of the capital's best restaurants, Café Cecilia is a hip spot serving seasonal menus in a crisp space. British classics are served all day like kippers for breakfast and pork and apricot terrine or lamb leg later in the day. Whilst the focus is on British cuisine, pasta is always available.

Have an unusual drinking experience at Alcotraz. At this unique Hackney bar you'll don an orange jumpsuit, smuggle in your choice of spirits, and enjoy cocktails in your cell under the watchful eye of the prison warden. Skilled mixologists use your alcohol to craft unique cocktails just for you.

Visit The Mirror Bar for a luxurious cocktail experience. It's glamorous with luxe interiors, a refined colour scheme, and an intimate feel. Classic and signature cocktails are served, including martinis mixed up to your preferences. There's also a lengthy selection of champagne and wine, plus non-alcoholic alternatives. Upscale nibbles are served too.

Named as the second-best bar in the world in 2022, Tayēr + Elementary reinvents the cocktail bar experience. Out front you'll find a minimalist space for walk-ins serving convenient bottled cocktails that change regularly. The cosy space in the back makes mixology feel like fine dining with creative and abstract offerings.

Beer from Camden Town Brewery is ubiquitous in London's pubs so go straight to the source at Camden Beer Hall. At this casual taproom there are 24 beer lines, plus food is served that pairs flawlessly with a cold pint. This lively bar is set in a railway arch and is welcoming – you can bring your dog too.

Renegade Wine Bar is a bar from an urban winery in East London. It's quirky and proud of its London identity. The space is relaxed and has indoor and outdoor tables. The drinks list features a curated range of the winery's bottles, including skin-contact and sparkling wines. Nibbles like olives and charcuterie are served.

Black Rock specialises in whisky and has been named the UK's best specialist bar four times. This slick and on-trend venue aims to demystify the drink and offers an extensive range by the dram or mixed up into a cocktail. Blending experiences are also on offer where you can create your own unique blend.

Opened in 1890, Gordon's Wine Bar is packed with history; it's the oldest wine bar in the capital. The weathered interior is full of framed photos and old bottles but terrace seating is available too. Bottles from all over the world are available including vegan and natural varieties. There's a simple food selection and a considerable choice of cheeses.

Homeboy Bar is one of Europe's top cocktail bars, a modern destination with traditional warm hospitality. This low-lit venue has exposed brick walls and a buzzy vibe. A wide range of classic and contemporary cocktails are available here, as well as champagne, beers, and spirits. Snacks are served as well, plus a Sunday roast.

Fabric has a reputation as one of the world's leading clubs and is a hotspot for electronic music. Based in a former warehouse, this buzzing venue has three rooms, one of which has a vibrating dance floor. The playlist here is diverse, with huge international names playing alongside underground talent.

Camden's Electric Ballroom is one of the city's favourite live music venues. It hosts gigs as well as a variety of club nights. Most of the events here are geared towards rock and metal fans, with acts such as Muse, Megadeth, and Red Hot Chilli Peppers having graced the stage.

One of the oldest jazz clubs out there, Ronnie Scott's has hosted some of the genre's biggest names. Enjoy live music along with a British fine dining meal or head upstairs to the speakeasy-style bar. Here you can sip on sophisticated cocktails to a backdrop of live tunes.

Open 24/7, you can keep the party going all night at The Hippodrome Casino. This glitzy and glam venue has casino gaming, a theatre for live shows, and eight different drinking and dining options. Games include poker, roulette, baccarat, and slot machines, and there's a roof terrace for impressive city views with your drinks.

Historic Camden venue Koko has long been a top spot for gigs and recently underwent a major refurbishment. Live gigs in a buzzy atmosphere are still a big part of what's on here but the venue now also hosts a new club night focusing on electronic music. 

Circus-themed club Cirque Le Soir is an elite nightspot known to attract celebrity clientele. It's glam, glitzy, and sophisticated with themed events, outrageous entertainment, and bottle service for big nights out. Expect premium drinks and an unforgettable experience. It's an exclusive venue so make sure you dress to impress.

North London club Egg has five rooms across three levels in a converted Victorian warehouse. If you're looking for a big night out with the best in electronic music then this venue is worth considering. Big-name DJs play sets here as well as new talent. The club has a 24-hour alcohol license too.

First launched in the 1940s, The 100 Club is a classic music venue considered as one of the oldest in the capital. This subterranean spot has walls lined with photos of famous faces who've played here. Buzzy new acts perform on-stage but the venue has hosted names like Oasis and The Rolling Stones.