Guides to London

Piercing the sky above Southwark, The Shard is an unmistakable London landmark and the tallest building in the UK, coming in at 309.6 metres. Thanks to the 360-degree panoramic views from its 72nd-floor observation deck, it's a popular attraction for visitors, many of whom take advantage of the skys...

February half-term is always an exciting time for the kids, but it can be an expensive week if you're a parent. If you're worried about the cost of keeping them busy for the week, there are plenty of restaurants in London offering handy deals where children eat free if an adult is buying a meal. Hea...

London's West End is renowned for its world-class theatre productions, and the musicals on offer are no exception. From classic shows that have been wowing audiences for decades to brand new productions that are pushing the boundaries of what's possible on stage, there's something for every musical...

Islington is one of London's liveliest and trendiest neighbourhoods, packed with cool joints and hip hangouts. But it still knows the value of a good pub, and often leads the way when it comes to top-notch local boozers. From proper old-school pubs to respected gastropubs and rowdy party spots, our...

Buzzy Brixton is home to a wide variety of restaurants, bars, and pubs, so there’s lots to do in the area. If you fancy bunkering down in a cosy pub or exploring some of London’s most impressive beer gardens, there’s a pub in Brixton where you can do exactly that. We can help you pick the right pub...

Islington is an area of London famed for its eclectic variety of incredible restaurants, bars and cafés, with Upper Street acting as the borough's bloodline. There's a restaurant for every kind of mood, from the salad-lined windows of Ottolenghi and mouthwatering kebabs of Brother Marcus to The Brea...

There are many places in London where you can experience the magic of the Wizarding World without having to travel too far outside the city. The capital is teeming with wizarding wonders for ultimate Potterheads, from Leadenhall Market, which was used as one of the entrances to The Leaky Cauldron pu...

If you're looking for a drink that's refreshing and fun, look no further than bubble tea. Originating in 1980s Taiwan, it's exploded in popularity and bubble tea shops are now a common fixture on the city's streets. Whether you want something fruity or creamy, there are plenty of great places to buy...

When it comes to Chinese dining in Soho, it's not all just about Chinatown. Sure, the various eateries there are always a reliable choice for authentic Chinese cuisine and we've made sure to highlight some of our favourites in this guide, but there are other Chinese restaurants in Soho worth a visit...

Canary Wharf is one of London's main financial districts, which means lots of offices, which also means lots of places to wine and dine. Japanese restaurants are no exception to this, and the area boasts its fair share, ranging from casual sushi bars to upscale restaurants specialising in traditiona...

Canary Wharf is known for its impressive skyscraper-dotted skyline, bustling financial district, and diverse dining scene. From chic cafes to fine-dining restaurants, it's got all kinds of eateries to choose from. Whether you're in the area for business or fun, Canary Wharf has all many places to wi...

If you're a Turkish food fan in London then there's one area you need to know about – Green Lanes in Haringey. This buzzy road is home to a wide array of businesses but is undoubtedly best-known for its massive choice of Turkish restaurants. And that's not all the tempting food that's available – if...

If you're a fan of French cuisine and you're heading to Soho, you're in for a treat, as the area boasts a number of top-notch French eateries. From cosy bistros to fine-dining establishments and some of the best restaurants in the whole world, our guide to the best French restaurants in Soho highlig...

New culinary hotspots are constantly bursting onto the scene in London. Although many restaurants come and go, especially in these challenging times, there are enduring establishments that in some cases have been around for hundreds of years. If you want a dining experience that takes you back in ti...

Summer is fast approaching and there are lots of fab things to do in London throughout the season. If you're watching the pennies there's no need to miss out on a summer of fun. All over the city there are lots of free and cheap things to do that'll keep you occupied, whether your idea of a good tim...

Welcome to the ultimate guide for thrill-seekers in London. If you're an adrenaline junkie in search of heart-pumping experiences and adventurous activities, you've come to the right place. Get ready to discover a plethora of thrilling things to do in London that will satisfy your cravings for excit...

At the weekend, Broadway Market comes alive with a bustling street market that features a wide selection of incredible vendors. Stalls sell everything from fresh produce and artisanal food to unique clothing, vintage items, handmade crafts, and much more. But, beyond the market stalls, it's also hom...

Islington has lots going on, including a wide variety of cafés where you can relax with a speciality coffee or a delicious snack. Whichever part of the borough you're exploring, there's a local venue sure to tempt you, whether you like a proper British caff or a cosy bolthole. If you're wondering ab...

Richmond might not be a halal hotspot, but this leafy sliver of southwest London has more going for it than riverside strolls and fancy pubs. Look a little closer and you'll uncover a handful of spots serving everything from smoky Persian kebabs to wholesome Indian comfort food, with halal options o...

While Covent Garden is famous for its world-class dining and lively street food scene, nothing beats a juicy, succulent burger. Whether you're craving a classic smashed patty, a gourmet twist, or a top-tier plant-based option, this buzzing part of London has it all. From messy, sauce-dripping stacks...

From street eats to proper sit-down feasts, East London is absolutely brimming with halal spots that hit the spot every single time. Whether you're after a juicy steak, an authentic curry or a brunch classic, this part of town has halal options coming out of its ears. Sure, we could list hundreds, b...

Between Borough Market and the Bermondsey Beer Mile, pubs in Southwark often get overlooked when it comes to this busy borough's main draws. We're here to correct that, as there's more to Southwark's boozers than thirsty tourist traps or chain pubs catering to a rushed commuter crowd. Read our guide...

Crystal Palace is best known for the exploits of its eponymous football club, beautiful parkland, and fascinating dinosaur sculptures rather than dining scene, but have no fear – unlike dinosaurs, restaurants haven't gone extinct here yet. Our round-up of the best restaurants in Crystal Palace highl...

With its central location and premium shopping options, Knightsbridge is tailor-made for the upscale brunch crowd, with the late-morning meal ideal for fuelling up before or after hitting the shops. Gaze out at the sleek stucco terraces, fashion brand flagships, and historic department stores as you...

Although you might not believe in fairy tales, it can still be fun to visit a centuries-old castle and let your imagination run wild. The UK is home to many castles that are packed with history and make fascinating places for a day out, including castle ruins and castles that still stand today. If t...

Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of Sri Lankan cuisine, a fragrant blend of histories and flavours shaped by Indian, Dutch, Portuguese, and British influences. No need to journey over 8,000 km – London's bustling dining scene boasts several spots serving up authentic Sri Lankan cuisine. From ar...

Sushi, Wagyu, and highballs are perennial favourites of businessfolk around the globe, and it's no different in the Square Mile. From elegant sushi bars and intimate ramen spots to upscale dining destinations offering the finest cuts of Kobe beef, the City of London caters to its denizens with excel...

Soho has changed quite a bit over the years, but it has remained cool throughout, especially once night falls and the hip crowds come out in search of fun. There's no shortage of cool bars in Soho with trendy decor, expertly poured drinks, and fashionable crowds, from live music joints with energeti...

Seafood lovers are very welcome in Soho, with the area offering a number of restaurants that celebrate the finest catches from the sea. Whether you're after indulgent lobster dishes, fresh oysters served with a chilled glass of wine, or messy seafood boil feasting, this lively neighbourhood has some...

Oxford Street may be known primarily for its shopping opportunities, but if you know where to look, it's also home to some of the city's top dining spots. You're probably not going to find the best restaurants on Oxford Street itself, but if you venture down side streets and back roads, you'll find...

International Women's Day, celebrated annually on 8 March, is just around the corner; a day to remember the sacrifices women have made over the years and a day to empower and remind women all around the world to continue being strong. There are many places and events around London where you can cele...

Flying into most of London's airports means that you have to travel into the city but if you land at London City Airport you're immediately in the heart of London. Particularly popular with business travellers, you might be on a tight schedule when you're travelling through this airport but luckily...

In an area as diverse and creative as Hackney Wick, it's no surprise that it's also home to some of the best drinking spots in East London. Whether you want an all-nighter to the sound of live DJs spinning the freshest tracks or looking for a spot to enjoy a quiet glass of wine, there's plenty of ch...

When you’re after a tasty and filling meal where you can eat exactly what you like, heading to a buffet is often a great decision. Choose whatever catches your eye, eat as much of it as you want to, and go home feeling satisfied. There are plenty of buffet restaurants in London offering tasty cuisin...

Eating out in London can be pricey so why wouldn’t you make it cheaper if you can? If you’re watching the pennies you can still enjoy a meal out if you visit a BYOB restaurant in London. Save on the cost of drinks, get exactly what you like the most, and you can still have a tasty meal in a great re...

When you picture a night out in Greenwich, you’re probably most likely to think about the area’s many traditional riverside pubs. If you’re heading out in the area and fancy a change from the pub scene, don’t fret. There are plenty of diverse bars in Greenwich that range from craft beer tap rooms to...

It's hard to get more quintessentially British than indulging in afternoon tea in Covent Garden. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a born-and-bred Londoner, there's just something about the tiered platter of different goodies that makes you feel fancy and cosy at the same time, and one of Londo...

Churros are a popular Spanish dessert that has gained worldwide recognition. The long and slender deep-fried doughnuts are perfect for dipping or filling with different sauces, and they come coated in a generous layer of cinnamon and sugar. London might not boast the temperate climate of most churro...

From traditional trattorias to shiny new restaurants, the Italian dining scene in London is certainly something to get excited about, and that also goes for Mayfair. Whether you want to chow down on pizza and pasta in a family-run neighbourhood local or you'd rather get your fill at a Michelin-starr...

More and more of us are now choosing to drink less alcohol or give it up altogether. That means that zero-alcohol alternatives are becoming more commonplace, including alcohol-free spirits and well-crafted mocktails that give you all the fun of a cocktail without the headache the next day. If you're...

The thought of eating bugs might make you a bit squeamish, but cultures around the world have been using insects in cuisine for centuries. With an increased emphasis on environmental sustainability, this eco-friendly food source, rich in protein and other nutritious substances, is becoming more and...

From Michelin-starred dining establishments to tiny eateries tucked away in boutique hotels, this article explores the tasty offerings that you can find in some of London's top hotels. Whether you're seeking innovative cuisine, traditional British fare, or international flavours, these hotels cater...

Waffles were long considered a sweet breakfast treat or snack but these days you can pair yours with a piece of fried chicken just as easily as with cream and fruit. It doesn't matter whether you prefer to have yours sweet or savoury, you'll find plenty of places to enjoy waffles London-wide. Around...

South African food is often referred to as "Rainbow Cuisine" thanks to its many cultural influences, including Dutch, British, Indian, Malay, and indigenous African. Fortunately, there are plenty of places in London where you can enjoy traditional South African food, whether that's tucking into wet...

Ealing is a busy part of West London with handy transport links and lots to do, including loads of shops and restaurants. If you need a quick pitstop for a drink or a meal in the local area, visiting an Ealing café is a good shout. There are a huge range of Ealing coffee shops, from artisan coffee s...

If you're looking for a Brazilian restaurant in London, you've come to the right place. Explore London's vibrant Brazilian culinary scene with our guide to the best Brazilian restaurants in London. From sizzling churrascarias and meaty rodizios to contemporary fusion spots and Brazilian steakhouses,...

October in London is buzzing with events for Black History Month, and the city's calendar is stacked. Across galleries, theatres, community hubs and historic streets, you'll find influential exhibitions, live performances, walking tours and conversations that celebrate Black culture and history in a...

So you're here in London, but you've only got one day to spare – with so many attractions, landmarks, shopping places, and great bars and restaurants, how are you ever going to decide what to do? It wasn't easy, but we've put together some of the top places and things to do around the city that you...

Wembley might be world-famous for its stadium, but the food scene is just as much of a reason to visit. Wander a few streets away from the arch and you'll find sizzling grills, stacks of thalis, and some of the best South Asian snacks in the city, think Gujarati canteens, Pakistani kebab houses, and...

For those who use mobility aids, have sensory impairments or other accessibility needs, finding the right restaurant in London can be challenging. This guide has been curated with accessibility in mind, taking into account factors such as step-free access, wheelchair accessibility, and toilet facili...