Guides to London

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...

Beer pong might not have taken off in the UK to the extent it has in the USA, but there are still quite a few places around London where you can get your game on. What's more, some enterprising souls have actually evolved the game and adapted it to the British palate, replacing beer with prosecco as...

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...

So you're planning a weekend in London and you've realised that the prices here are typically terrifyingly high. We feel your pain but it doesn't mean you have to miss out on a visit. The city has plenty of low-cost attractions and places to eat and drink that mean you can stay here and have a great...

Team building activities are a great way of bringing co-workers closer together, providing respite from the daily grind and developing skills that come in handy when it's time to go back to the office. A city as full of corporate clients as London offers a wide assortment of team activities, from cl...

On Bonfire Night London lights up with fireworks, with magnificent displays commemorating Guy Fawkes Night all over the city. Fireworks festivals take place all over the city in the days leading up to 5 November and even the weekend after. Sparks, colours, and explosions boom in the night sky over t...

For those in the busy city of London, finding a trusted place to develop their beloved film is an ongoing mission. Say you've got eight 35mm film rolls ready to develop, all with cherished memories of your recent trips with loved ones; that's a lot of film and a lot of memories, and you're right to...

There are several different royal palaces London-wide that are fascinating places to visit, whether you're a fan of the royal family or just a history buff. There are the world-famous ones you're bound to know about like Buckingham Palace, as well as some interesting sites that you might not already...

Mayfair: the land of Michelin stars and expensive Monopoly, where luxury dining, high-end shopping, and the rich and the famous fill the streets. It's one of the finest London postcodes, brimming with excellent restaurants and cafés to enjoy your first meal of the day. Whether you're looking for cla...

South London's bursting with brilliant halal restaurants, from laid-back spots for a quick bite to fancier places perfect for those special occasions. The area serves up a wide variety of cuisines, from classic burgers and authentic curries to Neapolitan-style pizza and more. We've rounded up the be...

With its lively streets, constant comings and goings, and countless culinary delights, Soho has a lot in common with grand Spanish cities like Barcelona or Madrid – though the thermostat could do with a tune-up. Regardless, perch up at one of the Soho tapas bars during peak summer and you'll soon fe...

Covent Garden is one of the most famous parts of London, with tens of thousands of tourists wandering its streets every day. Thanks to the constant churn, things can get pretty pricey around these parts, making going out for drinks here a risky proposition, wallet-wise. All's not lost however, as ou...

East London might not be able to lay claim to the world-famous sights and landmarks found in other parts of the capital, but this thriving area is home to some of London's most exciting creative spaces and cultural hubs. Staying here means becoming a part of a young, diverse community that welcomes...

Thanks to the recent regeneration of Battersea Power Station, Battersea is definitely a hot place for eating out right now. Both in the new development and in the wider area, you can find a broad array of restaurants, ranging from tempting tapas to comforting Malaysian food. If you want to know whic...

Afternoon tea is a great British tradition first introduced in England in 1849 by Anna, the seventh Duchess of Bedford, who enjoyed afternoon tea to curb her appetite as dinner was usually served late in her household. Since we Londoners love to get boozy, we took this quintessential English custom...

Holloway Road is long and busy, lined from end to end with restaurants ranging from beloved local institutions that have been around for years to newer spots. Not everything here is super fancy or posted all over TikTok, but that's part of the appeal. This guide doesn't try to list everything; inste...

If you’re yearning for a holiday, reminiscing about that special summer or just in the mood for some tasty food, consider heading to one of the capital’s many Greek tavernas. From juicy souvlaki skewers and creamy spreads to refreshing salads and fluffy pita bread, the traditionally warm and hospita...

The fine art of cuisine usually revolves around carefully balancing flavours to craft a gourmet delicacy, but there’s something to be said for the opposite approach as well. The one where you just pile everything on, defying all laws and reason, more and more, until the final result makes eyes pop j...

With a history going back two millennia and all sorts of terrible and tragic events happening along the way, it’s no wonder the capital is supposedly a favourite haunt of spectres, poltergeists, vampires and other supernatural beings. Whether you believe in ghosts or not, reports of phantoms and hau...

Whiskey or whisky? We know it’s confusing! But whichever one you prefer there’s no doubt it’s a drink to be savoured in the right environment. There are a number of places to drink whiskey (distilled in Ireland and the United State) and whisky (Scottish, Canadian, or Japanese grain spirits) in Londo...

Although Thanksgiving in the UK is nowhere near as celebrated as it is in America, plenty of restaurants all over the city still serve up a feast in honour of the tradition (plus any excuse to eat, right?). Here's our guide to where to don your best stars-and-stripes attire and celebrate Thanksgivin...

The bar scene in Clapham is centred mainly around the High Street, with an array of local and city-wide favourites pouring the drinks and pumping out the tunes. There's more to enjoying a drink or two in this South London area, however. Read our guide to the best bars in Clapham to discover your new...

We’ll admit that the capital isn’t the cheapest place to hang out but that doesn’t mean you can’t have a good time. Whilst you might feel like you spend at least £10 every time you step outside, there are some great things to do in London for free. If you’re watching your wallet, you can access a gr...

Are you seeking the fresh and distinctive flavours of Vietnamese food? This cuisine has exploded in the capital in recent years, and if it’s what you’re in the mood for, you’ll find no shortage of eateries in East London. Hoxton is well-known as a hub for vibrant Vietnamese cuisine but you can find...

When the summer heatwaves hit the capital, nothing beats taking a refreshing dip on a sweltering day. And if you're serious about plunging in regardless of the season, there are plenty of year-round swimming pools in London to choose from as well. From the locals' favourite Brockwell Lido to the ico...

Hackney Wick: the creative capital of London and the bohemian neighbour of the swanky new Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. It's a hub for art, creativity, and culture, and an area that thrums with quirky bars, independent cafés, and edgy nightclubs. With this comes a variety of unique and interesting r...

Teens can be notoriously challenging to impress, but with a city as varied and vibrant as London, there's plenty to offer the discerning teenager looking to fill their time with something they're passionate about. Whether or not your teen knows what sparks their interest, this guide covers all bases...

Mayfair is one of London's most prestigious neighbourhoods, known for its luxurious shopping, five-star hotels, and next-level restaurants. However, beyond the high-end spots, a new wave of vegan restaurants has emerged, allowing you to enjoy delicious plant-based dishes that prioritise veggies abov...

Between the calmly flowing river, abundant greenery, and quaint streets, Richmond is one of the best parts of London to be when the sun comes out. There are lots of nice places to enjoy an al fresco lunch here, ranging from quiet gardens to lively riverside hangouts. Our guide to the best outdoor re...

Notting Hill isn't all pastel houses and that famous market, it's also quietly becoming one of London's go-to neighbourhoods for wine lovers. Whether you're after a cute neighbourhood gem for a glass or two with a friend, or a place to explore natural and biodynamic bottles, this guide rounds up the...

Covent Garden might be best known for being a bit of a tourist draw, thanks to its street performers and lively market, but it's also a hot spot for jazz lovers. While some of the clubs in this guide sit right in the heart of Covent Garden, others are just a short stroll away in nearby Soho, one of...

Restaurants in the City have to cater to a wide range of customers, from workers on a quick lunch break to wandering tourists and businessmen wooing clients. Whatever the occasion, universally-loved Italian cuisine always fits the bill, so it's not surprising that the City of London is home to a num...

Soho is synonymous with the word 'cool', from its scandalous, sexy past to the plethora of hip restaurants and bars lining almost every street in the area. Instead of listing every restaurant in this vibrant neighbourhood (because, let's face it, they're all pretty cool), we've handpicked our absolu...

Despite being in the city centre, Marylebone oozes a charming village vibe amidst the city's hustle and bustle. Its tree-lined streets are fringed with independent boutiques, cultural landmarks, and some of the city's most acclaimed restaurants. Next time you find yourself in this neck of the woods,...

Dogs are a big part of life in Marylebone, with its leafy streets and close proximity to vast green spaces like Regent's Park. Many local restaurants are up for welcoming owners and their four-legged friends, so there's no need to leave your pooch at home. Check out our guide to the best dog-friendl...

Finding a restaurant that caters to the whole family can sometimes be a challenge. Whether you're treating the kids to a special meal or gathering the entire crew for a get-together, Canary Wharf has many family-friendly dining spots with tasty options for all ages. From casual spots with classic fa...

Richmond is a hub for excellent dining experiences, particularly when it comes to Italian cuisine. The area is home to a variety of Italian restaurants, ranging from classic family-owned establishments to contemporary eateries with a modern twist. With so many options available, it can be challengin...

Thanks to its lively urban vibe and creative energy, trendy Shoreditch is a foodie's paradise, with a diverse culinary scene that has something for everyone. This includes fans of pizza, who can choose from among classic Neapolitan-style or thin and crispy Roman-style pizzas, toppings that include m...

Centrally-located and known to be one of the city's fanciest areas, Mayfair has no shortage of great places to eat, drink, shop, and be entertained. From fine dining spots to world-famous shops, you'll discover plenty of things to do in Mayfair. We've got you covered if you're planning a day in the...

Moroccan food is unique and full of spices and flavour. This North African cuisine blends a variety of culinary influences, and fortunately, there are plenty of restaurants where you can try it out in London. If you're looking for flavour-packed tagines, delicious mezze, and mountains of couscous, t...

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...

If you're striving to lead an ethical lifestyle, you might prefer shops, restaurants, and other businesses that support charitable initiatives. There's plenty of choice in London if you want to do some good by supporting organisations that make charity donations or social enterprises that offer oppo...

Asian food is full of diverse flavours and ingredients. Whilst some Asian cuisines are famous all around the world, others aren't so well known, with Nepalese cuisine being an example. Just because it's not well-known doesn't mean it's not packed with flavour – think steaming momo dumplings with tas...

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...

That magical time of year is fast approaching us again. Just like Santa in his workshop, London is gearing up for all kinds of festive fun. There are lots of Christmas activities and events in London to keep people of all ages entertained and get you into the festive mood. From markets to family day...

Whilst some foodies are comfortable with a vegan lifestyle all year round, others find it more challenging. If you're aiming to eat more plant-based foods or just try out something new, Veganuary is a great time to get involved. Thanks to London having so many options for vegan dining – in the past...

Fancy visiting a museum, doing something active, or getting something tasty to eat or drink? Jump on the Hammersmith & City line because there are plenty of fun places along this route. The pink line takes you through some exciting areas of London, from the world-famous Baker Street to bustling Whit...

The District line, or as we Londoners know it, the green one, was the very first tube line ever built. Constructed in 1869, running from West Brompton to Mansion House purely by steam locomotives, it has played an integral role in London's transport system and continues to do so today. It's where th...

In recent years, crazy golf and mini golf have taken off around the city. From crazy technology-based holes to dinosaur-themed courses, they've become increasingly popular, and people are getting rather creative with them. Enjoy putting holes surrounded by dragon footprints, swinging a club next to...

Assuming that the weather is cooperating, a walk is a great way to get some fresh air and exercise, as well as see bits of the city that you might otherwise miss. There are a varied range of walks in London, from those that feel like you’ve escaped to the country to walks that place you in the heart...