Best London Staycations
Find Your London Getaway Today
Discover the city that blends centuries of history with modern, cosmopolitan flair. Whether you’re exploring royal palaces, indulging in trendy markets, or wandering along the Thames, London offers a staycation brimming with culture and charm. Here’s how to make the most of your time in the British capital – no passport required.
London Staycations Available Now
Your London Staycation Guide
Top Walkable Activities
South Bank Stroll:
Wander along the South Bank of the Thames for iconic views of Big Ben, the London Eye, and vibrant street performances. Explore the foodie hub under the railway arches at Southbank Centre.
Covent Garden & The Piazza:
Meander through Covent Garden for boutique shopping, lively street entertainers, and a variety of dining spots beneath elegant Victorian architecture.
Westminster & Parliament Square:
Take in the Gothic grandeur of the Palace of Westminster and Westminster Abbey, then stroll Parliament Square, dotted with statues of historical figures like Churchill.
Hyde Park & Kensington Gardens:
One of London’s Royal Parks, Hyde Park connects seamlessly to Kensington Gardens. Boating on the Serpentine or visiting the Diana Memorial Playground is a must.
Brick Lane & Shoreditch:
Known for eclectic street art, vintage shops, and global street food. Head to Brick Lane for a Sunday market or a spicy curry.
Quick Excursions Under 45 Minutes
Greenwich & The Prime Meridian:
Take a short boat ride or DLR trip to see the Royal Observatory, stand astride the Prime Meridian, and explore the maritime history at Cutty Sark.
Kew Gardens:
Marvel at the Victorian glasshouses, treetop walkway, and diverse plant collections at Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Richmond Park:
Just southwest of central London, Richmond Park features roaming deer, wide-open green spaces, and a peaceful break from city life.
Hampton Court Palace:
Immerse yourself in Tudor history by exploring Henry VIII’s palace, the maze, and stunning riverside gardens. Check details at Hampton Court.
1-Day Staycation Itinerary
Morning Coffee:
Grab a cup at Monmouth Coffee in Borough Market, then wander the food stalls for breakfast nibbles.
Late Morning:
Cross London Bridge to the Tower of London for a glimpse of the Crown Jewels, or head to Tate Modern for contemporary art and a fantastic view from the top floor.
Afternoon:
Stroll along the South Bank to the London Eye or Westminster, and catch a quick boat ride on the Thames for a scenic city overview.
Late Afternoon:
Make your way to Covent Garden or Leicester Square for a bite, and maybe a West End matinee if time allows.
Evening:
Finish with dinner and a pint in Soho or a curry along Brick Lane. Enjoy London’s nightlife, from theatre shows to rooftop bars.
2-Day Staycation Itinerary
Day 1: Culture + Royal Heritage
Morning:
Tour Buckingham Palace or catch the Changing of the Guard, then stroll through St James’s Park.
Afternoon:
Visit the National Gallery in Trafalgar Square for an art fix, or see the treasures at The British Museum.
Evening:
Head to Piccadilly Circus for neon lights and dinner in Chinatown, then catch a West End show if you’re feeling theatrical.
Day 2: Markets + River Scenes
Morning:
Explore Portobello Road Market in Notting Hill for antiques and vintage finds. Snap colourful house photos along the way.
Afternoon:
Grab lunch at Borough Market or head east to Columbia Road Flower Market (Sundays only).
Evening:
Catch sunset along the Greenwich waterfront or ride the DLR past Canary Wharf’s skyline before returning for a final late-night drink in Shoreditch.
Best Neighborhoods
Covent Garden:
Bustling plaza, theatres, and a mix of high-end and indie shops.
Soho:
Nightlife central, packed with bars, restaurants, and quirky side streets.
South Kensington & Chelsea:
Museums, elegant streets, and upscale dining. Home to the V&A and Natural History Museum.
Notting Hill:
Pastel houses, Portobello Road Market, and a relaxed bohemian vibe.
Shoreditch & Hoxton:
Street art, trendy bars, and innovative eateries for the hip crowd.
Where To Visit & Dine
Tower of London:
A UNESCO-listed fortress housing the Crown Jewels and centuries of royal intrigue.
British Museum:
Home to the Rosetta Stone, Egyptian mummies, and countless global artefacts.
Afternoon Tea:
Try an upscale tea at The Ritz or Claridge’s for a quintessentially British treat.
West End Theatre:
Catch a world-class musical or play. Check Official London Theatre for tickets and schedules.
Pub Culture:
Experience an authentic British pub like The Churchill Arms in Kensington or The Harp near Covent Garden.
Insider Tips
Oyster or Contactless:
Use an Oyster Card or contactless payment for seamless Tube and bus travel.
Free Museums:
Iconic museums like the British Museum, National Gallery, and Tate Modern have free entry; consider a small donation.
Skyline Views:
Enjoy city vistas from Sky Garden (book a free visit) or the Shard’s viewing platform.
Markets Galore:
From the gourmet stalls of Borough Market to vintage treasures at Portobello, London’s markets are a weekend must.
Parks & Gardens:
Stroll through Regent’s Park, see the rose gardens, or climb Primrose Hill for panoramic views of central London.
