Hands up if you need a London staycation right now. We’ve got you covered with 8 dazzling options – no need to thank us.
As born and bred Londoners, we’ve been guilty of taking the city for granted in the past but, guys, 18 MILLION people travel to London each year.
All the touristy spots we scuttle past on our way to work, dodging the crowds and getting frustrated when people stop dead on the pavement? Well, those attractions are pretty fabulous.
If ever there’s a time to take a little London mini-break and explore the best of the city, now is it.
In need of inspiration? Here are some fabulous London staycation ideas to get you started – some “themed” staycation ideas and a few areas of London that are perfect for your next break.
Brilliant London Staycations
Quintessential London Mini-Break
We’re going to start with the quintessential London mini-break.
Before you roll your eyes and glaze over, let me ask you one question. When’s the last time you explored London like a tourist?
Cast away that innate reluctance to show enthusiasm that us Brits do so very well and really go for it.
Buckingham Palace? Hell yeah! National Gallery, hit us up! London Eye – yes please (and no, we won’t grumble at the price or that it’s only 25 minutes long because we will be too busy feasting our eyes on the spectacular city views it affords).
What to Do
We recommend following our two days in London itinerary – start with a stroll (and a picnic breakfast if you’re feeling organised) in Hyde Park, over to Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament and follow it up with a leisurely lunch.
After this, it’s a matter of moseying down to Trafalgar Square and into the National Gallery which is currently quieter than any of us will ever see again.
Cross the river and hop on The London Eye for a sunset turn and then head into Soho for drinks and dinner before bedding down for the night.
That’s not all though.
Start the second day with a trip to the Tower of London and Tower Bridge, head up to the top of The Shard then relax over lunch at Borough Market.
Get your art fix at the Tate Modern, cross the wobbly Millennium Bridge to gawp at St Paul’s then truck over to Museum Mile for a wander around one of the big three (Science, Natural History, V&A) of your choice.
After that, it’s just a matter of swinging through Kensington Gardens to The Churchill Arms for a pint and some well-deserved rest.
Where to Stay – Ham Yard Hotel
Bright, colourful, romantic and incredibly stylish, Ham Yard is known for its quirky rooms and brilliant location. Just a few steps away from Piccadilly Circus, it’s the perfect place to base yourself if you want to have the full touristy London staycation experience.
Plus you’re in stumbling distance home of Soho’s bars and restaurants #justsaying
Harry Potter Themed Staycation
It’s no secret that we’re obsessed with Harry Potter – if you’re not, you’ll probably want to skip this one. We will only bear the mildest grudge.
Although JK Rowling lived in Edinburgh when she wrote the Harry Potter books, it might surprise you that London is the place for a Harry Potter-themed break.
With tonnes of filming locations, places mentioned in the book – not to mention the Warner Bros Studios just down the road in Leavesden, there’s no better place to get your wand out and walk in the footsteps of the boy who lived.
How geeky you want to get with it is completely up to you, obviously we always recommend just going for it and spending the whole weekend in full costumed attire but someone told us that’s not normal behaviour. Whatever.
What to Do
Spend a day following our Harry Potter walking tour of London. Complete with a map and step by step instructions for how to get between the different locations, it’s everything you need to explore the city like the little Hufflepuff you are.
On the second day, it’s time to head out to Leavesden for a trip to the fantastic as ever Harry Potter Studio Tour. If you haven’t been before, we don’t want to ruin the surprise but aaaaghhh – prepare to get so excited when you see all the props and sets from your favourite scenes in the film. Get the train out to Watford Junction from London Euston, and make sure you make the short walk to King’s Cross to visit Platform 9¾ while you’re at it.
Genuinely, if you don’t turn into an over-excited puddle when you walk into the life-sized set of Diagon Alley, we will totally disown you.
Where to Stay – Georgian House Hotel
Where else would you want to stay on your Harry Potter London staycation than in a hotel with Potter-themed rooms? Exactly.
Book Georgian House Hotel’s special wizard chambers come complete with Gothic detailing, stained glass windows, velvet curtains, cauldrons, trunks – basically everything you need to live your most magical life (actual magical powers sadly not included). .
London Spa Staycation
It’s no big reveal that we’re all in need of some serious pampering right now – a spa-themed staycation is firmly on the books. It’s time to swank it up with a luxury spa break.
What to Do
The whole point is not doing. Bring a hefty case of books, turn up, switch off and get set for some serious pampering you time.
If you’re looking for a blow-out treat, ESPA Life at Corinthia reopens shortly and is nothing short of incredible. Make sure to check out their packages for savings on spa trips.
If that’s beyond your budget, another one of our favourites is K West Hotel in Shepherd’s Bush. The spa is spectacular, the treatments equally impressive and the hotel itself a sophisticated place to burrow away in for a couple of days.
Where to Stay
We’ve already recommended ESPA Life at Corinthia and K West Hotel & Spa – aside from that the Hotel Cafe Royal, LaLit and Sanderson Hotel are all great options too.
But really, if you can afford it, go for The Corinthia.
Foodie’s City Break
We don’t know about you but we are completely sick and tired of our own cooking and the mound of dishes that seem to appear everytime we step foot in the kitchen.
Add to that the fact that most of us aren’t actually chefs, but normal people muddling our way as best we can and it’s no surprise that the thought of a professionally cooked meal literally has us salivating.
How about a whole foodie London staycation then?
London has no shortage of stellar restaurants and bars and munching your way around them for a couple of days is literally the dream.
What to Do
We hope you’re hungry because this staycation is all about making the most of London’s diverse and eclectic culinary scene.
We suggest starting with a classic breakfast at The Wolseley – the mound of pastries, sophisticated egg dishes and traditional British breakfasts way beyond the scope of anything you could prepare at home.
For lunch, swing by The Greenhouse for some old-school traditional fine dining (it’s two Michelin-starred you know).
It’s ok if you shed a little tear of happiness at the sight of the Dorset crab before you attack it with gusto. It’s only natural and it’s been a stressful year. Go on boo, order some champagne too. You deserve it.
We know dinner feels like an ambitious order at this point, but if you can squeeze it in, delve into a plate or two (they’re small) of the silky-smooth pasta at Padella. Coated in just the right amount of sauce, there’s a reason that snagging a table is a Herculean feat in itself.
If you have time, make sure to swing by Borough Market – it’s a haven of delights that real foodies will absolutely adore. Grab a toastie at Kappacasein or indulge in a custard-laden Humble Crumble. Oh, and buy a donut from Bread Ahead for the road. You won’t regret it.
Cocktail wise, the choices are almost endless. Our favourite cocktail bars are the Upstairs Bar at Rules, complete with its lush winter terrace, Lyaness on South Bank and Disrepute in Soho.
We’re not sure that quaffing loads of cocktails is quite what people mean when they stress the importance of staying hydrated but half the fun in life is in putting your own interpretation on things so…
Where to Stay – The London Edition
A gastronome’s London staycation naturally includes a stay at a hotel with its own quality culinary offering – where better than The London Edition.
Not only does the hotel offer a range of plush, sleek rooms you won’t want to leave, but it also has Michelin starred chef Jason Atherton’s Berners Tavern tucked away up its sleeve too.
Highgate Mini-Break
When you look at it, London is ultimately a collection of villages cosseted in the arms of a city. Just because you’re familiar with one area, doesn’t mean there aren’t plenty of areas to explore.
In need of London staycation ideas? “Jet off” to one of these neighbourhoods on your trip.
If ever there was an area of London that has retained its village-y feel, it’s Highgate. Not much has changed in the area that inspired Romantic poets such as Samuel Taylor Coleridge, novelists like Charles Dickens and the hoi polloi of 18th and 19th century society.
There are still the sprawling houses in strolling distance to Hampstead Heath, the cosy pubs and relaxed cafes filled with punters spilling out into the sunshine. It’s the perfect spot for a London staycation that feels more like a country escape.
What to Do
Highgate Cemetery is the biggie. Though it might sound morbid, the overgrown scrub and gothic headstones make for an eerily enchanting walk – particularly when you’re looking for the cemetery’s famous residents – Karl Marx, George Eliot and Henry Moore included.
Put on some comfortable walking shoes and explore Highgate Wood – one of the biggest woodlands in London then kick back with a pint or two in The Flask or The Gatehouse – two of the area’s historic (and welcoming) pubs.
It should come as no surprise that an area that counts Kate Moss, Justin Bieber and Sting amidst its residence has a few quality restaurants dotted around. Book a table at Ostuni for high-end Italian cuisine.
We just love going for strolls over Hampstead Heath and Highgate’s proximity makes it an easy task to nip onto the heath for a short walk or tackle an all day affair.
Where to Stay – Stylish Airbnb
Highgate isn’t plush with hotels so make like a local and stay in a stylish apartment instead.
This private apartment takes the comfortable-luxe vibes to the max. Nestled just south of Hampstead Heath but still within easy reach of the tube station, it’s a fantastic option for bedding down on your staycation.
Escape to Richmond
In the leafy outer suburbs of South West London, Richmond couldn’t feel further away from the crowds and grime of the centre of town.
The deer park was a favourite of Henry VIII’s – let’s face it, if it was good enough for the notoriously difficult to please king, it’s probably going to be more than OK for us too. It’s the largest Royal Park in London and makes for a surprisingly idyllic day-long stroll.
Away from the park, it’s all about taking life slow in Richmond. Thameside pubs, cutesy restaurants, chichi cafes – it is a lovely London escape.
What to Do
Start with Richmond Park – we’ve touched on it above but it really is worth exploring. The deer make it difficult to believe you’re in London, yet you are.
Make a beeline for King Henry’s Mound (reputedly where he saw the signal confirming the beheading of Anne Boleyn) – true or not, it offers a pretty view of London. Don’t miss the Isabella Plantation either – a glorious stretch of woodland that’s bucolic to the max.
There’s always something pleasant about whiling away a day by the waterside at a pub and Richmond has that dialled – nab a table at The White Cross, unplug and watch as the world goes by.
Feeling hungry? Richmond’s culinary scene is led by Petersham Nurseries – the enchanting pergola that won its first Michelin star in 2011 and has gone from strength to strength ever since.
Where to Stay – Bingham Riverhouse
The name gives the riverside location away – The Bingham is an independently-owned boutique hotel with a lot of personality.
Individually-designed rooms combine luxury touches like copper bathtubs with splashes of colour and beds that literally feel like a cloud.
The food’s excellent, it’s not far from the tube and it’s only 25 mins from Kew Gardens too.
Urban Break in Shoreditch
Throwing out the cool and edgy vibes like confetti at a wedding, Shoreditch might seem like a left-field contender for a London staycation but if you’re into street art, cocktails and restaurants that err on the edge of hipster whilst also being rather good – Shoreditch is for you.
The debate about the gentrification of Shoreditch rages on – but that’s not one for today.
Realistically, when it comes to a London mini break, who doesn’t want to be able to eat street food during the day, quaff cocktails from some of the city’s best mixologists and bed down in a cool five-star hotel or stylish Airbnb at night?
What to Do
Shoreditch isn’t big on landmarks – you’ll want to go to central London for that, but what it does have is a lot of cool street art, street food and drinking holes.
Start by taking our self-guided street art tour of the area. It’s a biggie and will keep you gawping at large-scale murals and hidden works for at least a couple of hours – more if you take your time.
You’ll find works by some of the biggest British and international names on the street art scene tucked around corners, behind buildings and sometimes where you least expect them.
Eating and drinking are two of Shoreditch’s specialties – the only question is where do you want to go most. We love the Smoking Goat (though it does get busy so be sure to book ahead) and Cay Tre for food.
Bar wise – Nightjar is great for cocktails and jazz, Found is a little gem of a find not many know about and Callooh Callay is the original Shoreditch speakeasy. Remember to drink plenty of water.
Where to Stay – The Mondrian
Bringing its achingly-cool level of NYC chic straight from the other side of the pond, The Mondrian is where all the cool kids stay when they’re in town.
That’s partly due to the fact that it’s home to one of the area’s best live-music venues (don’t worry, the soundproofing is up to the job) and the rooftop pool is one of the places to see and be seen in Shoreditch.
Throw the rough-luxe but uber-comfy rooms into the mix and you have a winner.
Perfect Break in Notting Hill
More than just a famous film, Notting Hill is the perfect area for a London stayscape.
We love Notting Hill – it’s elegant and undeniably spenny but it’s retained a lot of the character that made it interesting in the first place.
There are the famous Portobello Markets of course, coupled with colourful houses, hidden mews and Victorian gin palaces – it’s trendy, cute and brimming with history all at the same time.
Coincide your visit with Notting Hill Carnival, it’s one of the most exuberant experiences you can have in London.
What to Do
Notting Hill is intertwined with Portobello Road Market – in reality a few different markets are held on different days. Saturday is the best day to go as all are in full swing and you can browse and shop to your heart’s content.
There are plenty of cute cafes calling for leisurely breakfasts and daytime coffees – Farm Girl is the best known but explore beyond it for a quieter (and less heavily ‘Grammed) experience.
You’re not exactly short on choice for restaurants either – The Ledbury is one of our long-time favourites while Core by Clare Smyth is high-end, wonderful… and comes with the price tag to match.
Where to Stay – The Laslett
The Laslett is everything a boutique neighbourhood hotel should be.
Set in five Grade II townhouses turned into one stylish hotel, it’s friendly and welcoming without forgoing on the luxe factor at all. Rooms are perfectly-styled, come with a range of books and striking artwork. In other words, the perfect boutique stay.
West End Theatre Break
London’s West End is well known for two things. Shopping and the theatre. With Shaftesbury Avenue the main thoroughfare in London’s Theatre District, skirting around Soho and Oxford Street, this is the perfect way to combine the two interests.
Whether it’s a famous West End Musical you’re after, or something a little more niche, this staycation break is great for enjoying the best entertainment, food, shopping and accommodation in one neat package.
What to Do
Begin your visit in the West End by heading around the shops and department stores on Oxford Street, Regent Street and Bond Street.
As and when you get hungry, check out the Arcade Food Hall on Tottenham Court Road, where you can get a range of great food from 7 open kitchens. Options include Middle Eastern, Indian, Nepalese, Japanese and American.
In the evening it’s time for the main event, heading to your chosen show. Whether you’ve decided to go for one of London’s smash hit musicals, or something a little more niche and fringe-like, you won’t be disappointed.
Before heading back to your hotel, head out to one of London’s late-night restaurants for some after-dark culinary goodies.
The next day, take some time out to do some sightseeing such as the Statue of Eros in Piccadilly Circus, Trafalgar Square, and perhaps one of the free art galleries there.
And why not go on a cool city cruise on the Thames, taking in more of London’s awesome sights and sounds.
Where to Stay – The Resident, Soho
The Resident in Soho is a beautiful boutique hotel in a brilliant location, within 400 metres of Tottenham Court Road, two minutes walk from Oxford Street and bang in the centre of Soho, just a stone’s throw from many West End theatres.
The rooms are comfortable, nicely decorated, and have a shower, with some having an en-suite bath to help you relax after your long days pounding the streets of the West End, and enjoying your theatre visit.
London Museum Break
Of course, we all know about London’s rich historic and cultural past, much of which is documented in some of the city’s many museums. Yet, did you know that dozens of these awesome museums are completely free to visit?
This makes visiting London on a budget while visiting some of the city’s most famous museums, and some hidden gems, a piece of cake.
What to Do?
We suggest planting yourself in South Kensington, not only because it has some of the best free museums on your doorstep, but it’s also a great spot to get around town on tube or bus.
Start your visit with a trip to the Natural History Museum, before heading around the corner to the Science Museum, and complete the holy trinity with a visit to the charms of the V&A.
That’ll take most of day 1, so why not combine these visits with a wander around Hyde Park before taking in some dinner at one of Kensington’s great restaurants.
We love the stunning homemade food from Pappa Roma, with pizza and pasta that defies description, while Daquise is a brilliant spot for some Polish cuisine in unique and rustic surroundings.
On day 2, why not explore some of London’s lesser-known museums? Sir John Soane’s in Holborn is a short tube ride away, and from there, London’s Roman past can be discovered at the London Mithraeum.
From there, head up to King’s Cross and visit one of London’s newest museums, Queer Britain, the first museum in the UK dedicated to the LGBTQ+ community.
A short ride on the Circle Line back to South Kensington in time for dinner and a nice chilled evening.
Where to Stay – The Ampersand Hotel
Just a minute’s walk from South Kensington Underground station is The Ampersand Hotel, a beautiful hotel with luxurious decor right from the moment you’re greeted by the pillared foyer, grand staircase and stunning chandelier.
Rooms are individually decorated with eye-catching wallpaper designs that nicely complement period Victorian features. All rooms have a flat-screen TV, comfy beds, and en-suite bathrooms.
London Maritime Break
Among London’s long and varied history are its much-storied maritime links. From exploration to trade, world wars to its continuing life as one of London’s busiest ports, there’s plenty to enjoy for people who love all things maritime in London.
Greenwich and the Docklands in particular are great spots to visit given their rich links with London’s trade, Naval, and imperial past. So, if you’re into ships and want to learn more about London’s rich maritime history, this is the perfect break for you.
What to Do?
Greenwich in South East London, is one of the city’s undoubted gems, both in terms of history and culture.
Begin your maritime adventure with a visit to the recently restored Cutty Sark, a much celebrated 19th-century sailing ship that was the fastest vessel on the seas in its time.
Head towards Greenwich, and visit the National Maritime Museum, where London’s rich maritime history is laid bare for you to experience hands-on. While there, it’s worth a visit to the Queens House and grabbing a pic of the famous Tulip Stairs and the Royal Observatory.
While in Greenwich, head to a genuine pie and mash shop at Goddards, who have been serving Londoners since 1890, or grab some Turkish bites at Taksim.
On day two, the Thames Clipper is your best friend. Use your contactless card to travel in style along the River, taking in the free Docklands Museum at West India Quay, just across the river from North Greenwich.
Then, head underneath Tower Bridge to visit the World War II light cruiser HMS Belfast, which is moored on the South Bank and open to visitors to maintain the nautical theme.
Where to Stay – Novotel Greenwich
One of the best spots to stay in Greenwich is the Novotel London Greenwich, perfectly situated next to Greenwich station and within easy reach of the National Maritime Museum and Cutty Sark.
With comfort at the heart of what they do, although this is a chain hotel, it’s one that has a boutique feel to it at generous prices.
That said, if you wanted to maintain the nautical theme, the Pilot Inn on North Greenwich peninsular is also a good spot.
There we are – plenty of ideas for your London staycation. We hope that you manage to take a well-deserved break, kick back and explore this city we sometimes take just the tiniest bit for granted.
Practical Tips for Planning Your Staycation
- The key to a successful staycation is in really treating it like it’s a holiday. Don’t get sucked into doing the same old things you would normally do in London, try something or somewhere completely different to reset and recharge.
- A lot of hotels are offering great rates at the moment, both through booking platforms like Booking.com, Agoda, and Expedia and also direct. Radisson, for example, are offering 25% off hotels for members (it’s easy to join, FYI) – including their London properties and Marriott have a lot of deals for their hotels – including at the beautiful St Pancras Renaissance.
