With 32 boroughs to hand, London's status as a city is extended across neighbourhoods, cultural corners and must-visit hotspots. From its finest attractions to areas with identity, we're showcasing what it's like to visit, live or experience each. Some celebrate the bustling metropolitan style London is known for, while others promote suburban living and great coffee shop culture in easy-to-reach locations. Want to know more about London's best neighbourhoods? Check out more below.
Battersea
With a power station working from the 1930s to the 1980s, Battersea has always been a vibrant hub of activity and a local favourite. And while the electrical powerhouse was out of action for several decades, its recent rejuvenation into a destination for restaurants, bars and shopping has seen interest in the area increase tenfold, even earning itself its own tube station.
Battersea has always been the spot for leafy walks, moments by the water, and young families, but with rooftop restaurants like Joia, and immersive experiences now staking their claim, SW11's new coat of paint has put it back on the map.
The turrets of Battersea Power Station stand strong south of the river.
Covent Garden
Famous for its car-free piazza and street performers, Covent Garden has never been a bore, with high-end shopping paired with independent dining in tucked away street corners. With several top places to eat in the area, Covent Garden is something of an all-day destination, with most not tending to need to leave thanks to so much going on.
Perfect for those just about to embark on a show in the West End, with Soho nearby for further gains, Covent Garden remains at the heart of it all, with the London Transport Museum tucked in its midst for the perfect family day out.
Borough Market
An ideal destination for food lovers, Borough Market's rich history lives on to this day, dating back to the 12th century. Not only is its vibrant food market visited by tourists (and Londoners) in their millions, its heritage can be seen in traditional pubs under archways, cosy wine and cheese spots and the occasional name-brand restaurant.
Flanked by the Thames, London Bridge, and close enough to Elephant And Castle to get there with a brisk walk, Borough Market remains a destination to celebrate food culture, and history combined.
Our Senior Marketing Manager, Leighanne Bent, on what makes Borough Market so special: Although it's a tourist magnet, Borough also doubles as one of London's best neighbourhoods. You have world-class cocktails from Swift, award-winning sandwiches from the Black Pig and one of the city's oldest pubs, The George, which is also one of the last remaining galleried inns in the city. If you love hospitality and being central enough to walk everywhere, this is the place to live.
Peckham
Salons, barbers, butchers, toy shops and local groceries are just a small portion of what makes Peckham less a neighbourhood and more a community. A vibrant South London spot with heavy footfall, bus routes and train stations, Peckham is undergoing many changes, to Rye Lane specifically, but it remains a staple for its longstanding locals and plenty of visitors hoping to set up roots here.
Not only Del Boy's digs, Peckham's history also runs parallel to its growing number of bars and restaurants, including South African Kudu and pub favourite, Prince of Peckham.
The famous pink stairwell in Peckham.
Brixton
Brixton is another area of London where the community is at the heart of each and everything it does. From the stalls in Brixton Market (for fresh fish, homemade goods, and everything in between), to the antiques and street food on Brixton Station Road, there's a lot currently in flux in the area, but its spirit stands strong.
Thanks to it being a final stop on the Victoria line along with its proximity to Clapham, a Saturday in Brixton is never quiet, and whether you're stopping nearby for brunch, you're going for drinks in its local bars or you're just taking in the Electric Avenue energy, it's always a good time.
Our Head Of Brand Katie Kirwan on living in Brixton for 7 years: I lived on the road that bridges the gap between Clapham and Brixton, and can assure you never a dull moment was had. There are cosy pubs tucked behind suburban Victorian rows, and major global artists on stage at the Academy only a stone's throw from your house. It's busy, and it's bright, so be prepared to open your door, or jump off the train, and be in the thick of the action.
Mayfair
Wedged between St James and Bond Street, Mayfair has a reputation, and it wants to keep it. Equal parts leafy, historic, and upscale, Mayfair makes no apologies when it comes to its intention of being luxury. Georgia townhouses line the street, while high-end cocktail bars and gastro pubs are tucked on corners.
While it supposedly houses some of the most ghosts in London, that's simply down to its upfront British history. So yes, there's a reason it's the most expensive property on the Monopoly board. For somewhere truly remarkable? Look to Bacchanalia.
Bacchanalia leading the charge when it comes to extra in Mayfair.
Shoreditch
Shoreditch has seen many iterations over the years thanks to its East London proximity, with its most recent being a late-night destination for one and all. From the Overground to Old Street Station, between is a blend of high-end and affordable, with everything from rooftops to local pubs for a pint of craft beer.
Alexander McQueen may have once called it 'desolate and rough', but graffiti-lined and cocktail-obsessed Shoreditch has a place in everyone's London journey, and remains to this day a popular destination for the go-between of the arty and current combined.
King's Cross
With a major train station taking up plenty of King's Cross' footprint, you can imagine that this metropolitan spot has a tonne of activity nearby. From the shops, restaurants, and cafes found in the newly developed Coal Drops Yard, and nearby canals for pretty walks along the water (stopping off at Granary Square), to The British Museum and British Library for a taste of history, King's Cross has long been the gateway to North London and will continue to be for years to come thanks to its travel connections blended with green scenery. In the area? Why not visit Keystone Crescent for a fantastic cocktail?
Coal Drops Yard is always a buzz come the weekend.
Hampstead
Those in London who still want the closeness of a metro city while counting on flourishing elements of green suburbia have a friend in Hampstead. From its swimming ponds, The Hill Garden, and pergola to a golf club nearby, open space and leafy streets come as standard here. But there still happens to be a fantastic pub, restaurant and bar scene to hand, supported by a wealth of cosy Sunday spots, nurturing the art of a roast. Looking for views? Take yourself to the top of Parliament Hill for a sweeping look at the city like no other.
Stoke Newington
Hailed as 'villagelike', Stoke Newington feels something of a far cry away from the bustling streets of Dalston nearby, but still has that young, East London energy. Clissold Park stands firm in the middle for those looking for a midday walk amongst the trees, while the independent restaurant scene in the area is booming, with names the likes of Perilla, Rasa, The Good Egg and Escocesa promising casual, but elevated dining. Its local pubs are casual and cosy, while the entire area is multicultural and vibrant all week long.
Greenwich
Big with boats, everything from the Cutty Sark to a trip on the Uber boat is possible in Greenwich, known for its by the water appeal and chill, local nature, easily accessible by many several transport routes.
History runs deep in Greenwich too, with the Old Royal Naval College and Royal Museums making for a great start to any summer day nearby, perfect for when you're done (or before) lunch. For star gazers? There's also the famous observatory (following a swift walk up a very large hill) but worth it for another incredible take on the London skyline.
The green space in Greenwich is almost second to none.
Chelsea
Not just the subject matter for a popular reality TV show with socialite characters, Chelsea is the destination for pretty flower shops, locally sourced delis and fashion. Once a village, Chelsea has become the destination for high-end cars and restaurants, known for its terraced housing and gorgeousness come spring. The art curious can also take the time to visit the Saatchi gallery close by, while others who are on the hunt for antiques might be interested in trying the Furniture & Arts building, home to over 30,000 items.
Marylebone
Found between two of London's ultimate green spaces (Hyde Park and Regent's Park) Marylebone feels like a version of the city like no other. Flowerboxes on windowsills bloom in spring, while terraced Victorian houses are more common in this area than most.
Boutiques and luxury restaurants are in keeping with the feel of the winding streets, and the history of Marylebone dates back centuries, with some of London's most traditional pubs nearby. Yes, we're lushing over Marylebone, but it's with good reason, it's a very pretty part of the city.
Richmond
Mention Richmond to any Londoner, and they'll melt with stories of nice walks along the river, cosy pints in fireplace pubs and an escape from the city. Even though it's not. Most of London can access Richmond in less than 50 minutes, and it's worth the time on public transport.
A known well-to-do area, comprised of leafy wandering and great independent shopping, Richmond has notorious royal connections, having even been named by Henry VII. Our recommendation? Brunch at the new pretty restaurant, Peggy Jean, for a great time next to the water.
Peggy Jean is a perfect spot for drinks by the water in Richmond.
Soho
An area we consider the true beating heart of the city, Soho remains thriving, and thanks to its position between Tottenham Court Road, Oxford Street and Covent Garden, promises a vibrant experience like no other.
Known as one of London's truly great LGBTQI+ hot spots, drag shows, bars and bevvies are the bare minimum in the area, shared with restaurants, both luxury and independent. Summer drinks spill out on to the streets here in a positive fashion, with sunshine early evenings in Soho a must to get a taste of its past, present and future. With Chinatown nearby too, you're in for all manner a great meal.
