Welcome to our take on the Best Places to Eat in London. In a city this big and diverse, there’s so much to choose from that it can be difficult to know where to start! So, we’ve put together this guide with some of our top recommendations, including the favourites of our very own guides. Read on to find out what the best places to eat in London are and where to find them!

Pubs

If you’re looking for some traditional English food, you should head to the nearest pub. There are over two thousand of them in Central London, meaning you’re never too far away from finding your next meal! Most pubs serve a set variety of meals known as pub classics, typical English cuisine that is hearty, warm and filling. Some pub classics include: Steak and Ale Pie, served with mash, peas and gravy; Fish and Chips, eaten with ketchup, mayonnaise or tartare sauce; and Shepherd’s Pie, lamb mince and vegetables topped with mash. And best of all, if you go to a pub on a Sunday, you will have the chance to try a Sunday Roast Dinner – roasted meat, vegetables and potatoes served with gravy and Yorkshire Puddings.

Covent Garden

Despite the name, this is not a green space but a shopping and entertainment district in London’s West End. Located near Charing Cross and just a short walk from the River Thames, Covent Garden offers a huge variety of global cuisine options, making it the perfect place to wander around until something tasty catches your eye. There’s even a food hall called “Seven Dials Market”, with two floors of independent street food and drinks vendors selling both sweet and savoury dishes. It is also a popular area for street entertainers and buskers, with several theatres nearby too, so it’s worth a visit for dinner and a show!

Camden Market

Historically a hub for alternative fashion and music, Camden Market is now one of the most popular places to shop and eat in the city. With a huge range of creative sellers, street food traders and independent stores, it is the perfect place to grab a bite and soak in the atmosphere. There is every type of cuisine imaginable here, from Persian grills, to Japanese bento, to handmade crepes and bubble tea. Although most retail outlets close around 6pm, the food halls remain open until 9pm, making it a great option for your lunch or evening meal.

Chinatown

This vibrant neighbourhood in the heart of London began as a Chinese community of restaurants and businesses that popped up in the 1950s. Nowadays, it is home to a host of East and Southeast Asian restaurants, cafés, bakeries and bars, selling not just Chinese fare, but also Japanese, Korean, Taiwanese, Malaysian and more. One particularly popular food is the xiao long bao, also known as soup dumplings. These are sold at various restaurants, including Orient London, Plum Valley and Dumplings Legend. Head to Chinatown to sink your teeth into authentic Asian flavour!

Harrods

Although known primarily for being a luxury department store, the food available at Harrods should not be overlooked. If you’re looking for edible souvenirs or food to take home with you, head to one of the three food halls: the Fresh Market Hall, the Chocolate Hall, and the Roastery & Bake Hall. Alternatively, Harrods is also home to a range of fabulous restaurants, café and bars. Enjoy an elegant afternoon tea at The Georgian, sip on hearty broth at Kinoya Ramen Bar, or visit the Dining Hall for seven restaurants in an historic setting, open until late.

Fuller’s London Pride

Although not food, no London dining experience would be complete without mentioning Fuller’s beer. Fuller’s is the last industrial scale brewery left in London and is extremely popular, served in every pub and many restaurants. They make a variety of beers, but their best of all is “London Pride”, a type of amber ale. This triple-malted beer has been brewed by Fuller’s since 1959 and uses 100% British ingredients. And fortunately, many pubs will allow you to taste a sample of the beer before you buy! So, head to your nearest pub and try a sip, or a pint, of Fuller’s to get the best British beer experience.

Guides favourites

And now, we bring to you the personal favourites from some of our brilliant guides! Take advantage of their expertise and local knowledge, and go feast at the best restaurants that London has to offer.

Tom

Brasserie Zédel – a Parisian brasserie located in Piccadilly. Enjoy the atmosphere of this Grand French art deco restaurant with classic brasserie dishes and choucroutes in a 1930s style building.

Daisy

Mildreds – vegan restaurant chain originating in London. They serve globally inspired food and drinks and have locations in Covent Garden, Camden Town, Kings Cross, Dalston, and Victoria.

Freya

Fatt Pundit – Indo-Chinese cuisine originating from Kolkata. Locations in Soho and Covent Garden incorporate traditional Chinese cooking techniques with the spices of India.

Aside from our fantastic day tours from London, you might be wondering how else to spend your time in this sprawling metropolis, so we have put together a list for you of our top ten things to see in London.

Buckingham Palace

First on our list of must-see places is the world-famous Buckingham Palace. This royal residence is the London “office” of the British monarch, currently King Charles III. It is one of the most popular spots in London, with millions of tourists every year. Visitors can snap a selfie by the Victoria Memorial, overlooking the forecourt, or they can pay to enter the palace itself to take in the splendour of the State Rooms, which are open for 10 weeks each summer. In 2024, this is from 11th July to 29th September. Another major attraction of the palace is the Changing of the Guard ceremony, which happens daily from April to July, and every other day in other months.

Tower of London

Set alongside the River Thames, with the iconic Tower Bridge looming overhead, the Tower of London is a tourist hotspot that people come from all over the world to see. Attractions of the Tower include the Yeomen Warders, better known as Beefeaters, who guard the Crown Jewels, as well as the legendary Ravens. Tourists can also witness the Ceremony of the Keys, an ancient tradition that has taken place at the Tower of London every night for the last 700 years. The Tower is also famous for its ghost sightings, with many historical figures held prisoner and executed within its walls, including Anne Boleyn, Lady Jane Grey, and the young nephews of Richard III.

London Eye and Big Ben

We have listed these two iconic London landmarks together because they are situated very close to each other on opposite sides of the River Thames. The London Eye is a giant Ferris-wheel structure with pods that offer a stunning view out over the city. A 10-minute walk from the Eye is the iconic clock tower of Big Ben beside the Houses of Parliament, easily accessible by Westminster Bridge. Home to the 13-tonne bell which gives the tower its name, Big Ben is one of the most famous cultural landmarks of Britain, and a must-see for any tourist in London.

Natural History Museum and British Museum

In an expensive capital city like London, museums with their free entry are an amazing way to spend your holiday when on a budget, and have so much to offer. The Natural History Museum boasts impressive Victorian architecture that houses five main collections: zoology, botany, entomology, mineralogy and palaeontology. Meanwhile, the British museum dedicates itself to human art, history and culture, with its permanent collection of over eight million works making it the largest in the world. Both museums are some of the most visited tourist attractions in the country.

St Paul’s Cathedral

The masterpiece of famed architect Christopher Wren, St Paul’s Cathedral is an iconic part of the London skyline. Its dome is one of the biggest of the world’s cathedrals and boasts incredible views out over the city for its visitors to marvel at, providing a panorama for the perfect photo opportunity. The site is also a must-visit for art lovers, since St. Paul’s has a large collection of artworks spanning various periods in history, and often hosts rotating art installations. The remains of several important historical figures are interred within the cathedral, including Florence Nightingale, Alexander Fleming, Sir Christopher Wren, and Admiral Lord Nelson.

Westminster Abbey

A World Heritage site with over 1000 years of history, Westminster Abbey is one of the most important buildings in central London. Over the last millennium, forty English and British monarchs have had their coronation ceremonies here when they ascended the throne, and it also hosted sixteen royal weddings. It remains a place of daily worship to this day, as well as a major tourist site. Visitors can take in the intricate gothic architecture on a massive scale: vaulted ceilings, stained glass windows and marble carvings. Although the Abbey was first built in the 13th century, additions and renovations have been made over the last 800 years, making it a work of art whose creation has spanned centuries.

Kensington Palace and Gardens

Kensington Palace is the home of royalty, both historically and to this day. Here, Queen Victoria was born and raised, and it is now the official Royal Residence of Prince William—next in line to the throne of the United Kingdom—and his family. It is a popular tourist site, particularly the gloriously-decorated State Rooms and the Jewel Room, displaying the gems commissioned for Queen Victoria by her beloved husband Albert. Tickets for entry to the palace can be bought online, but it is free for the public to explore the gorgeous Kensington gardens. Once a playground for the children of nobility, the 265 acres of green space boast avenues of trees, artworks, flower walks, fairy gardens and more. The gardens are open 6am–6:30pm every day.

National Gallery

One of the most visited art galleries in London, the National Gallery is located by Trafalgar Square. The gallery is heaven for art-lovers, featuring more than 2300 pieces of European art dating from the 13th to the 20th century. Highlights include works by Rembrandt, Van Gogh and Claude Monet! It is completely free to enter and open to the public from 10am–6pm every day, and it is recommended to spend at least three hours exploring everything the gallery has to offer. Visitors can even join a free guided tour, 3–4pm every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday (excluding public holidays). Some other popular art galleries in London include the Hayworth Gallery, the National Portrait Gallery, the Tate Modern and the Tate Britain.

Camden Market

Open since 1974, Camden Market is a colourful, diverse community of over 1000 unique shops, stalls, cafes and bars, making it the perfect day out for shopaholics, foodies, or anyone looking to explore the creative scene in London. Located next to Regent’s Canal, Camden Market is the largest in the city, open seven days a week. Historically a melting pot for alternative fashion and music, its origins can still be seen in the various boutiques and the iconic Dingwalls stage, where bands like the Clash, the Sex Pistols and Blondie have played. Visitors to the market can scour the shops, try some of the amazing street-food options, and stroll along the canal. The nearest stations to the market are: Camden Town (Northern Line), Chalk Farm (Northern Line), and Camden Road (Overground).

Horizon 22

The highest in the UK, Horizon 22 is a free public viewing gallery on the 58th floor located in the beating heart of central London. It is an extremely popular attraction, so although tickets are free and on quiet days walk-ins are accepted, it is recommended to book your entry ahead of time! The lift takes you up to Level 58 of the tallest building in the city within 41 seconds to the observation deck. Visitors enjoy breath-taking views out over some of the iconic landmarks of the city centre, including: the River Thames, St Paul’s Cathedral, the Shard, the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace and more! Sample drinks and snacks from the Horizon 22 Café, snap some Instagram-worthy shots, and take in the London skyline 254 metres above street level.

It can be easy to get caught up in sightseeing in London, where there are so many iconic tourist attractions. However, there is another side to the city, which isn’t so obvious to the general tourist population. If you’re looking to get away from the crowds, step off the beaten track and see the authentic parts of London, read on to discover the Hidden Gems of London that we highly recommend visiting.

Highgate Cemetery

Although not most people’s first choice when it comes to a nice place to visit, Highgate Cemetery is an unmissable slice of paradise. This graveyard displays the romantic Victorian attitude to death and its presentation, which created a labyrinth of winding pathways, Egyptian sepulchres, and a wealth of Gothic tombs and buildings. Rows of silent stone angels have borne witness to centuries of ceremonies and many famous people are buried there, including: Karl Marx, George Michael and many more. The greenery is home to lots of native wildlife, making it ideal for nature-lovers. First time visitors can even book a guided tour to learn about the Cemetery’s history and the compelling stories of its residents.

Sir John Soane’s Museum

Discover the extraordinary house and museum of Sir John Soane, one of the greatest English architects, who built and lived in it two centuries ago. The museum has been kept as it was at the time of his death in 1837 and displays his vast collection of antiquities, furniture, sculptures, architectural models and paintings. It is now a national centre for the study of architecture and attracts more than 100,000 visitors every year. Open 10am-5pm Wednesday to Sunday, entry to the museum is completely free and you can visit by walking in on the day. For those especially passionate about architecture and history, pay to join a Highlights Tour for a deep dive into the museum’s fascinating story.

Postman’s Park

This scenic park acquired its name due to its popularity as a lunchtime garden with workers from the nearby old General Post Office. It is home to the famous Watts memorial, dedicated to ordinary people who died while saving the lives of others and who might otherwise be forgotten. As one of the largest open spaces in the City of London, visitors like to wander the park or relax on the benches surrounding the seasonal central display. It experienced a surge of interest after the release of the 2004 film Closer since the park was the setting for some of the film’s most memorable scenes, and has remained a beloved haven ever since.

Hunterian Museum

The Hunterian Museum isn’t for those who don’t have a strong stomach–its contents are medical in nature, and to some may seem rather gruesome. However, for those who are interested in the macabre, it is a unique and fascinating place. Located in the Royal College of Surgeons, you can marvel at thousands of anatomical and pathological specimens, alongside instruments, equipment, models, paintings and archive material. Explore the art and science of surgery from ancient to modern times and discover the lesser-known gory side to London’s history. Open 10am-5pm Tuesday to Saturday, entry is free but booking is recommended.

Kyoto Garden, Holland park

This secret Japanese garden is located in West London’s gorgeous Holland Park. Small but beautifully made, it has become an oasis in the heart of the city, where visitors can snap stunning shots of colourful plants, shrubs and water features and enjoy some peace by the expansive koi pond. The garden is home to not only a serene waterfall but also a flock of majestic peacocks! They are not native to the UK, they only arrived in Britain in the 14th century as gifts symbolizing wealth. Now, a dozen or so live in the area, along with some resident grey herons. Delicate, natural and serene, Kyoto Garden is perfect to visit after our Half-Day Stonehenge Tour, just a 15 minute journey away from our drop off point in South Kensington.

Design Museum

This amazing museum is devoted to contemporary design in every form. From product, industrial and graphic design to fashion and architectural design, they explore every part of the innovative process. In 2018, the museum won the European Museum of the Year Award, and it receives over 600,000 visitors every year. Explore how design influences the way we interact with the world, with thought-provoking displays about everything from high-heels, to Lego, to the 2012 Olympic Torch. Entry to the museum and its permanent collection is free, but pre-booking is recommended for paid limited-time exhibitions.

Wondering how to plan the perfect day out in London? Look no further, we’ve put together some plans for amazing days out in this sprawling city.

Kew Gardens and Richmond

Retreat to the green south-west

If you are looking for a slower day out and to get away from the crowds, head out from central London to Kew Gardens. Just 30 minutes out of central London and easily accessible by the westbound District line, Kew Gardens is one of the world’s oldest and largest botanical gardens. They are made up of 330 acres of perfectly preserved and curated landscapes with some of the world’s rarest and most endangered plants. Among the open green spaces are six giant glass houses that mimic eight different climates, housing a great variety of exotic plant species.

Also onsite are two botanical art galleries that focus on the plants within the historic glass houses, as well as four lovely cafes with exceptional views of the gardens. For those interested in the details, there are free walking tours and a train with onboard commentary that goes all the way around the beautiful grounds.

Moreover, the area around Kew Gardens is a lovely suburb called Richmond which is a wonderful place to to spend time before or after visiting the gardens. This is one of those lucky places that always seems to be friendly and cosy no matter the weather, packed with lots of sweet little shops, independent cafes, wine bars and family run restaurants. Richmond sits directly on the River Thames. allowing for some beautiful views of the river as the sun begins to set.

And if you want to stretch your legs a little further, Richmond park is just a stone’s throw away. This is the largest of London’s Royal Parks and used to be a favoured royal hunting ground. Now, it is a National Nature Reserve and a haven for native wildlife and endangered species. It contains anthills that date back 150 years and an ancient oak that’s an estimated 750 years old. You may even be lucky enough to spot the 600-strong herds of red and fallow deer have roamed the park since 1637.
For a nature-filled, relaxing day out away from the hassle of the city, head to the leafy green spaces in the south-west area of Richmond.

Central London

Into the inner city

For those looking to dive into the heart of London, try a day out on the iconic South Bank. Start your day off close to The City Of London – the original city that was founded by the Romans in the first century – at The Tower of London. This imposing fortress on the north bank of River Thames was built shortly after the battle of Hastings in 1066 by William the Conqueror almost one thousand years ago.
Originally it was used for centuries as a prison and execution grounds for many prominent royal and political figures, but is now known for housing The Crown Jewels of Britain. These priceless treasures are guarded by the iconic Yeoman Guard (Beefeaters) and a host of protective ravens that are sure to fascinate those of all ages. Be sure to book tickets online to skip the queues – booking for 10AM will allow for a day full of sightseeing.

After the Tower of London, head up onto the overlooking Tower Bridge. A beautiful Victorian bridge built in the 19th century, this was one of the first bridges in the world to be powered by a steam engine. The engineering enthusiasts can even pop into the onsite museum to learn more about this 32 million brick architectural marvel, while others can enjoy the views out over the River Thames and take a moment to snap some stunning photos.

Once you have crossed the bridge you have now entered the south bank, a dynamic area at the heart of London’s cultural scene. The nearby Southbank Centre, National Theatre, and BFI film theatre are all world-class arts venues. For those wanting a stroll, the riverside walkway is lined with trees, restaurants and historic pubs, and is the site of frequent fairs and events. This area is also home to one of London’s most iconic food scenes – Borough Market. With over one hundred stalls, it is a gourmet paradise with a spectacular range of traditional and specialty foods.This beautiful covered market from the Georgian era is the perfect place to grab some lunch and enjoy the view of the iconic St Paul’s Cathedral.

A little walk further down and you will pass the replica of William Shakespeare’s Jacobean Globe Theatre, where the world-famous Shakespeare plays are still performed to this day – tickets can be bought online in advance, or on the door, subject to availability. Alternatively, pop into the Tate Modern, an exciting museum hosting a plethora of famous artwork and live performances that is completely free to enter.

Finally, take a ten minute walk to Waterloo, an area with a lively restaurant district where you can find yourself a hearty dinner to perfectly end a day steeped with history and culture.