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As London holds a special place in our hearts, we love helping clients craft the perfect spring or fall itinerary. Now that winter is approaching, we’re thrilled to highlight a destination that effortlessly blends historic grandeur with modern luxury and is wonderful to visit year-round.
Discover the incomparable city of London, where royal heritage meets Michelin-starred dining, and grand boulevards and quiet side streets lead to exclusive, behind-the-scenes experiences.
With nonstop flights from major U.S. hubs, there’s still time to plan a last-minute London getaway, especially during the festive season, our favorite time to visit. Below, we’ve shared our top recommendations for where to stay, dine, explore, and shop, all from a local’s perspective.
Where to Stay
London’s neighborhoods offer a hotel for every style, from grand, historic icons to sleek, modern stays, each with its own unique take on luxury. Below are our top recommendations:
The Goring
Located in Belgravia, one of the most exclusive and elegant areas in central London, it’s perfectly placed for the spectacular London sights. As the last remaining family-owned luxury hotel in London, it’s renowned for its warm, intimate atmosphere and personalized service. We always recommend our travelers at least have tea there!
The Connaught
At the heart of London’s Mayfair village, The Connaught redefines the British luxury experience. Personalized butler service and classic English grandeur sit side by side with contemporary art and a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere. It’s also home to the very first Aman Spa located outside Aman’s iconic resorts. Kelsey and her mom went last fall and loved it!
The Dorchester
Standing proudly on Park Lane in the heart of London’s Mayfair, The Dorchester has been a symbol of elegance and luxury since its opening in 1931. With a history of hosting celebrities and royalty, it continues to be one of London’s most esteemed and unforgettable hotels.
The Twenty Two London
For a more boutique hotel experience, The Twenty Two is also located in Mayfair, offering elegant rooms, modern European dining, signature cocktails and a refined luxury experience.
Broadwick Soho
An independent luxury hotel in the heart of London’s West End, Broadwick Soho channels the grit, glamour and wild energy of London’s most vibrant area into an opulent contemporary 57 room retreat, offering impeccable service and quality.
A Taste of London
London has some of the best, and most diverse, dining options in the world. It is of course known for its Indian food and high tea, but there are excellent options for really any cuisine that you are in the mood for.
Indian Restaurants
Bibi: The two evening tasting menus at Chet Sharma’s buzzy Mayfair restaurant are named after his grandmothers (bibis), Kamal and Ranjana, and a family influence can be felt all across his modern Indian cooking.
Pubs
Cadogan Arms: An iconic Chelsea institution has been serving the community for two centuries and recently reopened following an extensive renovation in 2021. The decor is cozy and traditional, a lovely atmosphere to enjoy a pint.
Cocktail Bars
Vesper Bar: Set in the Dorchester Hotel, the Vesper Bar is a must on everyone’s list- ideally to order James Bond’s famous Vesper martini.
Other Restaurants
Sumi: Lillie has had some of her favorite Japanese meals ever in London, and Sumi is at the top of the list. The Notting Hill restaurant is perfect for a lunch stop while shopping in Notting Hill’s amazing shops.
Discover London Like a Local
While London is full of world-famous sights like the London Eye, Tower Bridge, and iconic department stores, the most memorable first-time visits strike a balance between these classic landmarks and the city’s hidden gems. The list below highlights our top picks for experiencing London like a true local – immersing yourself in the city beyond the queues and crowds.
A Royal Day in London
Obsessed with the royals? Experience a full day of royal life in London, from exploring Kensington Palace and meeting one of Princess Diana’s favorite designers to uncovering hidden boutiques that supply the royal household.
Duke of York Square Market
In the heart of Chelsea, Duke of York Square offers fashion, beauty, food, and culture, from chic boutiques to al fresco dining, a renowned artisan food market, and the iconic Saatchi Gallery. Follow this with a stroll along the historic Kings Road, once the king’s private route and now a vibrant street stretching through Chelsea and Fulham.
Hampstead Village and Primrose Hill
On the edge of Hampstead Heath, surrounded by tranquil gardens, Kenwood House is one of London’s hidden gems, with breathtaking interiors and a world-class art collection. Just nearby, the charming Primrose Hill village, once home to poet Sylvia Plath, playwright and poet W.B. Yeats, and conductor Sir Henry Wood, is perfect for a private guided tour, and also offers incredible views of the city.
Inside London’s East End: A Culinary Journey
With a local insider guide, our clients stop at some of the East End’s best bakeries, tasting everything from fresh ‘real bread’ to cakes by royal baker Claire Ptak along the way.
London Theatre: A Backstage Experience
Explore the magical world of London theatre with a specialist guide, enjoying a private behind-the-scenes tour of one of the city’s most famous theatres.
Match Day at Stamford Bridge
Join locals at Stamford Bridge to cheer on Chelsea Football Club and experience the excitement of London’s favorite sport firsthand.
These are just a few of the many experiences we offer our clients, designed to avoid large crowds, skip long lines, and ensure the very best London experience.
Have an Extra Night? Go to the Cotswolds!
Once you arrive in London, it is very hard not to change your flight and extend your trip just one more day – we’ve been there. The Cotswolds is the perfect place to unwind and relax after your time in the city- and it’s just a quick car or train ride away.
Estelle Manor
Estelle Manor opened in 2023 by the team behind the iconic Gleneagles and Gleneagles Townhouse in Scotland and has already made a name for itself. As a Grade-II listed Manor, the landmark house has been used as a hunting lodge, a World War II maternity ward, and a police training academy. Estelle Manor is set on an 85-acre estate offering a broad range of activity options so that guests never have to leave the property. From falconry or fly fishing to a 3,000-square-metre Roman-inspired bathhouse and spa, there is truly something for everyone.
The Lygon Arms
Set in the beautiful village of Broadway, The Lygon Arms is the perfect option for those wanting to stay in a quintessential, walkable village. The hotel sits on Broadway high street, which is regularly named one of the prettiest high streets in the UK, with plenty of sights and restaurants within a short walking distance. The hotel also features an impressive spa including a swimming pool, hot tub, sauna and steam room. The Lygon Arms is the perfect 1- or 2-night stay between London and your inevitable return flight from Heathrow.
Dreaming of a London getaway now? Please reach out to us if you’re hoping to go across the pond any time soon!
