London Travel Guide
Make the Most of Your London Trip with American Express Travel®
Link copied!
September 18, 2025
Link copied!
Dating to Roman times, London is a multicultural capital famous for its royal landmarks and manicured gardens as well as contemporary skyscrapers like The Gherkin. The city really shines in summer, when it hosts events ranging from the Wimbledon tennis tournament to music festivals like BST Hyde Park. Theater and art exhibitions are a constant, and the dining scene encompasses classic pub fare, elevated West African, hearty Italian, vegetarian Indian, you name it.
There’s always something new to uncover, whether it’s your first visit or you’ve lost count. To help you plan, our London-based Destination Managers, Kelvin and Mandy, share some of their favorite things to do in London as well as insider hotel tips below.
When you're ready to book, turn to American Express Travel for a more rewarding stay. At Fine Hotels + Resorts® properties*, Platinum Card® Members enjoy an exclusive suite of benefits that includes daily breakfast for two, guaranteed 4pm check-out, and a $100 credit to use towards eligible charges1, which may include food and beverage, spa, or other on-property charges. At The Hotel Collection properties*2, you receive a $100 credit to use towards eligible charges, a room upgrade upon arrival, when available3, and 12pm check-in and late check-out, both when available.
Plus, get up to $300 in statement credits semi-annually for up to a total of $600 in statement credits per calendar year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection2 bookings through American Express Travel using your Platinum Card®.*
Remember, Platinum Card Members can use their Card on purchases without the worry of foreign transactions fees4.
Explore our London Travel Guide: Where to Stay, What to Do, Where to Eat
1Eligible charges vary by property.
2The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
3Certain room categories are not eligible for upgrade.
4American Express will not charge any foreign transaction fee on the purchases you make outside of the United States with your Card. However, there may be circumstances where ATMs or merchants charge a fee on foreign transactions.
Best Time to Visit
From May to October for warm weather and popular events. December and January for holiday events, celebrations, and shopping.
Getting There
Fly Virgin Atlantic to London and enjoy savings on premium seats with the International Airline Program*. It offers Platinum Card® Members exclusive access to lower fares on International First, Business, and Premium Economy seats with participating airlines. Savings are available to Card Members and up to seven of their companions when traveling on the same itinerary. Plus, earn 5X Membership Rewards® points on up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year, when you book through American Express Travel.* Terms apply.
London Heathrow Airport (LHR)
16 miles
London Gatwick Airport (LGW)
28 miles
Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London
Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London sits at the convergence of two wonderful worlds, Knightsbridge and Hyde Park, with beautiful views of each. The landmark hotel melds British heritage with contemporary flair; suites feature bespoke leather-topped desks, custom chandeliers, and marble bathrooms. Don’t miss afternoon tea in the tearoom or dinner in one of three outstanding restaurants, together considered one of London’s finest culinary destinations. In the award-winning spa, total relaxation and wellness are yours through a range of indulgent treatments.
TIP FROM MANDY
“Time your breakfast at Hyde Park Garden, the terrace overlooking Hyde Park, to see the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment pass by on the way to Buckingham Palace (10:28am on weekdays and 9:28am on Sundays ever since 1660).”
Claridge’s
An Art Deco landmark, Claridge's blends original Victorian features with contemporary design input from the likes of Pierre-Yves Rochon and Bryan O’Sullivan. Its prime location in Mayfair gives you easy access to Hyde Park for strolling and South Molton and Bond Streets for shopping. Afternoon tea in the glorious surroundings of the hotel's Foyer & Reading Room is a quintessential London experience. With guaranteed 4pm check-out, you have more time to unwind at Claridge’s Spa, which offers healing rituals and an electrolyte-rich relaxation pool.
Claridge’s
Claridge’s
Claridge’s
TIP FROM KELVIN
“Very few people know about the tiny wine shop in the basement, where occasional intimate wine-tastings are held for no more than six people. It's even possible to arrange a bespoke tasting.”
Rosewood London
Rosewood knew what it was doing when it chose 252 High Holborn for its first London address. The building is an Edwardian treasure, rich in heritage features, including a grand staircase winding up towards the central dome above. Before entering, you pass through huge cast iron gates into an arched carriageway and across a cobbled courtyard. Inside, there’s an extensive art collection that includes a British bulldog statue wearing a Vivienne Westwood collar. Contemporary rooms are furnished in shades of grey, white, and taupe, and there are toiletries from British beauty brands. Even the spa incorporates local touches with treatments including a British rose facial and a detoxifying body treatment incorporating Epsom salts. Before sightseeing, tuck into complimentary daily breakfast for two at the Holborn Dining Room, known for its elevated British cuisine.
TIP FROM MANDY
“Scarfe's Bar in the Rosewood is decorated with cartoons by Gerald Scarfe and exudes the atmosphere of a private member’s club. It regularly features on lists of the world’s best bars and is worth visiting for the nightly live jazz.”
Mandarin Oriental Mayfair, London
The city’s art scene is on your doorstep at Mandarin Oriental Mayfair, London, a striking new glass-striped property perched on Hanover square amidst dozens of galleries. Interiors are sleek and stylish enough to keep pace with the tastemakers around, and décor is softened by organic patterns and hand-painted floral wallpaper. Indulge your inner epicurean and put your $100 credit toward light bites and craft cocktails at ABar Lounge. Let your cares go at the sprawling spa, which offers a range of treatments that can all be complemented with binaural audio therapy, or take a dip in the long indoor pool, which is secluded in a cave like room studded with lights for an unearthly experience.
TIP FROM KELVIN
“Try on-site restaurant Akira Back, the first UK venture from the acclaimed chef himself, Akira Back, combining Japanese cuisine with Back's Korean heritage, for an all-day dining experience.”
art'otel London Battersea Power Station
A bold newcomer to London’s hotel scene, art’otel London Battersea Power Station makes a splash with one-of-a-kind interiors carefully curated by resident artist, Jaime Hayon. Sunlight streams in through floor-to-ceiling windows that show off expansive skyline views. Staying here comes with access to the hotel’s art gallery, gourmet dining, spa and fitness offerings, and the most talked-about rooftop in London. It also bases you in the vibrant Battersea neighborhood with Battersea Park at your doorstep (the hotel also happens to be pet friendly).
TIP FROM MANDY
“Whatever the season, you can take a dip in the heated rooftop pool, which delivers up-close views of the iconic Battersea Power Station.”
The Twenty Two, London
Set in a storied Edwardian manor on Grosvenor Square in west London, The Twenty Two is a boutique Mayfair hotel offering the utmost in luxury along with the comfort of a traditional English home. Take special note of the opulent interiors that were inspired by 18th century France. Then, unwind in one of 31 luxurious rooms or suites, each unique and layered with character, elegance, and design that reflects individuality and history. For the creative and curious, a charming round-the-clock neighborhood restaurant brings a Mediterranean flair to modern British cuisine, a culinary joy.
TIP FROM MANDY
“The Twenty Two is also a private members club, and as a guest you’re considered a temporary member, with access to members areas and dedicated wellness, culinary, and cultural events. ”
London Hilton on Park Lane
With a prime location overlooking Hyde Park, London Hilton Park Lane is close to all that London has to offer, including Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, and Parliament. One Tube stop away is the iconic London Eye. Spacious and comfortable suites and rooms also offer spectacular city views. The Park Corner Brasserie, a modern-British restaurant, serves a celebration of flavors and signature dishes including dry-aged beef and always-fresh seafood. And when you’re ready to relax and rejuvenate, the tranquil London Hilton Club Spa is ready.
TIP FROM KELVIN
“The hotel is moments from the hidden gem that is Shepherd Market, with its mix of boutiques, bars, cafés, and restaurants; one standout is Kitty Fisher’s.”
Park Hyatt London River Thames
Park Hyatt brings refined luxury right to the banks of the River Thames. Elegantly appointed rooms and suites cater to the needs of contemporary travelers with plenty of natural light and mesmerizing views of the city and the Thames. Diverse culinary experiences await across a fine-dining destination, a specialty Cantonese restaurant, and a lobby bar known for its wine selection. There’s also a tea lounge for a mid-day pick-me-up, plus an entire floor dedicated to wellness.
TIP FROM KELVIN
“Book well in advance for the monthly dim sum masterclass held by Chef Xiaoling of the hotel's highly acclaimed Cantonese restaurant Yú Gé.”
Raffles London at the OWO
If these walls could talk, they’d spill the secrets of wartime diplomats and spies. Steeped in history and meticulously restored, Raffles London was built on the site of The Old War Office (The OWO) in Whitehall Palace, and you can travel back in time on a private tour led by the concierge team. Suites and rooms feature bespoke linens, curated art, and marble bathrooms. Nine restaurants and three bars make it a lively gathering place, while Guerlain Spa can deliver an epic wellness experience.
TIP FROM KELVIN
“As a guest, be sure to take advantage of your access to the underground Spy Bar, housed in rooms formerly used by MI5, the British Security Service.”
Tate Modern
Formerly the Bankside Power Station, Tate Modern opened in 2000 and is one of the world's most popular art destinations (tate.org.uk, admission is free). It hosts rotating exhibitions, workshops, educational events, and Tate Modern Lates, when it stays open after hours with DJ sets, food, and drinks. The gift shop is a great source for quirky, cool souvenirs, as is nearby Oxo Tower, which stocks Suck UK gift items (suck.uk.com). Borough Market, Shakespeare's Globe, St. Paul's Cathedral, and the London Eye are also all in the South Bank area.
Leighton House Museum
In the leafy and upmarket environs of Holland Park and often overlooked in favor of the more famous, larger London museums, the Leighton House Museum is the former home and studio of Frederic, Lord Leighton, a leading artist of the Victorian age (rbkc.gov.uk/museums). It embodies how we expect a great artist of the time to live and will charm art lovers.
The Tower of London
It's one of the first things that people want to see in London, and understandably so – the sense of history at the Tower of London is palpable. Ceremonial guardians, nicknamed the Beefeaters, regale visitors of all ages with tales of past kings and queens, including the wives of Henry VIII, some of whom met a gruesome end here. Keep an eye out for the famous resident ravens and marvel at the even more famous Crown Jewels.
Jermyn Street
Jermyn Street is the place to go for shirtmakers and menswear retailers (jermynstreet.net). Pop into Turnbull & Asser (turnbullandasser.com) for shirts that are literally fit for a king, or take a look at the silk dressing gowns in New & Lingwood (newandlingwood.com). It’s not just menswear though, Paxton & Whitfield (paxtonandwhitfield.co.uk), one of the UKs oldest cheesemongers (established in 1797), is here, as is Floris (florislondon.com), the oldest English perfumer (established in 1730).
Princess Diana Memorial Playground
Diana Memorial Playground is located next to Kensington Palace and was inspired by the classic tale of a boy who won't grow up. Families can happily spend a few hours in this magical environment, complete with a wooden pirate ship, teepees, a beach, and sculptures. Let the kids explore and dash about while you relax in one of the many cozy seating spots (royalparks.org.uk).
Battersea Power Station
Located right on the River Thames, this decommissioned coal-fired power station has been converted into a retail space for a number of high-end brands, with dozens of shops, restaurants, and bars, as well as special activities year-round (batterseapowerstation.co.uk)
Buckingham Palace
Perhaps London’s most iconic site, Buckingham Palace is the King’s official London residence and the administrative headquarters of the United Kingdom's monarch. Located in the City of Westminster, the magnificent State Rooms are open to visitors during the summer. On select dates in the winter and spring, exclusive guided tours are available.
Dennis Severs' House
Imagine an 18th century Huguenot silk-weaver's house just as they left it, as if the family has just stepped out and you’re secretly wandering around their private spaces (dennissevershouse.co.uk). Dennis Severs’ House is one of the smallest and most interesting museums in London, so book tickets ahead of time online, or for a special visit, arrange a private tour in advance.
Credit: AELTC/Ben Queenborough
Wimbledon
Located in historic Merton, an outer borough of London about eight miles from downtown, Wimbledon is the oldest tennis tournament in the world and perhaps the most prestigious. It's held annually in early July, and tickets are challenging to acquire, but not impossible. You can enter your name in a public ballot a few months in advance or try for a ticket via the Queue on the day of a match. Eligible American Express® Card Members can get early access to exclusive hospitality tickets for The Championships and receive other perks when you bring your Card to Wimbledon. Terms apply. If you can’t get courtside, opt for a Grounds Pass to enjoy a picnic and watch the matches via the big screen on The Hill. Learn more.
Apart from Wimbledon, London has plenty of parks for a summer picnic, and you can pick up everything you need from Fortnum & Mason on Piccadilly (fortnumandmason.com). Buy a traditional wicker hamper, fill it with goodies from the Food Hall, then spread your blanket at St James’s Park next door.
Theater
Live theater and the West End are very much part of the fabric of London (lwtheatres.co.uk). Elevate your experience by adding a VIP option to select shows by contacting Hospitality@lwtheatres.co.uk. The VIP experience varies with various tiers, but includes a meet & greet, a reserved space either in a VIP lounge or VIP suite, snacks, and drinks.
Belgravia Village
When it’s time for some easy strolling and browsing, step to Belgravia Village. This historic central London community is famous for its independent boutiques, art galleries, blooming gardens, cozy cafes, fashionable restaurants, and white stucco houses. Check out Rachel Vosper, a small candle and scent shop renowned for beautiful hand-poured candles and home fragrances. Keep an eye out for celebrities, many of whom live in the Village. (rachelvosper.com)
Frog
Frog by Adam Handling is in Covent Garden and offers a multi-course tasting menu of creative British fine dining in an award-winning luxurious and sometimes theatrical environment. Chefs come to your table and ingredients are local with a contemporary and seasonal menu (frogbyadamhandling.com).
Noble Rot Soho
Near the Broadwick Soho Hotel and one of 3 Noble Rots in London, Noble Rot Soho is noted for its devotion to the best of British cooking and curates an excellent wine list, much of which is available by the glass (noblerot.co.uk).
Cantinetta Antinori
By the family behind Antinori wines, Cantinetta Antinori promises excellent Tuscan cooking in elegant yet comfortable surroundings and, of course, accompanied by the finest Italian wines (cantinetta-antinori.com).
Corrigan’s Mayfair
Walking distance from The Dorchester, Corrigan’s Mayfair features modern British and Irish cuisine crafted using seasonal produce sourced only from artisan suppliers. Don't miss their ever changing Menu du Jour (corrigansmayfair.co.uk).
Akoko
The award-winning Akoko is a prime example of the heights that West African-style cooking can reach. Fresh seasonal British ingredients blended with African spices make for a dining experience that is culturally resonant and distinctly exceptional (akoko.co.uk).
Hawksmoor Seven Dials
A short walk from the Savoy in Covent Garden, Hawksmoor is one of the most notable steak restaurants in London and ever popular with both locals and tourists (thehawksmoor.com).
The Grenadier
Beloved by locals and visitors alike, The Grenadier is royalty among London pubs. It’s rich in history and even rumored to be haunted; banknotes and paper currency cover the ceiling and are said to be payments for a disgraced royal officer who couldn’t cover his gambling debts. These days, your money is good for your choice of local ales, wine, and cocktails, along with a menu of seasonal dishes and pub classics like fish & chips, of course (grenadierbelgravia.com).
Angler
Located on the top floor of the South Place Hotel, Angler is an award-winning seafood restaurant, with a terrace that is particularly lovely when the sun is shining (anglerrestaurant.com).
Kutir
To dine at Kutir is to be transported far from its setting in an elegant townhouse in Chelsea. Chef Rohit Ghai takes inspiration from India’s rich culinary heritage as well as his own memories and travels. The menu gives you the option to order a la carte or set out on “expeditions tasting” showcasing a variety of regional flavors that may include tandoor lamb chop with black cumin, lotus root with peanut and mustard, or coconut wild jumbo prawns. Add in cocktails and the selection of rare wines, and you’ve got a contender for the city’s most satisfying Indian restaurant (kutir.co.uk)
Must be 21 years of age or older to consume alcoholic beverages. Please drink responsibly.
Get more when you get away with American Express
Fly Virgin Atlantic to London and enjoy savings on premium seats with the International Airline Program. It offers Platinum Card® Members that book through Amex Travel access to lower fares on participating carriers' international first, business, and premium economy seats. Discounts are available to Platinum Card Members and up to seven of their companions when traveling on the same itinerary. Plus earn 5X Membership Rewards® points on up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year when you book through American Express Travel®. Terms apply.
Get more when you get away with American Express
With the American Express Global Lounge Collection® get access to 1,550+ airport lounges in over 500 airports around the world, including The Centurion® Lounge. Enjoy exclusive Centurion Member perks like priority check-in, complimentary premium drinks, and dedicated seating at select Centurion Lounges.
Get more out of your getaway with American Express
Make your trip unforgettable through unique tours and activities booked at gyg.me/amex. Terms apply.
Get more when you get away with American Express
When you Shop Small®, you’re not just supporting neighborhood favorites – you’re investing in the community. Whether you’re a local or visiting, explore our map to find small businesses near you.
