A Long Weekend in London: Where to Stay, Eat and What to Do
A long weekend in London is the perfect window to catch a city that never stands still. It is a wonderful city in which we have spent many an enjoyable weekend to bring you some long weekend ideas to help you navigate the capital’s best layers—pairing the iconic landmarks you can't miss with the quiet neighbourhood spots, storied dining rooms, and soundtracks that make a London trip feel genuinely considered.
The London Soundtrack
There is always a musical soundtrack to our long weekends. It could be a classic album that evokes the city, an artist or album recorded in the city or just a collection of tracks we think ‘fit.’ No matter what your musical taste, there is a London Soundtrack for you. From the Swinging Sixties of Carnaby Street to the raw energy of London Calling, with the Clash and the Sex Pistols or more modern London icons like Adele and Amy Winehouse, it was inspired here and often recorded here.
We’ve put together a London playlist to start you on the journey to this iconic city.
Your London Long Weekend Itinerary
We’ve put together a packed 3 day weekend to get the very best from London, with culture, history and a little retail therapy. As music fans we’ve added an alternative day to soak up some music inspiration with a little London music history and some top level record shopping.
Day 1: London’s Art Galleries
London is home to some of the most important art collections in the world. For a full art day, you could comfortably visit three galleries or just spend the morning on two of the most important. Remember, most galleries won’t open til 10 AM so there’s still time for breakfast!
On Trafalgar Square you can visit two of London’s biggest art galleries:
The National Portrait Gallery
A walk through British history told through faces. The collection begins with some of the country’s most recognisable figures, from Queen Elizabeth I to William Shakespeare, before moving steadily into more modern cultural icons. The later rooms bring a different energy, including a dedicated music section with striking images of artists such as Eurythmics and Pink Floyd.
The National Gallery
A vast gallery that can easily fill a full day. Rooms unfold one into the next, covering European painting across centuries. Look out for The Fighting Temeraire by J. M. W. Turner, immortalised in Skyfall, Sunflowers by Vincent van Gogh, and Bathers at Asnières by Georges Seurat. Whistlejacket is another standout, and one we always return to. You will also come across works by Leonardo da Vinci, Claude Monet and Rembrandt, making it one of the most complete collections in the city.
Some of the art on display in London
After lunch, you could fit in one more gallery before heading back. Each of these is within a short taxi ride, so it is easy to plan around how much time you want to spend.
Tate Modern
Set inside a former power station on the South Bank, Tate Modern focuses on modern and contemporary art. Expect large-scale installations alongside works by artists such as Pablo Picasso, Mark Rothko and Andy Warhol. The turbine hall often hosts headline exhibitions that change the feel of the space, and the scale of the building gives the art room to breathe.
Tate Britain
The home of British art, covering everything from historic works through to more modern pieces. You will find major paintings by J. M. W. Turner alongside more recent work from artists such as David Hockney, giving a clear sense of how British art has evolved over time. It is a quieter, more measured experience, and a good counterpoint to the scale of Tate Modern.
Moco Museum London
A more compact and contemporary space, centred around modern pop and street art. You can expect works by Jean-Michel Basquiat, Jeff Koons and Banksy, presented in a way that is easy to move through in a shorter visit. It feels current and accessible, and works well if you want something lighter after a morning in the larger galleries.
Day 2 Boutique Shopping in Mayfair
After a day of art, a shift into Mayfair works well. Bond Street remains one of London’s defining shopping streets, with the major fashion houses set out across a walkable stretch.
Start on Piccadilly and head north. You will move from Old Bond Street into New Bond Street, passing brands such as Rolex, Cartier, Saint Laurent and Prada. It is an easy street to browse, whether you are shopping or just taking it in.
A pause at Ralph Lauren works well for coffee before continuing on towards Dior and Chanel. As you move further north, the pace softens slightly with smaller boutiques, before the auction houses of Sotheby’s and Bonhams. Both often have free previews ahead of sales, which are worth stepping into if you have time.
If you are looking for men’s style, take a short detour along Conduit Street to John Varvatos. The space reflects the designer’s rock influences, with strong tailoring and photography on the walls. From here, you are close to Savile Row, home to some of the city’s best-known tailors, long favoured by both traditional clients and musicians such as Charlie Watts.
At the far end, heading back towards Piccadilly, you will find the building that once housed Apple Corps. Fans still gather below the plaque marking the rooftop where The Beatles played their final live performance.
Back on Bond Street, as it meets Oxford Street, you can cross to Selfridges, one of London’s three major department stores, alongside Harvey Nichols and Harrods further west.
Inside, the ground floor is given over to perfume and jewellery, with fashion across multiple levels and technology and books below. The store regularly hosts pop-ups, from The Rolling Stones collaborations to showcases tied to Formula One and Elton John.
There are several places to stop and eat. Aubaine, just off the Shoe Hall, works well for coffee or a light lunch, while Brasserie of Light offers something more substantial in a busier setting.
Day 3: The London Landmarks
“Kids, Big Ben, Houses of Parliament”
A first visit to London should include the major landmarks. They are spread out across the city, so it is worth planning your route. Many are best seen from the outside, which keeps the day flexible without needing to work around opening times. Sunday can be a good day to fit these in.
Buckingham Palace
One of the official royal residences in London. If the Royal Standard is flying, you know a member of the Royal Family is in residence. The forecourt offers a clear view of the palace, with the guards in their red tunics and bearskin hats providing one of the city’s most recognisable scenes.
The Changing of the Guard is free to watch and takes place on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, so it is worth checking timings in advance. From here, it is an easy 15-minute walk through St James’s Park towards Westminster.
Palace of Westminster, Houses of Parliament Big Ben and Parliament Square
Some of London’s most recognisable landmarks sit together along the River Thames. Big Ben, the name given to the Great Bell inside the clock tower, looks good from almost any angle, and it is worth waiting for the hour to hear the chime. There is always something to see on Parliament Square, with a great opportunity for more pictures.
You can arrive directly via Westminster Station, or walk down from Trafalgar Square past 10 Downing Street, the mounted guards at Horse Guards Parade and the Cenotaph, adding a few more stops along the way.
Tower of London and Tower Bridge
This is one stop where you will need to buy tickets. Set on the Thames beside Tower Bridge, the Tower of London offers a deeper look at London’s history, from the Crown Jewels to the medieval buildings within the walls.
Sunday mornings can include church services, which may limit access to some areas, so it is worth checking ahead. In summer, the moat is filled with wildflowers, a separate experience that adds another perspective to the visit.
Tower Bridge sits alongside, offering some of the best photo opportunities in the city. The bridge rarely opens, but timings are published if you want to see it in action and watch the river traffic pass through.
Alternative London Itinerary: Soho Music Landmarks
If galleries are not your thing, or you have already covered the landmarks, you could follow London’s music history instead. For a music-focused day, Soho is a natural place to start.
We have a full guide in a separate article, covering The Beatles, album cover locations and more.
Begin at Tottenham Court Road Station and walk through to Denmark Street, often referred to as London’s Tin Pan Alley. It still has a number of instrument shops, including Hank’s Guitar Shop. In the sixties and seventies this was the centre of London’s music scene. The Rolling Stones recorded their first album here, Paul Simon had songs rejected by publishers on the street, and the Sex Pistols lived for a time behind number 4. The design group Hipgnosis also worked nearby, creating album covers for Pink Floyd and Led Zeppelin.
From here, cross to Foyles, one of London’s best bookshops. The upper floors have a strong music section, and there is a café at the top if you want a break.
Continue into Soho Square for a look at Paul McCartney’s office, or take a seat on the bench inspired by a song by Kirsty MacColl. From there, head along Frith Street to Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club, or seek out St. Anne’s Court and the plaque marking the former site of Trident Studios, where David Bowie recorded Ziggy Stardust, Carly Simon worked on No Secrets, and Queen recorded Seven Seas of Rhye.
Carry on to Wardour Street for the site of the Marquee Club before finishing with some record shopping around Soho’s “Vinyl Mile”.
Reckless Records, Sister Ray and Sounds of the Universe are all close by and worth a visit. Just along Berwick Street you will find the spot where the cover for (What’s the Story) Morning Glory? was photographed. “Slowly walking down the hall, faster than a cannonball…”
Where to Stay - Recommended Luxury London Hotels
We’ve selected a few of our favourite hotel stays in the city based on our own weekend stays in the city. You can find links to their websites at the bottom of the article.
The Cadogan, A Belmond Hotel
📍Chelsea / Knightsbridge
Situated on Sloane Street, The Cadogan, part of the Belmond collection, is an ideal base for Chelsea and Knightsbridge. The King’s Road is right there, with Harvey Nichols and Harrods just a short walk away. Hyde Park is within easy reach for a stroll around theSerpentine, or you can continue towards Kensington for the Royal Albert Hall and the museums.
Sloane Square Station on the Circle and District lines connects you across the city, with direct routes to Baker Street, King’s Cross, Paddington and Tower Hill for the Tower of London.
Rooms are calm and exceptionally comfortable. The bar remains a favourite spot for a pre-dinner drink, while the restaurant offers a relaxed option if you prefer to stay in. It is also a quietly civilised place to start the day over breakfast.
The May Fair, A Radisson Collection Hotel
📍 Mayfair
Set on a quiet street beside Green Park Station, The May Fair, part of the Radisson Collection, places Mayfair, Piccadilly and St James’s on your doorstep. The May Fair, A Radisson Collection Hotel is a short walk for high-end shopping, while Piccadilly leads you past The Ritz London, Maison Assouline and the outfitters of Jermyn Street before reaching the West End.
From Green Park tube station you can move easily across the city, with direct links to King’s Cross, Wembley Stadium, Knightsbridge and Westminster Abbey.
Rooms are well-sized and comfortable. The bar draws a lively weekend crowd, while May Fair Kitchen offers a strong breakfast before heading back out into the city.
The Savoy
📍 The Strand (between Covent Garden and The City of London)
Located on the Strand, with Trafalgar Square and Covent Garden just moments away, The Savoy, now part of the Accor group, remains one of London’s grand dame hotels.
Embankment Tube Station provides Circle line access across the city, including direct routes to Sloane Square and King’s Cross. From the hotel, you can walk into Covent Garden for a night at the opera or dinner at Rules, London’s oldest restaurant, or head west to the National Gallery and National Portrait Gallery before continuing into Soho.
Rooms are elegant and well insulated from the city outside. The American Bar remains one of London’s great cocktail spots, while dining here also gives you access to two of the city’s oldest restaurants, Savoy Grill and Simpson’s on the Strand.
Arriving by taxi is straightforward, although you may briefly find yourself on the ‘wrong’ side of the road, one of the small historical quirks of this landmark hotel.
We should also mention The Chancery Rosewood, one of London’s newest Luxury Hotels. We’ve had a poke around, enjoyed lunch and it looks good. We’ve not stayed so can’t honestly add it to the recommendations yet.
Where to eat and drink in London
Eating out is one of our favourite past times when in London for a long weekend, so our recommendations naturally lean towards dinner. We’ve developed our own ‘itinerary’ for eating out - the first night (typically a Thursday or Friday) is a relaxed affair as we settle into the city followed by one or two ‘dress up’ dinners. If we’re in a city for the Sunday night we’ll seek out another more relaxed affair. You’ll see us mention the different restaurant ‘occasions’ below.
For us, lunch is often ‘on the hoof’ or a chance to sit down during a busy day and we’ve included some of our favourites too. You can find links and maps at the end of the article.
Recommended London Restaurants
Colbert – Chelsea: Parisian Art Deco Glamour
A natural first night or Sunday night choice, Colbert strikes the right balance between relaxed and put together. You can walk in without fuss, but it still feels like you’ve started the weekend properly.
A long-standing Chelsea fixture, it is always busy with a mix of locals and visitors. The menu leans French, the wine list is strong, and service is quick and attentive. Portions are generous and prices fair for the area. The globe artichoke is worth ordering when in season, and the crème brûlée rarely disappoints.
It sits moments from Sloane Square Station, with taxis circulating constantly. If you are staying at The Cadogan, it is a short walk back.
Sale e Pepe (Italian Cuisine) - Pavilion Road, Knightsbridge
Another easy, sociable dinner, this Italian restaurant has been part of the London scene since 1974. It is small, busy, and tightly packed, which adds to the atmosphere rather than detracting from it.
Expect a proper buzz, large portions, and a menu of traditional dishes done well. The mozzarella in carrozza may not always be available, but there is plenty else to choose from.
Just off Sloane Street near Harvey Nichols, it is an easy walk back towards The Cadogan or a short hop to Knightsbridge Station for the Piccadilly line.
Savoy Grill (Classic British Cuisine) - The Savoy Hotel, Strand
One of London’s historic dining rooms, The Savoy Grill sits comfortably between an easy dinner and a more dressed-up evening.
Tables are well spaced, service is polished, and the menu blends classic British dishes with lighter modern touches. The Arnold Bennett Soufflé and Beef Wellington remain signatures, and the Bloody Mary fries are worth adding on the side.
With Embankment Station nearby, it is easy to reach from across the city, or simply combined with a stay at the Savoy itself.
Dinner at The Ritz Restaurant (Michelin Starred British Cuisine) - Piccadilly
Dinner at the Ritz is firmly in dress-up territory. On Friday and Saturday nights, “Live at the Ritz” brings a band and a little boogie after dinner, adding to the sense of occasion.
The two Michelin star dining room serves Escoffier-inspired cuisine with precise service in a setting that looks out over Green Park. Jackets and ties are required, and photography is not permitted.
It is a formal evening, but one that earns its place on a London weekend.
The Wolseley (Modern European Cuisine) – Piccadilly
One London’s most recognisable dining rooms, The Wolseley works at almost any time of day but comes into its own in the evening.
High banquettes, a large central floor, and a steady buzz of service give it a sense of scale without losing intimacy. The menu covers familiar ground, from kedgeree to burgers, all delivered with consistency.
Leave room for dessert. The mille-feuille is one of the best in London.
Positioned between The Ritz London and Maison Assouline, it is a short walk back to The May Fair, A Radisson Collection Hotel or Green Park Station.
Franco’s (Modern Italian Cuisine) – Jermyn Street, St James’s
Franco’s has a quieter, more traditional feel. The dining room is light, with closely set tables and white cloths, and service that is attentive without being overbearing.
The cooking is Italian, with a menu that rewards repeat visits. Lobster linguine is a perennial favourite.
If you do visit, make a point of heading downstairs to the restroomns. You will hear Alan Bennett reading from Winnie-the-Pooh, a small detail that charms first time diners, and regulars alike!
It sits just off Jermyn Street, a short walk from Green Park and the Mayfair hotels.
Coffee and Snacks in London
Everyone has their own view on coffee in London, but if you are looking for somewhere to pause between stops, these are reliable options for a quick coffee or something light to eat.
Caffè Concerto – Various locations
You will see this chain across London. It has a slightly tourist-facing feel, but that does not take away from what it does well. A dependable stop for coffee and cake, or something more substantial if you need it. A glass of fizz and a bowl of pasta can also make sense if you fancy!
Aubaine – Selfridges (Shoe Hall) and other locations
Aubaine has a relaxed French feel that works at any time of day. We tend to stop in for coffee and a croissant in the morning, a light lunch such as a Caesar Salad, or a glass of Rosé later on.
The Dover Street site is no longer there, but the space inside Selfridges, beside the Shoe Hall, remains a good option. If you can get a table towards the back you will catch the light, and there is access to quieter restrooms which are worth noting.
Ole & Steen – Various locations
Another reliable London chain, good for a quick coffee or a light bite. Expect pastries, well-filled rolls and somewhere to sit with a laptop if needed.
Coffee at Royal Academy of Arts – Piccadilly
If you are on Piccadilly, perhaps heading to Fortnum & Mason, it is worth stepping into the courtyard at the Royal Academy. In warmer months the space catches the sun, making it an easy place to sit with a coffee or something small from the stand.
There are clean, accessible restrooms inside, which makes this a useful stop as well as a pleasant one.
Ottolenghi Chelsea – Chelsea
Just off Sloane Square, this small café is a reliable stop for strong coffee and freshly prepared salads. The menu is light and leans towards the healthier side, although it can get busy and you may need to wait for a table.
London Pubs
There are over 3,500 pubs in London to discover. These are a few we return to.
The Starman – Heddon Street
Just off Regent Street, this is a large, welcoming pub with a clear connection to David Bowie. A mural on the wall nods to the name, while the street itself is where the cover for The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars was shot.
It works as both a local pub and a place of interest. You can drop in for a quick drink or stay a little longer and take in the setting.
The Hawley Arms – Camden
Just across from Camden Market, this is a useful place to step away from the crowds for a quieter pint and something simple to eat.
Inside, the connection to Amy Winehouse is still visible, with photos behind the bar and references throughout. It was her favourite London pub. Like The Starman, it remains a proper pub first, with the a sprinkle of music history.
Coach and Horses – Mayfair
On warm days, many London pubs spill out onto the street, and the Coach and Horses is no exception. It also carries a little more history than most, having opened in 1744, making it one of the city’s oldest pubs.
If you are nearby for shopping or following the London music landmarks, it is an easy place to stop for a pint and take a break.
When is the Best Time to Visit London?
Spring
London in spring can be a pleasure. Warmer days start to return, while cooler evenings make it easy to balance time outside with a relaxed dinner indoors. Parks begin to come into bloom, and the city feels lighter without the peak season crowds.
Summer
June, July and August bring longer days and a busy atmosphere. It is a great time to be in the city, but demand is higher and hotel prices often reflect that. Events such as Wimbledon Championships and the concerts in Hyde Park add to the energy, especially in early July.
Christmas
From mid November, London shifts into the festive season. Bond Street is known for its Christmas lights, while decorations across Carnaby Street, Covent Garden and Sloane Square draw visitors each year. Annabel’s is also worth a look for its seasonal displays. The weather can be wet, so a waterproof jacket or umbrella is useful, but snow is rare.
Getting Around London
London is a vast city, larger than both Paris and New York, so getting around requires a little planning. Most journeys will be a mix of black cabs, Uber, or the London Underground, known as the Tube, to get you into the right area. From there, the best way to experience the city is on foot.
It helps to shape each day around a neighbourhood. You can spend hours walking from Piccadilly Circus through Bond Street and on to Oxford Street, or take a slower wander along Sloane Street and the King’s Road. What you want to avoid is trying to walk between areas such as Mayfair and Chelsea. A short cab or Tube ride in between will save time and keep the day moving.
The one exception is Abbey Road Studios. It sits in the residential streets of St John’s Wood, with little else nearby, so it works best as a short, standalone visit. From Bond Street Station, take the Tube via Baker Street Station and you can be there quickly. Allow around 90 minutes to go there and back, with time for photos on the crossing.
Apps for London
For getting around, it is worth downloading a few apps before you arrive.
TfL Go is useful for Tube routes and live updates.
Uber for cars & bikes.
Gett (pay in app, often with a small surcharge)
Jump Taxi - for black cabs (no surchage, pay the cabbie)
Google Maps - download maps for offline use and save data
Citymapper is also a reliable all-round option for planning routes across the city.
Visiting London – Know Before You Go
Pack for showers
London is not always wet, but it pays to be prepared. You may have clear, dry days, but a light waterproof or umbrella is worth having. Snow is rare.
Connectivity
You can expect WiFi in most major hotels, restaurant chains and department stores. 4G and 5G coverage is strong across the city. The Tube runs deep underground, so signal can drop on some lines, although newer routes such as the Elizabeth Line offer full coverage.
If you need a travel sim for London, we recommend Holafly. Get 5% off your esim with our Link.
Footwear
You will walk more than you think, so bring comfortable shoes. Trainers or boots work well, and the city is generally flat.
Payments
Most shops, taxis and the Underground accept contactless cards, so there is little need to carry cash. Most larger establishments will take Apple Pay/Google Pay.
Service is often included in restaurant bills, but small tips in cash are still appreciated.
Safety
London is a safe city to move around, but like any major capital it pays to stay aware. Phone snatching has become more common, particularly in busy central areas. They are not looking for confrontation, but they will take a phone from your hand if the opportunity is there. Keep your phone secure, and when you need to use it, hold it close rather than out in the open.
London Links & Locations
Art Galleries in London
National Portrait Gallery
St Martin’s Place, London WC2H 0HE
Visit the National Portrait Gallery website
National Gallery
Trafalgar Square, London WC2N 5DN
Visit the National Gallery website
Tate Modern
Bankside, London SE1 9TG
Visit the Tate Modern website
Tate Britain
Millbank, London SW1P 4RG
Visit the Tate Britain website
Moco Museum London
1 Marble Arch, London W2 2UH
Visit the Moco Museum London website
Shopping in London’s Mayfair
Bond Street
Bond Street, Mayfair, London W1
Visit the Bond Street website
Selfridges London
400 Oxford Street, London W1A 1AB
Visit the Selfridges website
Bonhams New Bond Street
101 New Bond Street, London W1S 1SR
Visit Bonhams London
Sotheby’s London
34–35 New Bond Street, London W1A 2AA
Visit Sotheby’s London
John Varvatos
12–13 Conduit Street, London W1S 2XQ
Visit the John Varvatos website
Ralph Lauren Bond Street
1 New Bond Street, London W1S 3RL
Visit the Ralph Lauren Bond Street website
London Landmarks
Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace Road, London SW1A 1AA
Visit the Buckingham Palace website
Palace of Westminster
Westminster, London SW1A 0AA
Visit the UK Parliament website
Big Ben Tours
Houses of Parliament, Westminster, London SW1A 0AA
Book a Big Ben tour
Tower of London
London EC3N 4AB
Visit the Tower of London website
Tower Bridge
Tower Bridge Road, London SE1 2UP
Visit the Tower Bridge website
Check upcoming bridge lift times
Luxury London Hotels
The Cadogan, A Belmond Hotel
75 Sloane Street, London SW1X 9SG
Visit The Cadogan website
The May Fair, A Radisson Collection Hotel
Stratton Street, Mayfair, London W1J 8LT
Visit The May Fair website
The Savoy
Strand, London WC2R 0EZ
Visit The Savoy website
London Food and Drink
London Restaurants
Colbert
50–52 Sloane Square, London SW1W 8AX
Visit the Colbert website
Sale e Pepe
9 Pavilion Road, London SW1X 0HD
Visit the Sale e Pepe website
Savoy Grill
The Savoy, Strand, London WC2R 0EZ
Visit the Savoy Grill website
The Wolseley
160 Piccadilly, London W1J 9EB
Visit The Wolseley website
The Ritz Restaurant
150 Piccadilly, London W1J 9BR
Visit The Ritz Restaurant website
Franco’s
61 Jermyn Street, London SW1Y 6LX
Visit Franco’s website
Coffee, Cafés and Afternoon Stops
Caffè Concerto
Various London locations
Visit the Caffè Concerto website
Aubaine Selfridges
Selfridges, 400 Oxford Street, London W1A 1AB
Visit the Aubaine website
Ole & Steen
Various London locations
Visit the Ole & Steen website
Royal Academy of Arts Café & Courtyard
Burlington House, Piccadilly, London W1J 0BD
Visit the Royal Academy website
Ottolenghi Chelsea
261 Pavilion Road, London SW1X 0BP
Visit the Ottolenghi Chelsea website
London Pubs
The Starman
2 Heddon Street, London W1B 4BZ
Visit The Starman website
Read our guide to The Starman and David Bowie’s Heddon Street
The Hawley Arms
2 Castlehaven Road, Camden, London NW1 8QU
Visit The Hawley Arms website
Read our guide to Amy Winehouse’s favourite Camden pub
Coach and Horses Mayfair
5 Bruton Street, London W1J 6PT
Visit the Coach and Horses website
Useful Apps for Getting Around London
TfL Go
Useful for Tube routes, live travel updates and planning journeys across London.
Visit the TfL Go website
Uber
Useful for booking cars and bikes across London.
Visit the Uber UK website
Gett
Book black cabs and pay through the app, often with a small surcharge.
Visit the Gett UK website
Jump Taxi
Book London black cabs without surcharge and pay the driver directly.
Visit the Jump Taxi website
Google Maps
Useful for walking directions, downloading offline maps and saving mobile data.
Open Google Maps
Citymapper
A reliable all-round app for planning routes across London.
Visit Citymapper London
Thanks for reading our Long Weekend Guide to London, and remember.. Mind the Gap!
