Where to Stay in London

A lively, walkable district of piazzas and lanes in the West End, filled with restaurants, street performers and theatres. Best for first-time visitors who want to step out to entertainment and walk to many sights; direct Piccadilly line from Heathrow to Covent Garden.

An elegant, residential-feeling area clustered around world-class museums and quiet garden squares. Families and museum lovers stay here for the cultural district and easy Piccadilly line access from Heathrow.

The postcard heart of London, with Big Ben, Westminster Abbey and the river on your doorstep. It suits first-time sightseers who want to walk to landmarks and reach the South Bank; Heathrow connection is easy via Green Park on the Jubilee line.

A central shopping and transport hub where Oxford Street meets Regent Street, surrounded by restaurants and easy access to Soho and Mayfair. Good for travellers who want to be in the middle of the action; from Heathrow, Elizabeth line to Bond Street puts you a short walk away.

A refined district of grand townhouses beside Hyde Park, known for luxury department stores and designer shops. Returning visitors who want an upscale, quieter base with direct Piccadilly line access from Heathrow should look here.

A neon-lit crossroads connecting Soho, Mayfair and St James's, with theatres, restaurants and late-night energy. It works for nightlife-focused first-timers and returners; Piccadilly line runs direct from Heathrow to Piccadilly Circus.

The historic financial district around St Paul's and the Tower, busy on weekdays and noticeably calmer at weekends. Business travellers and returning visitors who want a quiet base near landmarks use it; Elizabeth line to Liverpool Street gives direct Heathrow access.

A leafy, literary district of garden squares and terraces around the British Museum and universities. It suits budget-conscious and repeat visitors who want a calmer, residential feel with good value; direct Piccadilly line from Heathrow to Russell Square or Holborn.