My husband and I are traveling to London in December. We are in our late-20s and are very active. It's his first time to London and my second (but I was a child before). Can you recommend a neighborhood for us to concentrate our accommodation search in? We want to be near a lot of good pubs/restaurants. We will want to see some of the main sights, but don't need mind traveling to them if need be as we'd rather not be in a super touristy area - but close to a convenient tube would be great. We want to do as the locals do and enjoy just walking around and exploring. Any help is appreciated!
Posted by
PA
2744 posts
We have loved Lambeth. We have stayed 3 times at the Captain Bligh House, several large housekeeping apartments. Quick walking distance to several bridges, the South Bank, one block from North Lambeth tube stop which will get you anywhere, several buses within a block.and across the street from the Imperial War Museum. We are 62 and have walked back from the theater at night.
Posted by
Land of La
8680 posts
Gentrification is happening all over London. 5 years ago when I stayed in the Chalk Farm/Kentish Town neighborhood there were very few nice eateries, cafes or shops. Stayed there again last year and the transformation was a bit of a shock. Total difference. I guess its what happened to Islington about the time you were born. Was never a neighborhood suggested to stay in. Then Tony Blair, then the gentrification and now a neighborhood destination. Lots of East London has become popular. Shoreditch, Clerkenwell. Personally and for firstimers I say the Bayswater/Shepards Bush neighborhood.
Close to Nottinghill and Portobello Road Market. Good transport options. Nice cafes, pubs, eateries etc.
I also stayed with a young couple last year in the Stepney Green/Bethnal Green neighborhood. Airbnb Accomodation. Their neighborhood is changing and evolving as well. Wouldnt say it was hip and happening yet but I enjoyed it and my hosts. A bit far away so tube travel is a bit longer so if I were in my 20's again and in London for the first time I'd go with the Bayswater/Shepards Bush or KentishTown/Camden neighborhoods. Check out Airbnb places in both or PM me and I'll share where I stayed. GREAT city. Have fun!
Posted by
Long Beach, California, USA
3391 posts
If you are into urban settings then consider Shoreditch! It's a fantastic neighborhood of brick, graffiti and very interesting pubs and shops on the main streets and down alleys. It's very hip and artsy and you might enjoy it. We spent time there two years ago and wish we had longer to stay.