My husband and I are planning a spring break trip to London. We are looking at renting an apartment through homeaway.com as we have done many, many times. However, we are torn between two flats. One is "directly across from Vauxhall Tube station" and the other is "two minutes walk" to Aldgate East Tube station. We've never been to London, so we are hoping to stay in a safe location that will also enable quick and easy sightseeing. (We rented an apt. in Rome last summer and it was a little farther away from the "centro" but we had a couple of weeks - this vacation will be a strict seven days, so we need to be in a more central location.) Any input would be much appreciated on the quality of neighborhood and/or time constraints that either location may propose. Thanks a million! -Becky
Posted by
Land of La
9221 posts
Haven't stayed in either neighborhood but have stayed in London numerous times over the past 25 years. Vauxhaull used to be the dregs but has gentrified somewhat into a hip and pink neighborhood. Not Mayfair or Kensington by any means but not somewhere to be fearful of either. You would be on the other side of the Thames from the city centre but via the underground 20 minutes at most to Westminster. Aldgate East is close to the Tower of London and many fun markets. Not as gentrified but not unsafe. For first time visitors I'd opt for Vauxhaull because it's a bit closer to the sites. Brunswick HOuse Cafe is a good dining spot in the area. To help you make a choice here's a link regarding London neighborhoods:http://www.letsgo.com/12432-great_britain-travel-guides-london-neighborhood_overviews-c
Vauxhall would be in South London, Aldgate East London Have a wonderful trip.
Posted by
Grapevine, TX, USA
875 posts
On Homeaway check out #430330. We rented this unit a couple of years ago and were very impressed with the price, quality, and location right in the center of the theater district. So close to Trafalgar Square, Covent Garden, Buckingham Palace, National Museum, etc.
I'd certainly recommend it.