Areas · 6 min read

Where to stay in London for the first time

Five areas compared by sights, transport and what a night costs.

A couple with suitcases walking down a London street with Big Ben behind them

Start with what you are in London for

London is large, so the best area depends on your plans. Sightseeing, trains, flights and events each point to a different part of the city.

Choose the area first, then compare stays inside it.

Sightseeing and theatres: West End

You can walk between most of the famous sights from here. The trade-off is price, since rooms cost the most in the centre.

Trains and Eurostar: King's Cross and Euston

Both are major rail stations with Tube links across the city. Prices are lower than the West End, and you are rarely more than 20 minutes from the sights.

Flights: Paddington

Heathrow Express and the Elizabeth line both leave from Paddington, which makes airport days simple.

Events and exhibitions: Wembley, Stratford and the Royal Docks

Stay close to the venue and you can walk home. Both areas cost less than the centre, with larger rooms.