Top 5 Neighborhoods to Visit in London
What would London be without its front and center icons such as Big Ben, red telephone boxes, black cabs and London Bridge? What truly makes London like no other city on earth? Some may say, its diversity, others may say, the people. The answer is…all of the above.
One minute you’re walking down Hyde Park in Kensington , one of the poshest neighborhoods in London, and just a quick stop on the tube—please mind the gap… you find yourself amongst the hipsters and street art in the Shoreditch neighborhood. London's variety of districts makes this a sought after European destination.
London has it all. You will find that London’s neighborhoods are as different as it's driving laws. Here are my Top 5 Neighborhoods in London.
Kensington
Like the third member of the Spice girls, this neighborhood is tres posh! Known as the Royal Borough of Kensington or as I like to call it “Bentley Row," this area of London oozes money. You’ll find it the home of Hyde Park , and the beautiful Kensington Gardens among others. You’ll also find some great museums in this area such as the Victoria and Albert, the Natural History and the Royal Albert Hall. Enjoy a cup of creamed tea and scones and clotted cream , at the Orangery.
Shoreditch
If you thought London was all tea and biscuits, Shoreditch will raise you a £ 3 coffee and can of spray paint. A second cousin twice removed , Shoreditch is street art heaven. Cold, wet and a bit rough around the edges makes this area a great spot to explore. Most alley ways you’ll find a number of great street art from cutesy hearts to political ‘pop art’ propaganda.
SoHo
SoHo is an area that attracts a younger crowd. This is an area that is perfect for a night out as there are multiple bars and restaurants here. Fancy some Indian, Thai , Italian or traditional fish and chips? You won’t have to worry as London has some of the best cuisines…like a Doner Kebab after a night off with your mates at 2 am. SoHo is also nicknamed ‘ Seven Dials’ as there are street offshoots. Here is one tip, if you find yourself in SoHo walk towards Neal’s Yard, you will find a cute courtyard with small colorful shops. It’s Instagram worthy, just do it.
Notting Hill
What would you call the European version of San Francisco’s Painted Ladies? I’d call it the bright and pastel colored house in Notting Hill. Notting Hill has a great main road filled with a number of shops and restaurants but by far what makes this place iconic is the homes. Grab your camera and stroll around this neighborhood and you'll be sure to leave with great shots
Camden
This is hands down my favorite area of London, partly because I can't say no to street food. Camden is known for the Camden Market. You’ll find a number of vendors selling handmade jewelry, artwork, fresh squeezed orange juice and food vendors serving up some genius fried Halloumi. Yes, I said fried Halloumi.
