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Neighborhoods in London: All You Need To Know

London is colossal. There is no other way to put it.

It’s very overwhelming when you first arrive, as few people have the foresight to comprehend what an expansive European city this is, and knowing where to go on a whim is largely impossible unless you have friends here already.

So I’ve put together this crash course on London neighborhoods to help you along. A summation of the most important elements of each iconic district in the English capital.

Soho, London

Soho is the trend setter’s district; it’s fashion, it’s nightlife and it’s upmarket dining everywhere you look. People come to Soho to be seen, to indulge and to spend money.

If you’re interested in cuisines from around the world, pub crawls or theatre, then Soho is where you’ll enjoy spending your evenings. By day it’s relatively quiet; the venues begin to fill up as locals start to get out of work in the evenings.

Soho is also a good place to enter Oxford Street for some world class shopping.

Carnaby Street in Soho – by Jim Linwood –

Shoreditch, London

If Soho is trendy, then Shoreditch is hip. This is a neighborhood of youth culture and radical self expression; the Williamsburg of London, if you will.

Shoreditch is the concrete manifestation of idiosyncrasy. It’s bizarre, amusing, challenging and comforting all that the same time. A village of artists, misfits and broad thinkers.

Here you’ll enjoy fantastic restaurants and cafes; vegans thrive in Shoreditch, there are so many options to choose from. This is also where one comes to vintage shop!

Shoreditch – by Fred Romero –

Notting Hill, London

Notting Hill is quite contrary to Shoreditch; you can still vintage shop here, but things are dar more prim and proper.

Notting Hill was made famous by the movie with the same name. It’s a charming neighborhood but multicolored houses, brunch cafes and flower markets. Enjoying high tea in Notting Hill is a popular British pastime.

The Portobello Road Market is an iconic weekly attraction Wirth checking out!

Notting Hill – by Carlapicasso –

Brixton, London

In some ways Brixton is the up and coming Shoreditch. This is an incredibly artistic and expressive neighborhood; art galleries and pop-up restaurants are always emerging onto the scene.

Brixton is also known for its exquisite Victorian architecture. It’s a gritty, raw neighborhood where everything is considerably cheaper than in the rest of London.

Brixton Market is another London highlight to note! Don’t miss out on The Ritzy, either. This is one of the oldest cinemas in England, showcasing a range of arthouse films and new Hollywood blockbusters.

Brixton – by Fred Romero –

Covent Garden, London

London’s West End and Covent Garden are adjacent to Soho. The districts share many similarities, with world class dining being one of the main attractions.

In addition to this, Covent Garden is London’s theatre district. Like the Broadway of Europe, here you’ll watch all of the biggest productions at various independent theaters scattered between the streets.

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child has a residency here, as does the Lion King.

London’s Chinatown is a five minute walk away, which offers a far more unique experience in terms of culture and cuisine.

Covent Garden – by Txllxt TxllxT –

Camden Town, London

Camden Town is, in my opinion, the culmination of eclectic London culture. This is one neighborhood where diversity reigns supreme, with no single group or expressing proving superior over another.

Whether you’re into fashion, comic books, rock ’n roll, collecting antiques or all-you-can-eat hamburger competitions, there is something for you in Camden.

The Camden Market brings in thousands of visitors every, single day. It’s as unique and diverse as the neighborhood in which it exists; there is even a man who serves tea as the Mad Hatter, daily.

Camden Town – by Dcastor –

Chelsea, London

It’s rare to find that small town feeling while in London, the city is just too big. But Chelsea seems to have created a district in which this mentality exists with ease; or perhaps it’s just that everyone here is so wealthy that they automatically clique apart from the rest of us!

Nevertheless, Chelsea is the peak of British luxury. It’s a clean, quaint district where everyone toes the line, enjoying afternoon teas, flower shows and perhaps the cheeky visit to the Saatchi Gallery every now and then.

Oh, this is also the home of the Chelsea football club. Game days here are eye opening experiences!

Chelsea – by Dietmar Rabich –

Greenwich, London

Greenwich sits on the southeastern end of the city, and takes quite some time to get to if you are coming from the center of London.

This is a neighborhood for anyone who is interested in history; Maritime history in particular. The Royal Observatory also calls this district home. Visitors flock daily by the hundreds to get their dose of culture, before retreating into one of the local restaurants for late lunches.

This is a really nice neighborhood for families with small children. The streets are not as chaotic as the city center, and there are ample parks with playgrounds.

Greenwich – by Dietmar Rabich –

Islington, London

In my opinion, Islington is one of the most underrated neighborhoods in London Town. Unbeknownst to most, this is one of the most creative districts. Seemingly everyone who is an Islington local goes on to be a successful artist, actor or model within the relative UK industries.

Another great neighborhood for families; Islington often has street markets and independent theatre productions. The streets are lined with boutique stores, restaurants and bars.

Islington – by KJP1 –

Mayfair, London

When celebrities or important people from around the world come to London, they usually stay in Mayfair.

Mayfair is considered a high-end district; it’s filled with luxury hotels, Michelin Star Restaurants and A-list nightclubs. I’m told the Beckhams enjoy their nights on the town here only.

Sketch is the famous spot where the rich and famous come for high tea. Don’t leave your camera at home for this one.

Mayfair – by Spudgun67 –

If you’re still feeling unfamiliar with London, consider signing up for a guided walking tour through any of the afore mentioned neighborhoods. Being walked through the streets by a local will give you perspective that the internet simply cannot. Book today!