Luxury London Travel & Leisure Guide 2024

Welcome to London, a city where timeless elegance meets contemporary sophistication. 

We’ll unveil the capital’s most exclusive experiences, from opulent accommodations to Michelin-starred dining. Discover hidden gems and iconic landmarks through a lens of luxury. 

Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or a first-time visitor, prepare to immerse yourself in the pinnacle of British refinement and worldly indulgence.

Luxurious Havens 

The city features a long list of world-class accommodation establishments brimming with old-world luxury and contemporary chic. 

Here are our top three picks for staying in London if you are visiting for the first time.  

The NoMad

For first-time visitors to London, The NoMad in Covent Garden offers an exceptional blend of luxury and convenience. The hotel features 91 rooms and suites, each boasting hardwood floors, a custom art program, and many with clawfoot tubs.

The NoMad’s dining options are equally impressive. The NoMad Restaurant, set in an atrium with a soaring glass ceiling, transforms from a light-filled space during the day to an intimate setting in the evening. Others include Side Hustle for Mexican-inspired flavors, The Library for a relaxed atmosphere, and the subterranean Common Decency bar for avant-garde cocktails.

The hotel’s location puts guests just steps away from Theatre Royal Drury Lane and Covent Garden, promising a truly luxurious London experience that combines comfort, culture, and culinary excellence.

Sanctum

For those seeking a home away from home with all the luxuries of a top-tier hotel, Sanctum London offers an unparalleled experience. Located in North West London, Sanctum provides 5-star luxury serviced apartments in three prime locations: Maida Vale, Belsize Road, and Regent’s Park.

Each stylish apartment boasts fully equipped kitchens, spacious living areas, free high-speed Wi-Fi, 49-inch LED TVs, and modern comforts like air conditioning and underfloor heating.

What sets it apart is its blend of hotel-like amenities with the privacy and space of an apartment. Guests enjoy 24-hour reception and concierge service, twice-weekly maid service, and 24-hour security. For those looking to maintain their fitness routine, Sanctum offers access to offsite health club facilities, including a gym, swimming pool, sauna, and steam room.

Claridge’s

For those seeking timeless sophistication, Claridge’s in Mayfair is a top choice. Each spacious room at Claridge’s boasts luxurious furnishings, a marble bathroom, and peaceful courtyard views, complemented by modern amenities like free Wi-Fi.

The hotel’s famous afternoon tea, served in the grand foyer, features over 50 tea varieties alongside classic pastries, embodying quintessential British luxury.

Wellness enthusiasts will appreciate the modern gym on the 6th floor, complete with glass columns and a juice bar. For relaxation, luxurious treatment rooms offer spa and beauty therapies. 

Famous Landmarks

A tapestry of history and culture unfolds through iconic sites and the list of best places to visit in London is endless.

Live a Royal Lifestyle

We suggest a trip to the majestic Buckingham Palace to watch the time-honoured Changing of the Guard ceremony and get a glimpse into royal traditions. Next, delve into medieval lore at the Tower of London, home to the dazzling Crown Jewels and centuries of intrigue. 

Architecture and Artefacts

For a cultural feast, the British Museum beckons with its vast collection of global artefacts. Westminster Abbey is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and not to be missed. It’s a testament to Britain’s royal heritage and popular attraction. 

For a contemporary perspective, drink in panoramic city views from the top of the London Eye.

Mayfair: An Unmissable Attraction

If you’re in search of luxury experiences in London, Mayfair beckons. 

  1. Bond Street

Take a stroll along Bond Street. Here, the flagship stores of world-renowned designers showcase their latest creations. This cornerstone of luxury shopping offers an unparalleled experience that transcends mere retail. 

From Chanel and Louis Vuitton to Tiffany & Co., Bond Street epitomises high fashion and timeless elegance.

  1. Mount Street 

Venture into Mount Street where high-end retail mingles with local character.  Here you’ll find chic boutiques like Christopher Kane and Roksanda to browse. There’s also a selection of fine dining establishments to tempt your tastebuds. 

  1. Burlington Arcade

For a journey through time, explore Burlington Arcade. This historic shopping gallery exudes timeless elegance with a selection of luxury goods. Spoil yourself with a bespoke fragrance, exquisite jewellery, or a fine watch.

  1. Dover Street Market

Fashion enthusiasts seeking avant-garde designs should not miss Dover Street Market. This multi-level emporium showcases a curated selection of established and emerging designers, reflecting London’s status as a global fashion capital. 

The store itself is a dynamic experience, combining retail with exhibition space.

  1. Savile Row

No luxury shopping tour of Mayfair would be complete without a visit to Savile Row, synonymous with bespoke tailoring. Home to some of the world’s finest tailors, Savile Row offers custom-made suits that epitomise sartorial elegance.

  1. Beyond Fashion

Besides haute couture, Mayfair boasts prestigious art galleries like Christie’s and the Gagosian, adding cultural depth to the luxury shopping scene. 

Gourmet food stores and exclusive wine shops like Hedonism Wines cater to the most discerning palates, offering rare vintages and artisanal delicacies.

The Perfect Day in London

To truly capture the essence of London, we propose an itinerary that seamlessly blends iconic sights with local flavours. 

Morning Meander

Begin your day at Climpson and Sons in East London, where speciality coffee and artisanal pastries set the tone for urban exploration. 

A leisurely walk through Hyde Park follows, offering moments of tranquillity amidst the city’s bustle. Visit the Serpentine Lake and the Diana Memorial Fountain, allowing the park’s natural beauty to refresh your senses.

Afternoon Exploration

As the afternoon unfolds, immerse yourself in the wonders of The British Museum, where human history awaits discovery. Each exhibit tells a fascinating story of our shared past, from the enigmatic Rosetta Stone to ancient Egyptian mummies.

For a culinary interlude, Market Hall in Victoria presents a smorgasbord of global cuisines under one roof. This vibrant food court houses 24 different kitchens, allowing you to sample a variety of flavours that reflects London’s diverse culinary landscape.

You could also elevate your London sojourn and savour the quintessentially British ritual of afternoon tea at The Lanesborough. Here, Michelin-starred culinary artistry meets exquisite tea selections in an opulent setting.

Evening Entertainment

As day turns to dusk, ascend The Shard for a sunset spectacle that paints London in golden hues. The observation deck offers unparalleled views of the city’s skyline, a perfect moment to reflect on your day’s adventures.

Your evening crescendos at the Coal Office in King’s Cross, where innovative cuisine meets inspired design. Sit at the bar to watch the chefs at work, savouring dishes like their famous Kubala bread and octopus. 

Cap off your night with bespoke cocktails at Nobu London Portman. The globally inspired drinks, crafted to reflect Nobu’s journey from Japan to Los Angeles, provide a fitting finale to a day of London’s finest offerings.

mayfair shops

Timeless Elegance and Modern Allure

Travel and leisure in London blend rich heritage with contemporary flair, promising an unforgettable experience for every visitor. From renowned historic landmarks to cutting-edge luxury establishments, the city never fails to captivate and inspire. 

Whether you’re looking for the best hotel in London, keen to explore world-class museums, or indulging in haute cuisine, the British capital offers a tapestry of experiences catering to the most discerning tastes.