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in London
Discovery in London
London - The cultural city
A hub of culture, history and fashion, there's nowhere quite like London, England's buzzing capital city. Full of magnificent architecture, its diverse neighbourhoods combine the best in theatre, dining and shopping. London city centre has some of the world's finest entertainment venues, while upscale enclaves like Kensington are home to elegant wine bars and independent boutiques. With renowned attractions, experiences and cuisine to discover, it's clear to see why London remains one of the mostpopular city-break destinations.
What to admire
Originally founded in Roman times, London has a rich and intriguing history. One of its oldest sights is The Tower of London, which dates back to 1066. Over the years, this iconic building has been a royal residence, a prison and a king's menagerie, with a polar bear who fished in the River Thames. It's now home to the Crown Jewels. This mesmerising collection of 23,578 precious jewels and diamonds is still used in ceremonies today.
The Tower of London
For some of the best views of the capital, step onto the London Eye. The capsules turn gently on the South Bank of the river, offering a panorama that takes in The Shard, Tower Bridge, Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament.
There's also a vast assortment of treasures to be discovered at the British Museum, with eight million pieces spanning human history, art and culture. Most were sourced during the rule of the British Empire, and highlights include the Rosetta Stone, the Elgin Marbles and the Lewis Chessmen. Available as one of our exclusive Local Experience Awards, you can enjoy two tickets to a special exhibition before a leisurely lunch, accompanied by English sparkling wine, on the exquisite Dalloway Terrace.
Tower of London
London Eye
The Shard
Tower Bridge
Big Ben
House of Parliament
British Museum
Buckingham Palace
What to experience
London's theatre district hosts some of the world's finest musicals and plays, and seeing a West End Show is a truly spectacular affair. As well as award-winning musicals, there are also quirkier productions and stand-up comedy shows, you can often pick up same-day tickets for popular productions at the ticket booth in Leicester Square.
This vibrant city is also a shopper's paradise. Browse bohemian stalls at Camden Market for trinkets or visit flagship stores in London city centre. You can also explore the colourful Neal's Yard alley, hidden away in Covent Garden and lined with small boutiques.
Of course, the most famous shop in town is Harrods. Even if you're not after luxury goods, this historic department store is worth visiting for unique features like the decadent Egyptian Escalator, a moving staircase full of columns, pharaohs and sphinxes, including one that resembles former owner Mohamed Al-Fayed.
If you're in town during the August bank holiday, head over to Kensington for the Notting Hill Carnival. This vibrant celebration of Caribbean culture has been taking place since 1966, with costumed dancers moving to the spirited beats of meringue, reggae and calypso, as the fragrant smell of jerk chicken fills the air.
Save 10% or more with Member Rates
Explore London in one of the GHA DISCOVERY hotels and you'll get access to the latest Stay Offers and Local Offers.
Save 10% or more with Member Rates
Explore London in one of the GHA DISCOVERY hotels and you'll get access to the latest Stay Offers and Local Offers.
What to savour
London is a multicultural melting pot and discovering its delicious international cuisine is a joy. Forfiery Indian food, there are few places better than Brick Lane, a street lined with superb curry houses. Over by the West End theatres, you'll find London's bustling Chinatown, where you can snack on pillowy dim sum and crispy roast duck.
Afternoon tea is a quintessentially English experience. Expect a tiered display of finger sandwiches, petit fours and fresh scones with jam and clotted cream, all washed down with a steaming pot of tea. If you're celebrating an occasion (or simply indulging), many places also offer champagne options.
London's street food scene is also thriving, with numerous markets where you can try global cuisine with a modern twist. First stop should be Borough Market, which has been held on this site for around 1,000 years. Today, alongside the stalls selling European, Asian and American street food, there's also artisan bread, charcuterie and cheese to sample, ideal for a picnic beside the nearby Thames.
Afternoon Tea
Fish & Chips
Dim Sum
Crispy Roast Duck
Where to stay
You can experience some of London's most elegant districts with a stay at one of our luxury hotels. The Corinthia London is the flagship of the Corinthia European hotel chain. Set inside a beautiful Belle Epoque building on Whitehall Place, it's as grand as its name suggests. Baccarat chandeliers, original paintings and a miniature outpost of Harrods are just some of this hotel's opulent touches.
Another exceptional place to stay is The Bloomsbury, a historic building which has recently undergone a multi-million pound restoration project. Botanical-inspired wallpaper, vibrant furniture and an original fireplace designed by imaginative British architect Edwin Lutyens lend an eclectic country-house feel to the hotel.
At The Kensington, contemporary style meets traditional service. Refined rooms here have high ceilings and heritage décor, and there's a glamorous cocktail bar where you can sip champagne and nibble delicious sharing platters.
Fans of modern design are likely to enjoy The Marylebone, which is just steps from the renowned departments tores of Oxford Street. Terrace suites have delightful outdoor spaces and the communal areas are just as exciting, with a library for quiet moments and an on-site gym, pool and spa.
Our hotels in London
Visit London with GHA DISCOVERY
However you choose to spend your time, no two visits to London will be the same. Discover more 4-and 5-star hotels, throughout the world, in our other destinations.
Visit London with GHA DISCOVERY
However you choose to spend your time, no two visits to London will be the same. Discover more 4-and 5-star hotels, throughout the world, in our other destinations.
