London is famous for many things and one of them is its different neighbourhoods. Some are filled with iconic landmarks while others offer world class museums, street art or vintage shopping. That’s what makes the city so exciting, but it also means picking where to stay can feel like a bit of a puzzle. Do you go for the buzz of Soho, the riverside walks on the South Bank, or somewhere greener and calm?

Every area has its own appeal but if you’re here to see the sights and want somewhere central, well connected, and full of character, Bloomsbury is the winner. It’s also where you’ll find Imperial London Hotels, so you’re right at the heart of it all.

Here’s a quick overview of London’s top areas for sightseeing, who they’re best for, and how Imperial London Hotels connects you to each:

A few things to consider before booking:

Proximity to a tube station – the Underground is the quickest way to get around.

Budget – Bloomsbury is more affordable given the location is still central.

Trip length – for short visits, staying central cuts down travel time meaning there is more time for exploring and indulging. 

Interests – theatre, shopping, museums, nightlife, or family activities 

Airport access – Bloomsbury has got direct links from Heathrow (Piccadilly Line) or Gatwick (train to Victoria/St Pancras). Also has alternatives to airports from Elizabeth line from Tottenham Court Road station to Heathrow 

Imperial London Hotels in Bloomsbury tick all the boxes: budget-friendly, central, easy tube access to airports and every attraction in the city.

Bloomsbury is known for its literary heritage, garden squares, and the iconic British Museum, it offers a quieter base while keeping you close to London’s best bits.

From Bloomsbury, you can walk to Soho, Covent Garden, and the Thames. It’s central without being  hectic, with great tube links to every corner of London. It’s for those who want the best of both worlds: peaceful surroundings and quick access to landmarks.

Royal National Hotel – great for families and groups with family and interconnecting rooms. The London Pub is located here, it’s the place for hearty British dishes and classic pints. 

City Sleeper Hotel – for upgraded experience within Royal National Hotel. Sleek, modern, designed for comfort 

Bedford Hotel  – Calmer with garden views, ideal for solo travellers 

President Hotel  – classic choice for families and couples looking for ease of travel to the west end. They do an immersive Faulty Towers dining experience in house. 

Tavistock Hotel – Art Deco charm and cosy atmosphere with views of Tavistock square gardens. Try delicious Anglo Indian dishes at Poppadom Indian Kitchen located inside the hotel

Morton Hotel – boutique style for those seeking culture and more intimate spaces like apartments 

When it comes to entertainment and shopping, Covent Garden and Soho are at the very heart of it all. From world-famous theatres in London’s Theatreland to the bright lights of Leicester Square, this part of the city is lively day and night. Covent Garden is packed with boutique shops, designer stores, quirky market stalls, and street performers who bring the piazza to life. A short walk away, Soho offers an endless choice of nightlife from cocktail bars and live music venues to late-night eateries and hidden speakeasies. Add to that the flavours of Chinatown and the energy of Oxford Street shopping. This part of London has it all.

Imperial London Hotels Base 

With the Bedford Hotel or Morton Hotel, both pet-friendly, you get a peaceful, central London base that’s just a short walk to all the West End excitement. You can enjoy a slower paced neighbourhood with your four-legged friend, cosy cafés, and boutique charm during the day, or  easily stroll to theatres, restaurants, or nightlife in minutes.

This riverside stretch is home to some of London’s best-known sights, including the London Eye with its sweeping views and the Tate Modern with its world-class galleries. Shakespeare’s Globe brings history and theatre to life, while Borough Market is a foodie favourite with stalls serving everything from artisan bakes to global street food. Stroll along the river with London’s skyline as your backdrop, and you’ve got one of the city’s most atmospheric spots for both sightseeing and relaxing.

Families, couples, and anyone who loves markets, and strolls by the Thames.

Instead of paying the higher rates right on the South Bank, stay in Bloomsbury for convenience and a comfortable stay. At the Royal National Hotel, families can enjoy a hearty breakfast, family-friendly rooms, and on-site dining options for when you want to refuel after a day exploring the riverfront. The City Sleeper Hotel is ideal for couples, business travellers, and families who need extra space (interconnecting rooms). Both hotels offer quick access to Russell Square and Euston stations, so you can reach the South Bank by Tube in minutes or enjoy a scenic walk through Covent Garden on your way back.

Camden is full of energy at every turn. Colourful street art pops up, live music spills out of legendary venues, and the market is a treasure trove of quirky finds and tasty street food. When you need a breather from all the chaos, Primrose Hill is just a short walk away, with one of London’s best skyline views.  

You don’t need to stay in Camden itself to enjoy its energy. If you stay at the Royal National Hotel or Tavistock Hotel you can reach Camden in just a few minutes on the Northern Line, making it easy to enjoy the markets, music, and street art. Both hotels offer comfortable rooms with breakfast options, free Wi-Fi, and friendly, welcoming service, giving you a comfortable base to return to after a day or night exploring Camden.

South Kensington is a mix of culture, shopping, and green space. Walk through world-famous museums like the Natural History Museum and the V&A, each packed with fascinating exhibits and Instagram-worthy spots. When you need a break from galleries, go to Hyde Park for a stroll or a picnic. Plus Harrods is a short walk away from South Kensington to add a touch of luxury shopping and iconic London charm to the neighbourhood.

It’s great for families and culture lovers, plus it’s on the direct Piccadilly Line from Heathrow.

While hotels in Kensington can be expensive, Bloomsbury is an excellent alternative that’s still central and family-friendly. The Morton Hotel offers boutique-style rooms, with the option to upgrade to one- or two-bedroom apartments. The President Hotel offers affordable rooms with entertainment options like Faulty Towers, an immersive dining experience, and Friday Night Jazz. Both hotels are just a short tube ride on the Piccadilly Line from South Kensington, providing families with quick connections to museums and parks. 

Shoreditch and the East End are where creativity meets nightlife. Brick Lane is famous for its vibrant curry houses, while independent shops and quirky boutiques offer one-of-a-kind finds. Bars with character and inventive cocktails keep the evenings lively, and street art turns every corner into a mini gallery. 

Young travellers, creatives, and nightlife fans.

Enjoy the best of both worlds by staying in Bloomsbury at the City Sleeper Hotel. You get a calm, comfortable hotel with modern rooms and on site dining options. Direct tube  to Shoreditch’s bars, shops, and street art.

Mayfair is London’s playground of luxury and style. Designer boutiques, chic galleries, and Michelin-starred restaurants line its elegant streets. The West End is where London comes alive after dark. World-famous theatres host unforgettable shows, while bustling streets are packed with restaurants, bars, and cafés.

You don’t have to pay top-tier prices to enjoy central London. Morton Hotel and City Sleeper Hotel in Bloomsbury offer stylish, boutique comfort with modern rooms and free Wi-Fi.. From there, you’re just a short walk or tube ride from Mayfair’s boutiques, world-class dining, and theatre shows giving you all the luxury and excitement of the West End without the hefty price tag. 

Choosing where to stay in London doesn’t need to be complicated. The main things to consider are who’s travelling, your budget, and what’s most convenient for you. With Imperial London Hotels and our six properties, it’s easy to pick the option that suits you best:

Solo and business travellers – Bedford Hotel & City Sleeper Hotel

With breakfast options, family rooms, free Wi-Fi, and excellent value in central London, Imperial London Hotels is a comfortable and convenient choice for any traveller.