A trip to London may conjure two different and somewhat competing vacation fantasies: the first, a more royal-inspired vision, with fancy tea parties, shopping at Selfridges, and photos outside Kensington Palace, and the second somewhat grungier, filled with smokey Camden bars and vinyl shopping in Soho. Why not do both? For ELLE Escapes, we compiled some of our favorite spots for making the most of your journey across the pond. London’s calling—here’s where to eat, drink, stay, and shop when you answer.
What to See
Tiffany & Co.’s “Vision & Virtuosity” Exhibition at the Saatchi Gallery
Tiffany & Co.’s yellow diamond necklace has been worn by Audrey Hepburn, Lady Gaga, and Beyoncé—and now, for a limited time, it will be displayed along with 400 other legendary Tiffany objects at a new exhibit at the Saatchi Gallery in Chelsea. Tiffany and Co.’s “Vision & Virtuosity” exhibit runs today through August 19, 2022.
Hyde Park
There’s a reason London’s Hyde Park is always on the list of top spots to hit up. Particularly in the summer when the rain tends to lighten up, the 350-acre royal park is perfect for a picnic or a stroll with a to-go tea. If it’s good enough for Kate Middleton, it’s good enough for any tourist.
Pandora Dress Agency
If you get sick of shopping all of the fast fashion places in Mayfair, head to Pandora Dress Agency in Knightsbridge for “designer labels at a fraction of their original price.” A cursory perusal of their Instagram reveals Prada bags in spring’s prettiest pinks, and a pair of quilted Chanel clogs we would frankly die for.
Annie’s Ibiza
Annie’s Ibiza is the perfect spot to hit up for a last-minute going-out dress that you’ll end up wearing again and again. The shop sells luxury clothing and accessories from new and emerging designers alongside vintage pieces.
Stella McCartney Compact Knit Cut‐Out Top
Primury Dyo Leather Trainers
Where to Eat
The Colony Grill
Tucked inside the Beaumont Hotel in Mayfair, The Colony Grill hearkens back to the Art Deco era, serving up “transatlantic comfort food” like steaks and shellfish. It’s a carnivore’s paradise, but there’s something for everyone—including dessert lovers, who will be obsessed with the build-your-own sundae bar.
The Tea Lounge at The Biltmore Mayfair
If you’re seeking the traditional Afternoon Tea experience, The Biltmore Mayfair’s very own Tea Lounge is your best bet. With a menu designed by Michelin-starred chef Jason Atherton, there’s everything from tea sandwiches to scones and sweets (tarts, sponge cake...you name it). Spring for the option that comes with a glass of champagne for an extra 15 pounds. You deserve it.
The Wolseley
When it comes to British restaurant culture, it doesn’t get more iconic than The Wolseley. Located on Piccadilly, the stately interiors date back to the 1920s when the building was a luxe car showroom for the now-defunct Wolseley Motors, and then a bank after that. More than just a lovely place to sit, it boasts an expansive breakfast menu, including the perfect stack of pancakes topped with berries.
The Grill at The Dorchester
Your culinary experience isn’t complete without a Sunday Roast. For that and a whole lot more, try The Grill at The Dorchester, a landmark restaurant that first opened its doors in 1931. Expect modern takes on classic fare—including but not limited to a carving trolley. (We’re salivating too.)
Born In The Sun Black Scalloped Headband
Burberry Monogram Print Silk Slip Dress
Sassi Holford Wrap Belt
Jimmy Choo Averly 100
Where to Drink
Chiltern Firehouse
Housed in a literal fire station, the bar at the Chiltern Firehouse feels like if your plant-obsessed, cottagecore-vibe friend invited you over to her Williamsburg loft—but like, in a good way. The airy space boasts floor-to-ceiling windows, tons of greenery, and cozy floral couches perfect for tea or cocktails—your choice. If you want to continue the party, try schmoozing your way into the Ladder Shed bar in the back for after-hours revelry.
Mercato Metropolitano Mayfair
Built in a former church (with an altar, stained glass, and all), this sustainable community market offers stands with foods from all over the world, but the real draw is the Jim and Tonic gin bar, where gin distilled on-site is the base of every delicious cocktail you can think of.
The Dorchester Rooftop
When the weather is warm, the terrace at The Dorchester is the spot to be. With sweeping views of Hyde Park and seasonal cocktails with names like “Rainbow” and “Joyful,” it’s the perfect place to enjoy spring. If the weather looks gloomy, post up downstairs in the hotel’s ornate Orchid Room for a glass of champagne.
Tonight Josephine
It’s not a wild night out in London if you don’t somehow, at some point, end up in Shoreditch, and Tonight Josephine is perfect for maximalists looking for an Instagrammable spot to end their night. The décor is very reminiscent of early-aughts club life, with lots of hot pink, neon signs and—of course—a photobooth.
Carvela Vocal
L'Alingi Eternity Crystal-Embellished Satin Clutch Bag
Where to Stay
The Beaumont
When it comes to location, The Beaumont is unrivaled. Nestled on a quiet residential street in Mayfair, the five-star boutique hotel is steps from some of the best shopping in the area, including Selfridges (and Market Mercado, when you’re in the mood for a post-shopping gin and tonic). The recently remodeled hotel harkens back to the Art Deco era with a cozy bar, a delicious restaurant, and elegantly-appointed rooms with views overlooking Brown Hart Gardens.
The Cadogan
The Cadogan was once the home of socialite Lillie Langtry, and the hotel marries that stylish history (Oscar Wilde also frequented the downstairs bar) with the artsy Chelsea neighborhood for an experience that makes you feel less like you’re staying in a hotel, and more like you’re living in a chic London apartment building. Guests have access to the private garden across the street, but our favorite amenity is the Sleep Concierge service, which comes with a pillow menu, scented pillow mist, and a “sleep-inducing meditative recording.”
The Kensington
Stepping into The Kensington feels like stepping into the life of the royal family. The cozy drawing room is bookended with fireplaces and plush couches, perfect for sipping tea and gossiping about the latest royal drama. The generously-sized rooms include bathrooms with heated floors, something guests will appreciate after a chilly walk in the nearby Kensington Palace gardens.
Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park
The Mandarin Oriential Hyde Park was recently renovated by designer Joyce Wang, and the interiors are some of the most beautiful you’ll see at a hotel in London. With Art Deco finishings and thoughtful amenities like yoga mats and a GHD hair straightener, guests will feel right at home.
Alexander McQueen Cotton Panama Double Pleat Shorts
Beauty Picks
Victoria Beckham Beauty Posh Lipstick
Mimic the pout of Posh Spice herself with these sheer lipsticks created by the one and only Victoria Beckham. They're easy and low maintenance, but add a pop of color to any outfit.
Dr. Barbara Sturm Anti-Pollution Drops
City life can be dirty, but that doesn't mean we have to let it affect our skin. These anti-pollution drops mean you don't have to worry about blackheads while you're sipping beer in a smoke-filled pub.
London is notoriously rainy, but this waterproof eyeliner won't budge an inch. It's perfect for the waterline, to create that grungy, punk rock look.
Charlotte Tilbury Beauty Highlighter Wand
For picnics in the park and making museum-goers fall in love with you, a few taps of this dazzling highlighter wand will make heads turn. They're also great to pack in your carry-on, since spillage is impossible.
Jessica Roy is the Site Director of ELLE.com. Previously, she worked as the News Editor of TheCut.com. She likes baking, running and Instagrams of your dog.
Claire Stern is the Deputy Editor of ELLE.com. Previously, she served as Editor at Bergdorf Goodman. Her interests include fashion, food, travel, music, Peloton, and The Hills—not necessarily in that order. She used to have a Harriet the Spy notebook and isn’t ashamed to admit it.
