Things to Do in London: 63 Spots From HP Walking Tours

Planning notes for Greater London

The West End of London is a central district located north of the River Thames and west of the City of London. Its development as a distinct area began in the 17th century when aristocratic residents moved westward from the industrial and crowded City to be closer to the royal court at the Palace of Westminster. Historical Heritage and Architecture The district’s urban layout is defined by formal squares and symmetrical stone townhouses dating to the 17th and 18th centuries. St. James’s Square.

Must-try foods nearby

• Smoked Eel Sandwich
  A quintessential Soho staple from Quo Vadis, this dish features thick-cut, oily smoked eel paired with a sharp horseradish cream and pickled red onions on toasted sourdough.
• Khinkali (Georgian Soup Dumplings)
  A major trend for 2026 following the opening of DakaDaka on Heddon Street. These oversized, twisted dough parcels are filled with spiced meat and a rich, aromatic broth.
• Beef Wellington at Savoy Grill
  The ultimate classic of Covent Garden luxury. This dish consists of a tender beef fillet coated in mushroom duxelles and pâté, encased in golden, buttery puff pastry.
• Cacio e Pepe at Bancone
  Widely cited by locals and critics as some of the best pasta in London. The version at Bancone's Golden Square or William IV Street locations features perfectly al dente 'silk.
• Wild Ginger & Short Rib Curry
  A standout at Kiln Soho, this dish represents the 'live-fire' cooking trend dominating the 2026 scene.

When to go: The best time to visit the West End is during the shoulder seasons of late spring (May to June) or early autumn (September to October).

Local tips

• Always stand on the right side of Underground escalators to allow commuters to pass on the left.
• Check your restaurant bill for a discretionary 12.5% service charge before adding an extra tip.
• Avoid walking with your phone out in crowded areas like Leicester Square to prevent opportunistic theft.
• Use contactless payment or a mobile wallet for all public transport as cash is not accepted on buses or the Tube.

What travelers are noticing

• The Coffee Edit by Starbucks x The Devil Wears Prada: A fashion-led pop-up in Soho (opening March 13, 2026) featuring designer pieces and exclusive coffee pairings.
• Simpson’s in the Strand Reopening: The historic 200-year-old institution returns to the West End in March 2026 as a reimagined all-day dining destination and specialty coffee spot.
• Viral Specialty Lattes: A surge in 'functional' and aesthetic drinks across West End cafes, specifically pistachio-infused lattes, ceremonial matcha, and mushroom-based performance blends.

Extra place context

• Liberty London
  A quintessential West End landmark, this high-end department store is housed in a magnificent 1920s Tudor-revival building constructed from the timbers of two ancient warships.
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• Carnaby Street
  Historically the heart of 'Swinging Sixties' London, this pedestrianized district has reinvented itself as a hub for modern trendsetters and experiential retail.
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