London Apartments

England’s capital and one of the world’s great cities, London attracts 30 million international tourists each year. Samuel Johnson declared “when a man is tired of London, he is tired of life”, and its easy to see why. From the black of its cabs to the red of its double decker buses, London exudes colour at odds with its somewhat grey reputation. While on holiday, visitors can experience historic icons like Big Ben, the Tower of London and Buckingham Palace, and modern draw cards like the London Eye and Tate Modern gallery, but there’s much more to London than its tourist attractions. Witness the buzz of vibrant Soho, join the arty alternative in Camden and Shoreditch, or take in the pretty pastels of Notting Hill. You might start your day with a full English breakfast at a local caf, shop ‘til you drop on Oxford Street or at Harrods, then finish up with a play or musical in the famous West End. If you choose self-catering accommodation in London, you can also take advantage of famous foodie hotspots like award-winning Borough Market, nestled under the railway arches of London Bridge, or Broadway Market in the trendy East London suburb of the same name.

When to go to London

While London is dogged by a reputation for grey dreariness, visitors can take comfort in knowing that whatever the weather, the show still goes on. Summer is peak season for tourists and a great time to visit, but the city is also lovely in spring and autumn, when the weather is mild and crowds thin substantially. You shouldn’t discount winter, though, when chilly delights like ice skating on the Tower of London moat become possible. Plus, if you choose London accommodation with an open fire, it’s a great excuse to cosy up with a glass of red wine.

Getting to and around London

Flights arrive at London’s five major airports – Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, London City and Luton – or by National Rail and Eurostar train services. Once you arrive, the public transport system will impress, from the tube to those iconic red buses. The more adventurous might want to make like a Londoner and hire a blue Barclays bicycle, more widely and affectionately known as Boris Bikes.

Accommodation in London

London hotels are notoriously expensive, so for a cheaper accommodation alternative you can’t go past a London holiday rental. Not only will you get to stay in a real London neighbourhood and experience a taste of true London life, you’ll get more space, freedom and privacy. Choose from a number of quality HouseTrip London holiday rentals, from inexpensive studios and apartments to family-friendly houses, almost all of which are self-catering.

London is a HouseTrip Green City. Click here to view our infographic.

Written by Travel expert: Simon Dance