London is perhaps one of the most worldly cities on Earth; from its Roman roots and Anglo-Saxon and medieval histories to its emergence as a financial and cultural institution, London has survived and thrived over the centuries. With more than 8.8 million people, the English capital along the Thames River spans many districts and boroughs, including Mayfair, Canary Wharf, Camden, Southwark, and Kensington and Chelsea, each with its own charm and character. London also exerts a major influence in the worlds of fashion, finance, luxury hospitality, fine dining, film and theater.

GETTING THERE & AROUND
A massive air transport hub, London boasts the busiest city airspace in the world. Heathrow Airport, 14 miles west of the city, is the largest of six international airports in and around London. Major U.S. airlines fly to LHR, including American Airlines, United Airlines, Delta Air Lines and JetBlue. The airport offers several ways to reach city center: Heathrow Express non-stop direct train service to London Paddington; the London Underground, connecting via the Piccadilly Line; and the new Elizabeth Line, stopping at Abbey Wood and Shenfield via Paddington and Central London. London is very walkable, but for trips to specific sites, the London Underground (or Tube) offers an easy-to-navigate system. The iconic double-decker buses are more than a fun sight; they provide a great way to get around while seeing the city. The well-known black taxis and rideshare services are also available.

LODGING
Claridge’s
A favorite of celebrities and royalty for decades, this 19th-century hotel in Mayfair embraces traditional London luxury with personal butlers, a 1930s cocktail lounge, upscale restaurant, afternoon tea lounge and spa.
Brook Street, Mayfair, London, United Kingdom,
tel 44 20 7629 8860

The Connaught
A hotel since 1897, The Connaught makes original art the focal point across its guestrooms and suites, French restaurant, glass-enclosed brasserie, cocktail bar and Champagne Room. A spa and steam room also await.
Carlos Place, Mayfair, London, United Kingdom,
tel 44 20 7499 7070

The Londoner
Sleek, modern and elegant, this 5-star hotel sits right in Leicester Square, complete with five high-end bars and restaurants, including an exclusive whiskey lounge; spa; and more.
38 Leicester Square, London, United Kingdom,
tel 44 20 7451 0101

DINING
HIDE
Spanning three floors, this modern European restaurant serves simple, seasonal and delicious fare presented theatrically.
85 Piccadilly, London, United Kingdom,
tel 44 20 3146 8666

Kioku by Endo
Located within Raffles London at The OWO, this Michelin-starred institution honors Japanese culinary traditions and heritage through an array of fresh seafood as well as standout dishes like black cod and Wagyu. Opt for rooftop seating in warmer months.
Sixth Floor, The OWO, 2 Whitehall Place,
London, United Kingdom, tel 44 20 3327 3692

Wiltons Restaurant
Enjoy the best of British cuisine and seafood at this beloved institution. An oyster bar and carving trolley make for a unique dining experience.
55 Jermyn St., St. James’s, London, United
Kingdom, tel 44 20 7629 9955

ATTRACTIONS
The British Museum
Free to enter, this museum boasts the largest collection in the world as well as iconic pieces such as the Rosetta Stone, mummies, pieces from Greek temples, drawings by Da Vinci and Botticelli, Sutton Hoo treasures found in England, a bog body, and more.
Great Russell Street, London, United Kingdom,
tel 44 20 7323 8000

Tower of London
Founded by William the Conqueror in 1066, the Tower of London is a historic castle and citadel on the banks of the River Thames. The tower, home to the Crown Jewels of England, has also been the site of notorious executions of Anne Boleyn, Lady Jane Grey and Catherine Howard.
London Borough of Tower Hamlets, London,
United Kingdom, tel 44 333 320 6000

Westminster Abbey
The site of coronations and weddings of English and British monarchs, this beautiful abbey is also where you’ll find the tombs of many English, Scottish and British monarchs, including Mary, Queen of Scots and Elizabeth I, as well as historical figures such as Charles Darwin and Stephen Hawking.
Dean’s Yard, London, United Kingdom,
tel 44 20 7222 5152