As we have realised that we have never shared our top 5 favourite neighbourhoods in London, we decided to put together a list of what are in our opinion the most inspiring and charming hoods in the city. These are perfect both if you are visiting London for the first time, or if you are an affectionate visitor.

In collaboration with Booking.com, we want to give you some ideas of a few charming neighbourhoods to stay in that will help you experience London as a local. Also, if you are lucky enough to own a property in this area, you can now rent it out with Booking.com. No matter if you look for additional source of income, or simply want to experience being a host to international travellers!

1. Angel, Islington

We wanted to start our list with a neighbourhood that we particularly love, both because we think it’s a true hidden gem and also because we love it so much that we’ve actually decided live there! The name isn’t the only angelic thing about this ‘hood as Angel, in Islington, is definitely one of the best places to live in London (word of us locals!), due to its very central location, brilliant restaurants and cafes, cute vintage shops, and cosy atmosphere.

Angel’s Upper Street offers a variety of cuisines, well-known restaurant chains and even a shopping centre with high street fashion shops. Head to Camden Passage, at only 2 minutes from the Tube station, to find the cutest independent restaurants, brunch places and fashionable boutiques that will make you feel like you had been caught into a time warp. Below one of the properties that are listed on Booking.com in Angel:

2. Hampstead

Another cute neighbourhood that we thought it was worth including is Hampstead, a little village full of charming streets and home of many artists and poets back in the days. We couldn’t think of a better place where to wander around on a sunny Sunday afternoon, stopping only for a pint of beer in one of the cutest little pubs in the city.

The highlight of this neighbourhood is the nearby park, considered to be one of the best parks in London, Hampstead Heath. You will love seeing the panoramic view of the city’s skyline from Parliament Hill, and walking towards Kenwood House, a true hidden gem that features stunning interiors and an impressive art collection.

Below one of the properties that are listed on Booking.com in Hampstead:

Onefinestay – Hampstead private homes, Nw3

Onefinestay – Hampstead private homes, Nw3

3. Notting Hill

We absolutely won’t blame you if, when thinking about Notting Hill, if the first thing that comes to your mind is a scene from the famous movie with Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant, but actually this neighbourhood has much, much more in store for you. One of the highlight is the quirky Portobello Road Market, the world’s largest antiques market, where you can wander (and easily get lost) between over 1,000 stalls, that sell every kind of antique little treasures you could think of.

Escape the crowds and follow the locals to eat some of the yummiest foods and find the coolest restaurants. Our top picks in this neighbourhood are Granger & Co. and Farmacy for healthy food with many vegan and vegetarian options, and Farm Girl for a picture perfect background. Also, you can’t miss  The Churchill Arms pub, which is lovely both inside and outside!

Below one of the properties that are listed on Booking.com in Notting Hill:

Perfect Notting Hill Pad, W111SA 

Sumptuous 4 bed / 3 bath house in Notting Hill, W113NZ

Notting Hill is also home to the cutest pastel houses you could ever think of. Try to take a walk towards Notting Hill Gate, and you may even get lucky and spot this super cute (and picture-perfect) vintage van, parked just in front of the cutest houses.

4. Chelsea

Chelsea is definitely one of London’s richest neighbourhoods, featuring beautiful Victorian houses, chic independent fashion boutiques and designer stores. The area is full of many hidden squares lined with the famous white-pillared houses, and it’s definitely the best places for house watching (and dreaming about your future house goals!). Head to Bywater Street to fulfil your pink pastel house cravings.

The most beautiful apartments to stay in Chelsea:

Onslow Gardens View, SW7 

Chelsea is also home to The Saatchi Gallery, which is free for all and features a collection of interesting exhibitions that are constantly changing. Given the central location of this neighbourhood, you can easily walk from Chelsea to many lovely places, such as South Kensington, home of the Natural History Museum, Knightsbridge where you can find Harrods, the luxury department store, and Hyde Park.

Below one of the properties that are listed on Booking.com in Chelsea:

Primrose Boutique Home, NW33PX 

Primrose Boutique Home, NW33PX 

We really hope you like our pretty little guide of some of our top 5 neighbourhoods, and that you’ll now feel a little bit inspired on where to stay for your next visit in London! Also, if you are lucky enough to live in one of those wonderful areas, or in any London area, and you are thinking of renting your place, please don’t forget to list your property on Booking.com, by following this link https://join.booking.com. One of the many cool things about listing your property is that you’ll have absolute freedom of when to accept guests, and of when to close your property (perfect if you are going on holiday for a few weeks/months!). Also, you have zero sign-up fees or subscription costs, and an additional 24/7 support if you have any questions.