Our Ultimate Guide to London—Just In Time for the Royal Wedding

By Anna Mack

The royal wedding is only days away, so we can’t help but have jolly ol’ London on the brain! Although the “I dos” between Prince Harry and Meghan Markle will be taking place at Windsor Castle (approximately an hour outside of London proper), we are daydreaming of what we would do in the UK capital for the week prior to the royal nuptials. Just think: Morning walks through the Kensington Palace gardens, tea at the Ritz, facials at Cowshed Spa, shopping at Harrods, and ending the day with a Pimm’s cup at The Wolseley in the afternoon. London’s blend of Old World charm and posh sophistication are exactly why it’s one of our favorite cities in the world. Needless to say we are extremely jealous that Meghan Markle gets to call this wonderful city her new home.

In celebration of our favorite couple getting hitched, we have put together the ultimate guide to this timeless town, including where to stay, where to shop, what to do, and most importantly where to eat and drink. Enjoy!

WHERE TO STAY

MID-RANGE HOTELS ($150 – $300):

Number 16
Situated in the heart of lively South Kensington, this Firmdale Hotel is a London gem. With its own tree-filled private garden, this boutique hotel gives you all the facilities of a luxury experience including 24-hour room service, valet, and afternoon tea.

Artist Residence London
Nestled conveniently between the charms of Chelsea, Tate Britain, and the majesty of Westminster, the Artist Residence London offers 10 unique rooms for a more bohemian stay in Britain. The small boutique hotel is also home to the Cambridge Street Kitchen, tucked away in the side streets of Pimlico, where you can stop in for a coffee, or settle in for afternoon tea.

The Ned
One of our favorite British homes away from home is The Ned, located near the Bank Street tube stop in London proper. With a resemblance to the Soho House aesthetic, The Ned is the result of a collaboration between Nick Jones (founder of Soho House) and Andrew Zobler of Sydell Group (owner of the Nomad in NYC and Saguaro in Palm Springs). Make sure to try all of their nine restaurants on the ground floor of this luxury hotel and the Cowshed Spa is a must.

Brown’s Hotel
Brown’s Hotel is considered London’s first hotel, opening its doors on Albemarle Street in 1837. This distinguished hotel has hosted esteemed guests of the world, from royals to American presidents. The famous Donovan Bar is the perfect spot for a nightcap or a Pimm’s cup in the afternoon.

The Laslett
Located in quaint Notting Hill, on a street lined with Victorian townhouses is the small, but luxurious Laslett Hotel.

SPLURGE-WORTHY HOTELS ($300 – $500):

Hotel 41
Overlooking the Royal Mews and Buckingham Palace, there is no better place to stay than Hotel 41 for all of your royal wedding envy. Due to its discreet location, 41 has a relaxed and exclusive feel, even though you are steps away from Westminster Abbey, Downing Street, and the Houses of Parliament.

The Dorchester
The Dorchester is located in our favorite London neighborhood, Mayfair. Minutes away from Hyde Park, this elegant hotel is the perfect location for a honeymoon getaway or a unique destination wedding.