Super Simple London Neighborhood Guide: Where’s Best for You? 

London is massive and can be hard to understand.

If you’re coming to visit London or to live in London, it’s totally normal to be overwhelmed by the sheer size of it all. 

How far apart is everything? Where should you stay? Where should you live? If you don’t know London at all, this can be baffling. 

Here I’ve put together a super simple London neighborhood guide for you, so you can make sense of all the different areas: where they are, what they’re known for, and the key features of each. 

Let’s get to know the basics of London. 

Overview of London’s Layout

map of London's layout: where the neighborhoods are. Google map of london with areas Central, north, south, west and east labeled with the general boundaries of greater london and central london

London is divided into the following areas: Central, North, South, East, and West London. 

Central London is where you’ll find most tourist attractions and office buildings. 

West London is the poshest district, and has significant spots like Buckingham Palace and Parliament. 

North London is mostly residential with lots of parks and posh residences. 

South London (south of the Thames) is known as being a bit more affordable and stereotyped as a bit “rougher,” but generally that’s not the case. 

East London is the historic industrial center of London and is generally more affordable. This is also stereotyped as a rough area, but it’s not.

Understanding London’s Postcodes 

infographic of london postcodes and what tourists need to know about postcodes. simple breakdown of the general area that the first letter of the postcode denotes

London’s neighborhoods are marked by postcodes, and these are alphanumeric codes used to identify neighborhoods for mail and navigation. A postcode looks like this: W1-5DT. 

As a visitor, the only thing you need to know is this: the first part of a postcode tells you the geographic area the location is in. 

  • N or NW= North London 
  • E= East London
  • W= West London 
  • EC or WC= Central London
  • S, SE, or SW= South London 

These are super handy because you can see at a glance where something is. 

Understanding London’s Boroughs 

map of london's boroughs: understanding the borough system for tourists vs residents. the most central london boroughs are in the middle and suburbs are toward the outside of the map.

London is laid out in 32 boroughs plus the City of London (also kind of like a borough), which are similar to the American system of counties or the district system of other countries. 

Boroughs segment London into different local governments, with boroughs run by local councils. This essentially divides the massive area of London up into smaller, more manageable areas. 

Boroughs only really matter to London residents. If you’re just visiting London, don’t worry about boroughs – just know that they exist and that a borough isn’t the same as a neighborhood. A borough is a much larger area than a neighborhood!

Understanding London Neighborhoods 

Neighborhoods are the next smallest segment in London’s geography. Every London neighborhood is different, and there are so many that it’s totally overwhelming to a lot of visitors and new residents. 

I can’t possibly go over every London neighborhood here, but I’ve tried to highlight the significant and most well-known ones.

Here’s a simple breakdown of the most significant London neighborhoods to get you better acquainted with the city. 

London Area Guide to Central London Neighborhoods: East 

Starting off with the place where most tourists spend their time, let’s examine the key neighborhoods of Central London. This is the real center of London where most of the action happens. 

Central London is divided into West Central and East Central postcodes.

london neighborhood map: neighborhoods of east central london. google map of east central london with tower of london graphic and text overlaid: "east central london neighborhoods"

East Central London is where places like the Tower of London and the City of London are. It’s also where many businesses have their offices, so many, many people commute to this area everyday. 

For tourists, you can stay in any of these areas and be close to everything you want to see. 

For residents, these areas can be pricey, but your commute could likely be on foot! 

Holborn

A blend of business and culture, notable for its legal institutions and near The British Museum. 

  • Best for: Residents & Tourists alike. 
  • Poshness: £££
  • Commute time to central london: You’re already there. 
  • Borough & Postcode: Camden & City of London, WC & EC 

The City of London

Often referred to simply as ‘The City’ or ‘The Square Mile’, this area is the financial district of London, home to the Stock Exchange, the Bank of England, Temple Bar, and big skyscrapers.

  • Best for: Tourists, seeing history, and the 9-5. 
  • Poshness: £££
  • Commute time to central london: You’re already there.
  • Borough & Postcode: City of London, EC

Farringdon

london neighborhoods explained: image of the central london farringdon neighborhood of london next to an image of the Bank neighborhood of london
St. Bartholomew’s Gatehouse (left) in Farringdon, and the Bank of England steps in the City of London (right).

Farringdon is known for its bustling mix of historic sites, trendy bars, and the famous Smithfield Market, historic Charterhouse Square and the ancient St Bartholomew’s Hospital. It’s a hub of both old and new London charm.

  • Best for: Tourists seeing history, Londoners seeking old world charm. 
  • Poshness: £££
  • Commute time to central london: You’re already there. 
  • Borough & Postcode: City of London, EC 

Clerkenwell 

Clerkenwell boasts a rich historical heritage, particularly in printing and watchmaking, and is now a fashionable area known for its creative industries, stylish restaurants, and design studios.

  • Best for: Tourists to stay centrally, residents to live close to the City. 
  • Poshness: £££
  • Commute time to central london: You’re already there.
  • Borough & Postcode: Islington, EC 

Barbican 

The Barbican is renowned for its Brutalist architecture, housing the Barbican Centre, a major cultural venue, and a complex of residential apartments and gardens.

  • Best for: Tourists to stay centrally, residents to live centrally (if you can tolerate brutalist architecture). 
  • Poshness: £££
  • Commute time to central london: You’re already there.
  • Borough & Postcode: City of London, EC 

St. Paul’s 

where are the neighborhoods of london? Image of the St. Paul's neighborhood of central london next to an image of Leadenhall market in the city of london
St Paul’s Cathedral (left) and Leadenhall Market in the City of London (right).

Known mostly for iconic St. Paul’s Cathedral, St. Paul’s is also the location of the Central Criminal Court (The Old Bailey) and lots of 9-5 workers.

  • Best for: Tourists seeing iconic architecture. 
  • Poshness: ££££
  • Commute time to central london: You’re already there.
  • Borough & Postcode: City of London, EC

London Area Guide to Central London Neighborhoods: West 

map of west central london neighborhoods with big ben and buckingham palace marked with graphics

Here’s a London neighborhood guide to the areas of West Central London, which is where iconic landmarks like Trafalgar Square and Covent Garden are. 

As a tourist, you can stay in any of these neighborhoods and be very close to all the sights of London. 

For residents, these are some of the most expensive places to live, but you’ll be right in the center of everything. 

Soho

where are the neighborhoods of london? West central neighborhoods Soho and mayfair pictured with location labels

Known for its nightlife, theaters, and diverse dining options, Soho is a bustling area popular with tourists and locals alike. It’s the heart of London’s gay community and right next to Chinatown. 

  • Best for: Trendy nightlife & LGBTQ+ community. 
  • Poshness: £££
  • Commute time to central london: 15 minutes to Bank Station 
  • Borough & Postcode: Westminster, W 

Mayfair

An affluent area known for its luxury shops and hotels, art galleries, and elegant Georgian townhouses. 

  • Best for: Posh residences, posh tourists. 
  • Poshness: £££££
  • Commute time to central london: 15 minutes to Bank Station
  • Borough & Postcode: Westminster, W 

Westminster 

Home to the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, and Westminster Abbey, this area is the political heart of London. It’s rather bland in terms of shopping and dining. 

  • Best for: Seeing iconic sights. 
  • Poshness: ££££
  • Commute time to central london: 20 minutes to Bank Station 
  • Borough & Postcode: Westminster, SW 

Covent Garden 

london neighborhoods list: image of westminster's big ben and parliament on the left, with covent garden market on the right

Right next to Leicester Square but with much more character, Covent Garden is famous for its shops, dining, the Royal Opera House, the London Transport Museum, markets, and proximity to theaters. Covent Garden is a great place for tourists to stay centrally. 

  • Best for: Shopping and dining. 
  • Poshness: ££££
  • Commute time to central london: 20 minutes to Bank Station 
  • Borough & Postcode: Westminster & Camden, W 

Bloomsbury

Known for its garden squares and the British Museum, Bloomsbury has a rich literary history and a relaxed, academic atmosphere. 

  • Best for: A bit more posh Central London experience, but not as posh as Mayfair. 
  • Poshness: ££££
  • Commute time to central london: 20 minutes to Bank Station 
  • Borough & Postcode: Camden, WC 

Fitzrovia

Offers a mix of residential, business, academic, and cultural spaces, known for its bohemian history and restaurant scene. 

  • Best for: Great central place for tourists to stay. 
  • Poshness: ££££
  • Commute time to central london: 20 minutes to Bank Station
  • Borough & Postcode: Camden, W 

St. James’s

what are some good neighborhoods in london? Image of mews homes in marylebone on the left, with picturesque st James park on the right
Beautiful mews homes of Marylebone (left) and picturesque St. James Park (right)

An exclusive area known for its historic gentlemen’s clubs, luxury hotels, and close proximity to the royal palaces. 

  • Best for: Wandering parks and posh streets. 
  • Poshness: £££££
  • Commute time to central london: 20 minutes to Bank Station
  • Borough & Postcode: Westminster, SW 

Marylebone

At the south end of Regent’s Park, Marylebone (pronounced “Mar-le-bone”) is a stylish neighborhood with a village feel. Wander the posh high street for high-end boutiques, restaurants, and the Wallace Collection museum, or wander toward nearby Oxford and Baker Streets. 

  • Best for: Posh residents and tourists who want to stay centrally.  
  • Poshness: ££££
  • Commute time to central london: 20 minutes to Bank Station
  • Borough & Postcode: Camden, W 

Neighborhoods of London: West  

west london neighborhood map: google map with neighborhoods labeled and text overlaid: "west london neighborhood guide"

Here’s a London neighborhood guide to West London, sorted from shortest distance to Central London to longest. 

As a tourist, you could stay in any of the areas toward the top of the list and be in a very central location for sightseeing. 

As a resident, West London includes some of the most expensive neighborhoods to live in. 

Westminster & Belgravia 

london neighborhoods list by area: west london neighborhoods pictured: Belgravia (left) and South Kensington (right)
Embassies in Belgravia (left) and the Museum of Natural History in South Kensington (right).

Although it’s also considered central London, parts of Westminster, like Belgravia and Pimlico, are in West London, known for their regal architecture and proximity to Buckingham Palace.

  • Best for: Sightseeing. 
  • Poshness: ££££
  • Commute time to central london: 20 minutes to Bank Station 
  • Borough & Postcode: Westminster, SW 

Maida Vale 

This pretty Northwest London spot is right next to Paddington Station for easy train access. It also contains one of the coolest and most beautiful waterside spots on Regent’s Canal: Little Venice. 

  • Best for: Northwest London living without the Hampstead price tag, or a beautiful place for tourists to stay away from the hustle and bustle. 
  • Poshness: £££
  • Commute time to central london: 25 minutes to Bank Station 
  • Main Borough & Postcode: Westminster, W 

Shepherd’s Bush

Home to the Westfield shopping center and entertainment venues with good transport links, but not much London character.

  • Best for: Good shopping and good transport. 
  • Poshness: £££
  • Commute time to central london: 25 minutes to Bank Station 
  • Main Borough & Postcode: Hammersmith & Fulham, W 

South Kensington 

Home to a cluster of free museums and elegant streets, a favorite for both tourists and locals. 

  • Best for: Shopping, museums, and nice hotels. 
  • Poshness: ££££
  • Commute time to central london:  30 minutes to Bank Station 
  • Borough & Postcode: Kensington & Chelsea, SW 

Fulham

list of london neighborhoods: west london areas Fulham pictured left, Kensington pictured right

A Thameside residential area known for its stylish boutiques, riverside pubs, and the home of two Premier League football clubs.

  • Best for: Chic residential streets a bit out of the center of the hustle and bustle. 
  • Poshness: ££££ 
  • Commute time to central london: 30 minutes to Bank Station 
  • Borough & Postcode: Kensington & Chelsea, SW

Earl’s Court

A cosmopolitan area known for its exhibition center and a variety of dining and entertainment options. Vast and beautiful Brompton Cemetery borders to the south. 

  • Best for: West London without the exorbitant Kensington prices. Good spot for tourists to stay centrally. 
  • Poshness: £££
  • Commute time to central london: 30 minutes to Bank Station 
  • Main Borough & Postcode: Kensington & Chelsea, SW 

Kensington

Famous for its palace and gardens, and bordering Hyde Park, there’s upscale shopping at Harrods and beautiful residential streets.

  • Best for: Museums and posh shopping. 
  • Poshness: £££££
  • Commute time to central london: 30 minutes to Bank Station
  • Borough & Postcode: Kensington & Chelsea, SW

Chelsea

list of places in north london: area guide with posh home of Chelsea pictured left, and colorful pastel row houses of Notting Hill pictured right

Known for its affluent residential areas, the King’s Road shopping street, and the Chelsea Flower Show.

  • Best for: Posh shopping and dining. 
  • Poshness: £££££
  • Commute time to central london: 35 minutes to Bank Station
  • Borough & Postcode: Kensington & Chelsea, SW

Notting Hill

Renowned for its colorful houses, Portobello Road Market, and the annual Notting Hill Carnival. And yes, that one movie. 

  • Best for: A posh but bohemian vibe. 
  • Poshness: ££££
  • Commute time to central london: 35 minutes to Bank Station
  • Borough & Postcode: Kensington & Chelsea, W

Hammersmith

list of london neighborhoods by area: west london neighborhoods Chiswick pictured left, Hammersmith pictured right

A bustling area with a major commercial center, riverside walks, and the Hammersmith Apollo venue.

  • Best for: Artsy London living on the Thames. 
  • Poshness: £££
  • Commute time to central london: 35 minutes to Bank Station
  • Main Borough & Postcode: Hammersmith & Fulham, W 

Acton

Known for its family-friendly residential areas & parks.

  • Best for: Leafy suburbs. 
  • Poshness: ££
  • Commute time to central london:  45 minutes to Bank Station 
  • Borough & Postcode: Ealing, W 

Chiswick 

Known for its village-like charm, leafy streets, and the historic Chiswick House and Gardens.

  • Best for: Pretty, posh village living. 
  • Poshness: ££££
  • Commute time to central london: 50 minutes to Bank Station
  • Main Borough & Postcode: Ealing, W 

London Area Guide to North London Neighborhoods 

london neighborhood map of north london areas: google map with labeled neighborhoods and text overlaid: "north london neighborhoods"

Here’s a London neighborhood guide to North London, sorted from shortest distance to Central London to longest. 

As a tourist, stick to the top few locations on this list and you’ll be within easy distance of the sights by tube. 

As a resident, some of these areas can be very pricey, but the further out you go, generally the cheaper they become. 

King’s Cross

guide to north london neighborhoods: king's cross regent's canal picture on the left, regent's canal running through Camden Town on the right

Not only a great transport hub with its own tube and international rail station, King’s Cross has recently gotten a total makeover with trendy and cool shops and restaurants at Coal Drops Yard and pretty Granary Square. 

  • Best for: Great transport for living and visiting, with lots to do right there. 
  • Poshness: £££
  • Commute time to central london: 10 minutes to Bank Station 
  • Borough & Postcode: Camden, N 

Camden Town

Famous for its market, eclectic music scene, and vibrant street life, Camden Town is a hub of alternative culture.

  • Best for: Cool alternative & artsy vibes. 
  • Poshness: £££
  • Commute time to central london: 15 minutes to Bank Station 
  • Borough & Postcode: Camden, N 

Primrose Hill 

Known for its pastel houses and celebrity residents, you can also see the entire city from the nearby viewpoint at the top of Regent’s Park. 

  • Best for: Posh & pretty vibes.  
  • Poshness: £££££
  • Commute time to central london: 20 minutes to Bank Station 
  • Borough & Postcode: Camden, N

Islington

north london area guide: hampstead pictured on the left with islington pictured on the right

Known for its beautiful Georgian townhouses, trendy shops, and restaurants along Upper Street, as well as the Almeida Theatre. A great place to wander Regent’s Canal. 

  • Best for: Being close to Central London with more green space. 
  • Poshness: £££
  • Commute time to central london: 20 minutes to Bank Station 
  • Borough & Postcode: Islington, N 

Hampstead 

Renowned for its intellectual, artistic, and literary associations, as well as Hampstead Heath, a large, ancient London park.

  • Best for: Celebrity spotting and quaint village high street. 
  • Poshness: £££££
  • Commute time to central london: 20 minutes to Bank Station 
  • Main Borough & Postcode: Camden, NW 

Tufnell Park

Known for its peaceful residential streets and local arts scene, with easy access to the bustling areas of Camden and Islington.

  • Best for:  Suburban living that’s still well-connected
  • Poshness: £££
  • Commute time to central london: 25 minutes to Bank Station 
  • Main Borough & Postcode: Islington, N 

Finsbury Park

A diverse area with a large park of the same name, Finsbury Park is known for its vibrant atmosphere and cultural diversity.

  • Best for:  Suburban living that’s still well-connected, with great green space and multicultural community. 
  • Poshness: £££
  • Commute time to central london: 25 minutes to Bank Station 
  • Main Borough & Postcode: Islington, N 

Archway

Named after its landmark arch, it’s a neighborhood with a mix of residential and commercial areas, offering a more affordable slice of North London.

  • Best for:  Suburban living that’s still well-connected
  • Poshness: ££
  • Commute time to central london: 30 minutes to Bank Station 
  • Main Borough & Postcode: Islington, N 

Kentish Town

areas in north london: pastel houses of Kentish Town pictured left, waterside views of Stoke Newington left

A blend of residential and commercial, known for its music venues and easy access to the green spaces of Hampstead Heath.

  • Best for: Chill residential area with green spaces and good high street. 
  • Poshness: £££
  • Commute time to central london: 30 minutes to Bank Station 
  • Main Borough & Postcode: Camden, NW 

Holloway 

Best known for the Emirates Stadium, home of Arsenal Football Club, and a variety of shops and eateries.

  • Best for: Suburban living that’s still well-connected. 
  • Poshness: £££
  • Commute time to central london: 35 minutes to Bank Station 
  • Main Borough & Postcode: Islington, N 

Stoke Newington

Affectionately known as ‘Stokey’, this area is known for its community spirit, independent shops, and Clissold Park.

  • Best for: Hipster heaven for families and young Londoners. 
  • Poshness: £££
  • Commute time to central london: 35 minutes to Bank Station 
  • Main Borough & Postcode: Hackney, N 

Highgate

guide to london neighborhoods: muswell hill row houses pictured on the left, overhead view of hilly Highgate pictured on the right

Home to gorgeous Highgate Cemetery and a charming village-like atmosphere, Highgate is known for its historic architecture and green spaces.

  • Best for: Mansions and quaint village vibe. 
  • Poshness: £££££
  • Commute time to central london: 45 minutes to Bank Station 
  • Main Borough & Postcode: Camden & Haringey, N

Crouch End

Popular with artists and creatives, Crouch End is known for its independent shops, cafes, and the iconic Clock Tower.

  • Best for: Artsy community good for young families and professionals. 
  • Poshness: £££
  • Commute time to central london: 45 minutes to Bank Station 
  • Main Borough & Postcode: Haringey, N 

Muswell Hill

A suburban enclave offering stunning views of the city, known for its Edwardian architecture and family-friendly atmosphere.

  • Best for: Posh but not Hampstead posh North London vibe. 
  • Poshness: £££
  • Commute time to central london: 1 hour to Bank Station 
  • Main Borough & Postcode: Barnet & Haringey, N 

London Area Guide to South London Neighborhoods 

south london neighborhood map: google map with neighborhoods labeled and graphic of the London eye on the Southbank of the Thames

Here’s a London neighborhood guide to South London areas, sorted from closest to Central London to farthest away. 

As a tourist, you may want to stick to the top few locations on this list. As a resident, the further down you go on the list, the more affordable the locations become. 

South Bank/Waterloo 

areas in london: southbank neighborhood pictured left looking over the thames, bridge over Bermondsey pictured right

Situated along the Thames, South Bank is famous for cultural attractions like the Tate Modern, Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, and the London Eye.

  • Best for: Sightseeing, central place to stay just south of the Thames. 
  • Poshness: £££
  • Commute time to central london: 10 minutes to Bank Station 
  • Borough & Postcode: Lambeth, Southwark, SE 

Bermondsey

Famous for Bermondsey Street’s trendy cafes and restaurants, and the historic Borough Market nearby.

  • Best for: Trendy hipster vibe with water views. 
  • Poshness: £££
  • Commute time to central london: 20 minutes to Bank Station 
  • Borough & Postcode: Southwark, SE 

Greenwich

districts in london: south london neighborhoods Greenwich pictured left, Brixton's Electric Avenue pictured right

Known for its maritime history, the Royal Observatory, and the historic Cutty Sark, Greenwich is a blend of the old and new.

  • Best for: Living in a village…but still in London. 
  • Poshness: ££££
  • Commute time to central london: 25 minutes to Bank Station 
  • Borough & Postcode: Greenwich, SE 

Brixton 

Known for its lively street market, vibrant music scene, and rich Afro-Caribbean culture.

  • Best for: Affordable living in a cool spot. 
  • Poshness: ££
  • Commute time to central london: 25 minutes to Bank Station 
  • Borough & Postcode: Lambeth, SW

Clapham

what are the different areas of london? south london neighborhoods Clapham pictured left with massive clapham common in the foreground, and residential area Peckham pictured left with orderly rows of homes

Popular among young professionals, known for its bustling High Street, Clapham Common, and vibrant nightlife.

  • Best for: Trending district great for families with good transport links. 
  • Poshness: £££
  • Commute time to central london: 25 minutes to Bank Station 
  • Borough & Postcode: Wandsworth, Lambeth, SW

Peckham

Known for its artistic community, diverse cuisine, and the Peckham Levels creative space.

  • Best for: Urban living with more suburban vibes. 
  • Poshness: £££
  • Commute time to central london: 30 minutes to Bank Station 
  • Borough & Postcode: Southwark, SE

Wandsworth

Offers a mix of urban and green spaces, with the Wandsworth Common and a variety of pubs and restaurants.

  • Best for: Cool community, Thameside. 
  • Poshness: £££
  • Commute time to central london: 30 minutes to Bank Station 
  • Borough & Postcode: Wandsworth, SW 

Lewisham

A multicultural area with a large shopping center, local markets, and the Lewisham Model Market.

  • Best for: Suburban living. 
  • Poshness: ££
  • Commute time to central london: 35 minutes to Bank Station 
  • Borough & Postcode: Lewisham, SE 

Streatham

Known for its High Road, Streatham Common, and a diverse community with a strong local identity.

  • Best for: Suburban living. 
  • Poshness: £££
  • Commute time to central london: 40 minutes to Bank Station 
  • Borough & Postcode: Lambeth, SW 

Dulwich 

south london area names and photos: leafy park in Dulwich pictured left, Battersea power station in Battersea, south london, pictured right

An affluent area known for its gallery, picturesque village center, and excellent schools.

  • Best for: Posh suburbs. 
  • Poshness: ££££
  • Commute time to central london: 45 minutes to Bank Station 
  • Borough & Postcode: Southwark, SE

Battersea

Home to the iconic Battersea Power Station redevelopment and the sprawling Battersea Park.

  • Best for: Trendy living south of the Thames.  
  • Poshness: £££
  • Commute time to central london: 45 minutes to Bank Station 
  • Borough & Postcode: Wandsworth, SW 

Crystal Palace

Named after the famous glass palace, this area is known for its panoramic views of London, eclectic shops, and large park.

  • Best for: Suburban green space. 
  • Poshness: £££
  • Commute time to central london: 50 minutes to Bank Station 
  • Borough & Postcode: Borders of Bromley, Croydon, Lambeth, & Lewisham: SE

Richmond 

what are the districts of london? South london neighborhoods green and massive Wimbledon pictured left, leafy waterside Richmond pictured right.

Known recently as the home (and filming location) of Ted Lasso, Richmond has always been an idyllic little enclave that feels like a village, while still technically in London. 

  • Best for: Posh village out of the hustle and bustle.  
  • Poshness: ££££
  • Commute time to central london: 45 minutes to Bank Station 
  • Borough & Postcode: Twickenham, KT. 

Wimbledon

Famous worldwide for the Wimbledon Tennis Championships, this area also boasts a charming village feel and extensive green spaces.

  • Best for: Suburban living. 
  • Poshness: £££
  • Commute time to central london: 50 minutes to Bank Station 
  • Borough & Postcode: Merton, SW 

London Neighborhood Guide: East London

east london neighborhood map: google map with neighborhoods of east london labeled and text overlaid: "east london neighborhoods explained"

Here’s a guide to the major neighborhoods of East London. 

As a tourist, you can stay in any of the top few locations on this list and be within easy distance of all the big sights. 

As a resident, East London is one of the most affordable areas to live in, depending on what boroughs you look in. 

Shoreditch 

what are some good neighborhoods in east london? Classic and cool Shoreditch georgian row houses pictured left, with waterside views from Limehouse pictured right

Famous for its street art, hip cafes, and lively nightlife, Shoreditch is a hub of creative and entrepreneurial energy.

  • Best for: Artisan coffee, street art and great restaurants. Good spot for tourists to stay close to the action with its own charm. 
  • Poshness: ££££
  • Commute time to central london: 10 minutes to Bank Station 
  • Borough & Postcode: Hackney, E 

Limehouse 

Once a significant port, now known for its marina, riverside pubs, and historic buildings.

  • Best for: Quintessential East End community feel. 
  • Poshness: ££
  • Commute time to central london: 10 minutes to Bank Station 
  • Borough & Postcode: Tower Hamlets, E 

Stratford

Home to the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and Westfield Stratford City, Stratford has seen significant regeneration and development.

  • Best for: Great transport links and parks. 
  • Poshness: ££
  • Commute time to central london: 15 minutes to Bank Station 
  • Borough & Postcode: Newham, E 

Canary Wharf

what are some cool areas in london? Posh and pretty Canary Wharf pictured left, with green and homey Poplar pictured right

A major business district with towering skyscrapers, Canary Wharf is also home to shopping centers and riverside restaurants.

  • Best for: Modern flats in a cool location for young professionals. 
  • Poshness: ££££
  • Commute time to central london: 15 minutes to Bank Station 
  • Borough & Postcode: Tower Hamlets, E 

Bethnal Green

 Known for its mix of traditional East End charm and modern amenities, with access to the green spaces of Victoria Park.

  • Best for: East End community living. 
  • Poshness: ££
  • Commute time to central london: 15 minutes to Bank Station 
  • Borough & Postcode: Tower Hamlets, E

Whitechapel 

The historic home of Jack the Ripper, Whitechapel is getting more gentrified by the day, but is still a more affordable and multicultural community. 

  • Best for: East end diverse community living. 
  • Poshness: ££
  • Commute time to central london: 20 minutes to Bank Station 
  • Borough & Postcode: Tower Hamlets, E 

Poplar

An area undergoing significant redevelopment, known for its housing estates and proximity to the financial district. Also known as the home of Call the Midwife, though it’s not filmed there.

  • Best for: Quintessential East End community feel. 
  • Poshness: ££
  • Commute time to central london: 25 minutes to Bank Station 
  • Borough & Postcode: Tower Hamlets, E 

Bow

A residential area with a rich history, Bow is known for its Victorian terraced houses and local arts scene.

  • Best for: Quintessential East End community feel. 
  • Poshness: ££
  • Commute time to central london: 25 minutes to Bank Station 
  • Borough & Postcode: Tower Hamlets, E 

Hackney 

east london areas named: Hackney city farm in the neighborhood of hackney pictured left, and the open green spaces of Walthamstow pictured right

A diverse area known for its independent shops, Victorian parks, and the Hackney Empire theater.

  • Best for: Cool hipster and family living. Good place for tourists to stay centrally without breaking the bank. 
  • Poshness: £££
  • Commute time to central london: 30 minutes to Bank Station 
  • Borough & Postcode: Hackney, E 

Dalston

A trendy area with a buzzing nightlife, Dalston is known for its music venues and eclectic range of eateries.

  • Best for: Cool vintage hipster vibe. 
  • Poshness: £££
  • Commute time to central london: 30 minutes to Bank Station 
  • Borough & Postcode: Hackney, E

Walthamstow

Famous for its market, the longest outdoor street market in Europe, and a strong sense of community.

  • Best for: Suburban living with green space. 
  • Poshness: £££
  • Commute time to central london: 45 minutes to Bank Station 
  • Borough & Postcode: Waltham Forest, E 

London Neighborhood Maps & Guide: Final Tips

Overwhelmed yet? I totally get it. London is absolutely massive.

If you’re a tourist looking for a good place to stay, take my quiz for “Where Should I Stay in London?”

If you’re moving to London, take my quiz “Where Should I Live in London?”

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