Blog

Charm and Convenience Just Steps from London’s Top Attractions

When exploring where to stay in London and planning your action-packed trip, look no further than the charming Pimlico, not only for its convenience, but its character. Tucked away in a quiet corner of Central London along the River Thames, Pimlico offers visitors affordable hotel rates paired with ease of access to iconic sights across the Westminster borough and beyond. With its leafy garden squares, white Regency architecture, and cosy cafes and shops, Pimlico provides the best of both worlds – a relaxing village-like atmosphere minutes from the top spots in the bustling city.

Why Visit Pimlico?

What makes Pimlico worth a top spot on your list for places to stay when visiting London?

Quieter village vibe – while a short walk from buzzing Westminster, Pimlico has a peaceful intimacy and a real sense of community.
Affordable accommodation rates – hotels here cost significantly less than the pricier central Westminster areas.
Historical architecture – Pimlico’s elegant white Regency buildings ooze old world charm.
Convenience – easy access via public transit to landmarks across London and beyond the capital.

Pimlico’s Top Sights and Attractions

Pimlico offers excellent access to famous London landmarks:

Destination	Minutes by Tube	Minutes Walking
Westminster Abbey	15 minutes	18 minutes
Big Ben	15 minutes	23  minutes
Buckingham Palace	15 minutes	22 minutes

Local’s Favorite Pimlico Spots

You’ll also want to explore Pimlico’s charming local favourites, all nearby:

Top Cafés

• The Roasting
• Cafe Mignon

Best Restaurants

• Rocca di Papa
• Pimlico Thai

Beloved Parks

• St George’s Square
• Pimlico Gardens

Finding Pimlico Accommodations

Staying in Pimlico really is a great option, with a variety of offerings to rest your head after a day of sights! Some of our favourites include:

Hub by Premier Inn London Pimlico – affordable rooms in the heart of Pimlico, steps from the tube for under £100 a night.
Artist Residence – a rakish 10-bedroom retreat in Pimlico – an artist’s delight.
Georgian House Hotel – an exquisite hidden gem that combines townhouse chic with quintessential Victorian charm.

With its charming locals spots, ease of transit, and range of pleasant hotels, Pimlico makes for the perfect London home base while sightseeing, shopping and savouring the city. We hope this guide helps you determine where to stay and visit in Pimlico for your upcoming UK trip!

Discover Tranquility in London’s Central Victoria Station Zone

Ease away from the busy commotion of London Victoria Station into a calming Victorian ambience at Georgian House Hotel – a boutique stay in picturesque Pimlico just minutes from major transit links. This exquisite hidden gem pampers guests with 19th century grandeur fusing effortlessly with modern convenience.

Whether travelling for London sightseeing or business around the transport hub, visitors adore relaxing in Georgian House Hotel’s tree lined street interwoven with independent shops and cafes.

Concealed on a discreet residential side street yet offering incredible ease of access makes this hotel a top choice over hotel giants surrounding London Victoria Station.

Where European Style Meets Local Intimacy

A dazzling contrast unfolds as guests pass through the front door from subdued exterior to the vivid and elaborate entrance combining modern chic with Victorian charm.The intermingling of contemporary furnishings with well-preserved historic touches carries throughout guest rooms, lounges, and event spaces.

An Urban Escape Steeped in History

Today’s Georgian House Hotel traces its Pimlico heritage to lavish Victorian era gin palaces. Built in 1851, by Serena von der Heyde’s great great grandfather William Chinnery Mitchell, the Georgian House Hotel has been a family treasure for over 150 years.

William embellished his houses with a few signature details, including 10 panel doors and his string motif, a plaster decorative line on the exterior of many of his houses. Modern day Georgian House Hotel boasts beautiful interiors, unique bedrooms and magical wizard experiences!

Where Past Comforts Meet Today’s Standards

While public spaces revel in Victorian splendour, hotel rooms strike an artful balance between history and contemporary expectations. Most retain stunning decorative details, and towering windows letting sunlight stream over plush beds.

Yet modern guests stay connected and entertained with amenities like showers, linen bedding, Tea & Coffee making facilities and TVs. The effect feels akin to residing among a modern manor house suite.

There are several other excellent hotel options located near London’s Victoria Station to consider besides the Georgian House Hotel of course.

The Windermere Hotel– An award winning boutique hotel, at a 7 minute walk from Victoria Station, with a relaxed atmosphere and a stone’s throw away from Buckingham Palace and Parliament.

Luna Simone Hotel – This affordable boutique hotel is a 5 minute walk from Victoria Station. Stylishly designed rooms with showers, comfortable bedding and complimentary breakfast included.

Park Plaza Westminster Bridge – Located on the South Bank of the Thames and overlooking the Houses of Parliament, is an iconic hotel featuring stylish rooms and an array of restaurants and bars. After a day of exploring the local area, unwind with a dip in the 15-metre swimming pool.

The Goring Hotel – A 5-star luxury hotel in the Victoria area of London. It is located just east of Belgravia, and to the southwest of Buckingham Palace. The hotel’s restaurant, The Dining Room, holds one Michelin Star.

Hub By Premier Inn – The affordable Hub Victoria provides smart, stylish rooms in London. Each room includes a slick touchscreen control panel to change the lighting and temperature, free superfast Wi-Fi, smart TVs, high-powered showers and relaxing beds.

As you can see there are fantastic hotel options for various budgets and interests around the Victoria Station ranging from contemporary high rise towers with iconic views to quintessential English boutiques overflowing with old world charms. Guests can easily reach top London sights from all of these options.

Local Charm Abounds in Pimlico Village

Pimlico’s central position belies its village vibe as a longtime London residential area with real community spirit. Georgian House Hotel embraces its hometown roots and the staff happily direct guests to their favourite off-the-path indie shops, authentic pubs, and seasonal markets.

Venture just a few streets away to uncover treasures like Daylesford Organic Farm Shop, florists Pimlico Flowers, and cosy eateries like The Roasting.

Connect Effortlessly to London Sites from Pimlico Lodgings

A key perk of selecting hotel accommodations around the London Victoria Station transport hub is swift connections to beloved attractions. Visitors staying at hotels near Victoria Station like Georgian House Hotel unlock easy National Rail, tube, and bus access to top sites.

The hotel entrance sits merely a stroll from Victoria rail and just across the road from Pimlico Underground. This prime location means public transit whisks guests within minutes to landmarks like Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, and the vibrant West End.

Simplified travel to London’s cherished landmarks is a boon after full days of sightseeing across town. Return to the hotel’s quiet side street nestled apart from the station clamour for proper rest and relaxation.

An Elegant Urban Escape Awaits in Pimlico Village

For those seeking tranquillity without sacrificing convenience near London Victoria Station, indulge in bespoke luxury at Georgian House Hotel. Recently refurbished chambers, personable staff, and a prime location balancing accessibility, serenity, and local immersion retain loyal guest admiration year after year.

Be sure to also uncover local tea rooms, markets, galleries and boutiques defining Pimlico’s inimitable village character. Whether here for business or holiday, savour every facet of this urban oasis as your London home base.

Live Out Your Magical Dreams with A Night in A Wizard-Themed London Hotel

For all wizard movie enthusiasts, staying at enchanting accommodations and being plunged into the magical world for real is sort of a dream. If you’ve been eagerly awaiting your admission notice to the magical academy (and let’s be honest, you have), the moment has finally arrived, granting you access to the mesmerising realm of wizardry at one of these wizard movie-themed hotels.

Tucked behind rain-specked windows or down cosy London alleyways lie some of the city’s quirkiest accommodations overflowing with magic. From Harry Potter-inspired suites to candlelit dens lined with spellbooks, step into a tale of merlins and mediaeval lore with a stay at one of these imaginative wizard-themed London hotels.

Georgian House Hotel

From its unassuming exterior, the Georgian House Hotel may not immediately reveal its enchanting secrets. However, don’t be misled – this is, without a doubt, the premier wizard movie-themed hotel in London. Behind the unremarkable door lies a magical realm, and Hogwarts eagerly awaits your arrival.

As you step inside this Georgian hotel, you’ll be greeted by an abundance of cosyness and charm – and this is just the beginning of your journey into the wizarding world. Nestled in the lower ground floor of this award-winning establishment is the wizarding chamber, a space off-limits to curious wizards-to-be. Remember to pack your Hogwarts acceptance letter because this is where your magical adventure truly begins.

The accommodation offers two distinctive experiences: The Wizard’s Chamber and The Enchanted Chamber.

The Wizard’s Chamber boasts mystical gothic rooms adorned with magical castle details, including stained glass windows, stone walls, archways, trunks, and cauldrons. Sleep in four-poster beds draped with velvet curtains, mirroring the exact ambiance of wizard school living quarters.

The Enchanted Chamber, though slightly smaller, exudes the same magical atmosphere and is designed for couples. Concealed behind a bookcase door on the lower ground floor, these rooms feature all wizard artefacts for an enchanting stay.
For the duration of your visit, wizards-in-training can revel in a bewitched breakfast experience, partake in an enchanted afternoon tea, and engage in wizard potion-making sessions held every Saturday and Sunday.

Key Features of the Wizard Chambers:

• Tea & Coffee Making Facilities
• Superfast Complimentary WiFi
• Complimentary Late Check Out
• Complimentary Robes & Slippers
• Seamless Departure: no need to fuss with check-out procedures – just leave your keys in the room and continue your magical journey.
• White Company Toiletries: Pamper yourself with high-quality toiletries from the esteemed White Company.

To book your magical stay at Georgian House Hotel, please check the availability here.

Hagrid’s Hut

This is a magical retreat inspired by the iconic Hagrid’s Hut from the beloved movie. Immerse yourself in the wizarding experience with a stay in this real-life replica, offering an extraordinary escape for fans.

Situated in Watford, Hagrid’s Hut offers a serene escape with quiet street views. Free WiFi is accessible throughout the property, and Watford Junction is a mere 4.2 km away and not far from the Luton Airport. The apartment boasts a fully furnished kitchen featuring an oven, microwave, and toaster. The living room provides a comfortable seating area and a dining space, creating a cosy atmosphere. With 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom containing both a bath and a shower, the apartment is designed for a comfortable stay. Towels and bed linen are thoughtfully provided, and guests can enjoy the warmth of a fireplace within the accommodation.

As you approach, a wizard uniform awaits and a life-size cutout of your favourite characters greet you, leaving no doubt that you’re in the legendary grounds. For those brave enough to face it, a miniature version of a giant spider that adds to the magical ambiance. Inside, the Hut unfolds into a stone-walled living area, creating a space fit for wizards and witches alike. Complete with all the essentials for practising dark arts spells and potions

The magical ambiance extends to the bedrooms, where floating candles, charming owls, and a stone wall reminiscent of a proper Hut create an immersive experience. Two bedrooms await your stay—one equipped with bunk beds for young scholars, one is a master bedroom, where magic continues with floating candles, more owls, and a stone wall reminiscent of the iconic setting.

Check availability and prices here.

Discover Hidden London Magic

Behind the cloak of pouring English rain or crept down twisty London block mazes lie unbelievable hotel sanctuaries alive with wizardry, time travel and childhood dreams. This guide reveals London’s most magical lodgings sure to ignite your belief in the impossible.

Nestled in central London on a Victorian terraced street near Victoria Station sits Georgian House Hotel – a boutique hotel originally built in 1851, by Serena von der Heyde’s great great grandfather William Chinnery Mitchell, the Georgian House Hotel has been a family treasure for over 150 years.

Over the course of multiple generations Georgian House Hotel has been passed down within the family. Now, it proudly offers 63 bedrooms and apartments, establishing itself as a hospitable haven within London’s vibrant hotel landscape. Whether catering to families, couples, or business travellers, the hotel serves as a warm and inviting refuge for those exploring the capital. And throughout the family’s stewardship, a commitment to maintaining a ‘home from home’ atmosphere has endured.

The hotel’s Wizard Afternoon Tea experience particularly brings fantasy to life…

Experience a magical wonderland where your imagination comes to life when you join Georgian House Hotel for their whimsical Wizard Afternoon Tea.

When you step into the hotel, get transported away from the bustling streets of London into the fantastical world of wizards. From enchanted chambers where you can stay the night, to an elegant tea room where you can celebrate the magical wizard’s feast, available every Saturday – Sunday from 1pm to 5 pm.

The Most Spellbinding London Wizard Afternoon Tea

Step into the enchanting realm of our magical menu, where each sip and bite is a spellbinding experience for wizards and magic enthusiasts alike. Behold the wonders of our Wizard’s Afternoon Tea, a mystical feast transporting you to a world of taste and enchantment.

Potion Infusions

Immerse yourself in the mystical art of potion-making with our bewitching infusion selection. From steaming cauldrons to bubbling concoctions, each sip carries the essence of magical herbs and secret elixirs. Choose from our array of enchanted teas and elixirs to awaken your taste buds and experience the magic within every cup or add unlimited bubbles (£20 extra per wizard).

Sweet and Savoury Spells

Our culinary wizards have conjured a classic afternoon tea consisting of savouries, scones and sweets with a unique wizard twist. For just £40 per wizard, delight in delectable finger sandwiches, each infused with enchanting flavours, and then indulge in the magical medley of pastries and treats that follow.

Secret Desserts

Unveil the mystery of our secret desserts – tantalising creations that will surprise and delight your senses. These magical treats, carefully guarded by our wizards, promise an explosion of flavours and textures, leaving you craving more of their enchanting allure.

Conjure Up Signature Cocktails

Once you try the wizard cocktails and potions, you’ll surely toast this London wizard afternoon tea experience with a cheering spell! The cocktail menu takes you on a herbology-inspired tour of flavours in vials and cauldrons with magical touches throughout.

Delight in our enchanting elixirs curated to complement your extraordinary Afternoon Tea experience. Check out some of our soft elixirs and alchemical spirits:

• Witches Brew – Immerse yourself in the magical hues of this delightful blue grape potion, assuring you that no witches were harmed in its creation.
• Cauldron Cola – Conjured by the ancient green gargoyles, this cola is a sparkling elixir that dances on your palate—beware, for your skin might shimmer with a glittering charm.
• Butterscotch Beer – Enter a world of caution as you savour this classic butterscotch beer, so irresistible that fellow wizards might cast a spell to keep it all to themselves! A word of warning: This classic butterscotch beer is reserved for fully grown wizards, aged 18 and above.
• Ghoulish Gin – Embark on a journey into the unknown with our Ghoulish Gin, available in two curious flavours, each accompanied by a ghoulish garnish. A libation not to be missed for the discerning wizard with a taste for the extraordinary.

Indulge in the alchemy of flavour and magic, where each elixir of our Wizard’s Afternoon Tea is a testament to the wizardry that resides in every drop and every element is crafted with a sprinkle of magic. Join us in this enchanting escape and let the flavours and potions transport you to a world where fantasy and gastronomy collide. Book now to secure your place in this extraordinary magical feast.

As one of the top tourist destinations in the world, London offers hundreds of tours in London showcasing two millennia of history alongside rebellious music culture and imaginative literary settings that inspired Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland.

This insider guide decodes the best sightseeing tours in London, England to experience local favourites beyond the well-trodden tourist trails.

The City vs The Square Mile: Decoding London’s Districts

Central London comprises several distinct areas, each with unique allure:

The City: London’s financial centre located within original Roman walls
West End: Home to Oxford Street shopping, Chinatown, Soho nightlife
South Bank: Riverside walkway with iconic views, & food markets
Greater London: Sprawling metropolis with diversity across many areas

Through the Looking Glass: Finding Alice’s Wonderland in London

Literary buffs delight in London locales featured in favourite books and films. Discover a magical Alice in Wonderland sculpture in central Holland Park before exploring the adjacent Japanese Kyoto Garden. Experience a Mad Hatter’s afternoon tea with themed pastries, cocktails, and decor at The Sanderson Hotel.

Willing to experience some other kind of magic while exploring the city? Check out London’s hidden Wizard afternoon tea at the Georgian House Hotel.

Exploring the Magic: Harry Potter Walking Tours in London

Embark on your Harry Potter adventure by joining a Harry Potter walking tour featuring movie real-work inspirations and film locations. Stroll through Leadenhall Market, the real-world inspiration for Diagon Alley, which ornate architecture and charming shops mirror the magical atmosphere of J.K. Rowling’s creation.

As you wind through London’s streets, your guide reveals hidden alleys and secret entrances that evoke the clandestine charm of the wizarding world. These tucked-away spots provide a glimpse into the magical underbelly of the city, sparking your imagination and transporting you to a realm where wizards and witches roam freely.

Top 10 Sightseeing Tours in London

With so many top-rated tour companies to choose from, narrowing down your options can be overwhelming. To help first-time visitors, here is a guide to London’s most popular excursions and attractions:

1. Hop-On Hop-Off Double Decker Bus Tours
2. Harry Potter Film Locations Walking Tour
3. Jack the Ripper Historical Pub Walk
4. Harry Potter Studios Tour
5. Stonehenge, Bath, and Windsor Day Trips from the capital in under an hour
6. Oxford, Warwick, and Stratford Upon Avon Custom Day Trip
7. Beatles Magical Mystery Bus Tour
8. London Theatre Showcase West End Musicals Package
9. Thames River Evening Dinner Cruise
10. Cycling East End Tour

Check tour company reviews on third-party sites, compare prices for quality and value, and focus on your particular interests to make the best of your days in London.

For an immersive overview spanning over 2000 years of history, London walking tours cater to history buffs. Top-rated tours include:

1. British History Tour from 1066: This 5-hour exploration of London’s ancient heart crosses paths with sites integral to British history like Westminster Abbey, the Magna Carta, and Anne Boleyn’s execution site at the Tower of London.

2. Kensington Palace Tour: Visit the functioning royal residence and discover Palace Gardens and the rooms where Queen Victoria spent her childhood.

3. Secret London: The Hidden City: Delve past well-known landmarks into little-known hideaways normally unseen by tourists. Includes hidden gardens, tiny secret taverns, and more off the beaten path discoveries.

4. Victorian Walk Back in Time: Costumed guides transport you back to the days of Jack the Ripper and Charles Dickens on this theatrically-inspired voyage through London’s Victorian history covering used railways, tunnels, cemeteries, prisons, and alleyways integral to the era.

With interactive and themed guided tours like these, the mysteries of London’s rich 2,000 year history will come alive right before your eyes! Just mind the gap back to the present day when the outing concludes!

With so much to see from past and present, London eagerly awaits your exploration!

There are many ways to enjoy the sites of London and with the challenges of many ages to please, why not wander with your family down a vibrant side street or two in Victoria, where you’ll find bubblegum pink doors against a row of brick townhouses. You could stumble into a colourful local market with food outlets serving exotic spices that will transport you halfway across the world for a snip of the high end restaurant prices you might find elsewhere.

When envisioning the perfect London family day out, many picture only the grand museums, monuments and postcard perfect scenes. But truly magical family memories also hide down eclectic neighbourhood lanes, inside community centres, and within under-the-radar shops where both cultural education and whimsy intertwine.

Let this local guide help your family curate the perfect London getaway – family friendly spots!

Choosing A Local Family Hub Neighborhood

With limited time, choosing a centralised homebase neighbourhood to settle into allows families to fully immerse rather than packing days juggling top sites scattered inconveniently across London.

We chose vibrant Victoria for its transport links, proximity to top sites like Buckingham Palace, and local secrets revealing multicultural food, colourful walking paths and community green spaces.

Narrowing one home region gave us flexibility to uncover our own hidden gems while still accessing major attractions further afield.

Building Flexible Itineraries

While including some well-renowned sightseeing highlights is a must for any London family trip, wandering meandering paths between landmarks can create a more interesting and personal adventure for your family!

Why not try starting the mornings ticking off iconic sights like tower ravens, palace guards or river boat rides. Get to midday and you could pick a wandering path through a local park or market to loosely guide your stroll. End your day of adventures by popping into whichever shop, cafe or surprise cultural spot captures your family’s eyes without time pressure.

Victoria offers station-step trails down Whitehall’s government compounds to Big Ben, through Royal Parks fluttering with parrots over to Harrods’ fairy cakes.

By ducking down curving side streets on your journey you can mark out your own breadcrumb trail that will begin to unfold as you go and will prevent crammed days.