London is a great place to visit. If you are coming to London to indulge in a shopping spree then there is no better place than Harrods of Knightsbridge which has is now open. Boasting dozens of departments offering hundreds of luxury and designer lines it is a feast for the senses. And, most importantly, if you need an apartment near Harrods we are here to help.

Harrods has social distancing measures in place but you can enjoy the special measures they have taken in three of their restaurants by providing three new terraces for diners.

Priding itself as the jewel in Knightsbridge’s crown the store is famed throughout the world. It offers the most memorable of shopping experiences. Harrods is the go to destination for exclusive designer collections and unparalleled customer service. It is the world’s most famous department store. Amazingly, the Knightsbridge landmark has been part of the nation’s fabric for over 150 years. For this reason, Harrods is now one of London’s ‘must see’ tourist attractions.

Ranging over seven floors, Harrods has some 300+ departments. The finest in food, cuisine, designer fashion, luxury gifts, accessories, homeware and technology is on offer. All goods have been carefully and skilfully curated to provide a fabulous experience for the shopper. You may be surprised to learn that the store employs over 12,000 staff!

Superbrands, the luxury womenswear department, is dedicated to high end international designer brands. Valentino, Prada and Dior are much in evidence while Salon des Parfums houses superb fragrances exclusive to Harrods.

Dining in Harrods

In normal times there are lots of restaurants to enjoy in Harrods but at present, in order to comply with covid19 regulations there are only three outdoor terraces offering dining.

The Harrods Food Halls offer a wide selection of tea, chocolate and fresh fruit, meat and vegetables.

The Tiffany Blue Box Cafe

Recently opened at Harrods is the Tiffany Blue Box Cafe. It is a lovely cafe where you can enjoy culinary delights served on Tiffany iconic blue china. It is a great place to have a real Breakfast at Tiffany’s. Croissants are served alongside crab muffins and smoked salmon. In the afternoon you can enjoy the Tiffany Tea. Dainty finger sandwiches, scones and pastries inspired by Tiffany & Co’s heritage. You can also have supper here with wines and cocktails. The fine dining menu here is a playful take on contemporary cuisine. The cafe is busy so it is best to book in advance. This is Europe’s first Blue Box Cafe and is located in the lower ground floor.

Guest services

The store offers an impressive range of exclusive customer services. Gift Concierge, Tax Rewards, Urban Retreat spa and By Appointment Personal Shopping are all available here. Payment options include Euros, US dollars and China Union Pay cards.

Rental apartments near Harrods provide a great accommodation solution for serious shoppers. Moreover, as the store doesn’t close till 9pm, many guests simply come to shop so it’s great to stay nearby.

The Capital Hotel & Apartments near Harrods

For a weekend break, we recommend The Capital Hotel and Apartments. Located just a “croissant’s throw” from Harrods it is a great place for a short stay. For couples, they have studios and one bedroom apartments with kitchenettes where you can prepare your own meals. So you can relax in the privacy of your own apartment and put your feet up after a hard day’s shopping. For families, there is a 2 bedroom apartment and a stunning 3 bedroom penthouse apartment with terraces. Remember to book early as availability is often limited at this popular residence, especially during the summer!

The residence also contains a hotel. As a result, apartment guests benefit from luxury 5* guest services. There is a 24 hour reception desk, restaurant and bar. To the side of the property there is a discreet entrance for apartment guests so it is not necessary to go through the hotel when returning to your apartment. This classic residence offers very good guest services.

Beaufort House

For the longer stay, Beaufort House in nearby Beaufort Gardens is a luxury option for visitors. The apartments are charmingly set in a beautiful old period property. Apartments range from a small one bedroom apartment to a superb four bedroom suite for the larger family of up to 8/9 people. Guest services here are excellent. As a result, visitors return to this property year after year.  Set in a leafy side street just along from Harrods, most importantly, is a great place for shoppers so stay. Again, please book early at Beaufort House to avoid disappointment! It is particularly popular in the summer.

Cheval Place – luxury apartments near Harrods

In Cheval Place there is a lovely collection of contemporary styled apartments and townhouses, some of which have their own private terraces. These properties range from one thru three bedroom apartments. Available from one week upwards, these residences are perfect for vacation rentals. With every conceivable service they are an excellent choice for the discerning holidaymaker or corporate traveller. The location is particularly good, being in a road opposite Harrods.

In Beaufort Gardens

Also in Beaufort Gardens you might like to try the luxury Claverley Court which, again, offers a collection ranging from studios to 3 bedroom luxury apartment suites. These apartments are perfect for short stays because of the excellent guest services.

In nearby Belgravia

Slightly further away in Belgravia there is the charming Chesham Court. Set in a period building this property offers studios, 1 bedroom and 2 bedroom apartments. In addition, the residence has a 3 bedroom family penthouse which is ideal for a family of 6 or group of friends travelling together.

Getting there

Harrods is easily accessible from all parts of London. The nearest tube is Knightsbridge on the Piccadilly line. Numerous bus routes run along the Brompton Road. And of course there’s an abundance of black cabs and Ubers in the vicinity.

Harrods of Knightsbridge, 87-135 Brompton Rd, Knightsbridge, London SW1X 7XL

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  The Capital

  Knightsbridge

  Luxury air-conditioned apartments for families visiting London wishing to have all home comforts behind your own front door! As well as the independence of preparing your own meals as and when you choose.

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  Beaufort House

  Knightsbridge

  Charming luxury serviced apartments at this small, 5* residence in the heart of Knightsbridge. All specified to the highest standard with deluxe bathrooms and fully fitted kitchens. Highly desirable in soughtafter area.

  See availability

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  Studio Gloucester Road

  Gloucester Road

  These apartments are ideal for corporate guests looking for accommodation in the capital.
  Economy apartments with public transport and all amenities nearby.

  See availability

2 bedroom apartments are the ideal solution for a family travelling to London together. Whether you are coming for a weekend, a week, a month or a year there are some great accommodation options for you to consider.

With your own kitchen, and your own front door, regular cleaning and complimentary WiFi you will enjoy a level of luxury and independence that hotel guests only dream of! Even on a very short stay!

The benefits of a kitchen

Generally speaking, most serviced apartments have kitchens with refrigerators and cookers. Many are equipped with Nespresso coffee machines. So when you get up in the morning you can make your own breakfast and enjoy your own coffee in the privacy of your own “home.”  No need to exchange polite “good mornings” with strangers.  If you are travelling with young children this is brilliant . There is no need to keep your eyes on naughty kids (yours and other people’s!). No need to worry that they are behaving themselves in public. This is a really low stress option for families on the move with young children.

And don’t forget the calories! Research has shown that guests serving themselves from a hotel buffet are 10 times more likely to overdose on fatty foods – simply because it’s there! Many apartment residences offer welcome packs which include basic breakfast ingredients. Local s supermarkets are happy to deliver groceries. As are Uber Eats and Deliveroo in most areas of the capital. Research amongst guests has shown that the option to make their own meals is why they return time and time again to stay in an apartment when in London.

Stay near the museums

Many guests bring their children to London at half term.  The big London museums such as the V & A, Science Museum and Natural History Museum have fabulous exhibitions, films and hands on displays geared to the younger visitor. Great for visiting during the school holidays and weekends.

How about close to Hyde Park?

If you have children with you who wish to let off steam then staying near Hyde Park is probably a good idea. We offer some very nice apartments opposite the Italian Gardens with public transport on your doorstep.

Put your feet up

When your children are exhausted and you feel in need of a break, you can retire to your apartment, put your feet up and relax. You can even order a takeaway. All residences have at least one TV and many have several.  With an abundance of channels, Sky, Freeview etc. there is masses for your children to watch. Just park them in front of the TV while you get out a glass of wine and put your feet up.

It’s great to know that you and your kids are all under the same roof.  How often have you checked in to a hotel only to find that your children have been allocated a room along the corridor?  Next door is bad enough!!!  For parents to enjoy a relaxing stay, they need to know that their babies and children are totally secure. That peace of mind is guaranteed when you book a serviced apartment with it’s own front door where you and your family will all be safe and sound together so you can chill!

When it’s time for them to go to bed, bedrooms are often very well equipped, especially for children.  Combinations of twin beds and cots are common. So your children and babies can be comfortably accommodated in style so that both they – and YOU – get a good night’s sleep. Ready to be up and about the next day with the energy need to explore what London has to offer!

That is not to say you won’t enjoy going out for dinner. As London is one of the world’s most vibrant capitals when it comes to wining, dining and entertainment you will be spoilt for choice when you select a restaurant in London’s buzzing hub. 

Mayfair – a great place to stay

In Brick Street and Hertford Street you will find some lovely 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom luxury apartments which are all part of the Como Metropolitan group. There is a guests’ spa as well as a lovely bar and restaurant.

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  Grosvenor House Suites

  Park Lane

  Desirable serviced apartments at exclusive 5* Park Lane residence. From 1 bedroom suites to spacious 5 bedroom penthouse. Equipped to highest standard with deluxe bathrooms. Fully fitted kitchens.

  See availability

Luxury apartments in the Kensington area

We recommend the Milestone. This is a sumptuous property offering oodles of luxury features.

Larger apartments for the corporate family

As London is such a major hub, many corporate executives relocate here on business. And if you are coming to London with your family there are many options for you, some of which even have shared gardens. Europa House is a good option. Residents benefit from the use of some 3 acres of private gardens.

Amenities

Many of the residences offer extra options including airport transfers, daily breakfast service, restaurant recommendations and theatre bookings. At others there are meeting room facilities.

Cost efficiency

When you are travelling with children, serviced apartments are a cost efficient short stay option. They will probably cost you less than two equivalent hotel rooms and you will save money but not having to dine constantly in restaurants.

See a good selection of 2 bedroom apartments for families in central London >

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  Ashburn Gardens

  Gloucester Road

  Apartments for families visiting London wishing to have all home comforts beyond your own front door! As well as the independence of preparing your own meals, if as and when you choose.

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  Fountain House

  Hyde Park

  Presidential family penthouse overlooking Hyde Park’s Italian Gardens within easy reach of Oxford Street. Perfect base from which to explore the capital. Restaurants nearby. Spacious and styled in contemporary lux­ury with wooden floors and lux­ury car­pets.

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  Cheval Harrington Court

  Museum District

  Super air-conditioned apartments close to London’s main museums. Available for weekend stays. WiFi included.

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  Beaufort House

  Knightsbridge

  Charming luxury serviced apartments at this small, 5* residence in the heart of Knightsbridge. All specified to the highest standard with deluxe bathrooms and fully fitted kitchens. Highly desirable in soughtafter area.

  See availability

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  Collingham Kensington

  Kensington

  Beautiful period building overlooking Collingham Gardens.

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London’s Southbank is a great place for strolling and people watching.

Breakfast

We got out of the train at Waterloo and made our way along the side of the Royal Festival Hall and settled on Le Pain Quotidien for our breakfast. Lovely aromas of croissants and coffee welcome you as you enter the cafe. We were taken downstairs to a charmingly rustic dining space set in one of the arches supporting the railway above. The French style is unmistakable as coffee is served in bowls rather than cups or mugs. The menu is extensive and we settled on ham and cheese croissants. Absolutely delicious and highly recommended.

Even though the day was dull and drizzly, we wandered along the Southbank past families and children and sheltered for a while under Waterloo Bridge and browsed the books for sale. A large, eclectic mix of books (old and new) and posters are on offer.

Southbank is a great place for photographers and Instagrammers to visit. There is so much to see!

Street theatre

We then headed back towards the London Eye past the Underbelly Christmas market and on to see the street entertainers and buskers along the way. Whatever the weather this part of London is popular throughout the year. Tourists and Londoners alike enjoy the friendly buzz that characterises this area of London. And there are plenty of places to enjoy a coffee or a meal. Street artists are fun to watch. They are well into the technology of the 21st century now and even take contactless payments! We watched acrobats and singers – a lively, colourful display in sharp contrast to the grey skies above.

Then back over Westminster Bridge…. Where gambling “stations” abounded that morning. Young guys offering punters the chance to try their luck on “chase the ball” under one of three cups. Money was changing hands fast. And so were the balls! These huddles add to the local colour in the area….. And on Sunday there was not a policeman in sight!

The sound of music

As we came over the bridge the sound of bagpipes filled the air. Then just round the corner past the entrance to the Houses of Parliament we were treated to the view of a bagpiper in all his glory! Dress from head to toe in traditional Scottish clothing including a kilt and a sporran.

We skirted round the side of Parliament and, by then, were ready for a cup of coffee. Fortunately we spotted a cafe sign opposite the House of Lords and enjoyed a coffee in the old Jewel Tower. A nice quiet spot for a Sunday coffee in a very ancient building.

Our wander back to the station took in the Field of Remembrance outside London’s magnificent Westminster Abbey where poppies are on display to commemorate the fallen. A sobering scene.

Then past the many fascinating statues in Parliament Square including Millicent Fawcett, Nelson Mandela and Winston Churchill to name but a few.

And finally back onto the underground at Westminster to the sound of the bagpiper’s serenade.

Accommodation nearby

If you want to book a short stay in this lively hub, there are a number of good apartment residences in the area.

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  Vauxhall apartments

  Vauxhall

  These contemporary Vauxhall apartment suites are perfect for short stays in London. Breakfast is included at this property. Situated in quiet Vauxhall street 5 minutes’ walk from bus and tube stations.

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  Park Plaza Westminster

  Westminster

  Close to St Thomas’s Hospital in Westminster Bridge Road. From its iconic position opposite Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, the residence has London’s finest landmarks close by.

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  Studio Gloucester Road

  Gloucester Road

  These apartments are ideal for corporate guests looking for accommodation in the capital.
  Economy apartments with public transport and all amenities nearby.

  See availability

In Chinese astrology, each year is represented by an animal. And this year, 2023, is the Year of the Rabbit.

The Rabbit was also celebrated in 2011, 1999, 1987, 1975, 1963, 1951, 1939, 1927.

The Rabbit is traditionally a representation of longevity, peace and prosperity.

Every year, hundreds of thousands of people descend on London’s West End to enjoy a colourful parade, free stage performances and traditional Chinese food, and to wish each other “Xin Nian Kuai Le” (Happy New Year in Mandarin) or “Sun Nin Faai Lok” (in Cantonese).

Enjoy the lively, fun events on offer. Watch dragon and lion dances as London is transformed.

If you’d rather avoid driving into town at this busy time, take the train and book accommodation in London’s Chinatown. But don’t delay. Book soon!

Get in the mood by wearing red….

Red is the key colour of Chinese New Year. You can accessorize with a red scarf, jumper or shoes and this will, apparently, bring good luck for the coming year. If you’re taking your children to the event, you can encourage them bring rabbit decorations or paint their faces with rabbit motifs.

And at home…..

To bring luck to your year, Chinese tradition dictates that you should buy something red for yourself or your house. Visit London’s Chinatown and do some authentic Chinese shopping. Suitable decorations for celebrating the New Year include paper-cut window grilles, lanterns and rabbit toys.

Chinatown

Chinatown is one of the most charming parts of the West End. With its four ornate oriental archways  it is like stepping into another world….. It has been London’s focus for Chinese residents since the 1950’s when a number of Chinese restaurants opened in the area. It has since become one of the capital’s major attractions. Enjoy shopping at some 70+ authentic Chinese supermarkets, gift shops and street stalls.

It is located in the City of Westminster and borders Soho to the north and west and London’s Theatreland to the south and east. Well known streets in the area include Gerrard Street, Wardour Street, Rupert Street and Rupert Court, part of Shaftesbury Avenue and Lisle Street, Macclesfield Street and Newport Place, Newport Court and Little Newport Street.

Local architecture

Chinatown has buildings and streets decorated with Chinese symbols such as dragons, stone lions, lanterns and contemporary sculptures. Look out for the distinctive street signs, which are written in English and Chinese. The ornamentation in this area offers excellent photo opportunities and gives an insight into Chinese culture and religion. This is particularly the case during seasonal celebrations.

It is an area that is easy to access by public transport. And it is easy to get around as it covers a small area, much of which is now pedestrianised.

The Chinese New Year

This year, Chinese New Year falls on Sunday 22 January and celebrations culminate with the Lantern Festival on 5 February 2023.

There is entertainment across the West End and around Chinatown, as well as many pop-up food and craft stalls. You will see red lanterns on display throughout.

The main event celebrated in London is the Chinese Near Year. London’s celebrations are some of the biggest outside Asia.

Restaurants

London’s Chinatown is full of good value restaurants offering delicious fare for hungry visitors to London.

As well as restaurants serving authentic Chinese cuisine you will find other oriental establishments offering Vietnamese, Malaysian, Korean and Japanese fare.

Some of the most notable restaurants in Chinatown are: Baoizi Inn (Northern Chinese rustic street food including dim sum), Four Seasons (famous for roast duck), Olle (Korean barbecue with in-table grills), Golden Dragon (Cantonese and Pekinese cuisine with dim sum), Leong’s Legend (Bamboo-panelled establishment offering Taipei street food), Bubblewrap Waffle (trendy waffles filled with gelato and toppings), Plum Valley (upmarket contemporary Cantonese restaurant with extensive dim sum menu), Rasa Sayang (traditional Malaysian and Singaporean restaurant), Shu Xiangge (featuring table top cook your own Chinese hotpots), Imperial China (huge Chinese restaurant).

Instagram

Chinatown is one of the most instagrammable parts of London and offers many opportunities for photographers to click away…..

Shopping

Excellent supermarkets include New Loon Moon and See Woo where you can shop for exotic ingredients, fruits, vegetables and spices.

Nearest underground stations

The closest underground stations to London’s Chinatown are Leicester Square and Piccadilly Circus. Tottenham Court Road is also fairly nearby.

Are you coming by bus?

The following buses stop nearby 14, 24, 27, 29, 134, 168, C2.

Accommodation in the area

Would you like to stay in the neighbourhood?  There are some very convenient short stay apartments and hotels nearby for you to choose from.

1808,1828

London’s annual Winter Wonderland spectacular opened last year in November. This Christmas feast offers something for thrill seekers of all ages!

Fun abounds in this oasis in London’s Hyde Park.

Thrilling fairground rides, dozens of winter stalls and a whole host of entertainment make Winter Wonderland the go to destination in London. And it is an absolute treat for families with children. It is open from morning till late every day except Christmas Day.

This year…..

Winter Wonderland 2023 promises to be just as good as in previous years, if not better!

The nightly illuminations are absolutely dazzling.

Ice Skating

The ice rink is stunning – built around the charming old Victorian grandstand. You will not need to bring your own skates as skate hire is included in the ticket price. The rink glistens under the 100,000 lights illuminating skaters from above.

Winter Wonderland recommend advance booking for shows etc. to save queueing on the day.

Corporate apartments in the City of London are the ideal accommodation solution.

You may be coming to London on business – even for just a week – and you need somewhere to stay. We recommend an apartment for your visit. More spacious than hotel rooms, serviced apartments offer a home from home in the middle of the City. It is your own private space where you can work or simply relax and unwind.

Serviced  apartments offer considerable comfort and convenience for corporate travellers. These apartments are ideal for relocation, long term assignments and project work. Short stay and long term serviced flats provide increased flexibility, space, independence and privacy over traditional hotel accommodation.

Amenities

Our corporate serviced apartments meet the needs of the discerning executive in individual and private surroundings. Furthermore, you can use the apartment as an office and for meetings. You can use a larger apartment for entertaining. You will be able to prepare meals and dine in your flat because they all have kitchens. Companies very much like the considerable cost savings made by staff not having to dine in restaurants for every single meal. And guests like it too – a chance to eat more healthily and keep away from the calorie-laden dining of the capital.

Our London corporate apartments are fully furnished and offer WiFi, TV’s and regular maid service and weekly linen change.  Also, extra security and concierge reception services are offered at many of our short stay apartments.

We cater for relocating corporate executives, interim housing for business travellers and long term assigned projects.  Our range suits all budgets so we are confident we have something for you.

Whether you are on a business trip, moving or relocating there are great advantages to taking an apartment.  Also, you can book for the duration you require; a few nights or a few months. Corporate apartments in the City of London are very competitively priced.

You have plenty of options with Go City Apartments. We offer locations across the capital both in heart of the City and quiet residential areas.

For families

If you need an open green space for children to play, then Europa House in Little Venice may be for you. With over 3 acres of private gardens it is a lovely family residence.

Extras

Many of the residences offer extra services including airport transfers, daily breakfast service, restaurant recommendations and theatre bookings. At others there are meeting room facilities.

Our clients

We work with a wide range of companies from Fortune 500 and FTSE250 corporations as well as SME’s across a wide range of industries. We offer solutions to our clients both in the UK and globally. Our clients come to us for our expertise, experience and in-depth knowledge of the apartment industry.  We guarantee consistency and high standards  in modern contemporary city apartments.  We help businesses find the most cost-effectve accommodation solutions for their directors and employees.

London is one of the busiest hubs around the globe.  If you are visiting for business, attending a conference or working on a short term placement, it is important to be able to settle in a homely environment.

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  Ashburn Gardens

  Gloucester Road

  Apartments for families visiting London wishing to have all home comforts beyond your own front door! As well as the independence of preparing your own meals, if as and when you choose.

  See availability

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  Cheval Harrington Court

  Museum District

  Super air-conditioned apartments close to London’s main museums. Available for weekend stays. WiFi included.

  See availability

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  Vauxhall apartments

  Vauxhall

  These contemporary Vauxhall apartment suites are perfect for short stays in London. Breakfast is included at this property. Situated in quiet Vauxhall street 5 minutes’ walk from bus and tube stations.

  See availability

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  Park Plaza Westminster

  Westminster

  Close to St Thomas’s Hospital in Westminster Bridge Road. From its iconic position opposite Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, the residence has London’s finest landmarks close by.

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  Park Plaza Westminster

  Westminster

  Close to St Thomas’s Hospital in Westminster Bridge Road. From its iconic position opposite Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, the residence has London’s finest landmarks close by.

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  Grosvenor House Suites

  Park Lane

  Desirable serviced apartments at exclusive 5* Park Lane residence. From 1 bedroom suites to spacious 5 bedroom penthouse. Equipped to highest standard with deluxe bathrooms. Fully fitted kitchens.

  See availability

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  Lees Place Mayfair

  Mayfair

  Luxury serviced apartments finished to high standard in Victorian mews property. The interior design remains sympathetic to the Victorian period while unique, contemporary British furniture complements the building’s heritage. Minimalist design, clean lines, marble bathrooms. Air-conditioned with WiFi.

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  Citadines Barbican

  Barbican

  Fully equipped executive apartments for business travellers in the heart of the City of London. Being so close to the Barbican Centre, this residence is equally perfect for business travellers and lovers of culture and the arts!

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  Studio Gloucester Road

  Gloucester Road

  These apartments are ideal for corporate guests looking for accommodation in the capital.
  Economy apartments with public transport and all amenities nearby.

  See availability

Stratford’s sporting venues offer a huge range of options for both spectators and participants.

Whether you’re into sports, arts, culture, fresh air, adventure playrounds, shopping or just relaxing with a coffee, the Park has something for you. A lovely venue to bring children – iconic parklands to wander through, playgrounds for them to run around and let off steam. Charming waterways with relaxing boat tours and swan pedalos and magical lighting illuminating the water at dusk. The Park is adorned with an array of inspirational world-class artworks. Interestingly, the park is known as Europe’s biggest outdoor classroom! With plenty of serviced accommodation in the area, this is a great family location for days out and weekends away.

Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park

The Copper Box Arena

The “box that rocks” offers gym, sports hall, exercise classes and badminton courts. The Copper Box is also an international netball venue. The arena has up to 2700m2 of divisible, flexible space that can be hired for sporting events. It is particularly suitable for badminton, basketball, handball/futbal, volleyball and netball. The Copper Box is now home to the London Lions basketball team.

The London Stadium

A magnificent arena – the only venue in the UK able to host both world class football matches and international athletics events and competitions. Forthcoming events include Premier League 2018/19 football matches featuring West Ham United. The Stadium was the first venue in Europe to host Major League Baseball, when the New York Yankees played the Boston Reds Sox in June 2019.

The Lee Valley Hockey & Tennis Centre

State of the art facilities at this contemporary complex include tennis on both indoor and outdoor courts.  Extensive adult tennis programme and disability tennis available at The Centre. The Centre works closely with England Hockey, local clubs, schools and community organisations to run a range of hockey programmes. This is the ideal venue for groups and clubs who enjoy hockey on the two Union Jack fringed pitches.

London Aquatics Centre

Enjoy a swim in the pools of champions, the most technologically advanced swimming facility in the world – the home of the 2012 London Legacy. There are three pools to choose from and the Centre offers a range of swimming and diving opportunities for adults and children alike. Lane swimming, family swimming, lessons, women-only and disability swimming are accommodated. Popular state-of-the-art gym on-site.

Lee Valley VeloPark

Thrills for the cyclist whether you’re into track cycling, road racing, BMX or mountain biking.  Superb venue. You can cycle the track in the velodrome, race on the road circuit, tackle mountain bike trails and jump and bump on the berms of the BMX track. This is a venue that offers something for the whole family.

The Arcelormittal Orbit

Come and ride the world’s tallest and longest tunnel slide and enjoy superb views of London from the UK’s tallest sculpture – a landmark to remember! This magnificent red tower of twisted metal  is an iconic symbol of Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and the London 2012 Games. Whizz down this giant slide at speeds of about 15mph in a 40 second descent. But if speed is not your thing then take the lift (and your camera) to the viewing platforms. Enjoy the sweeping panorama of London with views extending as far as Wembley Stadium, St Paul’s Cathedral and Canary Wharf! The ArcelorMittal Orbit is bookable for receptions, dinners and corporate events, not to mention weddings!

The Olympic Park 5K and 10K

You can either take the 5k or the 10k route. En route you will see the notable landmarks around the London 2012 Olympic Park. Set against an amazing back drop this even is suitable for runners of all levels. Enjoy snaking round the park and get a unique finisher’s medal! Registration essential >

Accommodation nearby

There are some excellent 2 bedroom short stay apartments – ideal for families – in this area.

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  Stratford studios

  Stratford

  Located close to the fabulous Westfield Shopping Centre offering easy access to the West End. Excellent sporting and entertainment facilities in the area.

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Mayfair’s Garden Squares offer a lovely retreat from the hustle, bustle and traffic of the Mayfair area.

Grosvenor Square

A lovely large square – the centrepiece of the Mayfair property empire of the Duke of Westminster. Developed by Sir Richard Grosvenor in 1720, Grosvenor Square has been one of London’s most attractive public spaces, the second largest square in London. It boasts six acres of pristine lawns surrounded by neo-Georgian houses and embassies. Having housed the US Embassy since 1938, the square reveals it’s longstanding connection with the United Nations. It has a central statue to Franklin D Roosevelt and a 9/11 memorial garden. Former US President John Adams lived at No. 9, and it was the site of General Eisenhower’s headquarters during the Second World War. A charming place for a lunchtime stroll. Grosvenor House Suites offer discreet 5* serviced accommodation very close by. Mayfair, London W1K 2HP.

Mount Street Gardens

The beautiful Mount Street Gardens are a haven for birds such as robins and tits who inhabit the gardens’ plane trees, dawn redwood trees and Canary Island date palms. Nestled behind red-brick mansion blocks and the neo-Gothic Church of the Immaculate Conception, these secluded gardens are a peaceful urban sanctuary. A focus for nature conservation in Central London, the gardens offer many benches for visitors to spend some quiet time. As well as other sculptures, the gardens feature a bronze drinking fountain in the shape of a rearing horse, designed by Sir Ernest George and Harold Peto. Mount Street Gardens, Mount St, Mayfair, London W1K 2TH

Brown Hart Gardens

Just off Duke Street, Brown Hart Gardens is one of the city’s best kept secrets: an elevated paved terrace space that, at street level, you might never know existed. In a fascinating location on the roof of the old Duke Street electricity substation, built in the early 1900’s,  today the garden provides residents, shoppers and local office workers with a sunny, lofty space to escape the hustle and bustle of nearby Oxford Street, and visitors can enjoy a coffee and rest their feet at it’s own café – The Garden Café. Brown Hart Gardens, Duke Street, London W1.

Berkeley Square

You will be lucky to hear a nightingale sing in Berkeley Square these days – this is not a tranquil haven – but nevertheless offers a charming retreat from the buzz of the city under an amazing canopy of 200 year old plane trees, with mottled trunks and giant foliage. Originating from the 1700’s some Georgian houses still remain and – beware – some of the houses are said to be haunted!  Previous occupants include two British prime ministers, namely Winston Churchill and George Canning. Berkeley Square, London W1.

Accommodation in the area…..

Click here for details of short stay apartments in the vicinity.

1762,1808, 1781

On a crisp autumn morning, strolling along to see the Changing the Guard at Buckingham Palace is a great way to enjoy the sunshine. You can leave the underground at Embankment and skirt round the south side of Trafalgar Square. And if you’re lucky Nelson’s Column will be in sharp relief against a deep blue sky! On the day I ventured there, the Extinction Rebellion campaigners were camped in force in the streets, parks and Trafalgar Square. I weaved my way round their tents to avoid tripping over and came face to face with a large octopus full of protesting humans.

Into The Mall…..

Just wander through Admiralty Arch and you will see The Mall open up right in front of your with Buckingham Palace at the far end. Security is in evidence when the Changing the Guard is imminent. You will see, and be reassured by the fact, that policemen and women abound. Many are on horseback, most are on foot and a smaller number are pedalling on pushbikes! As you walk along the Mall the trees are starting to turn to their beautiful autumn colours. And the sun shines brightly through the foliage in St James’s Park. It is a beautiful stroll. In the far distance, the Queen Victoria Memorial Statue shines brilliantly with Buckingham Palace in the background.

In winter the flowerbeds in front of the Palace are rather depleted. But in spring and summer these beds provide a vibrant backdrop to the pageants, state visits and other ceremonial occasions which take place there.

Where to stand

I was puzzling about where to stand and decided to just go with the flow. I reckoned that with so many selfie-sticks overhead it was not going to be easy to see the proceedings. So I wandered along, winding round the barriers and crossings and made my way to the Buckingham Palace fence. Just half an hour before it was due to start the crowd was already 3/4 people deep.  Not only were there hordes of people, there was a forest of selfie sticks being held aloft so I decided that wasn’t a good idea. I made my way over to the Memorial and wandered round the statue. I took some nice pictures down the Mall and some of Buckingham Palace and waited. The drumbeat echoed along The Mall. The regiment then came along the south side and my patience was duly rewarded.

The Pageantry

Because most of the viewers were opposite the front of the palace it was possible to take some nice shots of the band marching along. British pageantry is at its best at the Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace. It happens daily but it’s still a thrill. On a lovely sunny day the brass instruments reflected the late summer sun.  As traffic is stopped in the area for the changing of the guard, the music echoes out through the forecourt and surrounding area.

After the pageantry

The crowd dispersed once it was over and many of the viewers made their way through St James’s Park.  I was lucky to see one of the famous pelicans, as well as a host of other waterfowl. The lake is a joy at this time of the year and the autumn flowers are still beautiful. You can enjoy a coffee and a bite to eat at the various kiosks  dotted around St James’s Park. It’s a lovely way to spend a morning in London.

Surprisingly, pelicans have lived in St James’s Park for nearly 400 years! Originally they were given to King Charles II as a gift by the Russian Ambassador.

We have some lovely short stay family apartments close to Buckingham Palace…..

Please check on the latest Covid restrictions when planning your trip to London. London is gradually re-opening but we’re not there yet!

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  Park Plaza Westminster

  Westminster

  Close to St Thomas’s Hospital in Westminster Bridge Road. From its iconic position opposite Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, the residence has London’s finest landmarks close by.

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  Piccadilly 4 bedrooms

  St James's

  Exclusive Mayfair base just off Piccadilly for business and leisure travellers. Luxury serviced apartment close to Green Park in the heart of St James’s offering splendid views.

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  Studio Gloucester Road

  Gloucester Road

  These apartments are ideal for corporate guests looking for accommodation in the capital.
  Economy apartments with public transport and all amenities nearby.

  See availability