Where are the best areas to stay in London when you are visiting for a conference

Planning to attend a conference in London? Whether you’re flying in from Dublin, Paris, America or further even further afield, London’s mix of business buzz and cultural charm makes it the perfect place to combine work and travel.

With so many neighbourhoods to choose from, deciding where to stay can feel overwhelming.

From elegant five-star hotels in Westminster to modern riverside stays on the South Bank, the city offers accommodation for every type of traveller.

Here is your guide to the areas in London to help you narrow down your decision.

1. Westminster and St James’s

For those attending conferences around Westminster or St James’s, staying nearby offers both prestige and practicality.

This area, known for its grand architecture and political heart, is home to venues like the QEII Centre and Church House. Delegates staying here can walk to landmarks such as Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, St James’s Park, and the River Thames, while enjoying some of London’s most sophisticated hotels.

The area also offers a wealth of cultural and leisure experiences, including world-class theatres in the West End, fine dining experiences, and museums such as the National Gallery, Tate Britain, and The Household Cavalry Museum.

Whether you’re attending a conference or enjoying some downtime, Westminster and St James’s provide a vibrant, central base.

View of Westminster and Big Ben, London.

2. South Bank and Waterloo

Across the river, South Bank and Waterloo areas present a different energy. These areas are very lively, creative, and similar to Westminster and St James’s, they are also incredibly scenic. It’s ideal for visitors who want to mix business with culture, thanks to riverside walks, arts venues, and excellent dining options.

Delegates are also within walking distance of some of London’s biggest cultural attractions, including the National Theatre, BFI Southbank, Southbank Centre arts complex, the London Eye, Tate Modern, and the IMAX Waterloo. The area is packed with restaurants along the Queen’s Walk, lively food markets like Lower Marsh, and quick access to the West End theatres just across the river.

View of the London Eye, London.

3. King’s Cross and St Pancras

If you’re travelling by Eurostar from Europe, or by train via Holyhead from Ireland, the King’s Cross and St Pancras area is unbeatable. Once purely a transport hub, it has transformed into a vibrant, design-forward neighbourhood filled with restaurants, public art, and modern hotels.

Staying here means effortless access to every part of London, making it perfect for delegates on tight schedules. The area is also well connected to key conference venues such as 30 Euston Sqaure, Kings Place, St. Pancras Renaissance Hotel & The British Library.

Beyond meetings, delegates can enjoy their downtime by visiting places like Coal Drops Yard, a shopping and dining hotspot at the heart of King's Cross, as well as calming walks along the Regent’s Canal. Culturally, the neighbourhood is close to the British Library, Sadler’s Wells Theatre, and the British Museum, with a wide choice of dining from global street food to contemporary restaurants, right on the doorstep.

Kings Cross, London.

4. Canary Wharf

For events taking place at ExCeL London or around the Docklands, Canary Wharf is a sleek and efficient base.

Known for its skyline of glass towers and waterfront views, the area offers fast transport links via the DLR and Elizabeth Line, plus proximity to London City Airport, ideal for short-haul flights from Dublin or other European cities.

It provides convenient access to major conference venues such as ExCeL London, East Wintergarden, and the Canary Wharf Conference Centre, as well as numerous corporate event spaces across the estate. Beyond meetings, delegates can explore the London Museum Docklands, enjoy the Canary Wharf public art trail, wander through the Crossrail Place Roof Garden, or take riverside walks. The neighbourhood also offers extensive dining and shopping options, with the O2 just one stop away for entertainment and large-scale events, making Canary Wharf a modern and well-connected base for business travellers.

Canary Wharf, London.

4. Kensington and Olympia

If you prefer a quieter, more residential atmosphere, Kensington and Olympia are excellent choices, especially for those attending events at Olympia London. The area provides easy access to conference venues including Kensington Conference Centre, The Olympia, and other nearby meeting spaces.

Beyond business, delegates can enjoy world-renowned cultural attractions such as the Victoria and Albert Museum, the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the Royal Albert Hall, all within walking distance. The neighbourhood also offers elegant streets to stroll, boutique shopping along Kensington High Street, charming cafes, and a range of fine dining options.

With its refined atmosphere, rich history, and convenient conference access, Kensington and Olympia make an ideal base for delegates seeking a mix of business and culture.

The Natural History Museum, London.

How to get around London

Getting around London is simple and efficient, thanks to its excellent public transport network. The Underground connects every major district, and contactless cards make travel effortless, just tap in and out on the Tube, DLR, or buses.

For airport transfers, the Heathrow Express, Gatwick Express, and the Elizabeth Line all link directly to central London in under half an hour, making it easy to reach your hotel no matter where you land.

Start planning your trip early

When planning your stay, it’s best to book early as hotels near major venues fill quickly. Choosing accommodation close to a Tube station can save valuable commuting time.

From the historic streets of Westminster to the gleaming towers of Canary Wharf, London offers something for every kind of visitor. For professionals travelling from Ireland or across Europe, London’s world-class infrastructure, diverse accommodation, and vibrant culture make it much more than a conference destination, it’s an experience. Whether you prefer riverside luxury, classic British charm, or the convenience of being right by the Eurostar, London has a place to suit your style, schedule, and budget.

So, if you’re planning to attend a conference in London soon, take time to choose your stay wisely, and make your business trip a memorable one.

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