"Located on a quiet street in upscale Holland Park, this new British bistro has all the makings of a classic. There's no trendy furniture or lighting, there are no small plates—in fact, there are no gimmicks whatsoever, just great food, service, and an extensive wine list. The seasonal menu is British with some Mediterranean inflection here and there, and the meat, from lamb sweetbreads to boudin blanc, makes for phenomenal comfort food. Even if you're not a Holland Park resident, you'll feel, at least for a few hours, like this is your old neighborhood joint. "

"Nestled in the heart of Belgravia on the absurdly charming Motcomb street, Amaya is one of our favorite spots for Indian food. Most of the dishes are grilled and bite-sized, which is the perfect excuse to order an abundance of their tasty sides. Favorite menu items: the grilled fish, the duck, and the grilled aubergine. "

"The bright, large, and airy room with tiled floors, cast-iron panes on the many windows, and tasteful garden furniture (it's attached to the classic Conran Shop) has some of the best oysters in the city and magnificently simple seafood. There's a more formal eating space upstairs, but for a true European air, the relaxed oyster bar is where it's at. "

"The considerable permanent collection at the V&A has been scrupulously curated over the course of almost 200 years—and spans thousands—to fit the museum's design and fashion slant. The visiting exhibit program is just as exciting (like the Alexander McQueen Savage Beauty exhibit). With its Victorian flourishes, the actual space that contains the 140-plus galleries is one giant piece of art in and of itself."

"After the 2013 restoration of the grand Victorian building and the chronological rehanging of the permanent collection, it's all the more paramount you make the trip to this classic art institution. You'll find all the British masters here. "

"The David Collins–designed space is true to its name, with blue hues and contemporary furnishings throughout. The cocktails are as good as you would expect from the Berkeley, complete with a liquid amuse-bouche. Overall, a wonderful hotel bar."

"Green juices, superfood salads, acai bowls, and the like are the health-infused, light, protein-packed goodies offered at this all-day café. The concept is further improved by the fact that if you go to the café (and manage to snag a spot), it's Wi-Fi-free and meant for "real" conversation or reading, though if you'd rather take away, you can also have it delivered. This is the original—thanks to huge lines, a second location has opened in Belgravia—but with better-quality food in such high demand, it's bound to keep growing."

"This is one of those incredibly versatile cafés that there aren't enough of: The Wi-Fi flows freely; the space is gorgeous, decked out in sea-green tiles and elegant line drawings; and there are matcha lattes (with every kind of milk, from almond to coconut and beyond) on tap. And then there's the actual food, which ticks every box: There are açai bowls and a fantastic vegan BLT for lunch, plus the fluffiest pancakes or the hard-core rump steak sandwich with harissa for the indulgent. Farm Girl is an all-rounder. "

"Harrods’ food halls are a gourmand's dream. Unbelievably fresh produce, the best fishmonger in London, and almost any obscure ingredient can be found in this maze of delights (with a price tag to match). Alongside all of the gorgeous meats, nuts, breads, prepared foods, and anything else you could imagine are all of the food stalls where you can stop for anything from the finest Belgian chocolate to a NYC deli-style sandwich. Heaven. "

"The Serpentine Galleries are a must-see for contemporary art lovers. Located in a former teahouse, the original Serpentine Gallery continues to champion cutting-edge modern art, and if you walk across Serpentine Lake, the collection extends to the new Sackler Gallery, which was designed by Pritzker Prize–winning architect Zaha Hadid. Take the time to explore the grounds, including the Gallery’s Pavilion, which provides a site for architectural experimentation with temporary structures that is always worth checking out. "

"Born out of a friendship between June Summerill and the late Bernadette Bishop, their store is one of Holland Park's hidden gems, worth venturing a few minutes out of Notting Hill to visit. With an eye for hand-crafted home goods - June & Bernadette forged relationships with many international ceramicists, textile artists and glassblowers - and merchandise their goods in their own style. The best hand painted tablecloths, in an array of patterns all designed in their in house studio, handblown glassware, plus essential kitchenware round out the offerings. This is a dreamy, beautiful store that is 24 years strong. They've also recently opened a second store in Belgravia at 58 Elizabeth Street, and sell internationally through their website summerillandbishop.com"

"In a city full of stuffy clubs for the elite, the SKC (as it's called) comes as a welcome relief. It's tapped into the wellness scene and created a cozy, comfortable, classy home away from home for the health-obsessed. Here members can drop in for a whirl around the world-class Russian baths, have a quality massage or facial, sup on avocado toast and green juice, and hit the gym after with some of the best trainers in town. (The sessions with Paola of Paola's Body Barre are our favorites.) In the evening, you can check in upstairs for a lecture on some remote part of the world, given by the Voyager Club—and you can also book trips through them to, say, the Arctic—and then head to the DJ booth for late-night drinks and dancing. It pretty much ticks all the boxes for the cool and well-to-do down in Chelsea, South Ken, Holland Park, and beyond."

"The Hummingbird Bakery landed in Notting Hill in early 2004 to become the home of quality American baking in London. Today it has five branches across the city—in Soho, South Kensington, Spitalfield, and Islington in addition to the original in Notting Hill—and is famed the world over for its delicious cupcakes and other sweet treats and desserts."

"The positive affirmations emblazoned on the windows catch your eye first. Then the fluttering pieces of paper taped to the doorframe with words like “gratitude,” “love,” and “forgiveness” (pull off what you need—the equivalent of a wellness fortune cookie, without the cookie) lure you in. Through the Aussie-style café (an amazing spot for a turmeric latte or to plow through emails), down the stairs is Bodyism, a wellness-mecca-meets-private-members’-club. Unlike other private gyms, there isn’t a treadmill in sight; instead, Bodyism is focused on personal training and classes, teaching clients to be kind to themselves with a more low-impact routine than the often punishing cardio regimes found elsewhere. The ballet, yoga, Pilates, and boxing are taught—for the most part—by former athletes and everyone here remembers your name. "

"A large communal table, with an almost equally large bowl of fresh communal pastries, dominates the petite café that serves breakfast and brunch favorites, sandwiches, and all-day nibbles. The coffee is king here, including unique house espresso blends, ever-changing filter options, and impossibly frothy cappuccinos. Additional outdoor seating on Ebury Street makes for prime SW1 people-watching in warmer weather."

"The tea sommelier at The Lanesborough is there to guide you through your experience and selection of teas, many of which have been purchased at auctions. Traditional tea, served with all the beloved trimmings including freshly baked scones, thick clotted cream, and homemade preserves, is taken in the hotel's opulent Céleste restaurant or The Withdrawing Room."

"Dr. Dray is a serious name around town when it comes to cosmetic dermatology. He invented mesolift, an aesthetic treatment that involves injecting a custom hyaluronic-acid-based vitamin-and-mineral cocktail into the skin for an intense dose of hydration from the inside out. Don't let the idea of needles scare you; you'll start with a consultation, the injections aren't deep, and Dr. Dray has been at this for close to three decades. The procedure takes fewer than twenty minutes, and the results—supple, more youthful skin—are essentially immediate. There's a host of other skin-care services, plus treatments for your hair and hands, and it's all done in a beautiful new clinic in Kensington."

"This small, beautiful, leafy square in the heart of Belgravia transforms into a great farmers' market on Saturdays, selling everything from fresh seafood from the East Anglian coast to amazing homemade cheeses and fruits from the acclaimed Chegworth Valley. It's really an intimate and special food-shopping experience."

"Nikki Tibbles' flower emporium is over twenty years strong, making her a household name and her shops—a concession at the entrance of Liberty, a landmarked turqoise street island in Notting Hill, and a formal Chelsea boutique—an institution. You can count on Wild at Heart for their signature graphic bouquets which make perfect gifts no matter what the occasion. Their seasonal jam jar bouquets make a particularly thoughtful gift for the host as they're so easy to throw on the table or mantle for quick dinnertime decor."

"Well, the actual dinner you'll eat will be created by Ashley Palmer-Watts, the executive head chef of the Fat Duck group, who worked with Blumenthal to create the exquisite modern British fare here. Being that this place is inside the Mandarin Oriental, it attracts a high-profile clientele—both hotel guests and locals—who like to linger in the warm, handsome room. (It's worth noting that the Mandarin is temporarily closed for renovations.)"

"Ffiona's serves traditional, rustic staples, like steak and kidney pie and an amazing sticky toffee pudding, but the raison d'être is Ffiona herself, the ever-present owner who makes every customer feel like a personal guest in her small, wooden, candlelit restaurant. Ffiona has recently added an excellent brunch every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday with everything from the a English breakfast to fluffy pancakes (and a free cocktail on Saturday). Her traditional Sunday roast is not to be missed."

"Known for his relaxed approach to cooking, Bill Granger has fronted major culinary hits in Australia and Asia. This bright, airy, and generally packed place on Westbourne Grove is his first London restaurant, and like its predecessors, it offers casual all-day dining with a comfort-food slant (awesome mash) and a fantastic weekend brunch. Look for simple dishes, like the signature ricotta hotcakes or the full Aussie breakfast. The no-reservation policy means you'll probably have to wait, but it's totally worth it. For the North Londoners reading, there's a second location in King's Cross, plus two more in Clerkenwell and Chelsea."

"OG skin whisperer Linda Meredith has worked on everyone from Farrah Fawcett to Kate Middleton, and she's one of the facialists local goop friends swear by. An appointment at her Knightsbridge salon is definitely worth the splurge. Her team identifies, treats, and eliminates skin conditions with restorative algae-oxygen therapy, plumping collagen treatments, and more. "

"For a while, Blakes was GP's home away from home in London. Touted as the "original boutique hotel," it has style and sex appeal for days while maintaining all the creature comforts (Bang & Olufsen tech, free-standing tubs) of a luxury establishment. The décor in the rooms is plush—expect lots of crushed velvet and jewel tones—and even a little bit escapist, making them ideal for a romantic night or weekend getaway. Plus, the main floor now boasts a sunny dining room, while the bar downstairs has undergone a classy refurb. This spot is as much of a sleek hideaway as it ever was. "

"COMO is the most quietly luxurious hotel group you’ve probably never heard of. It’s been around since 1991 with Zen-dedicated locations in Bali, Thailand, Bhutan, and more, and its forty-one-bedroom central London property is so discreet that until recently, we didn’t even know it was there. And that’s the idea. The exterior could be another sophisticated building common to the neighborhood, but stepping inside is like stepping into another world. Guest room doors and corridor walls are indistinguishable from one another, flowing in an undulating line of textured wood to mimic walking through a forest. The rooms are almost like sensory deprivation tanks—in the best way possible. Creamy walls, creamier carpets, white sheets, touches of earthy mahogany, and blackout curtains mean your bedroom is a place to rest, recharge, and maybe eat in. Room service at the Halkin is top-notch (and faster than any room service we’ve ever had). Sitting down to dinner wrapped up in soft hotel robes before tumbling into bed after a long day traipsing the city is how we like to vacation."

"This idyllic little French restaurant in Chelsea is well documented as one of the most romantic restaurants in London. The décor is French countryside without being cheesy, complete with candlelit nooks, dried flowers, and cluttered wall decorations. The classic French fare (ratatouille, coq au vin) lives up to the ambience. The chocolate mousse is not to be missed."

"While the gym and restaurant are open to members only, the spa at Chelsea's KX is open to the (well-heeled) public who might visit for a wax or face sculpting. We would recommend heading there for a functional medicine consultation with Dr. Georges Mouton. If colonics are your thing, see Michelle Laud. Not looking for a membership? KXU, a pay-as-you-go (and wallet-friendlier) model, opened on Pavilion Road; it may not have all bells and whistles that KX Life does but features an infrared sauna, a cryotherapy chamber, massages, and rose-gold-hued changing rooms. The easy-to-use app makes it easy to book on the fly, too."

"You can't go wrong with this bastion of hotel excellence, particularly if you're willing to spring for the big-name price tag. The spa, as you'd expect, is exceptional, but it's the restaurants that stand out. Anything named after Daniel Boulud is going to impress your palate, and Bar Boulud (which now serves brunch) is no exception. Because you can also head downstairs for Dinner by Heston Blumenthal, of Fat Duck fame, you might be hard-pressed to find a reason to leave the hotel at all. (It's worth noting that the Mandarin is closed for renovations until 2019.)"

"The ExpressLED facial is the draw here, a fantastically efficient fifteen minutes of collagen- and elastin-supporting light therapy. Most treatments consist of a combination of yellow and near-infrared light (longer wavelengths that penetrate skin more deeply and are shown to help stimulate healing and ease pain), but for clients with congestion, courses of bacteria-eliminating blue light are most effective. It's worth making a habit—results are said to be cumulative—and it doesn't hurt that the salon is located inside Harvey Nichols."

"When it comes to bodily aches and pains, there's often more to it than meets the eye, which is exactly what osteopath Kristian Wood addresses. He's well versed in fixing injuries, but his healing practice takes his appointments much further than that. Part of a session with Wood might involve physical touch to release a trapped muscle or nerve, and the rest is a mix of energy healing and therapy, so that aches caused by emotional stresses and blockages can be dislodged for good."

"Mazi is pushing the boundaries of Greek food (think feta tempura) with a slight French influence (the husband-and-wife owners are French and Greek, respectively). Dips in jars and innovative signature large plates are served with Greek wines and ouzo in a clean, contemporary space in Notting Hill."

"Trained in both the ancient art of Reiki and the modern science of neurolinguistic programming, Light combined the two to create her own approach, aptly named the Light Technique. Light generally sees patients for a course of four to six appointments and combines talk therapy with Reiki, the idea being that the Reiki relieves pain and helps you relax, while the NLP helps to change our own deeply held habits and beliefs—that's when the real breakthroughs happen. Each session is tailored to the client and Light regularly helps people with everything from stress and anxiety to weight gain, hormonal imbalance, grief, and fatigue. Her massages in and of themselves are a treat."

"Mediterranean-inspired Ottolenghi sort of defies categorization: The four locations differ slightly in their offerings, but they all feature some level of sit-down dining, a deli with premade takeout, and excellent catering. Don't be surprised to find a line no matter what time you arrive but know that it's worth the wait for the near-perfect pastries, quiches, and salads. If you don't have time to cook before a dinner party, it's an excellent choice for a meal that you can pick up and bring home."

"A haven for serious and amateur yogis alike—just check into its packed Islington Saturday morning Jivamukti classes for a taste—both Life Centre locations are also hubs for some of London's best alternative therapies, including cranio-sacral therapy, lymphatic drainage, reflexology, Reiki, and more. While the therapy rooms are not what you'd get at a glitzy hotel spa, the therapists are incredible healers. The original location in Islington has also recently opened up a yoga therapy clinic, where personalized yoga sessions treat a suite of maladies, whether they be digestive, endocrine, or emotional. "

"There are long kimono robes, cute little pajama sets, and supima cotton underwear and bras for days at this shop. There are flashes of lace and really flattering cuts, which means that while the offerings are simple, they're still sexy."

"A London foodie hub, this store is crammed with cookbooks, food writing, books on nutrition, fiction, and more. New releases and classic tomes are mixed together by this store's knowledgeable staff. The shop has its own test kitchen, where you can sample many of the recipes the Books for Cooks staff is excited to try. Don't miss the themed workshop meals in the demonstration kitchen upstairs, where you'll learn how to make global cuisines from a group of experts in different foodie fields."

"Run by husband-and-wife team Ian Paley and Emily Dyson, this multilevel space is stocked with independent designers from all over the globe. While the women's section is home to plenty of international names that are hard to find elsewhere (along with a strong NYC contingent like Rachel Comey and Steven Alan), it's the meticulously edited kids’ selection—Morley tees, Oeuf toys—that's earned the shop praise from locals and visitors alike."

"From copper pots to the best selection of electric kettles (an English staple), you'll find pretty much every essential for outfitting a kitchen here. It's the big stuff, and the small stuff, including a variety of French presses, the best ovens, and great salt and pepper shakers."

"Near the posh shopping area of Sloane Square and occupying a series of Victorian townhouses, this small hotel in Chelsea offers some truly attractive communal areas. And you don’t have to be a guest to use them. There’s a small, clubby bar full of leather chairs and dark, moody lighting for an early-evening drink (or to escape the London drizzle). Our favorite spot, though, is the library. Dreamily quiet, its walls lined with old books and its tables stacked with newspapers, it’s a proper oasis for the freelancer or aspiring novelist—especially with a pot (and then another) of English breakfast tea. For those looking to sleepover, guestrooms are a lesson in English elegance, many with roomy, four-poster beds and picturesque views of the leafy park on the adjacent quiet square. "

"Esther Fieldgrass has a few clinics around London in neighborhoods including Chelsea, Kensington, and St. John’s Wood. The clinics specialize in invasive and noninvasive aesthetic procedures, and the services and beautiful offices make them a favorite of ours for peels, laser procedures, and microneedling, as well as more-intense treatments. "

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"Fertility expert Emma Cannon specializes in helping soon-to-be and new mothers at her offices in Chelsea and the West End. A registered acupuncturist and an expert in women’s health, her techniques sit between Eastern and Western healing traditions. The Fertility Rooms are her center of gravity, where she provides nutritional advice, acupuncture, and full-body diagnostics to support couples trying to get pregnant or women recovering from postpartum depression. She also runs an IVF support clinic. "

"This place is incredible for parents. The idea is that of a members' club, but for families. The kids take over the ground floor (with supervised activities, soft play, and a plant-based café to feed them), while the grown-ups have their own spa-restaurant-tearoom oasis upstairs. The top floor is the treatment sanctuary with acupuncture, colonics, a nutritionist, and cryotherapy chambers at the ready. Refreshingly, membership is completely nonexclusive. Anyone can join (for a yearly fee), and having children is not a prerequisite."

"Form and function is the resounding thesis at Sharon Jo-Yun Hung and Chris Yoshiro Green's shop of Japanese and Taiwanese discoveries, from the most beautiful brooms and simple, graphic tenugui cloths, to super useful and elegant porcelain ceramics from Akira, to those gorgeous copper tea canisters, to the most fundamentally perfect stationery. Everything in the shop adheres to a subtle palette of brown and greige and comes together picture-perfectly, so beyond the objects, the shop is an aesthetic experience in and of itself. "

"Former Spa Junkie columnist at the Financial Times Inge Theron is the founder of this enterprise. Which makes sense, as only someone who has experienced hundreds of spas, treatments, and Eastern and Western wellness philosophies could have come up with something so smart. FaceGym is not a facial; it’s a workout for the muscles, fascia, and lymph glands that make up your face. And it’s completely noninvasive. A therapist will knead, press, and gently slap your face for thirty minutes, and the result is kind of incredible. Your cheekbones look lifted, your eyes are less puffy, and the rush of blood to the face gives your complexion a healthy glow. The shorter appointment times and convenient locations mean you can squeeze this facial workout into a lunch break. We like the flagship on the King's Road, but the counter at Selfridges is just as good, as is the location across the pond at Saks in NYC."

"Sure, it's the city's most legendary, over-the-top shopping destination and it stocks all the upscale brands you'd expect (the markdowns at sale time are ridiculously good), but it's the food hall and ice cream shop that keep us coming back, particularly because littles go wild for the tastes-better-than it sounds spaghetti ice cream. The variety, presentation, and quality really are unsurpassed, though the price tags mean that it's only an occasional indulgence. It’s also just a beautiful and majestic space. "

"Shopping the Harvey Nichols flagship is one of life's great pleasures as it's often quiet and crowdless. Beyond having the most well-curated selection of contemporary lines in London and a shoe department that is never disappointing, the seasonal sales are legendary. As if that weren't enough to make you want to move in forever, there are also salons, spas, and the Fifth Floor—a sort of high-end cafeteria with great food and cocktails."

"This noisy, crowded spot in Chelsea makes fresh pizza in wood-burning ovens. The crust has that Neopolitan just-chewy-enough consistency that makes it impossible to put down, even after you're a few slices in."

"Here, you'll find around 25,000 books piled on every imaginable surface, from tabletops to the staircase. The shop has a literary slant but stocks all sorts of titles, from architecture tomes to cookbooks to thrillers."

"Hand-knotted silk rugs are Luke Irwin's specialty: His work is incredibly luxurious, soft to the touch, and eye-catching. No two carpets are the same, as all his work is made in conversation with the client."

"This spot offers small plates and inventive nigiri that's served sans soy sauce to keep the spotlight on the beautiful, natural flavors. The dishes at Yashin are more gourmet than traditional, so imagine offerings like miso cappuccino and truffle infusions in addition to a few hot, tapas-style picks. Come here for excellent food in an unpretentious setting. Case in point: the £30 omakase option. "

"This Notting Hill shop started out selling traditional tailored swim trunks for men and women, and the brand quickly expanded to include more colorful and extremely well-made basics. There is also an outpost in the Hamptons."

"It's all about bright colors and all things British-made here. Favorites are the selection of vintage globes, satchels, enamelware, and classic old-school bus paraphernalia."

"Not only is the Thai food delicious here but it's served at awesome prices—all amid myriad green, overgrown hanging plants in the back dining room. The bar area in front is traditional English style and gets crowded."

"Hereford Road's head chef Tom Pemberton (formerly of St. John) opened the restaurant in 2007 in a former Victorian butcher’s shop; in the summers, they open up the butcher's window to the street, creating a semi-open-air space. Though the focus is on British cuisine bolstered by locally sourced, seasonal produce, the menu at Hereford Road definitely caters to adventurous eaters. Get the sea bass, which is intended for sharing."

"This restaurant is situated in a great location, right on the square, making it the ideal spot for traditional afternoon tea in a posh Chelsea environment (the menu is refreshingly well-priced despite the environs). The Botanist Breakfast, which is perfect for kicking off a full day of wandering, includes a generous main dish and coffee and rings in at £12."

"Notting Hill needed a place like Laylow. Aside from the few existing late-night haunts that have been around forever in this corner of West London, there haven’t been many hot spots when it comes to fun, atmospheric watering holes. But Laylow brought in new life here—this is a social club where you can arrive in the early afternoon and stay until way past bedtime. Have dinner at the restaurant, relax on the rooftop with a glass of wine, then wind down with a cocktail in a bar that feels like a sumptuous living room (replete with plush velvet banquettes and armchairs). The only kicker? It's a private members-only club, so you’ll have to find a friend who can get you in."

"With ninety showrooms of some of the biggest names in design, this is not for the faint-hearted, so think about enlisting the personal shopping service, which makes the massive space and selection a bit easier to take on. Don't miss Cole & Son, Edelman Leather, Tai Ping, The Nanz Company, and Stark Carpet and Fabric, to name a very few."

"There's a good chance you would find De Gournay without a heads up from us, if only because it's nearly impossible to walk by its windows without getting drawn into the elegant showroom. It offers fabrics, furniture, plates, and custom design services, but De Gournay's true specialty is luxury hand-painted wallpapers in Chinoiserie patterns. Owner Claud Cecil Gurney seeks out painters who have been in the business for generations, and the wallpapers are indisputably the best in this increasingly rare trade."

"At this Philippe Starck–designed (and gilded) shop, you'll find all Taschen's trademark tomes on art, photography, fashion, architecture, film, erotica, and more. Conveniently placed right across the street from the Saatchi Gallery, this is a shop for the well-heeled art lover. The gallery space downstairs shows off certain titles in more detail."

"Established in 2009 by brothers Henry and George Graham, Wolf & Badger is predicated on the idea of launching new soon-to-be-big designer talent. The concept is taking off, as there are now two London-based boutiques (the other one is in Mayfair)."

"Trained as a restorer and gilder, Rose Uniacke's eye for material is unparalleled. So it makes sense that in her store, the eighteenth-, nineteenth-, and twentieth-century antiques are all given plenty of space to show themselves off. Uniacke also offers an interior design service and a bespoke range made with her trademark appreciation for the age and condition of the materials she uses."

"You can't miss the impressive, stone-columned, lantern-laden exterior here, which is reminiscent of old-London sophistication. It's an appropriate setting for this five-star hotel, which overlooks Hyde Park Corner. The rooms are done in grand Regency-period style, complete with original artworks and handcrafted furniture, and all the technology in the rooms is artfully concealed to give guests an authentic experience. In addition to the pomp and comfort (the complimentary amenities are impressive as is the incredible rooftop spa and gym), a meal at the hotel's restaurant, Céleste is a real treat."

"During winter, the garden transforms into a posh winter wonderland, complete with fake snow, fluffy blankets, and real fireplaces. There's nice greenery in warmer months, too. Inside, you'll find a dining area, a bar decorated with leather and books, a lounge, and even a deli counter."

"Aux Merveilleux de Fred specializes in delicious concoctions of delightfully light, soft cream and crystallized meringue. These cakes come in six different flavors—all amazing—but the Merveilleux and the Incroyable are probably our favorites. The brioche is also noteworthy."

"This elegant gastropub has open fireplaces for a cozy effect in winter and floor-to-ceiling windows that open out onto Elizabeth Street in warmer months. The comprehensive bar menu (which ranges from rock oysters to a steak and Guinness pie) should leave you wanting for nothing, but in case you are, a more formal (and pricey) dining room menu is served on the first floor."

"Stella's latest outpost includes a Stella McCartney Kids section complete with its own entrance. You'll find plenty of "mini me" versions of pieces from the women's collection, along with other really bright and modern picks. It's worth having the little ones try something on, as the fitting rooms are seriously fun."

"Beyond being a beautiful place to pass an afternoon, this is also London's oldest botanical garden (it dates back to 1673). Don't miss the newest addition, the Garden of Edible and Useful Plants, where you'll find foliage with a variety of uses, from perfume to cosmetics. P.S. Closed Saturdays."

"This historical garden center—in existence since the nineteenth-century—is where Londoners go to start their urban oases. The variety is as endless as the knowledge of its kind staff. If you're feeling hands-off, there's a design and installation service here to suit your needs both large and small."

"Josh Wood is definitely one of the best salons in London. On any given day, you'll run into London's editors, celebrities, PR ladies, and people in the know. They all flock here because the haircuts are amazing and the stylists, who are cool (not too cool) and friendly, work with the biggest names out there. You are guaranteed to be pleased with your cut or color."

"Divided by the Serpentine Lake, the impossible-to-miss Hyde Park is central London's most prominent chunk of greenery. It's worth getting lost: You'll find the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial; an awesome pirate ship playground; the very cool Serpentine Gallery; the lakeside Lido Café; sports facilities; boating; seasonal events; and many wonderful walks and paths to wander. From November to January of each year, the entire place is decked out in holiday decorations for the Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, including an ice-skating rink and a winter festival."

"This indoor skate park offers full-day lessons for beginner and advanced skateboarders of all ages, as well as skate camps and after-school clubs. Kids especially love Gary, but all the guys are very knowledgeable, friendly, and welcoming. The skate park itself is an iconic scene of punk life in London. "

"Established in London in 1918 by a Japanese immigrant, the Budokwai is still regarded as London's premier martial arts club. Don't let this intimidate the little ones—the juniors classes are particularly great, and in addition to judo, Budokwai offers karate, aikido, and jiujitsu for all levels from beginner to master. Kids are taught carefully, and judo teaches more than just fitness: Patience, discipline and self-defense are among the other qualities gained."

"The Harrods Ice Cream Parlour came to life in the summer of 2011, serving up traditional gelato treats from Morelli's—an Italian ice cream specialist since 1907—plus Harrods’ modern twists. Highlights include the Banoffee Basket—caramel, banana, and cream—as well as plenty of cookie-and-ice-cream combos. The setting is, in true Harrods style, pretty over-the-top, with a mix of Art Deco, pastel colors, and sundae-glass chandeliers. Once the little ones have had their sugar fix, take them over to the toy section for a complete and indulgent Harrods kids experience."

"The Organic Pharmacy specializes in herbal and homeopathic treatments and supplements and is a place where you can get a custom mix to suit your specific needs. You'll also find a great range of beauty and skin-care products that you can also buy Organic Pharmacy products at goop. There are locations throughout the city in Chelsea, Covent Garden, Kensington, Soho, and Hampstead. "

"Terence Conran of Habitat fame is one of the—if not the—most prominent figures in British design, and his legendary shop is just one of his many legacies. His son Jasper is heir to his throne: He's recently overhauled the store's layout, style, and feel. Mixing furniture into realistic and enticing homelike vignettes, the shop is now a source of inspiration as much as it is the place to buy twentieth-century design large and small. Along with all the Eames, Saarinens, and van der Rohes—not to mention Donald Judd's furniture designs, for which Conran has the exclusive—the knickknacks, stationery, and design books are unparalleled, making it hard to walk out empty-handed. There is also another location in Marylebone. "

"Nicky Kinnaird's beauty emporium has launched more than one of the best skin-care brands known today. Lines like Tata Harper, Laura Mercier, and Eve Lom were virtually unknown before winning shelf space here. If you're looking for some skin-care advice, Space NK is a good place to mix up your beauty regimen. There are locations throughout the city. "

"Lulu Lytle has outfitted some of London's most upscale restaurants and hangouts, like Cecconi's, the Connaught, and Soho House. Her work, including understated leather upholstery pieces, is beautifully crafted and made in England: It's the perfect blend of elegance and coziness."

"Here, a seemingly endless row of stalls is packed with everything from antiques and china to books, furniture, and vintage clothes; in addition, there's a section where you can buy beautiful fresh produce and delicious prepared food. It gets busy on weekends, but squeezing through the crowds on this adorable old street is an essential London experience."

"Interior designers, collectors, and discerning shoppers head to Pimlico Road for all things home. Don't miss Luke Irwin, Rose Uniacke, and Soane, plus many others. Check websites for individual retailers' details and opening times."

"This private members’ club comes at a price, but the variety of activities available to kids and parents is pretty astounding. It’s located right in Chelsea, with views of the Thames; parents can enjoy the gourmet food, stunning modern décor, and the amazing views, while kids have the options of beach club (indoor pool), massive soft play center, music booth, kitchen (with cooking activities), music room, and art lab. Kids will love it, and adults will find the whole experience oddly peaceful for a kids’ activity center."

"Originally built in 1910, Electric Cinema is one of the oldest movie theaters in the UK: It's been running on and off since that time, but it caught our attention when it was leased to Soho House as part of its Electric House property. The Saturday night Kids Club shows a great selection of films for little ones, and kids love hanging out in the unusual leather sofa seating."

"Here, both adults and kiddos can explore virtually every scientific topic of the modern world, including space, agriculture, energy, time, medicine, psychology, and even identity. There's a 3D Imax theater, an Apollo 4-D Cinema, galleries, hands-on displays, flight simulators, and much more. While it's easy to pretend it's just for the kids, you'll be shocked by how much you'll learn yourself."

"Suman is the brow guru in London as far as we're concerned. Using traditional threading methods, she has a natural knack for creating flattering shapes that don't appear overdone or unnatural, which is why she's gathered a devoted client list across London. In addition, Suman also does LashLift and lash tint treatments. She mostly operates out of a salon in South Kensington, though she also does home visits."

"Fashion giants, like Dover Street Market, Matches, and Selfridges, may have every sartorial desire covered, but it’s the smaller, more intimate stores that are the backbone of London. Baar & Baas on the King's Road is the perfect example. Maddie Chesterton’s edit is arty and quirky: silky Rixo tea dresses, striped Bella Freud knits and flared pants, retro Terry de Havilland platforms, and the most sublime Sophie Lis jewelry are just a few of the special offerings. It’s all luxuriously bohemian and ’60s-inspired. And the selection of cookbooks, candles, and cards solves virtually every gift buying dilemma, every time. "

"Since its opening by Queen Victoria in 1871, Royal Albert Hall has been home to innumerable concerts and performances. In fact, it hosts about 350 events per year, including classical concerts (it has been home to the annual summer Proms since 1941), rock and pop, ballet, opera, awards ceremonies, and more. Every act from Led Zeppelin to Les Misérables, Cirque du Soleil, and Adele has graced the magnificent building, which remains one of London's most distinct and treasured landmarks."

"See the city from a different angle: Choose from a sightseeing cruise of your chosen stretch of the river (we like Thames Limo, which leaves from Fulham), enjoy tea on the Thames, or simply use the regular boat service as an alternative to the Tube. Single fares range from just under £4 to £13, depending on how far you want to go. For around £15, you can get a River Roamer ticket that entitles you to unlimited travel to all of London's fifteen piers. "

"For the health-conscious West London audience it attracts, this restaurant is a dream come true. Here, food that's free of refined flour, sugars, dairy, and other common no-nos is presented in a beautiful, tastefully decorated space full of plants and unusual ceramics. In other words, it's health food minus the hippie digs. Plus, everything from the millet bean burger to the take on Caesar salad is just as good as the "real" thing. "

"This iconic floristry business is thirty years old—and still going strong. Lush, colorful, and seasonal bunches—inspired by the English countryside—are what's on offer at this legendary spot, which is why they've been endlessly replicated across the city. Harper & Tom's offers flower delivery subscriptions—they will come and arrange all the vases in your house—along with gardening contracts in a similar, countrified vein. "

"With shops in Dubai, Beirut, and Abu Dhabi, this Middle Eastern retailer has now arrived in London in a sprawling space that couldn't be more at home on tony Sloane Square. With a Nordic-concept-store look and a mini-department-store feel, it offers plenty of dedicated room for designers like Victoria Beckham, Elie Saab, and Isabel Marant, while more niche brands like Bella Freud, Malone Souliers, and Monreal London get their airtime on the surrounding racks and displays. Meanwhile, the Bistrotheque team serves up all-day snacks and drinks at the in-store April's Cafe. As a bonus, it has a leafy and secluded courtyard, making it all the more of a destination for West London's fashion crowd. "

"While the new Design Museum isn't open quite yet, the shop is already up and running and provides a tiny sneak preview into architect John Pawson's vision for the museum. Colorful design objects, gadgets, toys, and gizmos are carefully arranged on a Vitsoe shelving system on dark grey walls, creating a beautiful and contrasting display. It's a great selection of small, affordable gifts and more high-concept pieces for the real design lover like John Pawson designed ceramic bowls, a Barber & Osgerby teapot, Artek's Alvar Aalto stools and the like. It all bodes well for the grand opening in late November. "