18 Top London Airbnbs: From Unique Penthouses in East London to Stylish Flats in Soho
Diving into the essence of London—discovering its trendiest neighborhoods and top dining spots—can be a challenge. However, experiencing the city like a local by staying in one of its premier Airbnbs, or choosing a OneFineStay property or another quality rental service, is an excellent way to begin. We’ve searched through the most stunning properties available in London to create this selection: the finest homestays situated in fantastic locations, including some we’ve personally enjoyed.
Fulham Lodge
Sleeping arrangements: 5 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms
Key features: Indoor swimming pool, sauna, fireplace
Location: Fulham
Who would have thought that an old, neglected keeper’s lodge located on the edge of a cemetery could be turned into such an extraordinary example of contemporary design? Spanning three levels and featuring a 43-foot swimming pool, this transformation was envisioned by owner Justin Maxwell Stuart. He undertook the challenging task of renovating the 19th-century neo-gothic lodge, and after four years of hard work, the result is a stunningly appealing environment. What was once an abandoned structure surrounded by wild overgrowth has now become a stylish and elegant retreat in London—perfect for a unique getaway in the city.
As I entered the five-bedroom home, I was immediately impressed by the design and how every inch of the space had been carefully and effectively utilized. The ground floor features a bright, sleek, and enjoyable open-plan living area, showcasing a blue-and-white color scheme in the walls and decor that establishes a refreshing nautical theme, evident throughout the property with unique fish sculptures and scattered cushions. The modern kitchen serves as a central gathering place, ideal for hosting dinner parties, complete with Great Gatsby-inspired bar stools and a spacious dining table that accommodates ten guests. Expansive bifold doors lead to a beautifully landscaped garden, while the two adjoining living spaces offer a cozy spot for reading the newspaper over morning coffee and a warm corner for evening relaxation.
One of the standout features of the house is undoubtedly the winding stone staircase that leads down to the incredible basement. Here, you’ll find a luxurious swimming pool reminiscent of a spa, a sauna, and a cozy entertainment room complete with an impressive bar. There’s also a vast wine cellar to admire, although it’s off-limits to guests (but definitely an enticing view). Spend your days relaxing in this tranquil oasis and unwind in the evenings with a few gin and tonics. When you’re ready to retire, head back upstairs to the serene master bedroom on the top floor, where you can sink into a sea of cushions and rest your head on the plush pillows of the king-sized bed. Alternatively, you can retreat to one of the four additional bedrooms downstairs. Indulge in a relaxing bubble bath in one of the spacious tubs, crank up your favorite music through the sound system that features speakers in most rooms, and adjust the lighting to set the perfect mood.
The refurbishment of this lodge was quite comprehensive, and it now boasts an array of features (including a moat in the garden, which I may have forgotten to mention). The blend of traditional and contemporary elements preserves the building’s historical allure—it remains a classic Gothic structure set within a cemetery—but once you step inside, you’ll be captivated by the innovative design and creativity. Staying here is an exhilarating experience. —Cordelia Aspinall
Cockspur Street
Bedrooms & Bathrooms: 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms
Key Features: Elevator, laundry machine
Area: Trafalgar Square
Who actually resides in Trafalgar Square? Obviously, there’s the figure atop the column and a multitude of pigeons. But this is a grand version of London, reminiscent of a giant Monopoly game, filled with embassies, exclusive clubs, and museums. Is there anyone living here? Surprisingly, yes. This OneFineStay apartment is located five stories up, directly across from Canada House, in what was formerly Norway House, offering a cozy spot to explore central London at your leisure. You can grab supplies from Fortnum & Mason, take a leisurely morning walk past Buckingham Palace and through St James’s Park to see the pelicans, or be among the first to view the Monets at the National Gallery.
The apartment features two roomy bedrooms, each cooled by ceiling fans, accessible from a hallway painted in a striking Georgian blue and white that gives the impression of being part of a larger residence. On the opposite side are two bathrooms adorned with elegant swirling marble. At the far end lies a compact yet well-equipped kitchen, along with a cozy sitting area that showcases beams from the original structure and is decorated with reclaimed wooden panels. The ambiance is reminiscent of being enclosed in a walnut or a bachelor pad from the Jeeves and Wooster era, with a vintage Harrow XI cricket bat in one corner, a lamp made from deer antlers in another, and a herringbone-patterned sofa paired with plush armchairs for lounging comfortably while enjoying an afternoon Old Fashioned at the Calligaris teak dining table. Subtle hints about the owners can be found in the Japanese floral artwork adorning the bedroom walls and in the diverse bookshelves that feature topics ranging from ceramics to works by Sarah Perry, British folk traditions, and Norwegian geography. It’s easy to linger here for a day, yet outside the windows lies the vibrant pulse of the city—even for local staycationers like me. Weekend mornings in this area can be more peaceful than some remote suburbs, with the sound of horses trotting towards Hyde Park and the Post Office Tower cheerfully greeting us with ‘Good Morning London’ on its digital display.
We obtained a Treasure Trail map for our son and navigated through Trafalgar Square, exploring hidden clues that led us along quiet streets to overlooked historical markers—like the pub with two distinct sections near Charing Cross and the Trafalgar Way map located at Canada House. This building holds its own concealed history as well—there’s a statue of St. Olav above the entrance, brandishing a sword. During the war, when Norway was under occupation, Norway House served as the base for the government in exile, with King Haakon VII frequently stopping by. If he had been around during our visit, we could have arranged, through the OneFineStay concierge team, for him to join us for drinks by the sidewalk at Sofitel St James nearby, or at the bar at Da Henrietta in Covent Garden. In an area of the city that can sometimes feel overwhelming and detached, this spot offers a charming and inviting atmosphere. —Rick Jordan
An intelligent, highly central duplex apartment
Area: Marylebone
Just moments away from Mayfair, Bond Street, and Regent’s Park, and situated at the corner of the charming Marylebone High Street, this two-story townhouse from the 18th century is perfectly located—yet it feels like a tranquil retreat once you step inside. Adorned with atmospheric, subdued artwork and vintage furnishings, the kitchen and bathroom feature retro subway tiles, offering a stylish yet straightforward vibe. The spacious bedrooms are comfortably located on the lower-ground floor, while the impressive living-dining area boasts a striking marble fireplace that captures attention with its grandeur. Interestingly, there’s even a tree just outside the grand front entrance that manages to bloom beautifully in the depths of winter. This property is among the many homes in London available for stay through OneFineStay. When you book here, you’ll receive a warm welcome and a guided tour from a concierge, as well as a hamper filled with treats like artisanal coffee, English sparkling wine, tea, and shortbread. Additionally, you can opt for customized experiences, including cooking classes or childcare services. —Becky Lucas
A monochrome townhouse
Bedrooms and bathrooms: 2 bedrooms, 1.5 bathrooms
Key features: View of the park, Grown Alchemist bath amenities, blackout curtains
Location: Hackney
If a residence has received accolades from the Modern House, it’s clear that you’ve stumbled upon a true architectural treasure. A stylish renovation has transformed this terrace in Hackney into a sleek modern haven, just a short distance from the Columbia Road flower market. Inside, you’ll discover artworks from host Jo’s collection, unique vintage and designer furnishings from renowned brands, an abundance of greenery, and a warm wood-burning stove perfect for cozy evenings by the fire.
A chic Victorian flat
Sleeping and bathing facilities: 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom
Key features: Private garden, barbecue
Location: Elephant and Castle
This stylish apartment in Elephant & Castle is located right in the heart of Zone 1, allowing you to visit attractions like Big Ben, Borough Market, Tate Modern, and several other museums in just a 20-minute walk. The calming combination of neutral tones and carefully selected modern furnishings creates a relaxing retreat to unwind in after a busy day.
A creative retreat featuring sights of The Shard
Sleeping arrangements: 1 bedroom, 1.5 bathrooms
Key features: Light-blocking curtains, Bluetooth audio system
Location: Southwark
London boasts numerous high-rise apartments offering stunning skyline views, but this one stands out as particularly unique. Located just a short distance from the lively Borough Market and the Tate Modern, the hosts have designed a whimsical, childlike environment featuring large windows that provide a direct view of The Shard. An open chest of drawers cleverly transforms into a staircase that leads to a cozy little room, while the oven has a charming nursery design. If you draw back the hand-stitched curtain concealing the secret entrance to the bathroom, you can enjoy a shower illuminated by moonlight. Guests can also book traditional and holistic spa treatments, and a variety of the city’s top restaurants, delis, and bakeries are mere minutes away.
Expansive designer townhouse featuring a patio
Bedrooms and bathrooms: 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms
Premium features: Airbnb Luxe, fireplace, cozy patio
Location: Chelsea
Situated in a charming pastel-painted townhouse close to Chelsea’s Sloane Square, this tranquil rental is among the top Airbnbs in London. The interiors are more subdued than the bright exterior would lead you to believe, featuring monochrome armchairs, a sleek kitchen in a warm oatmeal shade, and four light-colored bedrooms. With space for six at the elegant dining table, it’s an excellent choice for anyone looking to entertain while in the city. Additionally, there’s a small yet delightful patio for enjoying the occasional sunny day.
A first-floor flat featuring outdoor area
Sleeping and bathing: 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom
Key features: Backyard, washer and dryer
Location: Chelsea
Those residing in London are well aware of how uncommon it is to have personal outdoor space. This ground-floor apartment located in Chelsea features a south-facing patio that captures sunlight throughout the day. Within the apartment, the host Marc has incorporated numerous geometric stripes to create an illusion of more space—these stripes can be found on the chimney breast of the open fireplace in the living room, in one of the two bedrooms, and in the charming breakfast area.
A chic, art-infused apartment
Sleeping and bathing arrangements: 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom
Key features: Washer and dryer, fully stocked kitchen, Sonos audio system
Location: Holland Park
The charming balcony on the first floor of this West London apartment offers views of the tranquil streets near the lush greenery of Holland Park, an area of the city located near Kensington Gardens and Notting Hill. With its soaring double-height ceilings, the flat feels incredibly spacious, and the living room, adorned with artwork, is both inviting and vibrant.
An eccentric Georgian-style townhouse
Bedrooms & bathroom: 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom
Key features: Well-stocked bookshelf, fireplace, Pack ‘n Play crib
Location: Angel neighborhood
This Georgian house is part of a traditional terrace in North London. The darker hues on the ground level—featuring a calming gray-green living area and a striking navy kitchen—are complemented by the bright bedrooms located on the upper floor. Situated just a few steps away from Islington Green and Camden Passage, the home is also a brief stroll from Hoxton, bordering East London.
A classic Victorian apartment
Sleeping arrangements: 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom
Key features: Lavazza coffee maker, luggage drop-off permitted
Location: Knightsbridge
This Airbnb in London is perfect for those who appreciate culture, located just a short stroll from some of the city’s top museums, such as the Victoria and Albert Museum and the Natural History Museum. The decor features floral patterns that evoke a traditional country estate, along with unique elements like tall lamps, handcrafted glass vases, and a gallery wall in the cozy living area. It’s worth mentioning that this rental is situated on the fourth floor of the building, and there is no elevator available.
Bright and airy apartment
Bedrooms & bathrooms: 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms
Key features: Standalone bathtub, designated office area, vinyl record player
Location: Notting Hill
The spacious kitchen serves as the centerpiece of this split-level apartment in Notting Hill. It features a charming open fireplace perfect for snug evenings, while the exposed brick walls bring a touch of character to the bright, white-washed interiors. The most attractive of the two bedrooms comes with a stylish roll-top bath, and there’s a small study that offers views of the nearby rooftops. Perhaps the standout feature of this Airbnb is the roof terrace, which provides a glimpse of the lively neighborhood beneath.
Delightful Chelsea apartment
Bedrooms & bathrooms: 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom
Key features: Private garden patio, designated workspace with a printer, window seating
Location: World’s End Estate
You won’t want to depart from this Scandinavian-style residence located in the center of Chelsea. This one-bedroom apartment has an unexpectedly roomy feel, largely due to its unique indoor-outdoor layout, which includes large accordion glass doors that connect the living room and kitchen to a charming, ivy-clad patio. Amenities of this London Airbnb feature blackout curtains and a cozy fireplace in the living area. The Thames River is just a two-minute stroll away in one direction, while the boutiques and cafes of King’s Road are conveniently nearby.
Charming pastel townhouse located in Chelsea
Bedrooms & bathrooms: 2 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms
Key features: Private patio, washing machine with supplied laundry detergent pods, hospitality package including kitchen essentials and English treats
Area: Chelsea
This charming two-bedroom apartment would fit perfectly in our collection of the most vibrant Airbnbs, featuring a pastel pink Smeg refrigerator, a sunroom adorned with pink walls (as seen above), and eye-catching wallpaper patterns. Nestled in a tranquil neighborhood, the apartment offers small balconies attached to both bedrooms and a backyard garden, providing a lovely outdoor space without having to leave your accommodation. Additionally, cultural attractions like the Victoria and Albert Museum and the Science Museum in South Kensington are just a short distance away. Inside, you’ll find all the necessities and more: the host, Robert, provides a hospitality package that includes bread, milk, eggs, butter, biscuits, and chocolates for guests; the kitchen is also equipped with staples such as coffee, tea, sugar, oil, vinegar, and salt and pepper. It’s worth mentioning that the second bedroom, featuring two twin beds, includes its own sink and shower, which may prompt guests to share the larger main bathroom.
Chic studio flat located in the City of London
Sleeping arrangements: 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom
Key features: Access to gym and lounge, king-sized bed, Wi-Fi
Area: Blackfriars
If you’re seeking a short getaway, this one-bedroom Airbnb situated within an aparthotel offers everything you need: seamless contactless check-in, a kitchen area for meal preparation, “extremely fast Wi-Fi” according to one guest, and a designated workspace, along with a roomy lounge area on the ground floor. The accommodation is adequately sized for either one person or a couple, featuring a king-size bed and a neat bathroom stocked with amenities. Outside, you’ll find seating areas by the River Thames, and in the hotel lobby, there’s a café that former guests suggest for enjoying gelato or coffee.
Artistic apartment located in Central London
Sleeping arrangements: 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom
Key features: Sonos audio system, balcony, coffee machine
Area: Earl’s Court
This elegant Airbnb features lofty ceilings and is awash in natural light, adorned with striking artwork and remarkable furnishings. The living area and the elevated bedroom, which includes a king-sized bed, are equipped with Sonos sound systems. The apartment’s balcony provides a view of a lovely garden square and is furnished with a café table, perfect for savoring a coffee while observing the lively scene below. Holland Park is conveniently located just a short walk away.
Sunny residence close to Granary Square
Bedrooms & bathroom: 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom
Key features: Private garden, barbecue grill, community pool just across the street
Area: Barnsbury Estate
One of our highly recommended vacation rentals is this delightful two-bedroom apartment located near Granary Square. If you’re looking for a secluded ivy-covered patio in London, this place has you covered, complete with a backyard grill. Plus, it’s only a short walk from Camden Lock, a lovely area by Regent’s Canal that’s perfect for leisurely morning walks. The interior features two bedrooms, both equipped with king-size beds, and boasts a minimalist design.
A Victorian-style townhouse
Sleeping arrangements and bathrooms: 2 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms
Key features: Light-blocking curtains, equipment for kids provided (high chair, crib, dishware, toys), laundry facilities
Location: Islington
Completing our selection of top Airbnbs in London, this spacious apartment is located in the northern part of Islington, nestled on a tranquil cobblestone street surrounded by impressive Victorian architecture. The interior exudes warmth and vibrancy, featuring a mustard velvet armchair that contrasts beautifully with the soothing sage-colored walls in the living area, along with stylish Seventies-inspired geometric wallpaper in the hallways. The charming sun-drenched terrace is a perfect place to enjoy a drink before dining at one of the area’s excellent restaurants, with Trullo, known for its pasta, being a standout choice.