The London Honeymoon Guide for a Fairy Tale Escape

Fact or fiction, London is where some of the world's most cherished tales were written, including Shakespeare's timeless plays right up to Adele's heart-tugging lyrics. This is where real-life princes meet princesses, where rockstars are inspired, and where history is forever made. In other words, a London honeymoon is just the recipe for a fairy tale.

Couples are spoiled for choice when it comes to things to explore, jam-packing days–rain or shine–with the city's museums, restaurants, theatres, boutiques, parks, palaces and attractions (phew!), or go at a more relaxed and selective pace. With excellent and affordable non-stop routes from most major US cities (including less than seven-hour journeys from NYC's JFK or LGA Airports to London's Heathrow Airport), there's a high chance you'll be back for seconds, at the very least, en route to the rest of Europe. Here's the London honeymoon information you need to plan your romantic tour of the British capital.

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Is London Good for a Honeymoon?

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Pros of a London Honeymoon

"When a man is tired of London, he is tired of life," wrote the father of the English Dictionary, Samuel Johnson. Truth be told, the city has something to keep just about anyone entertained many lives over, and chances of boredom are slim to none. Both liberal and ethnically diverse, London is a truly welcoming space for all travelers. The location is teeming with history, unique architecture, delicious pastries and decadent shopping. The public transit is also excellent.

Cons of a London Honeymoon

Long regarded as one of the most expensive cities in the world, it'd be wise to factor in an ample budget, as well as do your research, ahead of any trip to The Big Smoke. London is a leading purveyor in luxury experiences, so couples experiencing the best of the city should expect top-notch service, accommodations and experiences.

The Best Times of Year to Go on a London Honeymoon for Good Weather

The weather unfairly gets a bad rap in London. If you can handle grey skies and a bit of drizzle, the mild year-round climate is rather non-dramatic by North American standards. The best times to visit London fall between May to October, especially for warm, unpredictably sunny days run-up to Christmas and all its winter festivities make for a magical experience for couples. January to March, however, can be somewhat cold and bleak (though you'll benefit from fewer crowds and better prices).

Things to Do During a London Honeymoon

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Indulge With Afternoon Tea

Ever since the Duchess of Bedford decided to fill the gap between lunch and dinner in 1840, afternoon tea has remained the sinfully delicious daytime treat. Today, there are a variety of ways to do tiered sandwiches, scones and cake. For something traditional, opt for The Ritz's luxurious offering held in their spectacular former ballroom; though shoppers will adore a pit stop in Mariage Frères Covent Garden tea salon; and for something unique, go for a spin on Brigit's Bakery afternoon tea bus, where you'll dine on a vintage red double-decker tour of the town.

Be Dazzled at a Show

Hitting up the West End is a given, but when you've checked off SIX The Musical and Mary Poppins, scratch below the surface of London's thriving performing arts scene. The O2 hosts dinner alongside Mamma Mia, The Party (trust us, it's a party); Punchdrunk turns the immersive experience up a notch on the acclaimed The Burnt City; and Magic Mike Live at the Hippodrome is a sexy night of acrobatics and choreography to entertain all genders. The Barbican and the National Theatre offer a sophisticated evening of stage talent.

Wander the Museum Greats

The majority of London's big museums are free to enter, including icons like the Tate Modern, The British Museum, the Victoria and Albert Museum and The National Gallery. You'll need to pay for special interests, but they're well worth the ticket price, especially for fans of Harry Potter (Warner Bros. Studio Tour London - The Making of Harry Potter), Diana (Kensington Palace) and Winston Churchill (Churchill War Rooms).

Toast By Skyline Views

With famous buildings at every turn, the city's skyline is always postcard-ready. The best way to enjoy it? With champagne. Viator has a huge selection of experiences with adult beverages including Thames River cruises, flights on the London Eye, and Soho pub crawls (note: in London, drinking alcohol in public is legal). Finally, no sunset is better enjoyed than from GONG within Britain's tallest building, The Shard.

The Best Hotels and Resorts in London for a Honeymoon

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The London EDITION

Fitzrovia's EDITION is where to stay if you want to be in the heart of all the action—it's walking distance to Oxford Street, Soho and Tottenham Court Road. Berner's Tavern, by the lobby, is one of the most beautiful (and trendiest) restaurants in all of the capital.

One Aldwych

Covent Garden's luxurious independent hotel is decked with elegant art deco details, contemporary curves and British crafts. Every suite is unique. One Aldwych also has two restaurants, a private library, cinema, bar and health club.

Plum Guide

Plum Guide offers some of the most remarkable home rentals in London, from luxury modern apartments to Victorian townhouses. If you've ever fancied staying in a Downton Abbey or Bridgerton-style mansion, this is where to find it.

London Marriott Hotel County Hall

This Marriott has stories stamped on its walls. Originally a headquarters of the local government, it became a hotel in 1998. With few changes to the original architecture, the hotel offers excellent vistas of Big Ben, the London Eye and the Houses of Parliament.

The Lanesborough

You'll confuse this Hyde Park hotel with a museum—it's a work of art, from the chandelier-fine-art-draped social spaces to each and every intricately furnished boudoir. In terms of service, the staff makes every guest feel like royalty.

What to Pack for a London Honeymoon

No matter what season, London's weather can be unpredictable, so you'll need both sunglasses and a mini umbrella in your AWAY backpack at all times. Layers are your answer for attire. The UK uses a three-pin socket, however, most updated hotels have USB charging ports for your devices.