The London Honeymoon Guide for a Fairy Tale Escape

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A London honeymoon is just the recipe for a fairy tale. Fact or fiction, this top honeymoon destination 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.

Couples are spoiled for choice when it comes to things to explore, jam-packing days–rain or shine–with the city's museums, restaurants, theaters, pubs, parks, palaces and attractions (phew!), or go at a more relaxed and selective pace. With excellent and affordable flights 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 itinerary to the British capital.

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London Honeymoon Tips in this Article:

• Best Time to Honeymoon in London
• London Honeymoon Planning Tips
• Best London Honeymoon Hotels and Resorts
• London Honeymoon Itinerary Ideas
• What to Pack for a London Honeymoon

Photo: Gary Yeowell | Getty

Best Time to Honeymoon in London

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).

Best weather: May to October.
Festival highlights: The Notting Hill Carnival in late August is one of Europe's biggest street festivals. During the summer, festivals like the BBC Proms offer classical music concerts and the Taste of London in Regent's Park showcases the city's culinary scene. The fall brings the London Film Festival, which is perfect for movie enthusiasts and "set jetters".

London Honeymoon Planning Tips

"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.

Because there is so much to do, you'll want to pick and choose activities and that'll align with the length of your trip; trying to squeeze in every single attraction is pretty much impossible, so don't beat yourselves up if you don't see it all. That being said, planning your honeymoon itinerary and booking in advance will help you in the long run.

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.

Entry requirements: A US passport that is valid for the duration of your trip.
Language: English.
Location: London is located in the southeast of England, sprawling along the River Thames.
Currency: The British Pound Sterling (GBP).
Flight time to Destination: From New York City, flights are usually around 7 hours.
Getting around: London boasts one of the world's most extensive public transport systems, including the London Underground (Tube), buses and trains. Taxis and rideshares are readily available, while bicycling and walking are great options, too.

Pro tip: Invite a honeymoon planning expert to join your vendor team. You can browse travel agents near you on The Knot Marketplace for London honeymoon expertise, reviews, testimonials and more.

Best London Honeymoon Hotels and Resorts

Finding amazing London honeymoon accommodations can turn a great trip into a truly magical experience. The city offers a vast array of options that cater to different tastes and budgets, ensuring every couple can find a romantic getaway to celebrate their union. Here are some tips and options to consider.

Photo: Marco Bottigelli | Getty

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.

4.5 Star Rating | Read Reviews

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.

5.0 Star Rating | Read Reviews

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.

4.5 Star Rating | Read Reviews

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.

5.0 Star Rating | Read Reviews

Pro tip: If you're looking for London honeymoon accommodations that'll provide you more privacy or lower prices, you might also want to consider staying at a romantic Airbnb or VRBO.

London Honeymoon Itinerary Ideas

A honeymoon in London is an excellent choice for couples seeking a blend of historic grandeur, cultural richness and vibrant city life. From visiting Buckingham Palace to world-class dining experiences (including Michelin star restaurants), here are a few couple's activities to add to your itinerary.

Photo: Getty

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. TripAdvisor 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.

Pro tip: Add London honeymoon experiences to your gift registry so that loved ones can give you one of these memorable couples activities. Make sure to post a few photos to your wedding website—this way your guests will be able to keep up to date with your adventures across the pond.

What to Pack for a London Honeymoon

Photo: Alexander Spatari | Getty

No matter what season, London's weather can be unpredictable, so you'll need both sunglasses and a mini umbrella in your honeymoon luggage at all times. Layers are your answer for attire, but be sure to pack a few formal outfits for wine bar outings or fine dining experiences.

The UK uses a three-pin socket, however, most updated hotels have USB charging ports for your devices. That being said, you might want to include an adapter on your packing checklist, just in case.

Brittany Barber contributed to this article.