We love West London, and we want you to, too. So take a look at our round up of brilliant things that are right here on W12 Conferences’ doorstep…
London’s theatreland plays host to some of the world’s best plays and musicals. From long-running classics like Mouse Trap to modern favourites like War Horse, the West End will have a show to suit every delegate’s taste. It also doesn’t have to cost the earth if you look for group discounts or theatre and dinner deals.
The Natural History Museum, The Science Museum and The Victoria and Albert Museum are all within walking distance of each other in London’s trendy South Kensington. All 3 museums are free to get into and are some of the country’s finest. From dinosaurs and Egyptian mummies to Old Masters and space rockets, everyone will find something to inspire and excite them here.
Home to a plethora of shops, eateries and bars, Covent Garden is one of London’s best places to mooch around. The area is very visitor friendly and a great for ‘out of towners’ who just want to soak up the London vibe. Street performers line the pavements and for those who prefer their entertainment a little more structured, the Royal Opera House won’t disappoint.
West London has a reputation for pricey hotels, but bargains can be found if you’re looking in the right place. For delegates on a budget, the Holiday Inn Express London and Ibis Shepherd’s Bush can offer great rates. And if you any of your number is looking for somewhere special to stay, try The Ampersand in South Kensington, The Kensington Hotel, The Kensington Hilton or The Portobello in Notting Hill. Particularly close to W12 Conferences are the decadent K West and the elegant Dorsett.
One of the coolest places on the planet, Soho is known for its night life. A flamboyant, street party feel welcomes visitors, particularly on the weekends. Soho is the area to recommend to delegates who enjoy late nights and a multi-cultural vibe.
Japanese, Mexican, Lebanese, Italian, Indian, Chinese, French… you name the cuisine and Notting Hill will be awash with eateries to choose from. Although the area has a reputation for being quite expensive, mid-week and early bird diners can get great deals. If you want to stay local to W12 Conferences there’s also a fantastic restaurant row in Westfield in Shepherd’s Bush.
A trip to London wouldn’t be complete without enjoying the bright lights and funfair atmosphere of Leicester Square. Time your visit right and you might even get a glimpse of a Hollywood celeb or two on the red carpet as the cinemas flagging Leicester Square are where the big film premiers take place.
From live jazz at Ronnie Scott’s to chamber music concerts at Wigmore Hall, West London is home to some of the world’s best live music venues. The Shepherd’s Bush Empire is often on the tour list for big pop acts and bands and for delegates with more alternative tastes, there are loads of independent venues to be found nestled in the buzzing streets of Soho.
Whatever your tipple of choice, be it a pint of real ale, a fancy cocktail or a glass of fine wine, there will be a watering hole in West London you’ll love. For original beers try the Brew Dog, for classy cocktails it has to be the K Lounge and for a good drop of posh plonk, you can’t go wrong in Albertine’s – all to be found in Shepherd’s Bush.
West London shopping is hard to beat. Westfield has around 255 retail outlets catering for every taste and purse. In the West End, Oxford St and Bond St offer all the big brands and the world famous Selfridges and Liberty stores. Just a stone’s throw away delegates can enjoy the delights of Carnaby St (great for men’s fashion) and down the road is Covent Garden and Neal St where shoppers can indulge in a more independent retailer experience.
So – what do you think? If you’re tempted to Go West for your next event, give the team here a call on 020 3313 1606 or send us an email to discuss your needs or our West London venue.