What to expect for breakfast in London
For visitors to London, breakfast can be a charming and hearty introduction to British culture. Whether you’re staying in a hotel, exploring Central London, or venturing out on the London Underground in the early morning, you’ll find a variety of options ranging from traditional fare to modern, international choices. Breakfast in the capital can be as formal or casual, healthy or indulgent, as you like.
What is a Full English Breakfast?
The iconic Full English Breakfast is a beloved British institution. Often simply called a "fry-up," this meal typically includes:
- Fried or scrambled eggs
- Back bacon
- Sausages (usually pork)
- Baked beans
- Grilled tomatoes
- Fried mushrooms
- Hash browns or fried bread
- Toast with butter
- Optional black pudding (a type of blood sausage)
The meal is usually accompanied by a hot drink, with tea or coffee being the standard. Builders’ tea — strong black tea with milk — is a particularly British touch. Some cafés may also offer freshly squeezed juice, herbal teas, or smoothies.
Variations Across Britain
There are regional adaptations of the full breakfast, including the Scottish breakfast (with haggis or tattie scones), the Irish breakfast (often including white pudding), and the Welsh breakfast (which may feature laverbread or cockles). In London, you’ll often find these regional twists offered at traditional cafés or hotel buffets.
Other Breakfast Options in London
While the full English is famous, it’s far from the only choice. London’s cosmopolitan nature means visitors can enjoy a global selection of morning meals. Other popular choices include:
- Continental breakfast: Pastries, croissants, cheeses, cold meats, and fruit
- Vegan/vegetarian breakfasts: Often include avocado toast, plant-based sausages, tofu scrambles, and fresh greens
- Healthy options: Porridge, overnight oats, smoothies, granola with yogurt and fruit
- International fare: Turkish breakfasts, shakshuka, French crepes, American-style pancakes, and bagels with lox and cream cheese
Trendy cafés and brunch spots across London cater to every dietary preference and taste.
Where to Get Breakfast in London
Many hotels include breakfast in their room rates, although the format varies. It may be a set plated meal, a buffet with multiple hot and cold options, or a simpler continental offering. Some budget accommodations may charge extra for breakfast or direct guests to nearby cafés.
Outside of hotels, options abound:
- Cafés and “greasy spoons” – Traditional British diners that serve hearty cooked breakfasts at affordable prices
- Trendy brunch spots – Found especially in areas like Shoreditch, Notting Hill, and Soho
- Markets and food stalls – Borough Market, Maltby Street Market, and others offer morning bites and coffee
- Bakery chains – Greggs, Pret a Manger, and Gail’s are common throughout the city
Visitors in a hurry will also find options at railway and Underground stations, particularly larger interchanges like King’s Cross, Victoria, and Liverpool Street.
Fast Food Chains Serving Breakfast
London has several fast-food outlets that serve breakfast, especially before 11 am. These include:
- McDonald’s – Famous for its Egg McMuffins and hash browns
- Greggs – Known for bacon rolls, sausage baps, and porridge
- Pret a Manger – Offers organic coffee, croissants, breakfast baguettes, and yogurt pots
- Caffè Nero and Costa – Serve hot drinks with pastries, toasties, or breakfast wraps
These chains are useful for early starts or those on a budget, and many offer mobile ordering or takeaway service.
Breakfast Prices in London
London can be pricey, but breakfast remains relatively affordable. Here’s a general guide:
- Full English breakfast at a local café: £8–£12
- Hotel buffet breakfast (if not included): £12–£20
- Fast food breakfast (e.g., McDonald’s, Greggs): £3–£6
- Trendy café or brunch spot: £10–£20 per person
Gratuities are not obligatory, but rounding up or tipping 10% is common in sit-down establishments.
Fun Fact About the English Breakfast
The English breakfast as we know it gained popularity during the Victorian era, but it has its roots in the rural gentry’s desire to offer a hearty, welcoming meal to guests. Today, it is as much a nostalgic cultural symbol as it is a morning meal. In fact, the British Breakfast Society was established to preserve the tradition of the full English breakfast1.
Quick Facts
- The Full English Breakfast usually includes eggs, bacon, sausage, beans, tomato, mushrooms, toast, and sometimes black pudding.
- Tea and coffee are typical breakfast beverages, with fresh juice and smoothies also common.
- London offers continental, vegan, healthy, and international breakfast alternatives.
- Hotel breakfasts may be set meals or buffets, often included in room rates.
- Popular fast-food breakfast outlets include McDonald's, Greggs, and Pret a Manger.
- Expect to pay £3–£6 for fast food breakfasts, £8–£12 at cafés, and up to £20 at higher-end places.
- The full English breakfast tradition dates back to the Victorian era and remains a beloved cultural staple.
References
A picture of breakfast in London, London