London's Places: Districts, Areas & Neighbourhoods

London is a vast and complex city, made up not only of its official boroughs but also of many historic districts, informal neighbourhoods, and well-known local areas that don't always fit neatly into administrative categories. From the intellectual heart of Bloomsbury to the leafy charm of Kensington, each place tells a unique story and contributes to the rich patchwork that makes up the capital.

This page is dedicated to exploring and listing these distinctive places - the well-trodden corners, hidden gems, and culturally significant areas that Londoners and visitors alike know and love. While some are historic parishes or estates, others have evolved more organically over time. Whether you're wandering through the lively streets of Bayswater, discovering the elegance of Brompton, or passing the iconic central point of Charing Cross, each name on this list opens a new window into London's diverse identity.

Unlike the London Boroughs page, which outlines the city's official administrative divisions, this category focuses on places that often span multiple boroughs or exist as recognisable yet unofficial subdivisions within them. These areas may be defined by history, geography, architecture, or even just common usage - but all have a place in London's collective consciousness.

Explore the entries below to discover more about the places that give London its character.

South Kensington

Further reading